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#Tsawwassen family photos
eranjayne · 18 days
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March Mini Sessions!
The weather is getting nicer - time for March minis!
Can you feel it?!? Spring is coming!! Each day, I watch to see if the daffodils have started blooming in my front yard – I feel like they’ve been trying for weeks! But spring will be here before we know it and that means warmer and nicer weather – perfect for a quick family photo session! Each month this year, I’ll be offering at least ONE weekend date of 4 back-to-back mini sessions, at a local…
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literarygoon · 2 months
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So,
I have a thing for mountains.
When I was living in Nelson, my first house had a back balcony that looked out at Elephant Mountain. It was the landscape before me every day while I drank my coffee in the morning, my slippers on the railing. It made me feel safe, like I was living under the benevolent gaze of a deity.
The crest of the mountain was indeed shaped like an elephant's head, with the opposite slopes creating his shoulders. I imagined that his gargantuan trunk was the slope that descended to the shores of Kootenay Lake, plunging into the water for a drink. To one side was a jutting rock called the Pulpit, which was shaped like a religious lectern.
As a reporter I had an insanely fulfilling function in the Nelson community, and I loved being the town gossip, the paparazzi. No culture had matched my temperament so exactly, from the nude beaches and burlesque to the theatre scene and the music festivals. I felt engaged in a way I'd never been my entire life. When I left in 2017, I felt like I would never rediscover the sense of belonging that I felt near that mythic elephant.
Then my life became a river. I spent two summers as a rafting guide, riding the whitewater currents from Tsawwassen to Victoria to the Shuswap and back. My life was fluid, flexible, lackadaisical but I didn't have a new mountain to call my own, a place where I truly felt like I could create a long-term home base. I was drifting.
When Kristina and I wound up in Duncan at the beginning of 2021, the first thing I noticed while touring the kitchen was that our front deck looks out at the misty, double-peaked Mount Prevost. It made me feel like I was in feudal Japan, every evening a vibrant new landscape worth painting. I stand out there with my easel and I can't believe I get to be here.
I've always thought the double peak on Mount Prevost is like God winking at me, letting me know the world in front of me is reflecting my newly married status. But there's also two mountains, because our house is situated on Mount Tzouhalem. It's like standing on the shoulder of a giant, getting ready to run into thunderous battle.
Just before Aza was born, I explored Mount Prevost in my car and scouted out a spot to do a maternity photo shoot. I then convinced my nearly nine month pregnant wife to make the ten-minute hike, and successfully got my favourite photo I've ever taken of her — it's now blown up and framed in our living room. This mountain is already intertwining itself into our lives, into our family history.
My mother-in-law said Mount Prevost reminds her of the Philippines, where she grew up. I've had other people compare it to Mount Olympus. Sometimes it hides in the fog, and other times I can see the war memorial at the summit if I squint. In the evenings it stands silhouetted black while the sunsets fluctuate from purple to orange to neon pink.
I will build my life on these mountains. It feels nice to finally be able to feel that way again, as I did with Elephant Mountain, like there's no other place I'd rather be.
The Literary Goon
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newsakd · 8 months
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[ad_1] A B.C. family has lost their home in Maui due to the wildfire that burned in the community of Lahaina. The Toths, Ginger and Jason, have lost their dream vacation home, retirement plans and years of memories.“We were wondering about our place. Somebody sends a photo to us and it was like a 100-foot-tall inferno … I said it’s our house, it’s our neighbourhood,” Jason said.“It was all gone … all gone,” Ginger told Global News.The Toths split their time between Tsawwassen and the Hawaiian island. 2:03 Maui wildfires: How Maui was caught off guard by catastrophic wildfires On Tuesday night, they watched the horror unfold from B.C. and Wednesday morning, and were heartbroken when they received a photo of their Maui home. Story continues below advertisement “We are feeling bad for ourselves, then it’s like we got to snap out of it. Then we are feeling bad for everyone else,” Jason said.“A cascading layer upon layer of devastation.”Jason and Ginger consider themselves lucky, as they were insured and, more importantly, alive.They’re now focusing all the energy on helping the community of Lahaina.The family says they’re fundraising for the devastated community. 2:20 Maui wildfires: Survivors returning to communities in ruins The death toll from the wildfire that razed the historic Maui town has climbed to 93. Trending Now Justin Trudeau and family vacation in B.C. following separation news Homeless people allegedly being shipped to London, Ont. draws ire of deputy mayor Authorities have warned that the effort to find and identify the dead is still in its early stages. The blaze is already the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. Story continues below advertisement Crews with cadaver dogs have covered just 3 per cent of the search area, Maui Police Chief John Pelletier said Saturday.At least 2,200 buildings were damaged or destroyed in West Maui, nearly all of them residential.Across the island, the damage is estimated at around $6 billion USD.— with files from Associated Press &copy 2023 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc. [ad_2] Source link
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allthingslea · 2 years
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Chilliwack Lake Camping
Hey all, here's a big dump of what happened during the days of August 24-28. A lot of things happened, mainly actual camping.
Wednesday August 24
-took last minute PTO
-went with her to get xray done
-gave her a tour of my house afterward
-went to Tsawwasen, bought a promise ring. lady asked how long we've been together, I panicked and said one year! in actuality, it's only been a little over a month
-slept over
Thursday August 25
-woke up, got ready, picked up Cherry, drove to camp site
-during drive, finger, hand, head
-we were ahead, so gave head while waiting
-no wifi, electricity, showers
-pitched tents
-since no reception, wanted to drive back to update parents- yanna joined in, ruined the mood, looking forward to more secret time, drove out like a maniac, drove back peacefully
-walked around, went to beach
-night time laid a mat and watched the stars- again, yanna joined and ruined the mood
-went to bed, scary stories
-agreed to wake her up if I wake up early to walk around
Friday August 26
-woke up early, woke her up, brushed our teeth and walked to the beach
-quick head and hug facing the view- quiet and peaceful
-went back to camp, had breakfast
-lounged around the whole day
-afternoon took a nap
-started raining, pitched shelters
-hard time pooping
-At night, Ferrers were talking under the shelter, whereas Lea and I talked inside the canopy- talked about past MUs, alone time, and other things
-slept kinda early, slept really well
Saturday August 27
-for some reason, we both woke up at the exact time in the middle of the night, 3:50. I looked at her and she looked at me and we both indicated to use the washroom
-went to use the washroom. peed in front of her, and vise versa
-went back to bed
-woke up, brushed teeth, had breakfast
-packed up, took down tents, "couple couple"
-after all was packed up, went down to the beach for photos. "couple couple" again... photo "parang mag-on"
-drove home- on the way, went to a salmon hatchery, stopped by for a food truck, and went to a fruit market
-Lea bought strawberry jam and corn for my family
-dropped off Cherry, took stuff out of my car and put it in Edmar's, and had nanay and yanna as passengers
-drove back to Tsawwassen
-took a shower, same with Lea, then asked if she wanted to go to "Tsawwassen Mall to go shopping for gala night"
-chill in my car for an hour and a bit- head in, bleeding and pain afterward
-went back home, ate malou noticed the blood, Lea mentioned irregular menstruation- phew
-got invited to come to an event then to ate tet's house
-went to a festival in ladner- live band, too cold, she wore my sweater, seemed low energy and quiet because of pain because of chill session
-went to ate tet's house afterward, ate food, talked, we both were very tired
-went home around 9:30, watched Tinder Swindler, cuddled, lay on her lap, talked, also quick hand and head
-brushed teeth together, and slept immaculately
Sunday August 28
-woke up at 7AM, showered and got ready
-had breakfast together and drove back to surrey
-quick car chill before going home
-got home, while I was changing, she chatted with mom and she saw some of my baby pictures
-went to church, after church went to Sushi California
-she forgot her allergy medicine so I drove to pharmasave to buy reactine
-ate food, was really full
-went to metrotown, bought clothes for gala night
-went home, watched a movie, had some snacks
-6PM, drove back to Tsawwassen, quick chill session in car, but going easy cause still painful
-after an hour, drove her back to Ferrer residences. They had visitors over- Vince was there
-had dinner quickly, then left
-phone call from drive home until 10PM when I slept
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Week 1: WHERE DO YOU KNOW KNOW FROM? 
