Hi

I am thinking of moving to Vancouver Island in the very near future. I have tried researching for jobs houses etc, but all the web sites are very similar and don't really offer much insight.

We are flying into Vancouver International, can anyone tell me how long it takes to get to the Island, the cost and how simple it is from the Airport to the harbour.

I would also like any recommedations on the ideal area in the Island and what type of employment is on offer.

I am an experienced Logistic and Transport Manager and my husband is a qualified painter and decorator in our early 40's so any tips would be extremely appreciated.

Thanks

Veronica

Hi

and welcome. If you are moving in the near future, I assume you already have visa's?

Hi

We are waiting on them, we have consulted an attorney in Montreal who has assured me that we should have the Visa's by the end of April latest. However I am lead to believe that if I can secure a Job offer ( I have 2 interviews arranged mid may )that I will be able to accept any poistion offered
is this correct?
thanks

LOL, anyone else see the irony in a transport and logistics manager being unable to figure out transport details to VI from the airport


"Taxi!"

There is a bus service that goes from the airport to the Island. Its called Pacific Coach Lines: http://www.pacificcoach.com/

This might be the easiest and cheepest way to get to the island.

The actual ferry ride is about 90 minutes whether you got to Victoria or Naniamo.

I think Victoria would be a good place to consider although it is expensive. Nice City, a lot of the work would be government work.

Why not fly from Vancouver?

AC has many flights a day and the flight takes 30 minutes. A trek out to the ferry and then the ferry trip itself after a long flight seems kind of silly. The ferry trip is beautiful though and worth doing-maybe back to Vancouver.
Pacific Coach Lines goes from downtown Victoria right to the Vanocuver airport.


Every town and city on the island is lovely. Victoria is definitely the most expensive but what a paradise it is.

Best of luck- you will love it here I am sure.

Thank you very much for the helpful tip. I did see a site for flights to the Island, and considered this, because as you've rightly assumed I don't wont to waste too much time getting there but could take the ferry back to the airport. Do you know how far in advance you need to book the flight
Thanks

Air Canada fly to the Island via Vancouver or Calgary and the cost of flying straight to the Island is hardly anymore than flying to Vancouver and so much quicker than the ferry.

Ah yes that reminds me I forgot to ask before.
If I'm travelling from Calgary to Vancouver do I head North or South? also which side of the road do they drive on in the lower mainland? Is it the same if I go over to the Island?

I read today that the Island was looking to pilot changing to driving on the left hand side of the road to bring them in line with the majority of Asian countries and of course because of the many Brits now living there.

They are starting a pilot in May changing over semis and buses first. Cars, SUV's and trucks will convert in August if the test is successful.

Reminds me of putting the Christ back into Christmas. Putting the British back into .......

If you're not bringing too much luggage you can get a seaplane from YVR to Victoria or Nanaimo, it takes 15mins & costs about $60.

www.seaairseaplanes.com
www.baxterair.com
www.harbourair.ca


Also the Island Sealink (harbourlynx) is supposed to be running again shortly it takes about 90 mins & costs $27.50 I think.

They have April Fool's over here too....

Yeah, its a joke but the way people drive there...

I would have to agree. OH got rear ended while stationary outside the library last week. Plonker in truck behind him thought he'd put some books in the book drop, got out of said truck while it was still in drive and stood there open mouthed as truck moved forward as if possessed all on it's own. At least the owner of the demonic vehicle could apparently read....