If you’ve ever longed for a place that smells like saltwater, is filled to the brim with otters and fir trees, and where there’s tea rooms on basically every corner, you’re going to lose your MIND over what I’m about to serve (💅) you.
Recently, over ten magical, misty days, I carved a winding trail through Seattle to Victoria, Vancouver, and the quiet, green woods of Galiano Island, recreating one of my first ever solo journeys. I paddleboarded through still bays, caught glimpses of whales (thrice!), ate tacos that were so riquísimo they nearly made me cry, and at every stop, I found a new way to feel present, grounded, and in awe.
Whether you’re plotting your own trip or simply dreaming from your desk for now, here is your full, detailed, slightly-obsessive guide to ferry-hopping through the Pacific Northwest. From cobblestone markets to mossy forest trails, this is coastal magic by fork, ferry, and foot <3
Seattle: Food, Art, and the Launch Point to Everything
Seattle is a city that crackles with quiet creativity. It has that rare combo of tech-driven innovation and deep-rooted history—where indie bookstores live next to biotech start-ups, and everyone seems to have a side hustle in ceramics or kombucha brewing (the dream, I know).
Mayflower Park Hotel
I kicked off my coastal adventure at the Mayflower Park Hotel, a beautifully preserved slice of Seattle history that somehow feels like both a luxurious time capsule and a warm, familiar living room. This 1927-era hotel isn’t just a place to rest your head—it’s a full introduction to the city’s soul. Velvet armchairs, polished brass fixtures, mahogany furniture, and those signature touches of early 20th-century design set the tone the moment you step through the revolving doors.
The hotel’s charm is immediate. Gilded mirrors line the walls, bellhops greet you like you’ve returned for your tenth visit (for me, it was only my second), and there’s the quiet, unspoken elegance of place that’s hosted stories and celebrations for nearly a century. It’s one of the last remaining independently owned historic hotels in Seattle, and you can feel that pride in every detail.
Location, Location, Monorail
One of the things I adored most? The Mayflower Park is directly connected to the Westlake Center, which contains the Seattle Monorail, making it hands-down the most convenient home base for exploring downtown. In just two minutes, the Monorail whisks you to Seattle Center, home to the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and more. It’s also connected to the Link Light Rail, which can take you to SeaTac Airport in under 40 minutes—no car rental or Uber needed.
Also, as a guest at the hotel, you get access to discounted tickets for the Seattle Art Museum. If you’re even remotely interested in Indigenous art or Pacific Northwest expressionism, do not miss this. SAM’s Indigenous collections are curated with care, highlighting Coast Salish and Haida artists with deep ties to the region.
(Fyi, if you’re planning to hit all the big-name spots, the Seattle CityPASS is honestly such a good deal. It covers entry to top attractions like the Space Needle and Seattle Aquarium, plus a few others you can pick from—all for nearly half the price you’d pay buying tickets separately. It also helps you skip some of the lines, which is a huge win. Super easy, super worth it.)
Oliver’s Lounge: Classic Seattle Cocktails
Another bonus of the hotel? You don’t even have to leave to experience some of Seattle’s best food.
Tucked just off the lobby is Oliver’s Lounge, with floor-to-ceiling windows, a marble bar, and some absolutely stunning dishes. It was actually the first bar in the city to reopen after Prohibition ended in 1933, and you can still feel a little of that speakeasy spirit in the air.
Order a martini (they’re famous for them), sit back, and watch the city roll by outside. They offer a solid menu of bar snacks and light meals, and their brunch offers fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes, shakshuka with perfectly poached eggs, and the kind of herbed potatoes you’ll still be thinking about two days later.
The space is calm and elegant, making it a perfect place to start a lazy weekend morning with good coffee and even better company. Whether you’re fuelling up before a day at Pike Place or easing into a slow Sunday, Oliver’s brunch makes the case for staying in just a little longer.
Eating Around Pike Place
But where else should you go, apart from the Mayflower Park? Easy: Pike Place Market.
Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, you’ll absolutely get jostled by a group of 12 teenagers taking selfies in front of the original Starbucks. And yes, every second is still worth it. This isn’t just a market—it’s a living, breathing piece of Seattle’s heart, and somehow it always manages to feel personal, even among the chaos. Cobblestone streets, bursts of tulips, the scent of fresh bread and smoked salmon in the air—it’s overwhelming in the best way.
And if you really want to experience Pike Place like it’s meant to be seen, smelled, and tasted, book the Eat Seattle Chef-Guided Market Tour.
Led by a professionally trained chef who knows every vendor by name (and every back hallway shortcut), this isn’t your average wander-and-sample food crawl: it’s an insider’s journey through the layers of the market that most tourists miss. You’ll learn where the chefs actually shop and why Pike Place is still considered the soul of the Pacific Northwest food scene.
Every stop came with a story: how a vendor inherited a family stall, why that particular fishmonger slaps the halibut twice before weighing it, or how the flower stands became a platform for local refugee families. The tour peels back the curtain and reveals the market’s personality: big-hearted, eccentric, steeped in history, and equally as obsessed with food as I, personally, am.
Victoria: Quiet Luxury by the Sea
Next up: the Clipper Ferry, the easiest way to travel between the two cities.
We passed rugged coastlines, sleepy fishing villages, and the occasional bald eagle gliding overhead (plus, two whole whales!). Ngl, I recommend splurging on business class—the extra snacks and top-deck views are worth it.
Pendray Inn – Huntingdon Hotel & Suites
From there, you will arrive at Victoria’s famed Inner Harbour, where the nearby Huntingdon Hotel & Suites feels like stepping into a British countryside estate. The ivy-draped brick exterior, tall mullioned windows, and Tudor-style details lend the hotel a quaint, old-world charm that sets the tone the moment you arrive.
Afternoon Tea at the Pendray Inn is honestly a cherished ritual. Served daily in the charmingly intimate dining room, the tea experience begins with a selection of premium loose-leaf teas, each chosen for its delicate flavours and aromatic complexity. Guests can sip their tea from fine porcelain cups as they nibble on delicate finger sandwiches filled with classic ingredients like cucumber, smoked salmon, and egg salad.
The next course is an array of freshly baked scones, served warm with clotted cream, house-made lemon curd, and strawberry jam. These scones, light yet rich, are the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, providing a warm, comforting touch to the afternoon.
A selection of bite-sized pastries and cakes follows, each beautifully crafted with attention to detail. From velvety éclairs and mini fruit tarts to decadent chocolate mousse and buttery shortbread, every bite is a delightful indulgence; plus, each treat is thoughtfully paired with the chosen tea, enhancing the flavours and textures for a truly harmonious experience.
Not only that, but they were also able to work around my very specific dietary requirements, which I really appreciated <3 It really is a treat.
Brentwood Bay Resort
Consider heading northwards to around the pristine waters of Saanich Inlet, where Brentwood Bay Resort is a Pacific Northwest sanctuary for travellers seeking restorative beauty and upscale indulgence. The resort’s architecture is an homage to its coastal setting—think cedar beams, expansive glass walls, and minimalist interiors that draw the eye out toward the ocean and tree-lined shores.
Each room is an experience in relaxation, with gas fireplaces that flicker warmly, spa tubs that overlook the water, and private decks ideal for sunset wine or morning yoga. Plush robes, artisanal bath salts, and luxurious linens add to the sensory richness that flows through the entire resort.
Brentwood Bay Spa
For those looking to sink even deeper into rest and restoration, the resort offers one of the best hotel spas I have ever been to. The spa draws inspiration (and ingredients) straight from its surroundings, incorporating sustainably harvested seaweed from nearby Salish Sea coves, rich volcanic clay, and native botanicals into its treatments. It’s a beautiful reflection of place—earthy, oceanic, and deeply nourishing.
During my stay I received one of their facials and honestly, I still can’t stop thinking about how good it was. Not just technically—though it absolutely delivered on that front—but emotionally, too. The woman who worked with me was so intuitive and kind, and really took the time to ask questions, listen to what I needed, and create a space that felt both deeply professional and warmly personal. I emerged with skin that felt completely refreshed and a mind that had finally had a moment to disengage. It was all very wholesome.
