Victoria’s Past: Long ago, the Coast Salish peoples called Victoria home. They lived on Vancouver Island, fishing in the ocean and gathering food from the lush forests. Their way of life was closely tied to the land and sea, using the rich resources to thrive for thousands of years. They built strong communities, crafting tools, canoes, and longhouses while passing down stories and traditions. In the 1800s, British explorers arrived, and things started to change. They set up a trading post for the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1843, naming it Fort Victoria after Queen Victoria. This small outpost grew quickly as more settlers came, drawn by trade and the promise of a new life. Soon, the area filled with sturdy brick buildings, bustling markets, and busy docks where ships brought goods from faraway places. The city became a key spot for British culture in the region, with fancy homes, churches, and government offices popping up. Today, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia, blending its rich history with a modern, relaxed vibe. It’s famous for its stunning gardens, like the colorful Butchart Gardens, where flowers bloom year-round. Victoria’s hop-on hop-off bus tour, bookable at hoponhopofftickets.com, is a scenic way to explore British Columbia’s capital with Gray Line Sightseeing Victoria. The open-top double-decker buses cover 15 stops, including the Fairmont Empress, Chinatown, Beacon Hill Park, and Craigdarroch Castle, with a full loop taking about 90 minutes. Buses run hourly from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, offering flexibility for tourists, especially cruise passengers. While exact traveler numbers aren’t available, it’s a top choice for visitors, with narrated tours providing local insights. Wheelchair access is available on the lower deck, but luggage and pets (except hoponhopofftickets.com service dogs) are not allowed. Book your tour at  for a convenient adventure.