In informing and guiding my own learning through this course, Eugenia Zuroski’s “Where do you know from?': An Exercise in Placing Ourselves Together in the Classroom," opened my eyes to the question of “where do you know from,” and how I position myself in this class when studying the texts, we read. I think it is important to situate ourselves and our learning based on the reflection of where and how our knowledge is informed. For myself, I am a Chinese-Malaysian Canadian settler of colour, who resides on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), sc̓əwaθenaɁɬ təməxʷ (Tsawwassen), Stz’uminus, and S’ólh Téméxw (Stó꞉lō) peoples. I was born and raised on this land, studied in the public Canadian education system, and I am a daughter to immigrant parents. When thinking about the question, “where are you from,” especially in the classroom, Zuroski’s article brought to light that this question has histories of anti-immigrant xenophobia. Instead, the question of “where do you know from,” allows us to reflect on how our identity shapes how we learn, and what we learn. Everyone’s identity informs their learning and knowledge in some way, and I think this is so powerful because it allows us to see many different perspectives and understand histories differently. I think this reflection is particularly important for the content of this class, as we will be mapping Vancouver, and exploring the history of British Romanticism, in conjunction with the histories of settler-colonialism in Vancouver.
Since one of the main goals of this course is to situate and contextualize Romantic-period literature in settler Vancouver, I wanted to look back upon my own exploration with literature and Vancouver. The first photo attached is probably the first photo of me reading a book! I discovered my love for literature from an early age, and my current book case still holds many of my favourite childhood books. The second photo is the first time my family visited Stanley Park. Stanley Park holds a very interesting and complicated Indigenous history. The reason my family and I went to Stanley Park that year was because my sister was actually participating in a school project called the Flat Stanley Project. I wish her flat Stanley was in the photograph, but a component of the project was to create their own mini me and explore your city and bring it along your summer explorations. In doing so, the goal of the project was to learn more of the area around you, and I think what we will be doing in this course is sort of reminiscent of that little elementary school project. 
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hiddengemsofbc · 3 years
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Top 10 Places to See Summer Sunsets
Hot Summer 🔥 + Stunning Sunsets 🌞 + Refreshing Wind 🌬️
= Unforgettable Moment! 😍
Hi everyone! My name is Jessica and I'm a tour guide and a co-founder of Hidden Gems of BC. Do you love sunsets? Today, I'm excited to introduce my favourite places to watch the sun go down for the day in BC! After scrolling through my camera roll, I've come up with top 10 places to see summer sunsets and wanted to share them with you :)
Before we go get started, I just wanted to share this very peaceful moment that I had at Iona Beach in Richmond B.C. watching the sunset. Although this didn't make the top 10 list, its a close runner-up location to watch the sun set and feeling the peace.
👇Here are the 10 best places to see the summer sunset around BC.
1. Thurlow St (Downtown), Vancouver, BC, Canada
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You can watch the spectacular sunset through the buildings from Thurlow Street. Every corner you turn while walking in downtown, the buildings may reflect different colours of light, giving you a light show! Looking up at the buildings reflections and then at the waters reflection makes you experience the sunset differently without changing your view.
2. Tsawwassen, Delta, BC, Canada
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Get ready to experience red sunsets at this next location. Located near the B.C. Ferries, Tsawwassen Beach is the perfect spot to watch the boats drift away into the red sunsets. Inhale the freshness of the Pacific Ocean as you wait for the sun to go down and then wait for the full moon to come out. Watch the lights of the ferry terminal shimmer off of waves that are coming towards you.
3. Knox Mountain, Kelowna, BC, Canada
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Growing up in Kelowna, my dad would always pull the car over to the side and get a glimpse of the sunset on our way home. Every summer, I would take family and friends who come visit up to Knox Mountain with some ice cream from MOO-Lix and just relax. Every part of the mountain offers amazing views of the sunset over the Okanagan Lake. This is the perfect place to relax after a long summer fun day!
4. Sunset Beach (Downtown), Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Sunset at Sunset Beach! How could we not think about sunsets in Vancouver without including Sunset Beach in English Bay? Sunset Beach is not as busy as other beaches which makes this spot the perfect place to relax and end a hot summer day (or get your night started). Get here early and stay during fireworks. Bring some snacks and have a picnic at the beach because you don't want to lose your spot during the Canada Day fireworks! There are lots of restaurants nearby to have dinner at or dessert. Make sure to get the window view for an even better taste of the sunset! After dinner, take a stroll along the water to burn off all of those calories and experience the twilight.
5. Porteau Cove, Squamish, BC, Canada
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From the Ocean to the peaks of the mountains, Squamish offers unparalleled sunset views! If you're up for a hike, hiking the mountains and watching the sunset is a must. But if you want to relax and watch the sunset, Porteau Cove give you a unique view. Watch the view get dark early due to the mountains blocking the sunset. Bring a telescope or look through someone else's who brought one because you won't want to miss stargazing hours after the sun goes down!
6. Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver, BC, Canada
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The view of the Vancouver landscape from Grouse Mountain will never get old! Take a bus from Downtown Vancouver to Grouse Mountain if you don't want to drive up. Purchase the Gondola tickets and make your way up just before sunset to get an even better experience from a higher elevation. Enjoy some wine and delicious food after sunset and watch the downtown Vancouver lights from a distance.
7. Tofino, BC, Canada
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If you're on Vancouver Island or visiting, driving to Tofino may be long but it is definitely worth it for the views. Known as Canada's surf town, Tofino is the perfect spot to catch the wave back to shore and the sunset! As the days start getting longer, Tofino starts to get populated so make sure to book a place to stay (or camp) so you won't miss out on being close with nature and the sunset.
8. Okanagan Lake, BC, Canada
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If you are looking for a quiet place to watch sunsets, there is a place for you! Experience the sound of the waves, wind, and the birds as the Sun sets for the day. Be at peace with how quiet it is. Looking at the view from the lake makes your worries drift away and feelings of happiness come alive.
9. Qualicum Beach, BC, Canada
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Just 45 minutes away from Nanaimo BC, Qualicum Beach will make you want to put your feet in the warm water and a camera in your hands to capture this moment. Get artistic photos of the sky as the Sun shines it's final bit of light on the clouds before it goes down. You don't need to be a professional photographer to capture this beauty.
10. Capilano Suspension Bridge, North Vancouver, BC, Canada
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If you're afraid of heights, don't look down as you walk across the suspension bridge! Instead, focus on the Sun going down behind the mountains. The Capilano Suspension Bridge provides fantastic views of the mountains that surround Vancouver. Suspension Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vancouver because of its long and scary bridge!
- With love Jessica, Co founder of Hidden Gems of B.C.
Are you excited to see sunsets with us?!