The Brentwood Bay Dining Room
And then there was the food (!!!). Dining at the Brentwood Bay Pub and Dining Room turned out to be one of the most memorable parts of the whole trip. We had the kind of meal that you talk about for days afterward—the kind that lingers in your mind as much as it does on your palate.
Every dish was full of flavour—bold but balanced, comforting, with just the right hint of something unexpected. I had a gorgeous piece of fish, glazed in a rich, slightly sweet sauce with a teriyaki twist; it flaked apart with barely a touch and was paired with sides that made each bite even better. My travel partner had the steak—perfectly cooked and properly satisfying, the kind of meal that’s both hearty and a little bit fancy.
Everything arrived beautifully plated, and the whole meal unfolded over candlelight and panoramic views of the bay. It felt luxurious but unpretentious—like the kitchen really cared, and like we were exactly where we were meant to be.
South Island SUP
Able to pick you up from the Brentwood Bay Resort (or several other points near downtown Victoria), South Island SUP is the gateway to some of the region’s most scenic and lesser-known waterways; offering a thrilling yet tranquil way to explore Vancouver Island’s coastal treasures. Since 2012, this mobile, eco-conscious outfitter has brought stand-up paddleboarding to an incredible range of natural settings—from the salty swells of Cadboro Bay to the glass-calm waters of Thetis Lake.
On our paddle, we floated through waters so clear and still they felt otherworldly, sharing space with jellyfish drifting like translucent lanterns and starfish clinging to the rocks below. A pair of otters popped up just a few feet away, their whiskers twitching, and at one surreal moment, a seal swam right up to me—close enough that I could see its wide, glossy eyes. It was quiet, slow, and utterly magical.
The popular Marine Eco-Tour offers thoughtful insights into local ecosystems and wildlife, while bioluminescent night paddles reveal an entirely different world: one where every stroke of your paddle lights up the water with a surreal, sparkling glow. I didn’t have time to try it on this visit, but it’s the kind of experience that’s already calling me back.
Brian is knowledgeable and deeply passionate about both paddling and marine conservation. His team provides top-tier equipment, expert instruction, and customised routes that cater to all skill levels. It’s pretty ideal.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or trying it for the first time, South Island SUP invites you to slow down, tune in, and truly feel the pulse of Vancouver Island’s wild, watery heart. Frankly, it is one of my favourite experiences, ever.
Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites
From there, consider staying at the Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites, nestled right in the heart of downtown Victoria. It’s close enough to walk to the harbour, the Parliament Buildings, and all the buzz of the city, yet tucked just enough out of the way that you can hear yourself think. Inside, it’s all comfort, warmth, and that unmistakable old-world charm.
Our suite was spacious and bright, with a separate living area that gave the whole stay a more grounded, lived-in feeling—not just a place to sleep, but a place to be. We had a little balcony with a view that stretched out over the city’s leafy rooftops, and I loved sitting out there in the mornings with a cup of tea, watching the city slowly wake up.
The beds were cloud-soft, the linens crisp and clean, and even the bath products smelled like they belonged in some quiet spa in the Alps. Everything felt considered—nothing flashy or overdone, just thoughtful and solid. It’s my favourite place to stay downtown, without a doubt.
Vista 18
But the real surprise? The food. Vista 18, their rooftop restaurant, quite literally took things to another level (teehee). I don’t know what I expected when we made a reservation for dinner there, but it certainly wasn’t to have one of the most unexpectedly exquisite meals of our entire trip.
First, there’s the view. Floor-to-ceiling windows wrap around the entire restaurant, offering sweeping views over the city and out toward the water. As the sun set, the sky shifted from soft lavender to deep indigo, and the lights of Victoria flickered to life below us like fireflies.
And then the food arrived—and everything else faded. There’s something about the way Vista 18 cooks that feels both elevated and deeply personal. Like they want to impress you, yes—but more importantly, they want to nourish you.
