Victoria is the capital city in the province of British Columbia and is the oldest city in Western Canada. The area was home to numerous communities of Coast Salish peoples, including the Songhees prior to being settled in the 1700's. Its name was chosen in honor of Queen Victoria, and when the crown Colony of Vancouver Island was created in 1849, the town was planned on the site and became the capital of the colony. Songhee's village was later transferred to Esquimalt. For the majority of the 19th century, Victoria became among the biggest city within British Columbia, and became amongst the leading commerce and trade players within the country. However, with the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway terminus on Burrard Inlet, the City of Vancouver became British Columbia's commercial hub. In the 20th century, Victoria changed into a city of retirement, tourism and government. It has a projected four hundred thousand residents, with a moderate weather condition and beautiful surroundings which makes a relaxed life for its people.
Beacon Hill Park is the main urban green space of central city. It is near the southern shore of Victoria, which consists of playing fields, manicured gardens, a petting zoo exotic species of animals and plants like for example wild peacocks, and fabulous views of the Olympic Mountain Range and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Victoria likewise has Garry Oak Meadow habitat, an ecosystem which once dominated the region. Downtown, Victoria has National Geographic Theatre, Royal British Columbia Museum/MAX, Victoria Police Department, Christ Church Cathedral, The Empress Hotel and the British Columbia Legislative Buildings. There is also Craigdarroch Castle, Butchart Gardens, and Vancouver island's golf courses.
Individuals who love to shop will find Victoria a haven of major shopping malls, local markets and shops. The city has a layout that encourages exploration in lots of side streets at a really easy pace. Victoria's British heritage is apparent in Government Street, and it shows numerous trinkets which are perfect souvenirs or gifts. From Irish lace to bone china from England, to tartans from Scotland, to handmade chocolates or cups of coffee, people will surely find anything precious to give to somebody. Another best-kept secret for shoppers is the Trounce Alley, where European fashions and gift shops await the individuals who shop. Across the street is the Bastion Square, which consists of lots of shops and restaurants to pick from. It's likewise good to visit the Market Square. It has 40 merchants that offer the very best selections of specialty shops. For antique lovers, they could go to Antique Row in order to find rare china, furniture, toys, and other trinkets.
Victoria's main industries are technology, education, federal, provincial government administration/services, and tourism. Sectors of the Greater Victoria area consist of: technology products, online book publishing, food products manufacturing, light aircraft manufacturing, banking and investment, different public and private schools, various high tech companies in engineering, pharmaceuticals, computer, architecture, and telecommunications. The Victoria Advanced Technology Council is a partnership between industry and education which supports high tech business growth within the region of Victoria.