Make sure to follow our social media to see more tour information 💖
https://linktr.ee/bchiddengems
Booking 📝
https://bchiddengems.suehwang.ca/booking
Our Guides 🙆
https://bchiddengems.suehwang.ca/gemleaders
Tour Information 🎒
https://bchiddengems.suehwang.ca/tourguide
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disasteralex · 6 years
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A couple weeks ago, my family and I went back to visit British Columbia for the first time in over two years. I can say without any exaggeration that I’ve been missing the province since the day I left it, and coming back felt like a reunion. I’ve made no secret of my love of BC to anyone who knows me, and I hope this post reflects some of that.
DAYS 1-2: AIRPORTS + RELAXING
Our flight was around 3 pm EST, so we left for Pearson airport (late, as always) around 11:45 am just to be careful. I was pretty tired, having worked most of the day before as the final day of my summer job and then hurriedly packing up everything, but I was still excited as hell.
The plane ride itself went pretty well. It’s the first time I’ve flown on an airplane in over two years, but beyond the initial tiny panic at liftoff, the five-ish hours went pretty well, and the plane even got in a little early.
We got into YVR around 5:30, and after picking up the rental car and grabbing some groceries, we drove to the home of the friends we were staying with and caught up with them for most of the night.
We also spent most of the next day relaxing, because all of us were pretty tired and thrown off from the time zone difference, but what can ya do? I also managed to read most of THE SUN AND HER FLOWERS, which I’ll be reviewing at the end of the month. I also Skyped my friends to show them our friends’ dog, because I am that kind of person. It was a pretty cute dog.
    Look!
At this dog!
DAYS 3-4: EXPLORING DELTA
My parents had a wedding to go to the next night, which was our “excuse” for going to BC in the first place, so I spent the next day and a half relaxing a little bit and exploring Delta, the area where we were staying, a little bit. The mom of the family we were staying with, who I jokingly refer to as my second mother probably too much, took me down to Tsawwassen Mills, the huge new(ish) mall there. I live in a pretty averaged-sized city, so I’m used to pretty average-sized malls, but this one was huge—apparently it’s about a million square feet. Also, it was so pretty. I’ve never seen a mall that has so much artwork in it. Also something cool: I heard that because the mall is on Native land, all of the artwork inside it is by First Nations artists. Neat, right? Unfortunately, I’m a bad blogger, so I didn’t manage to take any photos of the mall itself.
I did some more work the next afternoon and helped out the family a bit for the rest of that day. Some of the family we were with had returned from a trip that day, so the house was suddenly a lot louder.
My parents came back the next day, and my dad and I went out to the Boundary Bay Bird Sanctuary, which was really beautiful even though the weather (rainy, cloudy and a little smoky) dampens my photos a little bit. We also saw more herons in the hour or so we spent in the sanctuary than I’ve seen collectively up to that point, so that’s something. (Unfortunately, I only had my regular lens with me, so I don’t have any bird photos to show you. Like I said, bad blogger.)
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Boundary Bay Bird Sanctuary, sans birds
DAY 5: DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER (Kits)
The next day we headed to downtown Vancouver to look around. My mom had a meeting with a friend, so my dad and I walked around Kits for a while and then met up with my mom near Kits Beach.
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Fun fact: my parents have a very weathered photo that looks almost exactly like this on our fridge from like 20 years ago.
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Look at that skyline!
My parents actually lived in Kits for a while, so they know the area pretty well and have a special place in their heart for it. I do, too. It’s a really cute little hipster-ish place, and turning the corner and getting a great view of the ocean and mountains is pretty neat, too. Even if it is a little weird.
saw an electronic sign outside a house near Kits Beach the other day that read “they are too tired to regret it” and I still have so many questions
— A. C. Wyatt (@alexisabooknerd) August 30, 2018
Next we walked down to Teetotaler Beach, which is pretty small but also a pretty great place to stick your feet in the ocean if you so desire, and then we drove down to Spanish Banks. Spanish Banks probably had the best views of the mountains and the Vancouver skyline, but Teetotaler Beach is still pretty neat, too.
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Teetotaler Beach
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Spanish Banks
We got home a little early, had dinner and hung out a little more, and then tried our best to pack and get to bed early for our trip the next day. I wasn’t very successful at that.
DAYS 6-7: NANAIMO, UCLUELET + TOFINO
I woke up at 6:45 the next day, which I wasn’t very fond of, but luckily I was able to get a little sleep on the ferry itself. I had wanted to get some photos on the ferry, but sleep called. Oh well. I have some photos from the last trip if you wanna look at them.
We got into Nanaimo around 11 am, and then slowly made our way up to Ucluelet. On our way there, we stopped off at Cameron Lake and hiked down to take a look at the view. And it was a pretty great view, if I do say so myself.
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Cameron Lake, which kind of doesn’t look real
We continued on to the Cathedral Trail. It reminded me a lot of Lighthouse Park, to be honest, and mostly because of the trees themselves. You don’t see huge trees like that anywhere in Ontario, and seeing them here was more than welcome. I don’t tend to get out a lot when I’m in Ontario, partly because I’m busy with school and work and partly because there aren’t a lot of places to hike where I’m from (and also partly because I’m lazy). I probably exercised more on this trip than I did in the previous two months. Whoops. But I didn’t mind; I loved being around the scenery here.
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Walking into the Cathedral Trail
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Look, I just thought it was pretty.
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I don’t ever think I’ve ever seen trees this tall.
We finally got into Ucluelet around 3 pm, and spent about an hour or so recharging before my dad and I set off to hike the trail around the Amphitrite Lighthouse. To be honest, I chose it purely because I’m a Classics major and I love all things mythology-related, but the trail itself certainly didn’t disappoint. It reminded me a lot of a hike we did in Victoria on the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail the last time we were here, but honestly, I think the views were better on this one.
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Look! At this view!
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The Amphitrite lighthouse itself
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Even though it was pretty sunny out, the fog followed.
Once we finished the trail, which probably took us about an hour with all our collective photo stops, we went back to our hotel and then went out for dinner.
The three of us headed up closer to Tofino the next morning. It was supposed to be a little rainier and colder that day, so we didn’t want to plan too much, but we all decided to go down to Wickaninnish Beach. Like I said, it was a little rainy and cloudy that day, which normally doesn’t make for great photos, but it added a mysterious effect to this beach that was cool. Also, we found a jellyfish (or what looked like one) on the beach, which was pretty neat. I got some interesting photos of me posing like an idiot for my Instagram, too, so that was a bonus.
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So much fog.
We spent about an hour-ish just walking around the beach before we got back in the car and headed up to Schooner Cove. It was mostly the same as Wickaninnish Beach, but a little more populated and with much better views. It also took a lot longer to get to, even though the scenery made up for it. We spent a while walking along Long Beach, which, as you guessed it, is very long, but also very pretty to look at.
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Honestly, this might be my favourite photo that I took on this trip.
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The view on the trail
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Actually, scratch that. It might be this one.
After we got back from the beach, we puttered around the gift shop for a little bit, bought some things, and headed into Tofino to look around.
We were told by our family friends that Tofino was touristy and a little kitschy, but honestly, I loved it. It’s a cute little town with a lot of small, unique shops and cafes, and it was something I honestly haven’t seen before. Unfortunately, I was too exhausted to take many photos, so you’ll have to visit there yourself to really find out what it’s like.