We lingered long after the plates were cleared, sipping on wine and watching the moon rise over the water. It felt like a moment carved out of time—quiet, rich, and entirely our own.
Clive’s Classic Lounge
Clive’s Classic Lounge is a destination in its own right. Tucked beside the lobby of the Chateau Victoria, Clive’s has long had a cult following among cocktail lovers, but stepping inside, you’d never guess it was one of Canada’s most awarded lounges. There’s no big neon sign, no velvet rope: just a warm, wood-toned room, low lighting, and the quiet hum of people settling in for something special.
The vibe is cosy but urbane. There’s a fire flickering in the hearth, leather chairs you can sink into, and shelves lined with spirits that seem to whisper of faraway places and long-forgotten recipes. It’s pretty awesome, honestly.
But it’s the craft that sets Clive’s apart—these aren’t your run-of-the-mill cocktails. Each one tells a story, rooted in classic techniques but spun with a local, West Coast twist. The bartenders—true artists—are encyclopedias of spirits and stories: ask them anything about the difference between a Negroni and a Boulevardier or the lore behind a Prohibition-era drink, and you’ll get not just an answer, but a moment of genuine connection. They’re passionate, precise, and deeply proud of what they do.
Whether you’re popping in for a pre-dinner drink or winding down after a long day of exploring Victoria, Clive’s makes you want to stay awhile. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t just serve drinks—it serves atmosphere, memory, and a little bit of alchemy in a glass <3
Prince of Whales Whale Watching
Once you’ve fully stocked up on delicious hotel food, climb aboard for one of the most awe-inspiring experiences Victoria has to offer. Prince of Whales Whale Watching combines thrilling wildlife encounters with luxury-class service, departing directly from the Inner Harbour in Victoria—and also from Vancouver for those chasing sea breezes in both cities.
I went with them from both locations, and each tour was unforgettable in its own way. From the sleek, comfort-packed catamarans to the adrenaline-pumping Zodiacs, the tours brought me closer to the natural magic of the Salish Sea than I ever thought possible. I saw dozens of orcas—seriously, pods swimming side by side, slicing through the water with such effortless grace it felt choreographed. At one point, a whale came so close that everyone on board literally held their breath. It was that raw, that powerful. You could feel the stillness settle like a hush over the whole boat, as if we all instinctively knew we were witnessing something sacred.
And it wasn’t just whales—we spotted seals basking on the rocks, otters floating like little fuzzy buoys, and majestic bald eagles swooping overhead. Every few minutes brought another gasp, another rush to the railings with cameras and binoculars. But even without a lens, it was enough just to be there—salt in the air, wind in your hair, the coastline unfurling before us.
Naturalists on board are more than guides: they’re passionate storytellers. They shared fascinating insights into the lives of these marine creatures, weaving in details about their migration patterns, the ecosystem of the Salish Sea, and even the cultural significance of orcas to local First Nations communities. It felt like something significantly deeper than just sightseeing.
Prince of Whales’ vessels are impressively equipped: think indoor lounges, refreshments, washrooms, and wide open-air decks for that perfect front-row seat to the wild. Or, if you’re feeling bold, hop on one of their Zodiacs for a spray-in-your-face, heart-in-your-throat kind of ride—the kind where the ocean doesn’t just surround you, it becomes a part of you.
A Taste of Victoria Food Tours
There’s a certain magic in walking a city with your senses wide open, and that’s exactly what happens with A Taste of Victoria Food Tour, which starts as a casual meet-up outside the bustling Victoria Public Market and transforms into a feast for both the tastebuds and the imagination.
As our small group set off down the cobbled sidewalks and winding alleys of downtown, our guide, Andy, introduced us not only to Victoria’s vibrant culinary scene but also to the layers of history beneath our feet.
One of my personal favourite things about this tour (yes, I have taken it more than once—it really is that good) is its storytelling. Andy talked us through Chinatown’s ghost stories, tales of fortune-seekers, bootleggers, and how food has always been the glue that holds this diverse community together.
