5 Days in B.C.

I was fortunate enough to recently visit British Columbia on the West Coast of Canada (my thanks to the Canadian Tourist Commission). The mission – to establish the destination’s credentials as a top end  incentive travel destination for UK clients.

In less than 10 hours (Heathrow to Vancouver) I touched down in the home of the 2010 Winter Olympics (in fact just caught the end of the Paralympics) – and in 5 days saw the best Vancouver, Victoria and Whistler had to offer. And did they have a lot to offer…

The inherently attractive, vibrant Vancouver city has been given new lease of life through the Olympics with improved road networks, hotel facilities and a fresh buzz (there’s still hope for the impact of the 2012 London Games!). Downtown Vancouver is a compact plot packed with skyscrapers – maybe not with the breathtaking heights of Dubai, Malaysia or New York, but pretty to look at nonetheless. And though compact, it has an airy feel – not estate agent spiel for that over-priced studio flat in Bethnal Green, but more likely because it has a fantastic ocean view…

The city has the usual varied selection of bars, restaurants and hotels…plus beaches (kind of)! For something quirky, take incentives groups for Breakfast with the Belugas at the Vancouver Aquarium – whales and waffles, nice!

Victoria’s a short hop (35 minutes) by floatplane. A new experience for many, with breathtaking views of Vancouver and the islands signalling approach to Victoria. Highlights in Victoria – wine tasting, beer tasting, tea tasting (you won’t go thirsty!) and whale watching. Unusual dinner option – The Royal British Columbia Museum.

Finally, Whistler. A new road has reduced travel time to around 90 minutes from downtown Vancouver. A nothing journey for getting from city to mountain. And some mountain (well mountains)! Whistler’s a year round outdoor haven (even heaven?) – ski, mountain bike, dog sledge, skidoo…and that’s just with 36 hours.

A longish flight, a packed schedule, touch of jet lag and a need to catch up on sleep back in blighty…but was it worth it? Just ask anyone with a B.C stamp in their passport.