After another hour or so, it was time to head back to Nanaimo to catch our ferry. We made a couple stops along the way, including a quick one down at Sproat Lake to get a picture of the water, but we got back to Nanaimo around 7:30-ish. By 10:30, we were back in Delta to get everything unpacked and ready for the next day.
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Sproat Lake, another very nice lake
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View from the ferry, which is pretty fuzzy but also look at those COLOURS
DAYS 8-9: GRANVILLE ISLAND AND DOWNTOWN (Fairview, Mount Pleasant)
The next day we decided to head to Granville Island, which might just be my favourite places in Vancouver. I honestly have never seen a quirkier and more unique place than Granville Island. It’s just so vibrant and colourful and almost magical in a way I’ve never encountered before. I could easily spend the rest of my life on Granville Island if it wasn’t so expensive. But there are a lot of seagulls there, so maybe not.
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Seriously, so. Many. Seagulls.
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There’s so much art around Granville Island and I think it’s so neat.
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This is a little shop called BC Blacksmith, where all of the artwork was super unique and beautiful. I’m not very familiar with metalwork, but I thought this was really neat.
When we got back home, the family we were staying with were having a little party, so that was a more than welcome way to end the night.
The next day was pretty chill for us—everyone was a little tired from the night before, and my parents and I had decided to take it easy for our last full day in BC. We lounged around for a bit in the morning, and headed downtown again to look at a few places. My mom had to scout out a café for a thing she’s working on (shh, it’s a secret), and I was told about a really cool bookstore I apparently just HAD to see. (Spoiler alert: it was cool.)
DAY 10: TRAVEL HOME
Look, man, I hate leaving BC just as much as I love going there, so the last day of our trip was a pretty somber affair for all of us. Our flight back to Ontario boarded at about 2:20 pm PST, so after a morning of packing and reluctant goodbyes, we left our friends’ house and left for the airport.
It’s hard for me to articulate how I feel about BC, and the Vancouver area especially. I feel a kind of peace there that I’ve never felt anywhere else. Coming back here was hard—enough so that it took me extra long to finish this, to the point of this post being a day (and a half) late. But even though I’m back home now, I know it won’t be long until I visit BC again.
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To read more of my travel posts, click here.
British Columbia Travel Diaries: Vancouver, Ucluelet and Tofino | A. C. Wyatt A couple weeks ago, my family and I went back to visit British Columbia for the first time…
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Thank you to everyone who helped Team Brown (Trench)Coats complete 204 tasks in a week!
One can only play GISH with the help of family, friends, and kind strangers! We are grateful to everyone who joined in on a challenge, helped us locate an obscure item, helped us brainstorm how to find something, joined us in large group endeavours like the “I Will Vote” challenge, and generally took time to help us meet our crazy goal of completing as many challenges as we possibly could (and doing them well)!
When you look through our gallery of photos and images, please remember that it took at least a village to get these done!
We want to thank:
Allana Gerke; Alyson Karper Orr; Amanda Clark; Amy Massiah-Karwandy*; Amy Smith; Andie Giddings; Angela Kongelbak; Ann Hutchinson; Arline Smith; Ashley Semenoff; Bill Allman; Billie Meech; Birgit Zorzi and Elliott; @brassbelles; Brenda Henderson; Cali and Mark Mullins and their pet geese, pigs and Liquid the cat; Brian Fischer; Calcasieu Parish Public Library staff; Carrie Oswalt Gruhn; Carroll Lefebvre; Catherine Smith; C.D. Saint; Claire Fenton; Clara Kongelbak; Cheryl Lewis; Cheryl Noon; Chris Malcolm; Colleen Spier; Contessa Sookeroff; Corinne Bucher; Dan Sutherland; Danica Stene; Daniel Williams*; Dave Andersen; David Luggi; Diane Sowden; Dylan Winchester; Eliot Pearce; Elizabeth Manning; Emily Garland*; Eric Kongelbak; Erika Boelling; Fiona Kelly; Frank Martin; Fraser Valley Bengals; Fraser Valley Regional Library (Tsawwassen); Gina Anton; Global News; Greg Gerke; Gretchen Copenhaver and Nimbus; Gwen Semenoff; Hannah Burnett; Harvey Delaney; Ian Burnett;  In Out Parcel (Point Roberts, WA); Itamar Keren; Jackie and Ron Swallow; Jacqueline Fehr*; Janelle and Kenzie Clegg; Jean-Ann Stene; Jenifer Crawford and her dancing Swedish friends; Jennifer and Chris Casillas; Jenny Ting; Jereme Brooks; Jim and Sandy Shepard; Joan Cotie; Joelle Thiessen; Johann Carillo; Jonathan Der and 4 year old JJ; Julie Daum*; Justice Institute of BC Fire & Safety Department; Kai Winchester; Kalev Fitness Solution;  Karen Moffat; Kari Boyle; Katherine Coddington and Flick; Kathleen O’Neill; Katie Bailey;  Katie Stene; Katy Ellsworth; Kay Gejdos; Kelly Hayton; Kelsey Smith; Kent Highnam; Kiersten Sawchuk; Kris Woofter; Larry and Paula Nelson; Laura Eparvier; Laura, Darin, Christie and Charlie Johnson; Laura Smith*; Lauren Toews; Laurine Dane; Leslie Benham; Linda Dobson; Linda Mallard; Lindsay Wilkins; Lorraine Burnett; Lori Ecker; Lori Van Niekerk*; Marcella Snell; Marian Kito; Marilyn Hartley; Mark East; Mark Meredith*; Marsha Major; Matt Greer; Matt McDonald; Matt Williams*; @melirene13; Melody Hardesty; Michael Rott; Michelle Beda; Miggs Sawchuk; Miranda and Miriam Malcolm; Mitch Snyder; Mona Boucher; Myke Skidmore; Natalie Owens; New Westminster Farmers Market; New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services; Oni Buchanan; Ora Henderson; Osa Sjostrom; Paige Burnett; Paul Mounter; Pauline Rae; Raeleen and James Long; Red’s Grill; Rick Lewis; Robyn Hicks; Roger Holland; Roger Moss; Rosalind East; Rose Da Silva; Sana, Muhammed, and family; Sarah Fisher; Sarah Vander Veen; Scott Stene; Sethric; Shelby Delaney; Shelley Lewis; Shelley Martin; Sherry Elizabeth; Shoppers Drug Mart (Tsawwassen Post); Stephanie “Schroeds” Schroeder; Stephen Smith; Susan Boyd; Susan Copenhaver; Suzanne Pratt; Ted Field; Todd Gates; Tom Martin; Tony Faber; Townline Construction; Travis and Matt at Give and Take Tree Service; Tsawwassen Wellness Centre; Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall; Vanessa Kwai; Vivian Tang Ng; Washington Gish Facebook group; Wendy Lakusta*
*Former members of Team Brown(Trench)Coats that couldn’t play full-time this year due to schedules.
