Victoria Real Estate Blog - Stefan Krenz

What can Residents of Victoria Expect from the Bicycle Master Plan?

Bicycling is a great way to get around because it saves money and helps to reduce your carbon footprint. A lot of people in Victoria enjoy traveling this way to save gas money and stop from emitting chemicals into the air. It also is an excellent form of exercise for those who want to be active but aren’t really into the gym.

Since 1995 the current plan in Victoria for bicyclists has helped regulate and improve the cycling experience. A lot has changed in nineteen years so it's time for a more updated plan to come to fruition. The new plan is going to have two phases and here is what the residents of Victoria can expect from the Bicycle Master Plan.

Cycling is Becoming More Popular

Cycling has increased in popularity in the city so one of the…

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Where can you Park in Victoria?

Those that are new to the Victoria area may be wondering how to get around the city and where to park their cars. You’re ready to explore, maybe start a new job and start getting acclimated to the area. All you need to know is where to park.

There are five parkades, three surface parking lots and 2,000 on-street parking spaces downtown so you shouldn’t have any issue finding a spot. The higher-demand on-street parking spots are not ideal and residents should shoot for the five parkades. Here is a look at where to park in Victoria.

What to know about the city parkades

The first hour of parking is always free and you don’t need a coupon anymore to get this. It’s free on Sundays and holidays and event parking is free Monday through Saturday from…

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What is the New Strategic Plan for Victoria all About?

City Council has been working to develop a new strategic plan for Victoria. Their goal is to create a plan in which the next four years will be guided by decisions of the municipality with a concrete plan and deliverables. It takes place before the Financial Plan is developed so that strategic priorities are used to guide the financial planning. The plan will include financial and operational plans and the public was included in planning sessions in early February. Here is a look at their strategic planning for Victoria.

January and February’s Planning

In January and February of this year, the city council completed the strategic planning process. The objective was to develop the concrete and clear plan and deliverables to guide decision making…

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Where are the Best Wedding venues Found in Victoria?

Your big day is very special and the venue will make a huge difference. There are a number of great places around Victoria to hold your wedding and the reception. Here are some of the top wedding venues found in Victoria.

Gardens

There are a number of beautiful gardens found throughout Victoria. Choose from the indoor garden at Butchart Gardens or a more intimate choice, such as Abkhazi Gardens. No matter what type of garden you prefer, you can find it here. Some other good choices for your garden wedding in Victoria include:

• The Butterfly Gardens
• Garden at HCP
• Heritage Estate Garden
• Barton Leier Gallery & Garden
• "Chosin" Garden
• And More!

By the Sea

Another good choice for your wedding is to get married by the sea.…

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What are the Rules for Canadian Snowbirds?

Many retirees and others that call Canada home become snowbirds. However, they have specific rules they must follow when it comes to the tax liability.

It's fully legal for a Canadian resident to spend six months less one day in the United States. However, it could have an impact on your taxes.

An article fond on the CBC News' British Columbia website stated that Canadians are only allowed to spend 120 days in the United State out of every year. However, this statement was quickly clarified by the Canadian Snowbird Association.

Under the current policy, Canadian citizens eligible for travel can spend up to six months less one day in the United States per year. However, those spending more than four months in the United States may be deemed as…

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What does the Victoria Cycling Network Include?

The cycling network found in Victoria is quite popular. It has been updated to include even more features and to provide even more for the residents of the city. The improvements are mapped out for the next 25 years and include some great highlights.

New Features Expected to be Added

Some of the new features will make it easier to get to attractions, schools and more. The highlights of the new cycling network map include:

• Connections to all the public schools, senior centres and community centres
• Better connections in the downtown area
• All town centres and urban villages will be within just one block of a cycling route
• Saanich, Esquimalt and Oak Bay will all have better connections
• Routes for "All Ages and Abilities will be…

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Attraction Spotlight: Save-on-Foods Centre

The Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre is one of the top centres found in the Victoria area. It has the capacity to seat up to 7,000 and provides plenty of programs for kids and adults. The learn-to-skate program for children is one of the most popular, along with many public skating programs.

Lion's Den Restaurant

Within the centre, the Lion's Den Restaurant is found. This restaurant is open before every game or concert and provides a buffet. The buffet includes salads, entrees, appetizers and plenty of desserts. You will want to beat the rush and come in for dinner before the next event you attend at the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre.

Lighthouse Brewing Company

The Lighthouse Lounge at Center Ice is another great place for pre-game meals. You…

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The Best of the Most Unique Shops in Victoria

With all the mainstream shopping opportunities throughout the Victoria area, you may feel surrounded by the ordinary. However, there are plenty of unique shops all around the city for a better shopping experience. Whether you're looking for the perfect book store, thrift store or local boutique, you'll find many options.

Best Bookstores in Victoria

If you're searching for a great new book, Monro's Books is the best place to go. You can also try Bolen Books and Chapters, as both provide a great selection and a unique atmosphere. Those looking for a great bargain and willing to hunt for a specific book will enjoy three used bookstores in the area: Smart Book Shop, Russell Books and Chronicles of Crime.

Best Thrift and Consignment Stores in…

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Neighbourhood Spotlight: Oak Bay Village

Finding the best neighbourhood when you move is important. Oak Bay Village is one of the better neighbourhoods in the Victoria area and provides a close location to downtown. This is a very English-style area known as a genteel enclave. The charming streets and high-end shops make it a popular place for all residents, but living here is quite authentic, especially if you came from across the pond.

You will find plenty of great restaurants, pubs, cafes and places for afternoon tea in the Oak Bay Village area. It's also full of parks, gardens and beaches perfect for a scenic walk or a picnic. The Seaside Touring Route provides a great bike ride and the Chinese Cemetery is full of great history. Overall, this is an excellent area with many attractive…

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Where are the Best Places in Victoria for Couples to Kiss?

Love is in the air, and Victoria has some amazing places for you to embrace your love with a kiss. Romance is never far away, but check out these places when in Victoria. You are sure to make a memory that will last a lifetime.

Niagara Creek Trestle

Gaze upon Victoria’s portion of Niagara Falls when in Goldstream Park. You will be surrounded by the sounds of rushing water, while you are visually in awe of the beauty. A kiss from your lover's lips will seal the deal, and romance will take over.

Fan Tan Alley

Fan Tan Alley happens to be an excellent spot to steal an intimate moment with that someone special. Streets are crowded, and there is a ton of hussel and bussel going on. However, it serves as the perfect time to drown out all your…

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