Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Important Things To Know Before Going Out To Get Your Haida Gwaii Accommodations

By Marci Nielsen


Many in recent years are starting to visit British Columbia for short jaunts and vacations. Quite a few are discovering and putting into their itinerary the Haida Gwaii archipelago. May would be thinking of looking for hotel in Haida Gwaii, but before you look for Haida Gwaii accommodations, you must know a little bit more about the island chain and what it has to offer.

Since Haida Gwaii is an island system, or rather archipelago, it is logical to expect that activities will involve and revolve around the water. One of the most popular attractions is whale watching and whale watching related activities which is available for the tourist and visitor year round.

Quite a few will say that this area is the best area in the world to go on a whale watching tour. It is a good place to be able to catch a glimpse or even an extended view of killer whales, gray whales and humpbacks. The frequency by which you see these of course will be higher on certain days and months than others. As with any other ecological observation, it will definitely depend on month and season the chances you get of seeing more than one species. Doing your research beforehand and even talking to locals about best times will increase your chances of having more views per hour.

Plenty of land activities exist as well on these islands. There are quite a few hiking and camping spots dotted around the islands for those that enjoy these kinds of activities. Hand in hand with this one can enjoy kayaking and fishing as well. Most popular activities are biking in the morning followed by just lounging and lazing around the beaches in the afternoons until evening.

Those who want to learn about local culture and the populace can also have their fill. The locals, called the Haida, are very happy to share their history and stories with you. Best you read ahead about them however so you can avoid any embarrassing questions and situations.

As one travels from one island to another, one cannot help but notice the large number of totem poles erected around the area. There are the recorded histories of each of the families on the islands, and thus sacred and important. One would be quite correct in saying that they look like Alaskan totems, since the Haida also occupy large portions of the Alaskan state.

A complete four days is what it will take to completely tour the archipelago and soak up its local culture and history. Be on the lookout for local museums that are part of local communities, wherein you can browse through some local arts and crafts. Here in these museums you will see origins of the bent wood technique used in making furniture. This technique is shared across almost all North American Indian cultures.

The island chain is also very accessible and takes only about two hours flight via plane originating from Toronto. Most describe it as close enough to get to, but far enough away to get away from it all. You can also access the islands by boat or ferry as well. However going there by ferry or boat may take you up to eight hours and also it is very dependent on the weather. Most that have taken the boat say it is a very scenic way to do so.




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