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readwalkcreate · 5 years
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This is all #latergram until I catch up with my summer hikes. #hike27 #52hikechallenge2019 Finding new hikes accessible by public transit is starting to be a challenge, but I had never been to Boundary Bay. I remember hiding from the heat under my umbrella, seeing a poney someone had brought to their family picnic, watching for birds and insects. Mostly I remember a long walk on an almost too hot summer day, chatting away with a friend. . . . Photo📍: Unceded traditional territory of the Semiahmoo, Wsáneć and sc̓əwaθen (Tsawwassen) First Nations. More in the comments. (from Native Land app) #coastsalishterritory #goodtimesoutside #explorebc #instagood #natureisamazing #vancouver #britishcolumbia #beautifulbc #pacificnorthwest #pnwonderland #52hikechallenge #OptOutside #mecstaffer #queerhiker #leavenotrace #bchikes #landscape #sky #hikingadventures #view #hikinglife #trails #hiking #naturephotography https://www.instagram.com/p/B2t4A3IFSM2/?igshid=1a45qpd7qzq63
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didgerydont · 6 years
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50 things to do in Metro Vancouver on Sunday, February 11
Family-friendly activities at Tsawwassen Mills' Family Yay Weekend include a photo booth, face painting, and balloon artists. .... The new Parq Vancouver features two luxury hotels, a 24-hour casino with 600 slot machines and 75 table games, eight restaurants and lounges, and the sixth-floor outdoor ... from Google Alert - Photo booth http://ift.tt/2nW0NVJ
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eranjayne · 2 months
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February Mini Sessions!
February minis are now available! Check it out!
It’s the month where we celebrate love, in all its ways, shapes and forms! So, why not celebrate the love in your life with a mini photo session! Each month this year, I’ll be offering at least ONE weekend date of 4 back-to-back mini sessions, at a local park or location. I know there are many of you out there who have young families (or partners!) that can’t sit still for a longer portrait…
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thearnoldtully · 4 years
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Canada: An ambitious new construction project in British Columbia’s lower mainland integrates urban and rural interests
Seann Dory and Suzy Keown have been hired to farm 50 acres of land in a new housing development at Tsawwassen, B.C. | Barbara Duckworth photo
An “agrihood” where a community of 950 homes edges up to a forest and large urban farm at Tsawwassen.
By Barbara Duckworth Western Producer Dec 26, 2019
Excerpt:
The property consists of 537 acres with 430 acres dedicated to the City of Delta. About 300 acres are zoned agricultural and the balance is a mix of a forest on a hillside and some environmental set asides. They are leasing back some of the land for a dollar a year to build the 50-acre Southland community farm. About 275 acres are sown to conventional crops like barley and potatoes.
The housing development consists of mostly 1,800 sq. foot townhouses and about 30 percent will be single family homes. Many homes are designed to look like an estate farm home and will be set up to share common courtyards.
Besides farmland, the development includes plans for a farmers’ market, artisan shops, a cafe and a building for offices and farm equipment.
He has seen examples of this in other cities where farm land is part of a suburban development. Fresh food is sold to local residents, who get to see agriculture in action.
Hodgins is hoping this concept could be transplanted in other urban developments where agriculture is brought back to the landscape.
“The thing we are trying to tap into is, there is a real thirst for people to understand and connect with food and farming,” he said.
A similar concept near Atlanta, Georgia called Serenbe includes commercial centres, housing, an artists’ community and a 25-acre organic farm that offers shares in a community-shared agriculture program.
Read the complete article here.
from Gardening http://cityfarmer.info/canada-an-ambitious-new-construction-project-in-british-columbias-lower-mainland-integrates-urban-and-rural-interests/ via http://www.rssmix.com/
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dj-scruff · 5 years
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Scruff’s Top 5 - Canada Edition
This week's adventure has had me speechless, now that I have decompressed and caught a few z's I can finally express how the trip to Canada really felt. I needed this trip for more than just a few reasons, I hadn't seen the groom in 7 years and it was way past overdue, I've had a passport for a few years still hadn't used it, and now I have a new found love for traveling and it's expenses. This trip was more than eye opening, I reevaluated some goals that I didn't think I was able to accomplish. Tuesday Morning I flew into SeaTac (Seattle- Tacoma Airport) and was greeted by my long friend Richie. We both went to Northwestern College and ever since I had met him he's been trying to get me to come visit him in Canada. I felt really bad that it took so long to get here but I was super glad that I made it. It was as if time stood still, it was like we were still in college worrying about classes, going to the next party, playing sports, etc... These are the type of friends you don't meet often, it's like we picked up where we left off. We took the 2 hour drive back to the border but first stopped off for some lunch at Dick's Hamburger. This place was straight out of a 50's/60's movie, no indoor seating only drive up and great food. We crossed the border, and I finally made it to (The Promised Land) according to Richie. First on the agenda was a trip to Vancouver and dinner. We had pizza, beer, and a great view of the Pacific Ocean. The first thing I noticed after the view was the view, there were fancy cars and fancy prices. all around us were Tesla's, Audi's, BMW's and the ticket for the meal was as if we were in NYC. Not gonna lie it threw me off guard a little but I did have some funds saved up so I wasn't too worried. We made our way back to Richie's house and I finally got the chance to meet the lovely Bride to be Megan. We had talked wedding and reception via video chat, but after chatting with her for a bit I knew that Richie had made the right decision. Wednesday Richie and I got up and went to Tsawwassen, Canada to meet up with his boss and go boating across the Pacific to Orcas Island for the day. This was my first time on the Pacific and I was glad that we had the chance to see some seals, porpoises, and just a nice still current on the open water. We hit up the local brewery while on the island and enjoyed beverages and a cornhole game by the locals. On the way back I had the idiotic idea of  jumping in the water, let's just say I still think that was one of my less than sane propositions. We rounded off the night with a nice meal and early shut eye, tomorrow was the start of a long weekend. Thursday morning travels were made to Chilliwack for the Frasier River Lodge where both the rehearsal and the wedding. Upon arrival I had the chance to meet up with the bridal party, and wedding coordinator.  I must say I was quite impressed with their support group, all the groomsmen had the qualities that Richie needed around him to help make conscience, mature decisions when it comes to not only life, but when it comes to being a husband. The bridesmaids were all very giving: giving their time, advice, and their hearts. You could see this whenever you saw them laughing and joking with Megan. The wedding coordinator was precise and def took the lead when it came to dealing with the order of events. It was the perfect first experience. This place was beautiful, I mean the facility and and it's staff were quite accommodating, the rooms were quite comfy, but the real kicker was the view of the Frasier River and the mountains right behind it. When people usually think of dreamy weddings they usually have beaches and mojitos in mind, this place was on a whole different level. In my mind this is where you clear your head, reevaluate your priorities, make new goals and find out the path you need to achieve them. This place in my opinion is the perfect spot to start a new chapter with your wife. Thursday night was when things got interesting, both Lee and I went to school with Richie. Lee wasn't supposed to be able to make the trip due to other situations, things changed and Lee came up. I knew about the plans but Richie didn't. This was the best surprise for the groom, all three of us together, Heemstra brothers and friends for life. Friday was the big day, Lee and I did what we do best and that's taking the concern of the Newlyweds and putting on our shoulders. We had ceremony and reception duties, it was showtime and Canada was about to get a big dose of the midwest' finest. Ceremony went off smooth and reception was to follow. We played the scavenger hunt with the guests worked with one of the brides' cousins Ryan on MC duties and played I even got the chance to get the parents of the bride to kiss twice when the guests clanked on the glass (Brides' parents are divorced but played along as if they were still married). After all the special dances and a few hours of tunes we shut down the reception and did an after party for the bridal party in one of the cabins. This was where everyone let loose, it felt like a high school reunion, a vacation, it felt like we were back in college. Saturday we all packed up and left the Frasier Lodge partied out, ready for a recovery day. Sunday morning the Newlyweds, Lee and I took a drive into the mountains to visit Squamish, a ski lodge town with some magnificent views. We  arrived took some photos and hit up a local brewery. Didn't stay long because Lee had a flight later in the day and had to show him Vancouver. We made our way downtown and purchased the Canadian staple food poutine. I must say after eating some I wouldn't be ordering anymore in the near future, this was def not my cup of tea. After viewing the Chinese embassy and high priced vehicles we got Lee back to the house so that way he could leave for his flight. For my final night in Canada we had pizza and wings for dinner. My experience in Canada was one that I will never forget, this is just the beginning of my travels. Thanks to Megan, Richie, and both of their families for not only making us feel like we were part of the family, but also making my first international experience the first of many. I can't help but feel like this wouldn't be possible without the music. First going across state lines last year in Montana, now country borders. To be grateful mean to do the best that I can with my craft. I intend to do this and continue to cross the borders in genres, states and countries.
