My husband and I have been vacationing in Victoria during the winter months for several years, each time in a different condo, always in search of the perfect rental. We have found our vacation paradise - our permanent home away from home in Brett and Linda's luxurious condo.
Our expectations were quickly surpassed the minute we walked into our rental at The Reef at 1:00 am after a long day of travelling. We were most grateful to our hosts for assisting us to make our very late check-in possible. We were met by a warm fireplace, ambient lighting and a beautifully furnished condo with all high end, modern leather and glass furniture. Tastefully decorative art pieces showcased this spectacular condo. Brett and Linda left a lovely basket of food items for us to ensure we had everything we needed on our first morning. The condo was well stocked.
As tired as we were, we stood on the balcony overlooking Fisherman's Wharf to take in the mesmerizing views of the waterfront, Johnson Street Bridge in the distance, the beautifully lit Legislative Building and the serenity of Vic West across the harbor. We also had a spectacular view of the mountains from our side balcony. So to say we had found our vacation paradise is an understatement.
We knew the James Bay area well so we knew it to be safe. The Reef is an exceptionally secure, clean and well maintained building that is within a short walking distance to the finest restaurants, IMAX, shopping, downtown area entertainment, and great walking paths along the waterfront.
The city of Victoria is vibrant regardless of the season when you visit, but the James Bay area has a unique energy of its own with a real sense of community. One of our favorite pastimes was sitting in front of the floor to ceiling windows watching the activity at Fisherman's Wharf and in the dog park below; enjoying the children playing in the park; and taking in the activity in the inner bay such as the ferries, float planes, rowers and whale watching boats. There is a constant movement of energy that is exciting and overflows with life.
What touched our hearts was the graciousness and warmth with which Brett and Linda greeted us with enthusiasm and joy, ensuring we had all the comforts of home. Brett and Linda have become lifelong friends. They have provided us with a home away from home and it is our plan to return year after year trying different seasons to experience Victoria in its totality.
Rene and Rog-January to March 2019