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The Butchart Gardens, 800, Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, Central Saanich, Capital Regional District, British Columbia, British Columbia
The forecast for today was rain from lunchtime, so I ordered room service breakfast which was very reasonable and more than I could eat, and headed out early. I caught the 9am bus to Butchart Gardens and arrived in less than an hour. The taxi driver from yesterday had advised I go by taxi - he said there would be a lot of waiting around for buses and going a long route etc, but the fare would have been about $60 each way! So for $2.50 each way I had a nice ride and enjoyed the trip :-)
I knew it would be impressive but wow! The cost to get in (just under $30) was more than worth it. I spent about 2 hours taking over 250 photos and just marveling at the work it has taken to convert this old quarry into magnificent gardens. Bravo Mrs Butchart!! Apparently it looks different each season so I saw the lovely Autumn plants and colours. I hear it is something to see at Xmas when the gardens are lit up (although it would be freezing!). I avoided the crowds and was able to amble around at my leisure. I stopped in the cafe for lunch and while I was eating it began to rain. How lucky was I!
So back to the township and although I had hoped to see a few other things in the afternoon the rain put a halt to that. So instead I went shopping and kept out of the rain.
Tonight I had my last holiday meal
in the cafe attached to the hotel. Half of it is an Irish pub and I had thought of eating in there, but the US Rugby team is in there so I opted for the quieter restaurant section where I now sit having enjoyed a 'Bart's Lager' and salad with grilled salmon. Quite comfortable but I should get back to my room and make sure I have everything ready for my departure tomorrow.
I'm in for a bus trip of 3 hours to Vancouver airport, check in 2 hrs before the flight, fly to LA, collect luggage and check it back in again, fly to Sydney (13 hrs), wait 2 hrs there for connecting flight back to Canberra. Gee I hope I can sleep on the long flight!!!!!
But what a holiday - everything went so smoothly and I was blessed with great weather for all but a couple of days. Thanks Canada and USA and in particular Liz for being such a great travel buddy and friend.
I wonder when I can travel again????.........
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