Free - DJ Scruff
Joanna (Drogba) - Afro B ft French Montana
Let This Ride - Alex Preston
Loca Loca - B & B
Best Friend - Logic
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rebeccahpedersen · 6 years
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How Big Are Toronto’s New 3-Bedroom Condos?
TorontoRealtyBlog
Not big at all, as you probably would have expected!
I had a request for a follow-up to Monday’s blog, and I think the topic is prudent given where this market is heading.
With the City of Toronto encouraging condo builders to include at least 10% three-bedroom units in their new developments, what are those units actually going to look like?
Let me show you…
I remember the first time I stepped into a “new” 3-bedroom condo in downtown Toronto.
I had been in many 3-bedroom units before, usually in older buildings, where three bedrooms resulted in a 2,000 square foot unit.
But as the market continued to appreciate past the “dip” in 2008, well into 2010, and beyond, it seemed as though 3-bedroom condos were disappearing.  Not only that, when they were built, they were incredibly small!
In 2012, I went into a 3-bedroom unit at 300 Front Street West, which was 840 square feet.
I’m pretty sure I wrote a blog about it, and perhaps took some photos.  Overall, I just couldn’t believe how small the “living space” was.
The kitchen appliances were all miniature, which was ironic, given this was being marketed as a “family-sized” condo.
There was essentially no room for a kitchen table, and if you wanted one, you’d be limited to a 2-person love seat in the “living room.”
The position of the two bedroom and hall closet – three doors, meant that it was very tough to put a television anywhere.
In my mind, the only people for who this space worked would be three students, and probably international students at that, who have lower expectations about space, and who prefer to spend every waking hour in their bedrooms.
The idea of a “family” living in this unit was silly.
Last Friday, I was part of a panel with a couple of other real estate aficionados for an upcoming feature in Toronto Life.  One of the topics we covered was the ever-shrinking size of condominiums, both at the 1-bedroom, and 3-bedroom level.
I balked at the idea of an 840 square foot, 3-bedroom condo “for families,” but one of the other panelists noted that in other countries around the world, they make far more use, out of far less space.  In fact, 840 square feet might be luxurious to some families, in some other countries.
What does that mean for the future of Toronto real estate?
With where freehold prices are going, your typical “family” will have to consider high-density living if they want to stay in the city.  Fast-forward ten, fifteen, or twenty years, and living in high-rise, high-density, multi-residential will simply be a given for most families in the city.
So let’s take a look at a few 3-bedroom floor plans in new condos.
And as was the case yesterday, I’m trying to find the smallest plans offered.
After several days of combing through the archives, here are my top five:
  Condo #5 – “Plaza Midtown” – 50 Dunfield Avenue & 25 Holly Street
Plazacorp Developments is bringing two towers to Yonge & Eglinton, 34 and 27 storeys respectively, with a few different 3-bedroom floor plans.
This 825 square foot layout is as good as you can ask for in such a small space.
It’s a true “square plan,” with little wasted space (I don’t love the hallways, but it’s necessary given the bedroom wall), and no pillars!
The HVAC in the living room really impacts the space (note the chair blocks the window), and the middle bedroom is laughable.
A 12 x 10 “master” bedroom, eh?
Condo #4 – “Karma” – Yonge & College
Karma offers a variety of small condos, both of the 1-bedroom variety as we saw on Monday, and the 3-bedroom variety as well.
This “master” bedroom shows 14 1/2 x 11 feet, but note that the 14.5-foot measurement extends behind the door.
They’ve got my favourite feature in there, however.  That pillar!  Sidebar: any guesses as to my favourite Toronto Blue Jay?
That pillar isn’t quite as bad as some we’ve seen, since they’ve made the space work with their teenie-tiny love-seat, but in reality, I wonder how large a couch you could fit there.
There’s one thing missing from this floor plan that you might expect to see in most 3-bedroom condos.
Notice?
A second bathroom.
Condo #3 – “Karma” – Yonge & College
Just when you think Karma has struck once with an 819 square foot, 3-bedroom condos, it strikes again!
Here’s an even smaller 3-bedroom unit – 803 square feet.
Also with only one bathroom.
Also with an awful pillar.
Note the upside-down L-shape of the middle bedroom.  I can’t imagine what that feels like, with a bed around the corner.
Condo #2 – “The Britt” – Bay & Wellesley
Here’s where things get fun.
Because above, you had a 3-bed, 1-bath, in 803 square feet.
Here, we have a 3-bed, 2-bath, in 797 square feet!
How in the world can they add another bathroom, and subtract square footage?
Just make everything else smaller!  Including all the miniature, doll-house furniture that’s not to scale.
How much room do you think the dining chair is to the bedroom wall?
What does a 6-foot kitchen feel like?  How big is that kitchen, really?  With miniature appliances and no cabinetry, would you be storing food and plates under your bed?
Condo #1 – “INDX Condos” – 70 Temperance Street
Last, but certainly not least, I give you the unbelievable.
A 740 square foot, 3-bedroom condo.
Now, you’ve seen it all!
You thought it would be hard to dip below 800 square feet, right?  After seeing the two small spaces at Karma, did you ever think you’d see something dip so far into the 700-range that it’s actually closer to 700 than to 800?
I can’t get over it.
And the worst part is – there’s a giant pillar in the floor plan!  Look at that big, black dot in all its glory, just killing your floor plan.
The fridge is essentially in the hallway and the television isn’t in the eye line of the people sitting on the couch.
The middle bedroom is 8 x 8, and has no closet.  It barely fits a jail-sized bed.
There’s no hall closet.
And I can’t imagine how little kitchen cabinetry there is.
Folks, wherever you’re reading this blog post, stop for a moment, and look around you.  What are you holding?  What are you wearing?  What are you doing?  That coffee cup in your hand – how many of those can you fit in this condo?  Those winter boots you’re wearing – what will you do with them during summer when you can only fit two pairs of shoes in this entire condo.  How many shirts, pants, and jackets can you store in this unit?  What about a suitcase or golf-clubs?  Forget about that – how about a damn gym-bag?
The reality is, a 740 square foot, 3-bedroom condo would be impossible for most people to live in.  And I say that knowing full-well that people in other areas of the world do live in spaces like this, or even smaller.
What I mean is that it’s impossible for Torontonians to live in, and I can’t see who would actually live in this space, and how.
If a person turned one of the bedrooms into a storage locker, then okay.
But then the “need” for a 3-bedroom condo would cease to exist.
So who, in 2018, is buying a space like this to live in?
I can’t answer that.  Because I have absolutely no idea as to the answer…
The post How Big Are Toronto’s New 3-Bedroom Condos? appeared first on Toronto Real Estate Property Sales & Investments | Toronto Realty Blog by David Fleming.
