The Charm of Victoria

The Real Deal: Round-trip airfare and three nights' accommodations from $334 per person.

When: Mar. 1-Apr. 20, 2007.

Butchart Gardens, Victoria (Ruthie Rosenstock) [enlarge photo]

Gateways: Seattle; add $101 for San Francisco; $125 for Los Angeles; $264 for Miami, New York City, Washington, D.C.; additional cities available.

The Fine Print: Hotel and airport taxes are included. Some international airport taxes may be additional. Depart Sun.-Wed. through Mar. 31; afterwards depart Tues., Wed., or Sat. Add round-trip airport/hotel transfers for about $30 per person. Based on double occupancy; the single supplement is about $56. For general guidelines on evaluating deals, click here.

Book By: No deadline; based on availability.

Contact: Alaska Airlines Vacations, 800/468-2248, alaskaair.com/vacations.

Why It's a Deal: The lowest round-trip fare we've found between Seattle and Victoria in early March is $414 (Air Canada). If you book through Alaska Airlines, you'll save about $80 per person--and receive the three-night hotel stay.

Trip Details: The package includes round-trip airfare to Victoria on Alaska Airlines and a three-night stay at the recently renovated Best Western Carlton Plaza near the harbor and historic downtown area. Add extra nights from about $75 per person per night.

Upgrade to the Marriott Victoria Inner Harbour from $65 per person or to the chichi Fairmont Empress from $85 per person.

Victoria's peak travel season may not kick off until May, but even in the spring the city boasts some of Canada's most pleasant weather. Average temperatures are in the 50s Fahrenheit for March and April.

The totem poles of Thunderbird Park, the roses of the world-famous Butchart Gardens, and English-style tea service are just a few options for keeping yourself busy. For more tips on what to see and do in Victoria, visit the official tourism website.

More on Canada: