Make 2011 the year you stay in Canada for your vacation. If you have never traveled to the west coast of Canada (or even if you have) make your way to Victoria next July 8-13 2012 for the 49^th Canadian Open Chess ChampionshipSome travel ideas

Air Travel Victoria has direct non stop service from Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Seattle. And connecting flights from every major airport in Canada. Harbour to Harbour access is available from Vancouver by float plane or helicopter. Standby fares are sometimes available for students and adults. Float planes land within walking distance of the Hotel Grand Pacific. The Helijet runs a shuttle service from their helipad to the hotel and is about 4 minutes away.

Ferry Travel  Victoria is connected by ferry to Vancouver (Tswawwassen) in Canada and Seattle, Port Angeles, and Anacortes in Washington State. The Victoria Clipper offers frequent service between downtown Seattle and downtown Victoria. Car Travel Drive across the country.  A great way to see a great country. Camp or stay in hotels across Canada. Finish the drive with a vacation on an island in the Pacific.

Air and Car Combination Fly and drive - Flying part way and renting a car may be of interest. Drive and camp through the Rockies and BC. Fly into Calgary or Edmonton and rent a car for 10-14 days and enjoy BC and Victoria.

Visiting outside Victoria
While you are in the Victoria area make sure you have enough time to enjoy Vancouver Island. And don't let the word "island" mislead you. Vancouver Island is over 400 km long. It is bigger than many countries. It is impossible to run out of things to see and do. You may want to visit the beaches and warm ocean water in Parksville or the rugged open ocean in Tofino.

Visiting inside Victoria
You can also explore all that Victoria has to offer, explore beaches, rocky shoreline, forests and more just outside and inside the city of Victoria. There is a lot to do without leaving Victoria. Visit Tourism Victoria for more information. http://www.tourismvictoria.com/

Car Rental A special rate for the CO is being arranged with Avis. Avis has a downtown and an airport location. Cars can be rented one way from the airport or downtown and there is no drop off charge. This is a good way to get into the city and allows the use of the car for 24 hours to do a little exploring, grocery shopping, etc. call the downtown office during business hours to reserve your car 1-250-386-8568 ask for Richard (Chess rate $40). 

Bicycles Can be rented at a number of locations in Victoria. You may want to bring your own helmets and locks. Free bike storage is available at the Hotel Grand Pacific.

Walking Victoria is a walking city. There are museums, many restaurants, cafes, coffee shops and grocery stores all within easy walking distance of the Hotel Grand Pacific. Beaches are also close and there is excellent bus service in the city. Leave your car at home! And enjoy a stress free stay.

Visit Vancouver and Victoria You could spend a few days in Vancouver and easily get from Vancouver to Victoria. Travel by air or ferry.