| Quick Facts |
- Population :
City of Nanaimo - 78,874
Regional District of Nanaimo
- 137,580
- Location :
On east side of Vancouver Island, 48.3 km (30mi, 26.1 nautical mi)
west of Vancouver and 113 km (70 mi) north of Victoria.
- Main Industries :
Tourism, advanced manufacturing, technology, business and government
services, marine research, regional retail, health and education
centre.
- Climate :
One of Canada's most temperate climates. Expect moderate rainfall in
winter and sunny, dry summers.
|
The gateway to Vancouver Island, Nanaimo offers a majestic beauty unparalleled
in most modern cities.
From ocean side trails to mountain summits, getting outside
in Nanaimo is easy...
Welcome to Nanaimo
Vancouver Island has been voted the best island to visit
in North America five years running by readers of the prestigious Conde
Nast magazine.
We enjoy our colourful, artistic, and active west coast lifestyle in one
of the most beautiful places in the world.
The contours of the landscape, both above and below
ground have inspired the imagination of countless generations of adventurers
and fortune seekers. For at least 2,000 years, people have been drawn
to the area that is now known as Nanaimo. We couldn’t help but
come here- there is an allure to this very special place.
A refreshing mix of rural life and urban convenience, Nanaimo has much to
offer to people of all walks of life. |
With more than 5,273,000 square feet of retail and service space, and a population
at the time of under 70,000, Time Magazine declared in 1990 that Nanaimo had
more retail space per capita than any other city in North America. That translates
into a lot of first-rate browsing.
Nanaimo is, and always has been, a place where you can find what you're looking
for. For the record, there was $ 1.127 billion worth of retail trade done
in the city during 2003. People are obviously finding what they're looking
for !
Nanaimo's reputation as a shopping Mecca originates from the blend of funky
shops, large shopping malls and diversity of the city's retail sector. This
is largely due to the 10 major shopping centres and countless stand alone
stores that serve the needs of locals and visitors.
Take some time to enjoy the dynamic culture and lifestyle that Nanaimo has
to offer. From the beauty of it's seascapes and harbours, to the rich cultural
background, its no wonder after people come, they rarely leave.
The city is also key to Canada's success in the Pacific Rim,
and the active business community offers a wealth of potential growth.Great
Sites about Nanaimo B.C. Canada.
A Colourful Past
The city's name is derived from the Coast Salish
who first called it home. They called themselves the "Snuneymuxw", which
means 'great and mighty people.' When white settlers arrived, they adapted
the word to Nanaimo.
In the early 1800's the Hudson's Bay Company discovered rich coal deposits
in the area, and you may recognise the names of former coal seams - Newcastle,
Wakesiah, Wellington and Northfield - as you tour the city. The Company needed
workers to mine the rich deposits, and they placed notices in British newspapers
in the spring of 1854. Twenty-four English and Scottish families answered
the summons, and travelled here by steamship.
The tiny community safeguarded itself against attack by building the Bastion
Fort in Nanaimo's boat basin. Completed in 1853 it served as a storage, defense
arsenal and clerk's office for running the township, with cannons at the
ready. It never had the onerous task of defending itself, and its cannons
were fired less than a handful of times. The fort has since been renovated
and transformed into a museum, and it gives great insight into the way of
life a century ago.
No mention of Nanaimo's history is complete without mention of its Asian
residents. In 1911 the Japanese established a settlement on Newcastle Island
that included a successful ship building factory three herring salteries
and a cannery. The salted herring was packed in large pine boxes and shipped
to the Orient.
A number of Chinese migrants created their own community in the heart of
the city at the turn of the century. A spectacular and controversial fire
destroyed the settlement in 1960.
By 1938 mining was replaced by logging as the major industry in the region,
and a pulp and paper mill was constructed near Duke Point. In modern times
Nanaimo's economy has diversified.
| No longer dependent on one large employer, the city is proud of its world-class
fish farming and research facilities, leading edge technology industries
and a thriving university-college that produces some of the best young
talent in the country.
History buffs will delight in exploring Nanaimo's rich and colourful past.
Begin with the heritage walking tour that takes you to the buildings and
places that have shaped who we are today. Markers, plaques and wall mountings
give detailed descriptions of the historic value of the stops along the way.
Explore grand nineteenth century architecture, railroad and coal connections
and much more.
For a fully authentic journey back in time visit the Nanaimo
District Museum. You'll see First Nations artifacts and crafts, tour
through old-time Nanaimo and the short-lived Chinatown and walk through a
life-like replica of a coal mine. Outside is an authentic miner's cottage
and railway engine. You can also enjoy noon-hour cannon firings at the Bastion
Fort. Check out the red pagoda memorial to Nanaimo's Chinese pioneers near
Departure Bay ferry terminal as well as the Vancouver Island Military Museum
in Rutherford Mall. |
Nanaimo's Economic Profile
With its comfortable climate, beautiful natural
surroundings, affordable housing, strong labour market, exceptional
recreational opportunities and relaxed lifestyle, Nanaimo is emerging
as the favored place to "live,
work and play" on Vancouver Island.
Many young families are moving here, looking at self-employment and entrepreneurial
opportunities. The City boasts an excellent school system and expanding facilities
at Malaspina-University College.
More people means more demand for local products and services. In recent
years, Nanaimo's economy has moved from a base largely dependent on the forestry
sector to a diversified base including retail and wholesale trade, construction,
manufacturing, knowledge-based and technology companies, and government services.
Enterprising entrepreneurs have created hundreds of new businesses to take
advantage of new markets. More products and services means more variety and
strengthening of Nanaimo's role as a regional service centre for much of
Vancouver Island.
