Documentation:Science Co-op/Vancouver Island - Campbell River, BC
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Helpful Tips For Co-op Students Going to Campbell River, BC
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Introduction
Commonly known as the Salmon Capital of the World, it is a small city with a population of little over 30,000 people. However, it is one of the 'bigger' cities on Vancouver Island after Nanaimo and Victoria. Approximately 2 hours from Nanaimo, this small city is a great place for a little getaway from the city, but still has all the amenities a city have. There are two ways to get to Campbell River, by a plane or a car/bus. Campbell River airport is a small airport located in the corner of the city. Flights such as Pacific Coastal or Central mountain airlines are provided. You would need to take a cab to go into the city centre as public transportation is not that great nor frequent. The next closest bigger airport would be from Comox airport, an hour south from Campbell River. There are more flights and more options in the Comox airport including international flights. From Vancouver, it is easy to get to Campbell River. Leaving from Horseshoe bay to Nanaimo, take the Highway 19 North. There are shuttle services called IslandLink Express Bus in the Vancouver island that goes to Campbell River from Nanaimo, Victoria or even Comox. Book it early as there are limited numbers of seats and sometimes it is full. The shuttle have many drop points throughout Campbell River including the city centre in front of Shoppers Drug Mart.
Finances
Campbell River has all the big financial banks including Toronto-Dominion, RBC, Scotiabank and BMO.
Insurance
Campbell River is still in Canada, so any insurances you had in Vancouver should be valid in Campbell River.
Housing
Usually the supervisor will provide housing. There are also many houses that offer homestay. Certain organizations such as Rotary club of Campbell River provide rooms for students, though may be for only short term.
Just note: Campbell River city districts are spread quite far. Thus, it is highly recommended you remain close to the Campbell River central if you come without a car.
Advice
Enjoy the city as it has many natural landscapes. As it is a harbour city, it has many water activities including diving, whale watching and wind surfing. They also have really good Fish and Chips place right in the harbour. If you do not have a car, bikes are really good way to go as everything is pretty spread apart. Despite being a small city, it really does have everything. This includes Superstore, Wal-Mart, Save-on-Food, Zellers, Home Depot and Canadian Tire. Costco is also very close as it is in Comox. When I was there last time, the gas in Comox was the cheapest in the whole province of British Columbia due to Costco's gas price. The price difference between Comox and Vancouver was almost over 20 cents, so if you have a car, make sure you fill it up in Comox before your travel.