Abbotsford

Abbotsford is a town of about 140,000 people in the Fraser Valley of British Columbia. With mountains visible in nearly every direction, it is in one of the most geographically stunning regions of British Columbia. Abbotsford is an agriculture-based city that is a popular visitor stop over point for U.S. travellers north bound to the Yukon and Alaska and Canadians travelling east and west along the Trans-Canada Highway.

Introduction

History of Abbotsford

Abbotsford's colonial theft began when the Royal Engineers surveyed the area in response to the Gold rush along the Fraser River in 1858. This led to the building of Yale Road (today Old Yale Road) and the first transportation route to link the Fraser Valley. The settlement grew and the production of butter, milk and tobacco began by the late 1860s. In 1889, former Royal Engineer John Cunningham Maclure applied for a Crown grant to obtain the 160 acres (0.65 km²) that would become Abbotsford. There is some controversy over the origin of the Abbotsford name. The most commonly cited origin is that Maclure named the land "Abbotsford" after family friend Henry Braithwaite Abbott and the Western superintendent of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Until 1922 the name was spelled Abottsford. Maclure's sons later stated that the property had been named for Sir Walter Scott's home, Abbotsford and pronounced it with the accent on ford, while in his later years Maclure claimed that the naming had been "a combination of two ideas". The title passed hands to Robert Ward, who filed a townsite subdivision on July 9, 1891.

Also in 1891 and the CPR built a railway line through the area that connected Mission with the Seattle, Lake Shore and Eastern Railway at Sumas, Washington. This route was the only rail connection between Vancouver and Seattle until 1904. In 1892, Robert Ward sold many of the lots to private investors and sold a significant portion to the Great Northern Railway’s subsidiary company the Vancouver, Victoria and Eastern Railway. The British Columbia Electric Railway (BCER) arrived in 1910. The Interurban, as the BCER tram linking Abbotsford with Vancouver and Chilliwack was called, was discontinued in 1950.

Travel to Abbotsford

Travel by plane to Abbotsford

Abbotsford International Airport IATA Flight Code: YXX 49.0253,-122.36 | Abbotsford International Airport - CYXX - Abbotsford is served by the second largest airport in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. YXX's motto is "a good hassle free alternative" to Vancouver International (IATA Flight Code: YVR), with daily, non-stop Flights to and from: Edmonton, Calgary and Victoria, plus connections and stop over Flights to other domestic and international destinations. Weekly winter charter flights are offered to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.Scheduled airlines include Airspeed Aviation and WestJet. Transat Holidays is the primary tour operator. In-terminal auto rentals include Avis, Budget and National. Taxi service is available, but there is no shuttle service nor is there any public transit serving the airport.

YXX is roughly 80 minutes away from YVR, 60 minutes from downtown Vancouver, 10 minutes from the downtown of Abbotsford, 2 1/2 hours from Whistler, 45 minutes from Harrison Hot Springs and 40 minutes from Bellingham Airport (IATA Flight Code: BLI) in Washington state

Travel by vehicle to Abbotsford

The city is on BC Highway 1 (the Trans-Canada Highway) BC-1 (TCH).svg|18px, roughly 90 kilometers east of Vancouver (a 60-75 min drive). BC Highway 11 BC-11.svg|18px heads south to the US border, where it becomes Washington state highway 9. The drive to Seattle is about 2½-hours.

Ebus connects Abbotsford to Vancouver, Kamloops and Kelowna.
Rider Express +1-833-583-3636 Bus service along the Trans-Canada Highway from Winnipeg to Vancouver, twice daily. Service from: Revelstoke, Salmon Arm, Kamloops, Hope and Vancouver (British Columbia); Calgary, Strathmore, Canmore, Lake Louise and Banff (Alberta); Medicine Hat, Swift Current, Moose Jaw, Regina, Whitewood and Moosomin (Saskatchewan); and Brandon and Winnipeg (Manitoba).
Translink / BC Transit BC Transit offers bus routes from Abbotsford to Langley, Mission and Chilliwack. The fare from Abbotsford to Aldergrove is C$2.75. There are no transfers between BC Transit and Translink. The Translink fare on weekdays before 6:30PM is C$2.50 to Surrey, C$3.75 to New Westminster and Burnaby and C$5.00 to Vancouver. Evenings and all day weekends and holidays and the Translink fare is a flat C$2.50 (adult). Any Translink valid fare proof of payment transfer may be upgraded on the bus and at SkyTrain/SeaBus ticket vending machines for two-zone or three-zone travel with Translink. You can travel up to 90 minutes for each cash fare or FareSaver ticket in the Translink zones purchased. BC Transit transfers are valid for up to 90 minutes for travel on BC Transit routes only.

Travel by train to Abbotsford

West Coast Express Located 15 minutes north of Abbotsford, in Mission, this commuter rail service travels westbound to Vancouver during the morning rush hour and eastbound to Mission during the evening rush hour. Fare prices for travel from Vancouver Waterfront Station are: C$10.25 one-way, C$19.00 return (adult).
Via Rail Provides passenger train service to Abbotsford (the station is listed under "Matsqui, BC").

