British Columbia is one of the last places on the earth that has a best kept secret in terms of travel destinations and possibly tour spots. This best kept secret comes in the form of the archipelago of Haida Gwaii. So before you pack you bags and head off to one of the several Haida Gwaii hotels, please find out more about what this place has to offer by reading on further in this article.
Being an archipelago, expect that quite a lot of activities or major activities for that matter, will be centered around or near the water or sea. In fact a major, if not prime attraction is the year round whale watching tours and excursions that many have come to know and enjoy.
Haida Gwaii is considered one of the best, if not the best place to go whale watching. One of the more unique aspects of doing whale watching here is that you can do it all year round. The most common whale species seen here are the killer whale, humpback whale and gray whale. Frequencies of sighting differ by season and month so it is best to do your homework on this prior to your trip.
One should not be mistaken that only water activities are available. There is plenty to be had on land as well. Quite a few hiking trails and camping areas dot the archipelago, as well as some notable kayaking and fishing spots. A popular activity engaged in by most tourists is to bike around in the morning, and in the afternoon just lounge around one of the many beaches in the area waiting for nightfall.
Those of a more cultural and historical leaning in terms of having a good vacation will not be disappointed. The local Haida are very friendly and more than willing to share with you their culture and history. It is best to avoid embarrassment by reading into the culture earlier so you can avoid any uncomfortable moments and comments.
Totem poles are the family history records of the islands, and one will find them everywhere almost. As they are the records of history, they are be given respect always. The totems are created in the Alaskan fashion and style, which is not surprising, considering the Haida also occupy vast areas of Alaska.
Four days is the minimum amount of time you need to fully circumnavigate the entire area and soak everything in. This is enough time to be able to visit all the local arts and crafts establishments as well as the museums that are on offer from each of the local communities. During this time, you will most likely learn a lot about a furniture making technique used by North American Indian tribes, called the bent wood technique. This is a way of making furniture without using nails and such.
The most direct route to the island group is by a two hour flight from Toronto. You can also opt to take a more scenic route by boat or ferry which can take you about 8 hours. Either way, you will enjoy you vacation here. In looking for the best accommodation therefore, find one that can give you access to all the activities thus mentioned.
Being an archipelago, expect that quite a lot of activities or major activities for that matter, will be centered around or near the water or sea. In fact a major, if not prime attraction is the year round whale watching tours and excursions that many have come to know and enjoy.
Haida Gwaii is considered one of the best, if not the best place to go whale watching. One of the more unique aspects of doing whale watching here is that you can do it all year round. The most common whale species seen here are the killer whale, humpback whale and gray whale. Frequencies of sighting differ by season and month so it is best to do your homework on this prior to your trip.
One should not be mistaken that only water activities are available. There is plenty to be had on land as well. Quite a few hiking trails and camping areas dot the archipelago, as well as some notable kayaking and fishing spots. A popular activity engaged in by most tourists is to bike around in the morning, and in the afternoon just lounge around one of the many beaches in the area waiting for nightfall.
Those of a more cultural and historical leaning in terms of having a good vacation will not be disappointed. The local Haida are very friendly and more than willing to share with you their culture and history. It is best to avoid embarrassment by reading into the culture earlier so you can avoid any uncomfortable moments and comments.
Totem poles are the family history records of the islands, and one will find them everywhere almost. As they are the records of history, they are be given respect always. The totems are created in the Alaskan fashion and style, which is not surprising, considering the Haida also occupy vast areas of Alaska.
Four days is the minimum amount of time you need to fully circumnavigate the entire area and soak everything in. This is enough time to be able to visit all the local arts and crafts establishments as well as the museums that are on offer from each of the local communities. During this time, you will most likely learn a lot about a furniture making technique used by North American Indian tribes, called the bent wood technique. This is a way of making furniture without using nails and such.
The most direct route to the island group is by a two hour flight from Toronto. You can also opt to take a more scenic route by boat or ferry which can take you about 8 hours. Either way, you will enjoy you vacation here. In looking for the best accommodation therefore, find one that can give you access to all the activities thus mentioned.
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