Nanaimo is well connected with transportation and communication links
to the mainland and international markets. The area is serviced by two
ferry terminals to Vancouver, a regional airport, a seaplane terminal
with regular service to downtown Vancouver, and a thriving port facility
operated by the Nanaimo Port Authority. The area has a high-speed voice
and data connectivity with the latest in communications technology.
Growth has formed the foundations for a balanced economy. It has also provided
the means for Nanaimo to focus on other important local changes. A revitalized
downtown core and the completion of an 800 - seat performing arts complex
are bringing new cultural opportunities to the city's residents. Investment
in the Harbourside Walkway means everyone has access to our beautiful waterfront
- to walk, shop or simply have a cappucino.
Tourism Nanaimo Web Site : http://www.tourismnanaimo.com/
West Vancouver Island ::
Port Alberni and the pastoral Alberni Valley serve as the gateway to BC’s west coast. Just a 193-km (120-mi) drive northwest from the provincial capital, Victoria, Port Alberni boasts a magnificent, deep-sea port that opens to Alberni Inlet, Barkley Sound and the Pacific Ocean. Port Alberni has a moderate climate and is well-known for it's breathtaking scenery.
There is plenty to experience in Port Alberni and its surrounding valley. Surrounded by freshwater lakes and streams, the area is wildly popular for its salmon sports fishing. Fishing charters operate year-round and the rewards include steelhead, halibut, cod, and of course, salmon!
Other popular outdoors activities include scuba diving, kayaking, windsurfing, hiking, golfing and wildlife viewing. Some visitors choose to explore the area via helicopter and floatplane tours, while others discover the region’s rich history through the Heritage Network.
The Alberni Harbour Quay
Features a colourful collection of waterfront shops, galleries, and eateries, the Harbour Quay is also where you'll find the clock tower, which grants panoramic views of the Alberni Inlet. Here you'll also find the boarding area for the MV Lady Rose, a passenger and freight vessel that offers scenic journeys to Bamfield and Ucluelet on the west coast. Take a stroll to view the commercial fishing fleet, large shipping vessels and pleasure craft marinas. There's also a children's park for families to spend the afternoons.
Victoria Quay
Victoria Quay sits at the foot of Johnston Road (Hwy #4) and runs parallel to the Somass River. It is flanked by two towering Welcome Figures created by local Hupacasath First Nations carvers. The accompanying Welcome Centre features prominent First Nation's artwork and is the the perfect place to learn about the rich history of the First Nation people in this region. During the summer, the Hupacasath also operates a gift shop as well as guided canoe trips.
Rollin Art Centre
Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the Rollin Art Centre features work by local & regional artists. Tea is served on the Terrace during the summer months. Open year-round, visitors will enjoy its ever-changing displays, unique gift shop, and beautiful grounds.
Murals of Port Alberni
Take the voyage of discovery and catch the 18 awe-inspiring Murals by Artists Brad Piatka and Walter Collins that are located at various parts of the city.
Sproat Lake Provincial Park
If you love the water, Sproat Lake is one of BC's finest freshwater lakes for water sports such as waterskiing, tubing, canoing, kayaking, swimming and windsurfing. Two separate campgrounds and a large day-use area make this park a popular destination for campers and picnickers alike. The lake is also home to the gigantic Martin Mars water bombers.
A variety of short access trails lead visitors around this park, including a trail to the eastern end of Sproat Lake, which is home to one of the finest panels of prehistoric petroglyphs in British Columbia. Sproat Lake is located 15 minutes west of Port Alberni.
Stamp River Provincial Park
In late summer or early fall, head to the park's Stamp Falls. Watch as thousands of Pacific salmon circle in the pool below the falls before ascending fish ladders on their way to spawning beds. Just 20 minutes from Port Alberni, this provincial park is also a great place for family day trips or summer campouts. Take time to hike through the lush forest and river rapids of this wonderful park.
Martin Mars Water Bombers
Known as the world's largest flying boat, the Mars spread their 200 foot wingspan to provide firefighting protection throughout our region, province and beyond. During the summer, visitors will see the gigantic Martin Mars water bombers in action, thundering off to extinguish wild fires. These aircraft are capable of scooping up to 27 tons of water off the lake surface at one time. There are only 2 flying Mars Tankers left in the whole world -- both make their home in Port Alberni (on Sproat Lake).
Lady Rose Marine Services
The MV Lady Rose, built in Scotland and launched in 1937, was the first single propeller diesel vessel ever to traverse the Atlantic under her own power. Nowadays she ferries passengers and supplies for day cruises along the coast from Port Alberni to Bamfield and Ucluelet. Passengers can see the Broken Group islands and stop in at Ucluelet, Bamfield and many other coves and bays. Black bears and bald eagles are often sighted along the shore, as well as a variety of marine life. The vessel is a vital means of communication and transportation for isolated communities along the Alberni Inlet.
Alberni Valley Heritage Network
The Alberni Valley is home to a host of Heritage Tourism attractions that are educational and fun for the whole family. Steam trains, steam sawmill, Maritime Heritage, First Nations culture and art -- experience 4 cool attractions in one big day!
From Victoria: To reach Port Alberni from Victoria, take the #1& #19 Island Highway heading north. You can bypass Nanaimo and Coombs by staying on #19, then take the highway #4 West turnoff to Port Alberni. Highway #4 will take you into Port Alberni via Johnston Road.
From Vancouver: If you are coming from Vancouver, take the ninety-five minute BC Ferries sailing from Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo's Departure Bay Terminal. Stay on the #19 Island Highway heading north, then take the #4 West.
Alternatively, you can also take the 2-hour BC Ferries sailing from Tsawwassen (Vancouver) to Nanaimo's Duke Point Terminal. Again, Stay on the #19 Island Highway heading north, then take the #4 West.
