Dear Texans and Ozzies -

Not to be too much of a crazed o/c Northwesterner, but I must correct the references to "Victoria Island".

The magnificent island to which you refer is Vancouver Island, on the southern tip of which sits the charming city of Victoria.

Even if it makes for a long day, it will be well worth it for you to make the trek. Butchart Gardens is (are??) simply lovely, worth the trip even if you visit nothing else.

If you make it down to Victoria, Rogers Chocolates, just a block or so north of the Empress Hotel on Government Street, is a great little shop. It's all 100-year-old varnished wood showcases filled with wonderful chocolates, particularly the famous Victoria Creams and Empress Squares. A chocoholic's dream, indeed.

Have fun visiting Vancouver Island.

Cheers, Fred