We are a semi-retired couple with 2 adult children, and 2 granddaughters, and have done 5 successful house exchanges to France, Spain, Italy, London. and Ireland.

Our neighbourhood is South Oak Bay - an older area of Victoria with a village feel close to the Pacific Ocean. We are a 5 minute walk to the ocean, and a 10 minute walk to Oak Bay Village - which has grocery stores, banks, restaurants, a pharmacy and other conveniences. From our home, you can reach the ferries to Tsawwassen (which takes you to the Lower Mainland of BC and parts beyond), Seattle and Port Angeles.

The house is comfortably equipped with modern amenities. One of our home's loveliest features is a quiet stone patio off the kitchen, with BBQ, that seats 6 to 8, and can be used from May to late fall if the weather is fine. The kitchen is well equipped, including a modern gas range, and large enough to seat 6 - 8 people.

We have 2 bedrooms with queen size beds, and a comfortable pull out couch (with a new mattress) - also queen size - in the living room for extra guests. There is a clothesline and a cleaning lady every 2 weeks.

Both bathrooms have been renovated recently for improved functionality and aesthetics.

We have an electric car, which can be charged overnight. This car is perfect for short trips around the city, where there are many charging stations at community centres and municipal parking lots. We will add to balances on Flo and Chargepoint to ensure that you can charge at public stations. Also, the car can be plugged in overnight at our house for a slow charge. Every exchange that we have done so far has included our car without any problems.

We have a cocker spaniel - Jackson - who can be included (or not) in the exchange. We will leave names for dog sitters if you choose to include him in your stay. Two walks and meals a day, and lots of cuddles are all that he needs .