Originated from http://ift.tt/2tI5tDC
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touristguidebuzz · 6 years
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Retracing our family story in Victoria. This is #WhyWeTravel
Before we get started, we must let you know that we received compensation from TD, however, all opinions in this post are our own.
Victoria, British Columbia
There are a few places in this world that we will revisit again and again. Victoria is one of them. 
We love the city’s old town character and laid back vibe. Every time we drive off the ferry at Swartz Bay we feel a sense of calm wash over us. Victoria is a relatively big city, but it doesn’t feel or act that way. Vancouver Island has a different pace.
This is the place where we first met. It’s where our story began.
It had been a few years since our last visit, so we decided that we were long overdue. The purpose of this particular trip was to introduce our boys to Victoria and show them the places we used to frequent. We both went to university in Victoria and met on the dance floor at a university bar. True story. Who says you can’t find love on the dance floor?!
That was over 16 years ago. It feels like a lifetime ago, which is probably because it was a lifetime ago.
Braydon has been to Victoria a few times before, but he was too young to remember those trips. For Connor, this would be his first visit.
A funny thing happens when you return to a place where you once lived.
You’re instantly transported back in time. The feelings and memories come back to life. It allows you to hit the pause button, to reflect on how much has changed and far you’ve come.
This trip to Victoria reminded us that travel doesn’t always have to be to faraway lands. Sometimes the most memorable and impactful travel experiences happen close to home.
We travel to create special memories with our boys. They continue to grow at a rapid pace – even though we keep telling them to STOP growing so fast – so it’s very important that we spend as much time together as possible. For our little tribe, that means traveling both near and far.
Booking our Trip
We are huge supporters of credit card loyalty programs because they allow us to stretch our dollar and travel more. With the TD Travel Rewards Program, we can book with ease through ExpediaForTD.com, while also redeeming TD Points we’ve already earned with our TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite* Credit Card for that trip, so we can continue to have new experiences and stay connected as a family. If you’re not using a travel credit card, you’re missing out on travel rewards that are super easy to earn.
The credit card application process was easy – we walked to our branch and applied for the card with a TD customer service rep. Once we received and activated our card, we registered it on TDRewards.com and used it to book our hotel and activities on the ExpediaForTD.com platform.
The platform provides access to all of the same travel services available through Expedia with the exclusive ability for TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite* Cardholders to earn TD Points for travel purchases at an accelerated pace. For example, you can earn 9 TD Points on all travel booked online through ExpediaForTD.com.
Royal British Columbia Museum
One of our first dates was at the Royal BC Museum, located in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. We revisited the museum again 5 years ago when Braydon was just a baby.
It’s a fun, interactive museum that has some pretty cool exhibits. We knew our boys would enjoy the experience (especially the giant woolly mammoth) so we decided to make this a focal point for our trip.
Note – you can skip the line by purchasing tickets for the museum through Expedia For TD.
This is not a painting. It’s a full scale woolly mammoth model.
A Pacific Northwest coastal exhibit with life size seals and birds.
Coastal Forest exhibit in the Natural History Gallery.
Entrance to the Maritime Gallery.
Learning about British Columbia’s logging history.
The Kekuli, or Pit House, in the First Peoples Gallery.
The impressive Totem Hall in the First Peoples gallery.
Inside the Jonathan Hunt House, a real ceremonial house.
Inside the Modern History Gallery.
Victoria Bug Zoo
After exploring the Royal BC Museum we made a stop at the Victoria Bug Zoo. It’s not a very big facility but it does have an impressive collection of insects and spiders. Braydon loves animals, so he enjoyed himself.
He even touched a tarantula and huge millipede. No chance you’d get me touching a massive spider!
Horse Drawn Carriage Tour
When we were in university, Nicole worked on the horse carriages, driving tourists around the city and pointing out its historical sights and attractions. To this day, it remains her favorite job because of her love of horses and travel.
The horse drawn carriages will pick you up from your hotel or restaurant. You can also organize your trip directly from the horse carriage operators, located beside the BC Parliament Buildings. Tours range from 30 minutes to an 1.5 hours.
You can book a horse drawn carriage tour using the Expedia For TD platform. We booked this activity at the same time we booked our tickets to the museum and our hotel. The website was really easy to navigate. That’s probably the reason we ended up being so busy on our trip.
Water Taxi around the Inner Harbour
Of course, every trip to Victoria must include a water taxi around its bustling Inner Harbour. These little boats bounce around the harbour taking passengers to a number of different locations. It’s not cheap – we paid $36 for 4 people round trip – but it’s a fun way to get around the city.
There’s a dock located directly in front of our hotel, which was very convenient.
The harbour is also a busy airport for float planes.
Where to Stay in Victoria
Since we are TD First Class Travel Credit Cardholders, we get full access to Expedia’s inventory of over a million of flights, hotels, packages and more.
We stayed at the Delta Ocean Point Resort, which we booked through Expedia For TD. This was our third time staying at this property. It was renovated a few years ago, so the rooms are updated. It has a large indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and an extensive gym facility. There are plenty of hotel options in Downtown Victoria but few of them have an indoor pool, so that gives the Delta a big advantage in our books.
The property is located across the harbour. There is a water taxi stop directly in front of the hotel, so you can hop on one of these little boats to cross the water. Or you can walk along the seawall and cross the Johnson Street Bridge. Everything is very close to this property.
Keep in mind, when you book your hotel accommodations using ExpediaForTD.com you will receive 3 times the TD Points for your booking – this goes for flights, car rentals and activities. TD Points must be redeemed in minimum 200-point increments for travel purchases charged to your card that are booked online or by phone through Expedia For TD.
View of the Inner Harbour from our room at the Delta Ocean Point Resort.
How to Get to Victoria
Because Victoria is on an island, there are really only two ways to get there – ferry or plane.
If you’re travelling to Victoria from the Lower Mainland (Vancouver area) you will take the ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay. The ferry takes about 1.5 hours and passes through the Southern Gulf Islands. You can bring your car on the BC Ferries, which is what we did. Check the ferry schedules here.
If you don’t have a car, you can take the bus from Downtown Victoria to Downtown Vancouver, and vice versa.
You can also take a ferry from Seattle, Washington to Victoria. You board a high-speed, passenger-only ferry from downtown Seattle. It takes about 3 hours and arrives in the heart of Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
Another option is to take a float plane to Victoria.
Victoria’s Inner Harbour is one of the busiest float plane airports in North America. You can catch flights to destinations on Vancouver Island, the Southern Gulf Islands and the Lower Mainland. Flights take between 20-40 minutes and cost between $75-$200 per flight.
It’s a fun and convenient way to travel and the views are incredible.
Then and Now Photos
Another goal for our this trip to Victoria was to capture a few ‘Then and Now’ photos. We always have fun looking back on old photos to see the changes that have happened over the years.
Below are a few images that make us smile.
Then: Baby Braydon on the bed at that Delta Ocean Point Resort.
Now: Braydon on the bed at the Delta Ocean Point Resort (just turned 6 years old).
Then: Swimming at the Delta Ocean Point Resort with Baby Braydon.
Now: Swimming in the same pool 5 years later.
Then: Waiting for a water taxi in front of the Johnson Street Bridge.
Now: Waiting on the same dock in front of the Johnson Street Bridge, 5 years later.
Then: Inside a water taxi in the Inner Harbour.
Now: Inside a similar water taxi, 5 years and 1 more child later.
Then: On the seawall in front of the Inner Harbour.
Now: Similar view from the seawall in front of the Inner Harbour.
  To learn about the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite* Credit Card click here.
