History
Western Canada’s oldest city, Fort Victoria began as a Hudson Bay Company trading post in 1843. Victoria was Canada's Pacific port of entry and the Fraser Valley gold rush of 1858 lead to rapid growth. Victoria remained the largest city and commercial center of British Columbia until the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway late in the 19^th century. The splendid weather and great natural beauty of Victoria has allowed it to remain Canada’s most desirable tourism and retirement center.  For more detailed information see History of Victoria.

The Municipalities
Victoria is divided into 13 different municipalities, each with their own distinct characteristics.  City of Victoria is the centre of the city physically and economically.  Oak Bay is a the bastion of old England with it's village and quiet residential streets.  Saanich is the largest of the core municipalities.  Esquimalt is the home the Pacific Fleet.  View Royal, Langford, Colwood, Highlands, Metchosin & Sooke are to the west of the core and offer the majority of affordable new housing in the area.  North on the Saanich Peninsula you will find Central Saanich, North Saanich & Sidney.  Capital Regional District serves all Municipalities with health services, water quality, garbage disposal, etc.

Transportation
Vancouver Island has ferry service from BC Ferries, The Victoria Clipper, Washington State Ferries and The M.V. Coho Ferry as well as air service from Air Canada, Horizon Air, Harbour Air Seaplanes, Pacific Coastal Airlines, and other airlines flying into Victoria International Airport.  On the island travel is by automobile, BC Transit, and private bus and taxi companies.

Education
Public schools are administered by Greater Victoria School District 61, Saanich School District 63 and Sooke School District #62.  Victoria is also home to a large number of independent schools including Glenlyon Norfolk, St. Michaels University School, Brentwood College School, Shawnigan Lake School, and St. Margaret's School.  Post secondary education is found at Camosun College, The University Of Victoria and Royal Roads University.

Business Organizations
Victoria is served by four chambers of commerce, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce  Sooke Harbour Chamber of Commerce and Westshore Chamber of Commerce.  Other sources of business information include the Victoria Economic Development and The Economic Development Commission.  Provincial and federal government agencies that may be of interest include Canada Customs, The Government Of British Columbia, Citizen & Immigration Canada and Environment Canada Coastal B.C. Weather.