Heading to Victoria - What stores are worth a visit

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by JohnM99

I have had good success with purchases at Hillside. I don't like the attitudes at Safari - he brings in all sorts of things that have no business in captivity all the time (18" Remora, etc) .

John, did you know that the Remora originally came from Hillside? It was purchased for a commercial tank, and then the purchaser pawned it off at Safari. Just thought we should get facts before we post something like this.

[Jaws]

Be very careful purchasing at Hillside. Kindness and courtesy only go so far. I've heard lots of people talk about how they've purchased things from Hillside that aren't really reef safe or don't make it through the night due to sickness. This happens almost everywhere I understand, but most have found Hillside to be in it for business purposes rather than proper instruction. Just my opinion though. As far as knowledge goes, I've found Safari to be by far the best.

[JohnM99]

John, did you know that the Remora originally came from Hillside? It was purchased for a commercial tank, and then the purchaser pawned it off at Safari.

I did not know that. I must say, I have seen more than 1 Moorish Idol at Hillside, and have been given incorrect advice there (always on the side of making a purchase). But, the things I have bought there have done well. I don't have as much experience buying from Safari - but a few discussions there about cyanide left me very cold. But, probably no better in that respect at Hillside - most of there stuff is from Phillipines or Indonesia.

I suppose Victoria is not a great place for SW shops.