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Situated
at the centre of the world's most extraordinary island, Nanaimo
epitomizes the ultimate in west coast living. Surrounded by natural
beauty, Nanaimo's environs offer incredible rainforest ecosystems,
breathtaking ocean views, and sunsets framed by protective local
mountains.
Gabriola
Island Ferry Departs
Nanaimo Harbour
Nanaimo is
also centre of fine arts, with a thriving theatre community. Local
artisans, many of them First Nations sculptors and painters, attract
international collectors. There are many fine restaurants in Nanaimo,
with Malaspina College having produced a number of chefs who have
gone on to win international culinary events.
Port Theatre and Marina
The Hub City
is also a shopper's delight. Its malls serve the clientele of
Central and Upper Vancouver Island. The Old City Quarter's and
the Waterfront's quaint shops entice both tourists and locals.
Sea planes serve Nanaimo Harbour
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Nanaimo Harbour
Waterfront
Nanaimo, the
Harbour City, offers a coastline rich with sea life, including
the Orca and the Grey Whale. The area is also recognized by the
international diving community for its artificials reefs. The
natural harbour is a sailor's and a boater's delight.
Nanaimo's
many parks and nature trails are used extensively by runners,
walkers, cyclists, rollers, and hikers. Bungy jumping enthusiasts
take advantage of one of the world's most visited "adrenalin
centres." Avid golfers enjoy the 18-hole courses, all complete
with striking surrounding views.
Nanaimo's
Historic Bastion (1853)
As a centre
for business, Nanaimo is booming. Tourism, technology, marine
research, business and government services are just some of the
thriving industries in this community.
Malaspina
University-College, headquartered in Nanaimo, features two- and
four-year university programs, as well as a number of vocational
programs).
Nanaimo is
easily accessible via two large passenger/vehicle ferry terminals,
a walk-on ferry terminal, three seaplane services, a municipal
airport, and by rail.
The
word "Nanaimo" is derived from the
Coast Salish word Sneneymexw,
which means "great and mighty people."
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