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A trip across the north island is an exhilarating experience. The communities that developed were as a result of the natural resources of the area, particularly forestry. For example, Coal Harbour operated as a whaling station many years ago. There are a myriad of logging roads that enable you to explore all facets of the island. These roads can lead you up the side of the mountain right to snow and cloud level.

Some of the "larger" centres such as Port Hardy have a population just over 5,000; Port McNeil just over 3,000; and charming Port Alice around 1,300.

Tahsis, a community of under 1,000 people requires approximately a 60 kilometer drive along a winding dirt road to reach this quaint community nestled along the water's edge. It is also the destination of the "Long Walk" now an annual event to raise money for the Heart Foundation. And then there is Zeballos, population 250, where you have "one-stop" shopping at a little general store.

Sayward used to be a busy ferry terminal between Kelsey Bay and Prince Rupert before it was relocated to Port Hardy. It is situated at the mouth of the Salmon River about an hour's driving distance from Campbell River, (located in the Central Island region) the northernmost urban centre on Vancouver Island.

In the North Island communities, the more remote the community, the more house for your dollar. Many of these communities are surrounded by mountains and near the water allowing for some marvelous views.

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Central Island

For those who prefer "city-like" amenities but also like the ocean and mountain flavours, the central island is for you!

Campbell River is the most northern urban centre with a population of close to 32,000. In recent years, some of the major chain stores have opened retail outlets here. Consequently, any major shopping required by residents of North Island is often done here. Near future plans for this community include a conference centre, casino and a cruise ship stopover. Exceptional values are available here at this time. Anyone coming from large urban centres are able to purchase a similar quality home for considerably less and bank the balance.

The Comox Valley includes three major areas, Comox - Courtenay and Cumberland. The Valley has all the amenities including golf courses, skiing, fishing, shopping, cultural events and much more. The Canadian Forces Base in Comox forms an integral part of that community. More recently, West Jet has provided air services to some major centres which has certainly facilitated business travel as well as tourism. The beauty of the area and the amenities available make homes in this part of the island a great buy!

As we head further south, we have Nanaimo, a former coal-mining town, that has turned into a bustling little metropolis. It is equipped to handle any kind of business and has all the tourism facilities. It is the major ferry link between Vancouver Island and the mainland of BC. And, of course, it is the place of the world famous Bathtub Race! Average home prices begin to increase as you get further south. Again, in larger centres, prices tend to have more variation.

There are many more wonderful towns between these centres in the Central Island, but this synopsis is intended to give you a sense of the different regions.

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There are a number of smaller communities as we head south towards Victoria. Most of the population continues to lie on the east coast where there is a considerable amount of farming in the Chemainus and Cowichan valleys.

The route south towards Victoria takes you through one of the most beautiful roadways. The summit is over 350 meters (over 1100 ft.). It is heavily forested with steep cliffs with a sense of majesty and you can only imagine the history of the area.

We'll take a look at Victoria separately.

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It is an adventure to travel to the west coast of the island. At the outset you pass through Port Alberni. It is one of the premiere fishing areas on Vancouver Island attracting tourism.

Continuing to the west coast, the roadway climbs through
the mountains. You cannot help bet be in awe of this majestic rugged landscape. If you look closely, from time to time you will see a cut off from the highway. If you are the exploring type, this could lead you to a beautiful tranquil fresh water lake. A little walk on the sandy shore is a nice refresher before continuing on through the mountains.

Once on the other side, you enter the Pacific Rim. The beaches are amazing and continuous in that area. The ocean is mesmerizing as the tides come in and recede. Often in the summer time, the ocean is more tranquil and inviting. However, later in the year, it has an intensity and ferociousness that will enthrall and amaze you.

Tofino is a beautiful little tourist town that attracts many artisans who take up residency. Of course, it is a superb area for whale watching, fishing and exploring the various waterways and shorelines. The population is considerably higher during the tourist season. Single family homes are not abundant. The average price is quite high which often reflects the inclusion of additional factors such as land, waterfront, business and so on.

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Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and is located at the southern tip of the island. Metropolitan Victoria has about half of the population of the entire island, over 300,000. Its mild climate allows for the spring flowers to bloom at least a couple of weeks or more ahead of any other are on the island. It is a spectacularly beautiful city which attracts many residents as well as tourists.

There is much information that is available for you to browse. The average price of a home in Victoria is the highest on the island. There are a myriad of home styles and areas to choose from, but the prices are highest on this part of the island.

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Both the Northern Islands and the Southern Gulf Islands are unique and offer peace and serenity. These islands have their permanent residents but there are many who are only part time residents - it is their "cottage country".

Vancouver Island is large enough and has amenities that do not require you leave the island frequently. To be a permanent resident of one of the smaller islands requires a different perspective and priorities. Those who embrace such island living have a charm that is disarming.

Populations vary as do housing prices.

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Yes, it is called the Sunshine Coast because sunny days outnumber gloomy days by a wide margin. It is not accessible by land. Your options are ferry, boat or float plane.

Powell River is the largest community on the Sunshine Coast. It boasts the mildest climate in Canada with an average of 1,760 hours of sunshine per year. There is no shortage of recreational opportunities.

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