Monday, May 12, 2008
I've just returned from a weekend away with my boyfriend. We had originally planned to go to Seattle as a belated 21st birthday and our one-year anniversary trip, but we couldn't afford it. Instead we decided to go to Victoria.
I was a little apprehensive about going after being stranded on the (deserted) island last summer after a bomb threat caused all ferries to be cancelled. This time, however, was flawless, fantastic and relaxing. I was able to take a sympathetic view toward the city and enjoy it.
Victoria is sometimes called the land of the "newly wed and nearly dead." The lampost banners of matronly Queen Victoria's aren't really contributing the creation of a youthful atmosphere. I haven't yet seen this summer's Tourism Victoria campaign but last summer I saw some of these ads in the SkyTrain stations.
Stung by misconceptions of the provincial capital as a place where a fun time consists of counting blossoms and feeding the cat, Tourism Victoria launched a campaign to change the city's image.
We went on "off days" and avoided tourist areas thus our visit was fairly tranquil. Victoria is great for used CD, clothing, and vintage shopping. Although I was sad to see that the vintage store where I'd bought my Manchurian silk shirt a few years ago has turned toward selling new and American Apparel-like clothes.
This trip was all about relaxing, eating and drinking. We went to an Italian restaurant for dinner where a jazz trio was playing and had one of the most intensely captivating conversations we've ever had. The next morning we met my friend David for breakfast at Mo:Lé and I had one of the most delicious omelettes I've ever had. Before we left, we went to my boyfriend's aunt and uncle's for lunch. They live in home in the countryside which overlooks a winery. We ate on their balcony and I was able to see lambs resting in a pasture.
What I realised on this trip to Victoria is that its small-city atmosphere would be lost if a bridge was built linking it to the mainland.Labels: food, May 2008, photos
posted by Vanessa at 10:37 PM