In 2025, the company rolled out new themed experiences that are quickly becoming city staples. The Alleyways & Ales Tour, for example, introduces you to hidden microbreweries tucked behind antique bookstores and artisan chocolate factories. Each pint tells a different tale: one from a fourth-generation brewer using spring-fed water, another from a couple who started their IPA journey in their garage.
And if you’re chasing vistas with your vittles, the Vistas & Views Tour is pure gold. This progressive dinner includes three rooftop stops with everything from duck confit tacos to kelp-infused cocktails, all paired with sweeping harbour views.
Regardless of the tour you choose, by the time you finish, you’ve walked several miles, learned a dozen stories, and sampled more than your stomach can handle. But more importantly, you’ve connected with Victoria’s soul—through its people, its past, and its unforgettable food.
Cold Comfort
If Willy Wonka had set up shop in British Columbia, Cold Comfort would be the result.
This unassuming ice cream parlour is the kind of place you might accidentally walk past—unless you know better. Once inside, though, it’s like stepping into a whimsical lab of frozen dreams. The walls are lined with playful chalkboard menus and handwritten notes like, “Yes, the ice cream sandwich changed my life, too.”
Cold Comfort’s flavours are unexpected in the best possible way. Honestly, owner Autumn Maxwell approaches ice cream like a painter approaches canvas—only instead of oils and acrylics, she uses sage, local lavender, smoked sea salt, and balsamic strawberries.
Dairy-free? Try Mint Condition: coconut milk mint chocolate chip hugged by dark chocolate dacquoise cookies. It’s absolutely bloody fantastic.
Bon Macaron Patisserie
Bon Macaron Patisserie is a place where flavour boundaries cease to exist. Walking in, you’re greeted by rows of glass cases bursting with tiny pastel gems—each macaron like a bite-sized universe, tbh.
And forget boring: these macarons are loud, imaginative, and fearless. One minute you’re biting into lavender-honey with a whisper of lemon zest, the next you’re wrapping your head around beetroot and goat cheese or balsamic-basil with a savoury crescendo.
Their team encourages experimentation. Want to pair a matcha-black sesame macaron with a tart raspberry-lime? They’ll cheer you on. Want to build a 24-piece gift box in rainbow order? They’ll help with that too. If you’re ever tempted to underestimate the art of macaron-making, one visit here will convert you.
Plus, they even have a couple dairy-free options <3
Victoria Butterfly Gardens
And once you’ve stocked up on sugar, head over to one of the most unexpectedly enchanting places I’ve ever visited. Walk through the glass doors of the Victoria Butterfly Gardens and you’re swallowed whole by warmth, colour, and the intoxicating perfume of tropical flora.
It’s more than butterflies—though thousands of them are here. Giant Blue Morphos land on your sleeve. Paper Kites hover near your face. Their wings seem to glow with every flutter.
Every turn offers a new discovery: heliconia blooms hanging like chandeliers, banana trees with their huge elephant-ear leaves, delicate orchids peeking from the undergrowth. The air is thick, humid, alive.
It’s a place where time stops and awe begins.
Vancouver: Mountains, Tea, and More Tea
Vancouver feels like a city designed by poets and trail runners. It’s urban, yes—but in the gentlest possible way. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and edged with salty sea air, it’s a place where people pause to watch the light hit the water just right, where kombucha taps live beside cold-plunge saunas, and where Indigenous culture is not just remembered, but actively honoured.
The St. Regis Hotel: Classic Elegance, Boutique Charm
I had the pleasure of staying at the St. Regis Hotel, an elegant, family-run boutique gem nestled in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Opened in 1913, this historic hotel is a blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, offering a warm, inviting atmosphere that somehow manages to feel both timeless and refreshingly contemporary.
Don’t let the hotel’s nearly 110 years of history fool you—this isn’t a place where the past feels stale or out of touch. It’s polished, vibrant, and bursting with character, offering a level of comfort and luxury that’s as approachable as it is stylish.
As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by a rich blend of classic details and modern touches. Think: gleaming hardwood floors beneath a soft, contemporary colour palette. Every space is thoughtfully curated—plush robes hang in the closet, perfectly folded; the lighting is soft and inviting, with a warm glow that makes you feel like you’ve entered your own little oasis. And the beds? I’m still trying to figure out how they make pillows that soft.
