Kelowna, British Columbia Among the many
vacation destinations a visitor can consider in British Columbia,
there is one travel constant that never fails to memorably reward
visitors. It’s a place where world-class amenities are
always available to enjoy. It’s a place where the climate
is mild and sunshine is something to be expected. It’s a
spot blessed with spectacular mountain scenery and pristine
lakes. It’s Kelowna, B.C.! It’s often referred to as
the Hawaii of Canada. Kelowna is located in the beautiful
Okanagan Valley of British Columbia. This is a major
fruit-growing region and has lots of vineyards producing
world-class wines. The settled area lies in the valley along the
shores of Lake Okanagan, which is about 120 miles (nearly 200
kilometers) long and between 3 to 6 miles (5 to 10 kilometers)
wide. Kelowna has a metropolitan population of about 100,000. It
offers a variety of recreational activities, has many fine
restaurants and lots of shopping. There are unending miles of
trails for hiking, mountain biking, trail riding and family
walks. There are about 18 golf courses within a short drive, and
most will be open until the end of October. There are centers for
family outings, miniature golf and kids’ attractions. For
Internet users, a local Web site (www.castanet.net/) provides
current news, weather and local happenings. The climate in autumn
is usually still fairly warm with crisp nights. Rain is not
normally a problem as the area is arid. It is a good idea to
bring clothing that is suitable for weather in the 50s and 60s
Fahrenheit (13 to 18 Celsius). Motel prices are reasonable, with
a selection to meet all budgets. An international airport just
north of town serves the area with direct flights from Seattle.
Location of Services: Kelowna Community Theatre, 1375 Water
St.,Kelowna, B.C. First Service: Friday, Oct. 6, at 7:30 p.m. The
following day’s service will be at 1 p.m. Taxes: There is a
provincial sales tax of 7 percent (or 8 percent on hotels) as
well as GST, which is 5 percent. Visitors from outside of Canada
can apply for a GST rebate.
Rainer Salomaa
©2008 United Church of God, an International Association; Kelowna BC
* Note: This is not the official Web site of the United Church of God, an International Association ("UCGIA"). The only official UCGIA Web site is at http://www.ucg.org , or one of the Web sites of National Councils, which are part of UCGIA. They are not responsible and will not be held liable for the content, representations, or any claims arising out of the materials contained on this Web site.