Retracing our family story in Victoria. This is #WhyWeTravel is a post from: Traveling Canucks
Related posts:
25 Awesome Day Trips from Vancouver, BC
30 Photos to get you stoked for the ski season
That time we took a ride on the Polar Express to the North Pole!
Sturgeon Fishing on the Fraser River in Chilliwack, BC
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leavetownnow · 7 years
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6 Incredible Summer Island Getaways in BC
For many residents of British Columbia, there’s no need to leave the province to get a taste of island life! And for visitors to the province during the hot summer months, there is a pleasing selection of beachfront holiday options available. Of course, Vancouver Island is always a fantastic choice for those looking for a hybrid of city life and island wilderness – and can easily be accessed via BC Ferries from the mainland. But for those looking for a little adventure and a more remote setting, the following islands not only feature mesmerizing ocean and mountain views from all sides, but they also provide the perfect environment for a family, group or couples holiday. This summer, consider these 6 amazing summer island getaways for your next vacation in BC.
  Sunshine Coast
Billie Norman Photo
Although technically the Sunshine Coast is a part of mainland BC, the 180 km stretch of coastal land can only be accessed by ferry, boat or float plane due to the surrounding rugged terrain. Because of this – and the Coast’s breathtaking beaches and clear skies, it’s easy to forget you’re not on an island.
Located on the Eastern shore of the Strait of Georgia, the Sunshine Coast can be broken up into the North Coast, the South Coast, and the Islands. The South Coast includes popular destinations such as Gibsons, Sechelt and Point Roberts, while the North Coast consists of the more remote Powell River, Saltery Bay and Lund. The Islands vary in size, and attract many BC residents during the summer for their beautiful beaches and true island experience.
Visitors to the Sunshine Coast have plenty of options for entertainment and activities perfect for a summer vacation. These include visiting award-winning craft breweries in Gibsons, riding world renowned mountain biking trails in Sechelt, exploring the flood tides in Egmont, and even participating in the weekend sand castle competitions on Texada Island.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking to be in the centre of the action with access to all ends of the Sunshine Coast, the Painted Boat Resort Spa and Marina offers spacious suites with fantastic water views and is located only minutes away from Madeira Park and Beaver Island!
  Pender Island
Hello BC Photo
Pender Island makes up one of two scenic southern Gulf Islands that can be conveniently accessed by ferry, float plane or water taxi from the mainland. Divided into North Pender and South Pender, these picturesque islands are located between the bustling city of Vancouver and the historic city of Victoria on Vancouver Island, and offer an easy getaway for locals, commuters and visitors to the area.
Because of the pleasant sub-Mediterranean climate, Pender Island has become a hugely popular spot for adventure seekers on the hunt for some of the best fishing, hiking, boating and outdoor activities in the province. Golf-lovers will also be pleased with the island’s 9-hole golf course. Year-round island activities include fall fairs, local events, art gallery showings, festivals and farmer’s markets.
Where to Stay
For a luxury island vacation suitable for both romantic getaways or family trips, the Poets Cove Resort and Spa in South Pender features private lodges, cottages and villas with amazing amenities. The private marina even allows you to moor your boat while you’re exploring the area.
  Nootka Sound
Wild Pacific Expeditions Photo
Located on the West Coast of Vancouver Island, Nootka Sound is surrounded by beautiful BC mountains in addition to the forested islands gathered at the mouth of the inlet. Known for its deep historical roots as the “birthplace” of BC, the Nuu-chah-nulth (Nootka) were the region’s first inhabitants and the first people in BC to meet European settlers.
Nootka Sound, which runs on the eastern side of Nootka Island, is a haven for kayakers, hikers and anglers. Guided kayaking tours will lead adventurers along the rocky coast and sandy beaches, while navigating the surrounding islands and coves. Sea life and other wildlife is abundant in this rainforest environment, and guests have a very good chance of spotting orca whales, eagles, bears and seals during their stay. A perfect spot for nature lovers and explorers, Nootka Sound showcases a different side of Vancouver Island.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for something a little off-the-grid, consider staying in one of our luxury yurts, provided by Moutcha Bay Resort in Nootka Sound. Located in the remote section at the mouth of Conuma River, the resort also offers an oceanside chalet or lodge suite ideal for vacationing groups.
  Prince Rupert
Visit Prince Rupert Photo
Prince Rupert, located on Kaien Island, is a cozy marine city offering breathtaking ocean and mountain views of Northern BC. Deep in the heart of the province’s untamed wilderness, those visiting Prince Rupert will have ample opportunity to partake in a multitude of exciting outdoor activities. Among BC’s trusted adventure sports such as cycling and hiking, the city also offers ziplining, wilderness hikes and tours, climbing and caving.
For those interested in Prince Rupert’s strong First Nations culture and history, among other attractions, the city proudly displays traditional totem poles in the downtown core that can’t be missed. And for all those food and seafood lovers out there, an assortment of lounge restaurants in the area produce incredible dishes using the freshest seafood catch of the day.
Where to Stay
Right in the heart of downtown Prince Rupert, the Crest Hotel provides convenient access to all the town has to offer. Surrounded by incredible harbour views and towering mountain ranges, this coastal summer vacation is exactly what you need to relax.
  Desolation Sound
Steelhead U Photo
For a truly unique remote experience, venture to secluded Desolation Sound, located at the northern end of the Sunshine Coast and flanked by islands and mountains. Whether you’re travelling by plane or sea, the views of the outlying islands and sparkling ocean are so stunning, you’ll think you’re dreaming.
A great adventure for everyone, visiting Desolation Sound may attract water lovers in particular. The warm Salish Sea not only attracts kayakers navigating the islands and coves, but also makes Desolation Sound Marine Park an ideal spot for swimmers, scuba divers and anglers. The Park itself is the largest marine park BC and is split up into three anchorages: Prideaux Haven, Tenedo’s Bay and Grace Harbour.
Spot seals lounging on rocks under the sun, try your hand at either freshwater or salt water fishing, or enjoy the views from your boat – whatever you do here, you’ll feel like you’re in paradise.
Where to Stay
Guests can access Desolation Sound Resort from Powell River, only a 30 minutes drive away, or from Lund, only 7 km away. The resort provides kayaks and canoe rentals to enjoy, in addition to the selection of activities Desolation Sound offers.
  Salt Spring Island
Nature Trek Photo
Sometimes all you need is a day trip or weekend vacation to reset and unwind after long days at the office. And although Salt Spring Island may be the most popular of the Gulf Islands, it still remains rich with island vibes and West Coast appeal. Located only an hour away from Victoria’s Swartz Bay Terminal, and 2 hours out from Tsawwassen Terminal on the mainland, Salt Spring Island is a great choice for city-dwellers seeking a refreshing sea breeze and island warmth.
Hosting a huge selection of dining options, farmers markets, spas, music and art performances and more, visitors to the island can also delve into the variety of outdoor activities on hand. Some of these include wildlife tours, biking, hiking, sailing, surfing, and soaking in the island’s hot springs.
Where to Stay
For guests looking for a great location with access to the Gulf Islands as well as the southern part of Vancouver Island, Brentwood Bay Resort is a fantastic option. Only a 20 minute drive from Swartz Bay Terminal, the resort is nestled in Victoria’s wine country and offers a number of outdoor and water activities.
  Ready to plan your summer island getaway?
If any of the above island destinations have caught your eye, we can help you with all your accommodation needs. Call our Destination Experts at 1.877.902.1616 for more information!
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