Honestly, it’s a rarity to find a hotel that marries such charm with convenience, and yet that’s exactly what the St. Regis does. It’s tucked away in the bustling downtown core, within walking distance of everything you need to see in the city, but it still offers a quiet, intimate refuge when you’re ready to retreat from the urban frenzy.
But what truly makes the St. Regis stand out? The breakfast.
The breakfast at the St. Regis Hotel in Vancouver is far from ordinary—it’s an indulgent, memorable experience that redefines hotel dining. Included with your stay, it features made-to-order omelettes, rich barista-poured coffee, and buttery croissants that practically melt in your mouth. Thick slices of toast drizzled with real maple syrup complete the perfect morning meal, making it easy to skip brunch plans. It’s so bloody good.
Cycle Vancouver
Vancouver’s charm isn’t just in its urban buzz—it’s in how the city blends seamlessly with nature, and there’s no better way to experience this than on a bike. I joined the Cycle Vancouver Bike Tour, and it genuinely became one of the most memorable parts of my visit.
This guided tour takes you on a leisurely ride through some of the city’s most iconic spots, bringing you face-to-face with Stanley Park’s towering cedar trees and offering a chance to stop at the totem poles carved by Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh artists. These ancient works of art serve as quiet yet powerful reminders that this land is full of stories, legends, and history long before the city’s development.
Along the way, we were treated to views of the surrounding water, framed by lush greenery and the occasional bald eagle soaring overhead. The scent of the forest, salty air, and the deep earthy smell of moss mixed with rain made the entire experience feel like an otherworldly pilgrimage.
Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, weaving in historical context as we rolled past key landmarks, making each stop more than just a photo opportunity. I’m honestly not the biggest cyclist but our guide made sure to pay attention and slow down (or up!) when needed, offering seemingly endless support along the way.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just looking to see the city in a new way, this tour brings Vancouver’s natural beauty and rich history to life in a way no other tour can <3
Tacofino Ocho: Baja Spirit, Vancouver Boldness
Tacos in Vancouver? Don’t question it.
Tacofino Ocho, tucked into the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, proves that good food travels well. This isn’t your average taco joint—it’s where Pacific Northwest ingredients meet bold Baja flavours.
Order the pork belly taco. No, seriously. Order it. It’s crispy and rich with just the right amount of fat, then topped with a blisteringly fresh pineapple salsa that cuts through the decadence like a squeeze of sunlight. Every bite is balanced, punchy, and tastes a little sinful.
What makes the experience even more special is Tacofino Ocho’s willingness to accommodate dietary restrictions. Since I can’t eat onions, they graciously customised my tacos, and I was still treated to an explosion of flavour. The friendly staff made sure my meal was just as satisfying as it was for anyone else.
Wok Around Chinatown
If food is the gateway to a city’s soul, then the Wok Around Chinatown tour in Vancouver isn’t just a meal—it’s a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Chinese culture, history, and culinary mastery.
As you walk through the bustling streets of one of North America’s oldest and most vibrant Chinatowns, you’re not just eating—you’re tasting the past, learning about the present, and gaining a deeper understanding of the traditions that have shaped this iconic neighbourhood.
The tour is led by Robert, a true local expert whose knowledge of the area runs as deep as his passion for its people. I first joined this tour back in 2019, and it remains one of the best tours I’ve ever been on: there’s something about the way Robert shares the stories of Chinatown—how the street corners are more than just spots on a map, but living testaments to resilience, adaptation, and community.
One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Classical Chinese Garden, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. It’s a beautiful tribute to Chinese heritage, blending nature, art, and architecture in perfect harmony. Walking through the tranquil pathways lined with jade-green plants and lotus ponds, it’s easy to forget that you’re in the midst of a bustling city. The garden, with its intricate design and peaceful ambiance, has a deep connection to the community’s roots and its enduring cultural presence in Vancouver.
