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While I haven't been using my camera much these days, I did bring it with me to Victoria. I had a generally glorious few days - even the locals were impressed with where we live. Sharing some of the sunshine with you.
Speaking of locals. Those of you in Vancouver are aware of the extreme flooding this year from the Fraser River. Last week, flying out above the city, the coastal water was remarkable: there are very clear demarcations within the ocean - lines between the murky, silty, delta water, and the clearer green ocean. Again this week, on the ferry, you can see the lines separating the two qualities of water. So strange - you'd think that ocean water in the same pool is ocean water. But no, even seemingly continuous material has boundaries. Years ago, I noticed this above the Amazon too. A reminder that detail can be revealing and intriguing.
The next pics are of a ship that looks like a cross between a cruise ship and a huge yacht. Ever heard of "The World" - a ship that is a private residence-at-sea? It circumnavigates the globe about every 4 years. I was invited to check it out. Not allowed to photograph the interiors. Quite impressive - would be fabulous to travel that way for a few weeks or months, but not sure about having a semi-permanent address aboard. A unique concept for exploring parts of the world. I'm still mulling it over, but wondering about sustainability and carbon foot print. Glad I got to see it though. Even the rides on the tender to the ship and back were spectacular.
Ship's tender heading into Victoria Harbour
About to board The World
Leaving Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal - a reminder that even amidst the natural beauty, industry is still a part of the landscape. Above, Deltaport:
Anchored in Victoria Harbour.
As for Victoria. Quaint and smallish as it is, still, there's a loftiness about it. Variously interpreted, of course - from our provincial icons, to parasail gliding, to funky hair dos mimicking natural growth, it's a microcosm of culture and bustle. If you haven't been there recently, it's certainly worth a visit. And get to Rebar while you're there - food's tasty and healthy as it was years ago. Sooke Harbour House also worth a dine, if you're driving that direction.
Empress Hotel
(In Victoria — in the neighborhood of Fernwood, home of the much-admired Belfry Theatre, most of the phone poles have been hand painted by residents of the community. Regardless of the innumerable staples from years of posters, each pole sports a unique design.)
Great walking opportunities abound - tons of trails follow the curlicue coastline, both in town and farther west. I'd forgotten that views of the Olympic Peninsula frame the south part of town, and that the rocky islands dotting the coast almost look like the Maritimes.
Our "backyard" is showing off this season. Hearing travelers from around the world ooh and ahh on the scenic ferry ride offered me yet another reminder to never get blasé about this incredible place in which we live.
I hope you're all finding moments to enjoy, too.
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