About Victoria

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History

Fort Victoria, Western Canada's oldest city, began as a Hudson Bay Company trading post in 1843. Victoria was Canada's Pacific port of entry, and the Fraser Valley gold rush of 1858 led to rapid growth. Victoria remained the largest city and commercial center of British Columbia until the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway late in the 19th century. Victoria's splendid weather and natural beauty have allowed it to remain Canada's most desirable tourism and retirement centre. For more detailed information, see History of Victoria.

The Municipalities

Victoria is divided into 13 different municipalities, each with its own distinct characteristics. City of Victoria is the centre of the city both physically and economically. Oak Bay is the bastion of old England with its village and quiet residential streets. Saanich is the largest of the core municipalities, while Esquimalt is the home of the Pacific Fleet. Located to the west of the core, View Royal, Langford, Colwood, Highlands, Metchosin & Sooke offer the majority of affordable new housing in the area. North on the Saanich Peninsula, you will find Central Saanich, North Saanich & Sidney. The Capital Regional District serves all Municipalities with health services, water quality, garbage disposal, etc.

Transportation

Ferry service to Vancouver Island is provided by BC Ferries, The Victoria Clipper, Washington State Ferries and The M.V. Coho Ferry. Air service is provided by Air Canada, Horizon Air, Harbour Air Seaplanes, Pacific Coastal Airlines, and other airlines flying into Victoria International Airport. On the island, travel is by automobile, BC Transit, and private bus and taxi companies.

Education

Public schools are administered by Greater Victoria School District 61, Saanich School District 63 and Sooke School District #62. Victoria is also home to a large number of independent schools including Glenlyon Norfolk, St. Michaels University School and St. Margaret's School, while Brentwood College School, Shawnigan Lake School, and Queen Margaret's School are located in communities just north of Victoria. Post secondary education is found at Camosun College, The University Of Victoria and Royal Roads University.

Business Organizations

Victoria is served by four chambers of commerce: Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, Sooke Harbour Chamber of Commerce and Westshore Chamber of Commerce. Other sources of business information include the Victoria Economic Development and The Economic Development Commission. Provincial and federal government agencies that may be of interest include Canada Customs, The Government Of British Columbia, Citizen & Immigration Canada and Environment Canada Coastal B.C. Weather.