So why Vancouver Island and Sidney? Well, both had lived in Vancouver for over 20 years. It has evolved, changed and has so many home decor stores, while the island has not seen as many. However, in Sidney, there is an evolving retail presence, more people moving from the surrounding cities nearby, and a more slower, balanced pace. Along with the convenient location, only minutes from one of the largest ferry ports in British Columbia, it is the gateway to the island and often the first stop for those coming from the smaller Gulf Islands.