15

Assuming you can add Kicking Horse to that list now RCR own them?

16

Ok, so it looks like we will be on Vancouver Island at Christmas. Can't decide where though, I'm guessing Victoria will be the most lively.

17

" guessing Victoria will be the most lively."

Relatively speaking.

18

Vancouver Island. Victoria will be a lovely place to be.
There are lots of pubs and bars in the downtown core all within walking distance.

You keep saying lively.... I did not read where you are from,,but this is Canada...we do not use the word lively, in fact, anything fun is generally against the law!!

I lived on Salt Spring...most likely it will be closed up on Christmas. All liveliness on SSI is done at house parties.
Salt Spring is for the summer.

19

anything fun is generally against the law!!

um, ok then...blame the government right?

20

Where shall we spend a fun, lively Christmas and NYE!

wrong country.

i am not trying to be funny here....

21

Here is my suggestion you can take it or leave it. It is the #1 idea of my friends and me when we have friends and family visiting from Europe, which lately has been a lot. This cottage guy should give us a kick back :)

Anyway:

Rent a cabin at Lilloet Lake, or stay in the lodge. Since it is further north than Whistler, it might be quieter for Xmas (not sure, never been there in really high season)
http://www.cottagelink.com/cottlink/bc/bc10004.html

Make sure you have a good vehicle with winter tires rented or 4x4, you will need it.

If you are up for it, rent some backcountry AT skis from Mountain Equipment Co-op in Vancouver and explore that way. Save yourself a ton of cash that way, and in my opinion, so much more beautiful. Check the avalanche risk of course. Snowshoes would be another lovely option.
Take said outdoor gear to Joffre Lakes Provincial Park and explore. It is stunning there in the winter.

Soak your chilled bodies in the natural hot spring up the Lilloet river road.

Sounds good to me.

22

ooops just read that you've decided on Victoria. I am from Victoria. It will certainly not be lively. Everything will be shuttered up.

However, you can still have a good time wandering around the Harbour, going for expensive but fun High Tea at the Empress and some shopping. However, I would not budget more than a day or 2 for this or you will go stir crazy. I love Victoria. but it is quiet, especially in the winter without all the tourists