You know what they say... location, location, location... and Andrea's place was the perfect location. I like the Chinatown end vs the Empress end of Victoria because you're away from all the hotels, and all the cute boutiques for shopping are on this end. Made things super easy to return to the condo as needed, like taking a rest and dropping off shopping bags. My senior dog was incredibly comfortable in the condo and we both felt like it was the perfect home-away-from-home. Bean Around the World coffee shop conveniently located downstairs (recommendation: iced oatmilk cinnamon vanilla latte), Fan Tan Cafe next door has delicious noodles (recommendation: black bean and tofu Shanghai noodles), Bubble Tea Place is just across the street (recommendation: my girlfriend is an alien with soy = honeydew + lychee) and Fan Tan Alley is below (recommendation: Robin, the owner of Best of Both Worlds Imports, is a cool dude). The condo itself is super cozy and great for people watching. As a solo traveler, I felt safe and my dog had a great time due to Victoria being such a dog-friendly destination. My only suggestions are to put down some flooring on the balcony... it's SUCH a great amenity to sit out there and chill, but my small dog kept getting his foot caught between grates so some flooring would make it nicer on their paws. And then maybe a portable AC unit for summers. It's been a muggy summer so a little AC unit would've been nice... but it did cool at night (and thankfully, the building is situated on the shadier side of Fisgard). Small *first-world* inconveniences for the great location and space you get. Finally, yes, the seagulls are no joke. Be prepared to be woken up to sqwaking at sunrise every morning... but hey, it's like nature's alarm clock... and it's the price you pay for being so close to the beautiful waterfront. Just bring ear plugs and you'll be fine. I'm a super light sleeper, and was fine once I put in earplugs. Check in and out was a breeze. Thank you Andrea for sharing your genuinely charming place, and for opening it up for canine pals. It was the perfect little holiday across the pond with my dog. I will absolutely return for a stay!