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Ladysmith
Established as a recreation and dormitory complex for miners in 1899, Ladysmith has kept it's turn
of the century charm. It was named after the Ladysmith of South Africa, in celebration of the relief in 1900
of British forces that had been besieged there. There is a rich history that is shown by its museums, historic
landmarks and natural environment.
Outside of town is beautiful mountainous terrain abundant with streams and lakes; it is perfect for hiking,
camping, fishing, and many other outdoor activities.
Nanaimo
From its modest beginnings as a mining town in 1874, Nanaimo has come a long way. It has a population of almost
80,000 people, over 2 dozen parks, and a vibrantly active waterfront. The harbour is a scene of constant comings
and goings of float planes, freighters, barges, and tugboats as well as almost every size and style of leisure and
tour/charter boat imaginable. It is a vital port for business and pleasure on and off the water, with many shops,
parks and restaurants right next to the dockside. Nanaimo has a mild climate that encourages people outside to
enjoy the many walking, biking and hiking routes throughout this city and attend the many events put on all year round.
Chemainus
As the world's largest outdoor art gallery, Chemainus embraces its heritage and celebrates its history
as a small coastal mill town. Over 400,000 annual visitors are attracted to this town to see the many murals,
sculptures and antique shops; 100 times the population itself. The surrounding forests and views are awe
inspiring as well. Coastal forests grow to the water's edge and open to show breath taking views of the Gulf
Islands and the straight.
Sointula / Malcolm Island
The name Sointula means "harmony" in Finnish, and describes the utopian colony that the first people dreamed
of when they settled here in the early 1900's. Today, that same desire for a calm life in tune with nature is
still a part of the town's spirit. Sointula is located on Malcolm Island and is supported mostly by fishing,
but tourism is growing as more people visit to experience the fishing, whale watching, scuba diving and general
relaxing atmosphere this little village has to offer.
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