homes. Oceanfront accommodation and Vancouver Island cottages for vacationers offer beautiful oceanside views. Historically, Vancouver Island is rich with artifacts, arts and culture, indigenous lifestyle, and education opportunities.
The Capital Region which includes BC's legislature building in Victoria BC is right by the waterfront of Victoria Harbour, and the world-famous Empress Hotel. This cultural pocket includes a diverse concentration of tourist activity including Victoria Chinatown, The British Columbia Museum of Anthropology, the Emily Carr house, and much more.
South Vancouver Island is known for the capital city Victoria BC, but also has large centre Saanich BC, Sidney BC, Sooke and many interesting small Vancouver Island towns.
Central Vancouver Island contains a wealth of activity and vacation spots that bring world travelers to British Columbia Canada. Nanaimo is the large centre on the eastern coast, with much history and Nanaimo real estate has been growing steadily with new housing starts in upscale neighbourhoods, condos, and downtown rejuvenated apartment buildings. BC Ferries travel to Nanaimo at Departure Bay port and Duke Point. A little farther north are Duncan, Parksville and Qualicum Beach BC. Turning inland at Qualicum, one can travel through the Cathedral Forests of large old growth douglas fir trees before arriving at Port Alberni mid-island. Port Alberni BC's ocean inlet allows this growing city to be on the oceanfront although it is near the centre of Vancouver Island BC. Past Port Alberni BC, vacation travelers will enjoy the true westcoast of Vancouver Island at Ucluelet BC and Tofino BC.
North Vancouver Island has a cooler climate than the south. Larger centres in Vancouver Island's north include Campbell River BC, Courtenay BC and Comox BC. The lifestyle is very friendly with a family community atmosphere.
The Smaller Islands are well known for their artistic communities, and can be accessed by ferry. Because they are separated by water, traffic to the smaller islands is limited and they enjoy a more peaceful environment than the main island. Gabriola Island, Saltspring Island, and Denman Island are among the more popular island here.