Getting around in Abbotsford

Abbotsford is rather spread out, so a vehicle is very helpful. The city does have a public transit bus system that can get visitors between major shopping areas. The widest selection of auto rentals are available at and near the Abbotsford International Airport (YXX). Some auto rentals are in the city.

Sightseeing Tips

Abbotsford is well known for its agri-tourism attractions. Tourism Abbotsford publishes annually a Circle Farm Tour Guide highlighting some of British Columbia's most unique rural attractions during the summer. A winter version of the publication is available, named Passport to Christmas. Other popular activities include visiting Clayburn Village Store for tea or Coffee, learning about our pioneer legacy at Trethewey House Museum and unique shopping in Historic Downtown Abbotsford. For kids and the Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery and Castle Fun Park are popular spots. Abbotsford boasts some of the finest sports facilities and parks in British Columbia which are popular among visitors. Known also as "Sports Town Canada," Abbotsford attracts dozens of provincial and national sports events annually. During a visit to Abbotsford, be sure to learn more about the City's history, attractions and ethnic diversity by stopping at one of the City's two Visitor Centres on Sumas Way (Highway 11) and domestic arrivals lounge in the Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) Terminal.

What to do as a Muslim in Abbotsford

Abbotsford International Air Show - Trans-Canada Highway 1 to exit 87 (Clearbrook), follow signs for airshow to King Road. C$25/person, up to maximum C$80/vehicle Held the second weekend in August, it attracts visitors from all over the world. Flight demonstrations primarily by Canadian and US craft. Static displays of aircraft, Canadian Forces units and local police and RCMP detachments.
Agrifair is a popular country fair and rodeo. It is held annually on B.C. Day long weekend.
Vancouver Motor Cycle Show is one of the largest of its kind in Canada held annually in February at Tradex.
Berry Festival at the end of July celebrates Abbotsford's status as the "Berry Capital of Canada."

Halal Food and Restaurants in Abbotsford

Abbotsford, BC, offers a variety of Halal dining options for locals and visitors alike. From Middle Eastern cuisine to Indian flavors, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a look at some of the top Halal restaurants in the area:

1. King Kabob Restaurant

Rating: 4.4 (582 reviews)
Cuisine: Kebab shop
Price Range: $20–$30
Location: Next to TD Bank, 32435 South Fraser Way #4

King Kabob is known for its tasty and authentic kebabs, with a menu that caters to Halal diners. This spot is popular for its flavorful dishes, offering a range of kebabs and other Middle Eastern delights. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and convenient location make it a great choice for a satisfying meal.

2. Yaffa Café

Rating: 4.8 (317 reviews)
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Price Range: $10–$20
Location: 33323 South Fraser Way Unit #4

Yaffa Café is a top-rated spot in Abbotsford, celebrated for its delicious falafel, which is soft, chewy, and freshly made to order. The café offers a variety of Middle Eastern dishes that are both flavorful and affordable, making it a favorite among locals. The café’s ambiance and friendly service add to its charm, making it a must-visit for Halal food lovers.

3. Donairo's

Rating: 4.6 (524 reviews)
Cuisine: Doner kebab restaurant
Price Range: $10–$20
Location: 32883 South Fraser Way #103

Donairo's offers generously sized doner kebabs that are both affordable and satisfying. Known for using fresh ingredients, this restaurant is a go-to for a quick and tasty meal. The portion sizes are large, and the flavors are robust, making it a popular spot for those craving authentic doner kebabs.

4. Laziz Pizzeria & Curry House

Rating: 4.5 (168 reviews)
Cuisine: Indian
Price Range: $10–$20
Location: 31877 South Fraser Way

Laziz Pizzeria & Curry House combines the flavors of India with the comfort of pizza, offering a unique dining experience. The restaurant is known for its reasonable prices and generous portions, with a menu that includes a variety of curries, pizzas, and other Indian dishes. It's a great spot for those looking for a fusion of flavors.

5. Donair Affair (South Fraser Way)

Rating: 4.3 (388 reviews)
Cuisine: Doner kebab restaurant
Price Range: $10–$20
Location: 32500 South Fraser Way #210

This branch of Donair Affair offers a great selection of doner kebabs with excellent presentation and generous portions. The restaurant is attentive to customer preferences, including Halal options. It’s a convenient spot for a quick meal with a focus on quality and flavor.

6. Donair Affair (Whatcom Rd)

Rating: 4.1 (318 reviews)
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Price Range: $10–$20
Location: 2100 Whatcom Rd

Another location of Donair Affair, this restaurant is known for its flavorful and large mixed lamb and chicken donairs. With a focus on affordability and taste, it’s a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal on a budget. The Whatcom Rd location maintains the same quality and service that customers have come to expect from the Donair Affair chain.

Abbotsford, BC, has a diverse range of Halal dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for Middle Eastern kebabs, Indian curries, or a fusion of both, the city has something to offer. Each of these restaurants provides a unique dining experience, making them worth exploring for anyone seeking Halal food in the area.

Where to stay

Abbotsford Halal Travel Guide