October 21, 2008 | Tips from Travellers >
Nanaimo, Ziplining & Bungee Jumping
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A group of my friends and I did TreeGo at Wildplay Element Park in Nanaimo this Saturday night- what a BLAST! This was a great night out playing in the trees, yes, in the dark (headlights where provided)!
At some points (the fourth level) you are 70ft up in the tree canopy. It was such a thrill, in fact I didn't sleep that night as my adrenaline was still pumping! Some of the 'elements' include: ladders, hanging tunnels, tarzan swing, nets, tight ropes, swinging ladders, log swings, zig-zag swing bridges, stir-ups and of course a few zip lines through the trees into the unknown (well at lest unseen!).
There was group of seven of us and another group of about ten out that night so so it took a bit over three hours to complete, but worth every minute and dollar (under $50.00). After the course they warm you up with hot chocolate and a bonfire. Not sure how much longer they are offering this as I know it was on for September/October Saturday nights- but whether you do it in the dark or not- Wildplay is a great place to play!
August 07, 2008 | Tips from Travellers >
Prince Rupert, Ferry
Just back from a family wedding up in Prince Rupert and had to share with folks how great the trip up via BC Ferries was (Port Hardy/Prince Rupert onbaord Northern Adventure). We saw a lot of whales; probably 20 orcas and a five or so grey. The scenery is impressive and I have lived on the Coast most of my life- including the northern end of Vancouver Island so I honestly thought I'd be a bit bored by it all. We travelled as large group- ten or so family members and we were all impressed. They do a casual bbq on one of the decks- it was very impressive, very west coast and relaxed! There was a 2 year old, 8, and 15 year old with us and they were all equally entertained. I would strongly recommend booking a cabin- we did and it was great especially for the kids and a mid day nap- its an EARLY start!
Prince Rupert has some nice parts- great museum, loved "Cow Bay Cafe"- amazing fresh food, Cowpuccion's Cafe is great too- we were there every morning for coffees and bagels. The sunken gardens were pretty. The surrounding area is very scenic- lots of great hiking/camping. We spent a sunny day at Diana Lake- water was chilly for me but the kids loved it.
There is so much to see and do in this province, I love exploring it it always makes me so happy that this is home!
June 30, 2008 | Tips from Travellers >
Nanaimo, Kayaking & Canoeing
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So often living here on the island we forget to stop and take the time to really enjoy all the benefits of living in paradise. Well the other week through a series of events I was 'forced' to take a paddle from the dock of the Dinghy Dock pub back down the Newcastle Channel. As I paddled (and towed!) the rental kayaks back I hugged the shoreline of Newcastle Island. I had a great little converstation with two raccoons digging in the sand. The waters of the channel were calm and the a brillant green. Passing boaters waved, and float planes passed overhead. Here I was right in front of the second largest city on the island I truly felt a million miles away.
There is really only one kayak rental outlet in town, they offer great tours of all levels too. So you can enjoy a slice of paradise too.
March 11, 2008 | Tips from Travellers >
Nanaimo, Dining
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Friends and I went to Basque Restaurant in Downtown Nanaimo the other night- it was awesome! They specialize in spanish influenced cuisine. Basque is housed in somewhat of a landmark building - it was home to the Rendezvous Restaurant for many years, which in its day was a Nanaimo hot spot in its own right They featured 'dining under the stars' and the new owners maintained that element-you'll have to see it for yourself to understand.
The service was friendly, but not overly so and the atmosphere was great. Just one more block in the rebuilding of Nanaimo's downtown core.
December 18, 2007 | Tips from Travellers >
Nanaimo, Parks
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Nanaimo is full of surprises, from the urban energy to the green spaces throughout the City. The other day I re-discovered Morrell Sanctuary in Nanaimo (just off Nanaimo Lakes Road). It is a privately managed 200 plus hectare nature sanctuary maintained by wonderful volunteers.
The well maintained trails meander through lush forests, past lakes, ponds, and some of the best look out points over the rest of the City. There is even a wheelchair accessible loop trail, which is great for strollers too!
This is a magical place, with a different face for every season. It is a little piece of what makes BC such an amazing place- space, serenity, nature up close, and wonderful people making sure it stays that way for everyone to enjoy. I recommend a walk through the woods in Nanaimo to anybody- visitor or local alike! It would make for a great place to stretch your legs if you are just passing through town or a great spot for an afternoon exploration for folks visiting the Harbour City.
March 21, 2007 | Tips from Travellers >
Nanaimo, Kayaking & Canoeing
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Here is a shot from Mudge Island, off of Nanaimo. There are a string of small islands scattered amongst the Southern Gulf Islands from Gabriola Island south....they offer some of the most beautiful kayaking and boating opportunties we have ever experienced! There are numerous anchorages and wonderful marina options throughout these small islands and in downtown Nanaimo itself. Next time you visit Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, I strongly recommend you get out on the water (by tour-boat or kayak) and discover some of the most spectacular scenery BC has to offer!