But the Wok Around Chinatown tour isn’t just about landmarks. It’s about the hands-on, sensory journey that takes you from herbal medicine shops filled with ginseng, dried chrysanthemum, and exotic herbs to traditional bakeries where you’ll sample silky pork buns, each bite packed with the perfect balance of sweet and savoury.
We also stopped at one of my favourite old spots: a quaint tea shop where I first learned about the delicate process of tea brewing. Reconnecting with this place was an emotional moment for me: tea, after all, is a way of life, a ritual that binds people to their heritage and to each other. The shop, with its fragrant blends and cosy atmosphere, reminded me of how far I’ve come on my own journey and how this community has shaped my path.
The beauty of the Wok Around Chinatown tour lies in its ability to show the intricate connections between food, heritage, and community. It’s not just about tasting the best pork buns or learning the history of traditional Chinese medicine—it’s about recognising the resilience and strength of the people who have built and continue to nourish this neighbourhood.
The Wok Around Chinatown tour offers so much more than a culinary experience—it’s an invitation to connect with the heart of Vancouver and a community that has weathered countless challenges.
The Tea Trail: Vancouver’s Steeped Sanctuaries
Vancouver doesn’t just serve tea: it reveres it. From breezy boutiques to hushed heritage spaces, this city is a pilgrimage site for anyone who believes that a cup of tea can be a moment of magic.
Treasure Green Tea Company: A Cup of Legacy
For those in search of something more serene and deeply rooted in tradition, make your way to Treasure Green Tea Company in Vancouver’s Chinatown. This family-run gem, founded in 1981 by Olivia Cheung’s father, has been a cornerstone in the city’s tea culture for decades.
The shop is a temple of oolong, pu’erh, and rare green teas, where aged pu’erh smells like antique wood and rain-soaked earth, and a freshly brewed Dragonwell crackles with the energy of spring. Olivia continues her father’s legacy with elegance and expertise, offering a deeply personal tea experience that feels almost ceremonial. Every cup is steeped with history and care—this isn’t just about drinking tea; it’s about connecting with a story, a tradition, and a place that has maintained its integrity for over 40 years.
For tea enthusiasts, this is the kind of place that makes time slow down, inviting you to savour the small, quiet moments. Treasure Green is where you go when you want a truly authentic experience, and every visit feels like you’re being welcomed into a family that has made tea a lifelong commitment. It’s a beautiful reminder of the lasting power of legacy in the world of tea.
Pâtisserie Für Elise: Tea Time Meets Regency Fantasy
Step into a world of Regency romance and tea elegance at Pâtisserie Für Elise, a quaint Victorian-style tea house just a stone’s throw from Vancouver’s Central Library. Imagine delicate china cups, French silk wallpaper, and clotted cream so rich it feels like a luxury you didn’t know you needed. The ambiance here is a playful homage to Jane Austen’s world, where every detail—from the lavender Earl Grey to the delicate finger sandwiches—is crafted with meticulous care.
The scones are flakey, buttery clouds of perfection, while the sandwiches, filled with fresh cucumber and seasoned lightly with dill, offer a refreshing bite between your sips of tea. Pastries arrive like little edible works of art, glimmering with intricate design and flavour. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the pages of a period drama, so much so that you might find yourself unintentionally slipping into a British accent. It’s that kind of magical place.
Secret Garden Tea Company: Whimsy and Floral Elegance
For an afternoon tea experience that feels like a fairy tale, look no further than Secret Garden Tea Company in Kerrisdale. This tea house is a dream wrapped in pastels, where floral wallpaper, gold teaspoons, and delicate lace set the stage for an afternoon of enchantment. It’s the kind of tea room that makes you wish you could linger forever, sipping tea from elegant china, nibbling on confections, and soaking in the serene atmosphere.
The afternoon tea here is a feast for the senses, presented on a three-tiered stand that’s as much about the presentation as it is about the flavours. Smoked salmon pinwheels, lemon curd tartlets, buttery shortbread, and seasonal confections fill each layer, offering a delightful variety of savoury and sweet treats.
