DELIGHT IN DIVERSITY: BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Cosmopolitan and hip Vancouver located on the Pacific Ocean. Charming and quaint Victoria with its British heritage. The wilderness of the Canadian Rockies. Whistler, one of the world's premier ski destinations and all-season resorts. From hiking to skiing to scenic train rides and gastronomic delights, British Columbia offers amazing diversity.

British Columbia is Canada's westernmost province and is set between the Pacific Ocean in the west and the magnificent Rocky Mountains in the east.

Blessed with breathtaking landscapes, British Columbia is home to amazing geographical diversity. Whether you are exploring its cosmopolitan cities or overlooking the blue Pacific Ocean around Vancouver and Vancouver Island, whether you are lost in the immense beauty of the dense forest and snow capped mountains, or soaking up the relaxed atmosphere in the wine region of the Thompson Okanagan, it is not difficult to enjoy a holiday in Western Canada.

Vancouver, one of the world's most spectacular cities, is surrounded on three sides by water and nestled beneath the peaks of the Coast Mountain Range. Located less than 40 miles from the Canada-US border, it is an easy drive from Seattle, Washington.

Named as the world's "Most Liveable City" in 2011 by the Economist Intelligence Unit, a title it has been awarded eight times since 2002, Vancouver offers outstanding opportunities for outdoor adventure and the sophisticated amenities of a world-class city. Known for its abundance of green space, the many gardens and parks are a testament to the city’s love of nature. Good shopping, beautiful parks, superb restaurants, theatre productions and a pulsating nightlife are all within easy walking distance of the central bay area.

Accessible by a 90-minute ferry ride or a short hop in a floatplane from downtown Vancouver, is Vancouver Island. It is a haven of contradictions and enjoys a mild year round climate, courtesy of the warm ocean currents that brush its shores.

The capital, Victoria, sits on the southeast tip of the 300-mile long Vancouver Island. Breathtakingly picturesque, and imbued with a flavor and style born of its British heritage, the city is ablaze of floral colour by day and is a captivating and vibrant by night.

Victoria seems to have something to offer for everyone: wilderness adventure in the mountains and forests of Vancouver Island; cruising, whale watching, kayaking or fishing in the surrounding waterways; quaint shops; boutiques and exclusive stores; museums, culture and historic tours; and a variety of eateries to choose from.

Only 75 miles north of Vancouver is the stunning ski resort of Whistler, host of the 2010 Winter Olympics and a natural year-round playground with its crisp mountain air, crystal clear lakes and lush emerald forests.

Whilst from October through April, Whistler enjoys its reputation as Canada’s premier ski resort, during the remaining months the snow disappears from all but the higher elevations to offer a wide variety of alternative attractions like hiking, sailing, or playing golf at any of Whistler’s four golf courses. Shop in Whistler's attractive village. Or just enjoy the magnificent scenery, luxury dining facilities and the vibrant nightlife.

Head east from Vancouver and you are soon into the Thompson Okanagan wine region, one of Canada’s best yet relatively unknown holiday destinations. Vineyards, fruit orchards, mountains, lakes, valleys and even a desert, make up this diverse region of central southeast British Columbia, located between the coastal mountains and the Kootenay Rockies.

Just when you think it couldn’t get any better, you head further east into the Kootenay Rockies region, forming the border of British Columbia with Alberta. Enjoy the picturesque resort towns of Panorama, Cranbrook and Kimberly with their myriad attractions such as four national parks, the highest number of mineral springs and hot spas in British Columbia and, near the town of Golden, the world’s largest grizzly bear habitat!

British Columbia offers not just outdoor adventure but cosmopolitan culture, uptown shopping, fabulous dining and exciting nightlife. From sophisticated cities to breathtaking scenery, there is something for everyone in British Columbia.

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