August 30, 2007 | Tips from Us >
Wells, Dining
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I just returned from a two-week journey around British Columbia, and well, I would have to say one of the most memorable communities was Wells.
The Frog on the Bog cafe jumped out at us with its bright red walls and friendly deck, as did all the shops along the main street. The Pottery studio is as yellow as the sunflower art in the front and the blue and pink Bear's Paw Cafe glowed in the sunset. Of course, I was glowing after scarfing a piece of homemade carrot cake topped with, you guessed it, colourful hot pink icing! Yum!
Dave, the Bear's Paw Cafe owner, shared with me his photo album from all his outdoor adventures around Wells. Turns out the locals are just as welcoming as the painted buildings!
August 28, 2007 | Tips from Us >
Sechelt, Accommodation
With summer winding down and the potential of an increased workload looming the horizon, an R&R getaway was just what I needed. I had heard many great things about the Rockwater Secret Cove Resort on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast and made the decision go up there for a couple of days.
I really had no idea of what to expect at the Resort other than what I had heard about it and what I had read on their website. I have to say the Resort was simply amazing and I wish I could’ve stayed and extra day or two.
The Resort is a scenic hour’s drive from the Langdale Ferry Terminal and takes you through quaint, coastal little areas such as Gibsons, Sechelt and Davis Bay. In Sechelt make sure you stop for a coffee at the Bean Around the World cafe. Great coffee served by really friendly staff.
Upon arrival I noticed that the Resort was tucked in a cove with breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding coastal Islands. I was greeted by friendly staff who were very knowledgeable of the area and provided me with the insider scoop on what to do and where to go.
The next couple of days were filled with activities from walking to hiking and time just flew by. With twilight dwindling my evenings were spent hanging out by the outdoor pool and sampling the various delicious and healthy foods at the resort’s restaurant. Amazing food was prepared and served by even more amazing staff.
The accommodations were first class. I stayed in a large 1 bedroom suite overlooking the cove with a wonderful view of the surrounding areas. Each morning I sat on the patio drinking coffee, reading a book and soaking in the atmosphere. Good times!
I could go on and on but suffice to say that whether you are looking for a relaxing or active getaway, check out the Rockwater Secret Cove Resort.
August 15, 2007 | Tips from Us >
Surrey, Bird Watching
One summer evening after dinner my boyfriend and I decided to head to Mud Bay Park for a walk. Both of us have been Surrey residents for our entire lives and yet had not visited this lovely spot. The park is located right on the ocean waters of Mud Bay, and offers a selection of winding gravel walking paths that border the ocean and are surrounded by low lying shrubs and greenery. Views across the water include that of Crescent Beach and Boundary Bay.
Signs in the park inform visitors that the mud flats are an important feeding ground for migratory shore birds which occupy the flats throughout autumn. It was low tide when we visited the park, which allowed us to explore the extensive mud flats and to see first hand all of the many marine creatures likely on the dinner menu for these hungry migratory birds! Out on the mudflats, blue herons were a common sight. On our walk along the trail, we saw numerous wild rabbits and a few red-tailed hawks coming and going from the surrounding shrubs. Our night finished up with a beautiful sunset and then we were on our way back home (park gates close at 10pm). What a nature filled, awe inspiring evening! I can only imagine what it will be like once the birds begin to occupy the flats beginning in late August and September!
August 09, 2007 | Tips from Us >
Castlegar, Attractions
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A favourite summer hideaway of mine is Silverton on beautiful Slocan Lake. The quiet village of Silverton looks across the pristine lake to the Valhalla Mountain Range where the peaks remain snow-capped well into summer.
Rick,
Kamloops, BC
August 02, 2007 | Tips from Us >
Vancouver, Festivals & Events
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The Vancouver skyline shrinks next to the fireworks of the Celebration of Light, an international competition where each night the display gets brighter and bolder.
August 01, 2007 | Tips from Us >
Chemainus, Theatre & Performing Arts
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Within an hour of downtown Victoria, I can be strolling around the small town of Chemainus and while probably best known for being the world’s largest outdoor gallery, I discovered it has a whole lot more in the works this summer. This year marks the town’s 25th anniversary since its first mural was painted and there are several activities going on to celebrate.
Beyond meandering through town to view the 38 murals while enjoying my favourite ice cream, I can hit the Wednesday night market where a great selection of local crafts and produce can be found. Waterwheel Park is a great place to hang out at any time of day! (By the way, for those directionally challenged (that’d be me), it is comforting to know painted footprints help direct people through the self-guided mural tour plus you can pick up a map at the Visitor Centre).
The Chemainus Festival Theatre is running “Murder on the Nile” and “Anything Goes” as well as shows for kids such as Munschworx. I love this theatre because while it continually produces quality, professional performances, its small size creates an intimate atmosphere with every seat seemingly the best in the house. A bonus this year is the free outdoor performances until early September called, “The Chemainus Revue” that depict the history of the town. There is always something going on in Chemainus this summer!