If you’re gluten-free or vegan, don’t worry—Secret Garden is all about inclusivity, making sure that every guest enjoys the same beautiful experience, regardless of dietary restrictions. Every bite is as delicate and delicious as the surroundings, and the charm of the setting elevates the entire experience.
The White Heather Tea Room: A Personal Favourite
Tucked away in the heart of Vancouver, the White Heather Tea Room is a place that holds a special spot in my heart and honestly, might just be my favourite place. It’s the kind of place that feels like home, with its cosy atmosphere and attention to detail that makes every cup of tea feel like a personal gift.
The scones, served warm with clotted cream and jam, are simply divine, and the selection of teas is impeccable. It’s a spot where you can relax and unwind, knowing you’re in the hands of experts who truly care about the craft of tea. Whether you’re seeking solace in a quiet corner or enjoying a lively conversation with friends, the White Heather offers a sense of comfort and joy that’s hard to replicate.
While each tea house in Vancouver brings something unique to the table, I adore the White Heather for its consistent excellence, charm, and the undeniable sense of connection it offers to everyone who walks through its doors. It’s a subtle, yet undeniable, gem in the city’s tea scene—a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the art of tea.
Galiano Island: A Place to Finally Breathe
Just a short ferry ride from Tsawwassen, this mist-wrapped island floats somewhere between waking and dreaming. Here, there are no traffic lights, no chain stores, no hurry. Just winding roads flanked by wild roses, douglas firs stretching skyward, and the sound of your own breath syncing up with the sea.
Bodega Ridge
I stayed at Bodega Ridge, a sanctuary nestled on the island’s northern end. From the outside, the cedar A-frame cabins look like pages from a Scandinavian design magazine, and inside, it’s all warm wood, flickering firelight, and the kind of beds that make you sleep twelve hours without shame. The windows frame sky and treetops like art, and even the silence has texture—thick, soothing, sacred.
In the mornings, I brewed coffee and took it out onto the porch wrapped in a woollen shawl, watching fog unfurl across the ridge as hummingbirds darted through the trees. Evenings were made for slow pleasures—reading by amber lamp, drinking tea on the porch steps, or cooking something simple in the little kitchen and eating it barefoot under the stars.
I could’ve stayed forever.
Each day felt like a ritual in itself: waking with the sun, stretching barefoot on the deck, writing a few lines in my notebook, and then heading out to explore whatever called to me. I hiked the Bodega Ridge Trail, a relatively gentle climb that rewards you with sweeping views of Trincomali Channel and the jagged spines of nearby islands, and then returned to the cabin to sketch and drink tea.
Honestly, this is one of my favourite places in the world.
The Pink Geranium
The Pink Geranium, built with the same thoughtful care as the cabins, is a sun-drenched spot which serves food that nourishes both body and soul.
I can’t eat onion or dairy, and yet without blinking, the kitchen adjusted everything so I could enjoy every bite without worry—like it was the most natural thing in the world. This, fyi, is incredibly rare.
We ate outside on the patio, looking out at the wildflowers and whispering grasses. Bees hummed lazily nearby, and a dog slept in the shade of a cedar tree. There were bowls of soup that warmed your hands and belly, pastries that were golden and flaky and just the right amount of sweet, and tea in ceramic cups. This was slow food for slow days.
And maybe that’s the secret of Galiano—of Bodega Ridge, of The Pink Geranium. It doesn’t try to impress you. It simply invites you in, feeds you well, lets you rest, and quietly reminds you of how good life can be when you let it unfold gently.
Ending the Journey
This stretch of the Pacific Northwest offers something rare: adventure and stillness in equal measure. You can chase whales in the morning, sip tea from antique cups by afternoon, and fall asleep to the sound of waves at night.
From Seattle’s markets to Victoria’s flower-strewn harbour, from Vancouver’s culinary brilliance to the raw, earthy beauty of Galiano Island, this is a trip that doesn’t just show you new places—it teaches you how to slow down. How to breathe.
Whether you go for five days or two weeks, whether you plan every minute or simply follow the tide, I hope you find your own version of magic—ferry tickets in your pocket, wind in your hair, and maybe, just maybe, a macaron in each hand.
