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February 28, 2008 | Tips from Us > Victoria, Hiking
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January has come and gone and I have to admit that, not unlike other years, most all my New Year’s resolutions have failed miserably. That is, except my determination to conquer all 55 km (34 mi) of Victoria's Galloping Goose Regional Trail with my own two legs.
Perhaps you can relate, but to get up the motivation to start running, I needed something to entice me: some good company, scenery etc...this is where the Goose comes in. So together with my two Jack Russell Terriers, we are hitting a different segment of the trail each week. The goal: shrink my love handles while taking in some spectacular surroundings.
Now, during my “getting back into shape” phase, I try to avoid other fit runners as much as possible so I start my jaunt safely outside of the downtown core near the km 15 marker, close to Hatley Park. One of the first things I noticed was the flora along the Goose: the thousands, no, millions of ferns that line this trail. If you are into ferns, welcome to your own personal grotto heaven. In Victoria, not only do we have the evergreen deer and sword ferns that line the sides of trails but also a unique seasonal fern that pops up in autumn and sprouts a much welcomed bright green foliage over the winter months. The Goose is a converted railbed so many parts of the trail cut through towering rock slabs which are now home to these delicate hanging beauties. Complementing these is the thick, green, fluffy moss, rounding off the sharp edges of the rock’s surface (kind of like how my love handles look when I stare in the mirror). It is hard to believe it is winter in Victoria when I am surrounded by such lush greenery.
I think the stupendous scenery is working….I hardly noticed the pain. Stay tuned…as soon as I can walk again, I’ll be out for more.
P.S. The Goose is a great place to take your dogs.
February 20, 2008 | Tips from Travellers > Pemberton, Scenic Drives
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Before I share a story, I just want to answer a question for all of you who are wondering, what's the best thing about living in British Columbia? Well that is simple, we are all tourists for the rest of our lives here! We are experts! We travel our own Province, because we live in the Most Beautiful Place on Earth!
I am a traveller and I love being a tourist. I've travelled and backpacked close to 25 countries. It's funny, I always seem to find that cheap one-way flight to the other side of the world and never knowing when I am coming home, or how for that matter.
I love being "that guy" with the ripped shorts and bare feet, strolling down the beach in Thailand. Or, being "the guy" who pulls out a cheap bottle of wine on the train to Switzerland. Those were days I will never forget, but to tell you the truth, I am never more excited on the trips, when it is finally time to come home. Months away will always do that, but it is different when you have BC as a backyard.
So, which story should I share? Well, I do love packing up my fishing and camping gear, and driving a couple hours east to Silver Lake, just before Hope. Or, catching the ferry and heading off on a road trip to see bits of the Pacific National Park in Tofino.
I'll tell a few stories about those next time, but today I will give you Drive to Remember Trip, Tip!
Next time you visit Vancouver, the best thing to do, is to rent a car for a day and have yourself a road trip you will never forget.
Get up early, and leave busy downtown. Head north towards Whistler along the Sea to Sky Highway. There are many stops along the way and I recommend stopping at each to take in the beauty. The surrounding areas of Squamish are brilliant, so keep your eyes on the road! If you've been to Whistler before, just keep driving past, and if you haven't, I guess you will be stopping eh? Take some pictures just to say you did! This could be longer day trip than expected if you stay too long. Stay focused! We are still heading north, you will pass Pemberton , you can stop here if you want a quick look around, I did, I might not next time. Keep going north until you see the sign Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. It will be on your right. This is your stop! Take it all in! This is why we came, and this is why you are going to picnic! With the food you packed right! ;) Make sure you don't forget your camera, you won't forgive yourself... Why? Because, Joffre Lake looks like this!
Drive Careful Please!
The Rest is for you to discover. Welcome to British Columbia!
February 17, 2008 | Tips from Travellers > Fernie, Cat-Skiing
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Whenever visitors come to see me in Fernie I take them to this spectacular viewpoint of the Lizard Range. You look acreoss the Elk Valley to the Three Bears, prominent rocky summits within the massif above Island Lake. This spot is just 3km from downtown Fernie on River Road.
February 7, 2008 | Tips from Travellers > Vancouver, Sightseeing Tours
In 2006 I spent 3 days in Vancouver on business and was amazed! To sit in a conference room and spy a mountain top over your Customers' shoulder was unbelievable. The next time I go to Vancouver my family will be with me....we won't want to return home!!
February 7, 2008 | Tips from Travellers > Vancouver, Dining
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I had great seafood on Granville Island during my last trip to Vancouver. I don't remember the name of the restaurant, but the miso seared black cod was fabulous, and the fresh oysters were great too.
February 7, 2008 | Tips from Travellers > Vancouver, Walking
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Vancouver is a beautiful city....
February 7, 2008 | Tips from Travellers > Hornby Island, Beaches & Swimming
Hornby Island is one of the hidden gems of the Gulf Islands partly because it is not the easiest place to get to. Coming from the mainland (e.g. Vancouver) entails up to three ferry rides. This island is home to Canada's warmest ocean waters. Be careful that you go to the right beach, one of them is clothing optional where most of the residents go in order to avoid the tourists in the main beach. For mountain bikers, there are some very hairy trails; make sure that you get one of the residents to guide you. You'll also find the green-friendliest people in this island. A "free store" serves as a recycling/reusing depot for residents where they unload items/goods not needed anymore and pick up items left by others.
February 7, 2008 | Tips from Travellers > Whistler, Skiing (Downhill)
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A steep and deep run at Blackcomb. Hang on for a wild ski run.
February 7, 2008 | Tips from Travellers > Vancouver, Dining
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I am from Seattle. I heard the Cantonese food in Vancouver is good. Worth the drive, anyone?
February 7, 2008 | Tips from Travellers > Whistler, Snowboarding
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If you ever go to Whistler, check out Creekside for breakfast. dusty's have awesome, affordable breakfasts before you hit the gondi. still.
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