Articles

Models\Post Object ( [_post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 1980 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2016-05-19 01:41:21 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-05-19 01:41:21 [post_content] => The Hidden World of Geocaching

A game (quietly) taking the world by storm

By Robert Michon Geocaches are everywhere. In fact, you’re probably within walking distance of one right now. Alarmed? Don’t be. Geocaching is a fun exploration game that’s gained a strong following in the Edmonton area. In fact, Strathcona County is home to the second-oldest geocache in Canada. But how exactly do you play? Where did it even come from? And how do you get started? Wonder no more. We’ve got all the info you need to become a geocacher extraordinaire.

Just What Is Geocaching?

Geocaching is a type of way-finding game that uses GPS technology in order to lead players on a kind of scavenger hunt. Members of the geocaching community hide small waterproof containers in locations all around the world and post coordinates online for other geocachers to find. The containers always contain a logbook and, sometimes, a small trinket as a reward. When you find a geocache, you are meant to sign and date the logbook as proof of your victory, and you can even take a trinket from the cache, as long as you leave one of your own for the next geocacher to find. Anyone at all can play, as long as your cellphone has GPS capability. Geocache coordinates can bring you to almost any location, and they’re a great excuse to get out and explore. You’ll be finding hidden vistas, great trails and viewing your city from a fresh perspective.

A Brief History

Geocaching hasn’t been around long; its roots trace back only 16 years. In May of 2000, the American military made their jealously guarded GPS technology available to the general public, and only two days later, people had already begun to hide caches for their friends to find. The very first geocache was hidden in Portland, Oregon, and it was an instant hit, quickly spreading beyond the group of friends it was initially meant for. Today, geocaching is a worldwide phenomenon, with caches to be found on every continent. One has even left Earth entirely and is hidden aboard the International Space Station.

Rules of the Game

While the rules can vary by location, there are some basics for everybody to keep in mind to make the activity safe and fun for everyone. First off, geocaches cannot be placed on private property without the express permission of the owner. High-security areas, such as government buildings and schools, are typically off-limits, too. Geocaching employs a “leave no trace” policy, meant to preserve the natural state of the location. That means no garbage, vandalism or destruction of the area in your hunt for the cache, and if players find a disturbed site, they’re encouraged to clean it in order to preserve the reputation of the game.

Game Types

While there are hundreds of permutations of the game available, there are four main types that can easily be found around the city. Traditional caches are the basic cache type that started the whole trend. You get a set of coordinates, maybe a hint if you’re lucky, and you set off looking. Puzzle caches (sometimes called mystery caches) make you work for those essential coordinates. They’re hidden within a riddle, cipher or some other puzzle, which must be solved before the hunt can even begin. Multi-caches take you on a bit of a ride. Instead of a notebook to sign, each cache contains yet another set of coordinates, which ultimately brings you to the final location. Event caches are gatherings of 50 or more people (rather than typical small groups), all competing to find the most caches in an area in a certain amount of time. Even mega-events (which include a minimum of 500 people) are planned. Whether you love solving mysteries, being taken on tours, visiting scenic vistas or exploring underrated locations, there is probably a geocaching variant to suit your ability level and interest. It’s fun for families. It’s fun with friends. And it’s even fun alone. Now that you know all about it, you’ve got no excuses. Get out there and start caching!

Geocaching Lingo for Beginners

Muggle: a non-geocacher FTF: First to find. A high achievement for cachers. BYOP: Bring your own pen. Make sure you sign the logbook! DNF: Did not find. Better luck next time.   GZ: Ground zero. You’re in the right spot. Take a look around. Power Trail: Multiple caches in quick succession for easy finds. Trackable: Trinkets that travel from cache to cache. [post_title] => Geocaching [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => geocaching [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-05-25 22:39:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-05-26 04:39:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://www.summercity.ca/?p=1980 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [ID] => 0 [filter] => raw [_excerpt] => The Hidden World of Geocaching A game (quietly) taking the world by storm By Robert Michon Geocaches are everywhere. In fact, you’re probably within walking distance of one right now. … ) 1

Models\Post Object ( [_post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 1976 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2016-05-19 01:39:33 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-05-19 01:39:33 [post_content] => East, West, Home Is Best

Make our nation your destination

By Vanessa Roset You’ve heard the saying, “Not all those who wander are lost.” It is the globetrotter’s mantra, often printed on inspirational travel posters designed to lure us abroad. But how often do we wander in our own backyards? From coast to coast, Canada has a wealth of adventure to offer the budget backpacker and savvy spender alike. So go ahead, get lost a little. We’ve got some tips to get you going, no matter how you’re getting there. Oh, Canada! If you’re looking for an exciting escape this summer, think local. Travelling at home has many advantages, such as avoiding long border crossings and expensive exchange rates. Not sure you’ll find what you need? Consider this: Canada boasts the world’s longest coast line and has somewhere around two million freshwater lakes. The imposing Rocky Mountains stretch 1200 km within the country alone, extending nearly all the way to the Yukon Territory. Between our east and west borders are 17 UNESCO-recognized world heritage sites, 40 protected national parks and myriad native plant and animal species. With all of it accessible through a reliable transportation network, it’s a wonder we ever leave home at all.

Hit the Road

Canadians who love the freedom and spontaneity of road trips are spoiled with a number of inviting options. The Trans-Canada Highway—the longest national highway in the world—is 7,821 km long and runs from Victoria, BC to St. John’s, Newfoundland. There are plenty of scenic alternatives, too: the Pacific Rim Highway (BC), the Frank MacDougall Parkway (ON) and the epic Viking Trail (NL). Our recommendation: make note of areas with long distances between gas stations and bathrooms,and bring your favourite pillow so you can relax comfortably while enjoying the view. Tip: GPS systems and Wi-Fi aren’t always available, especially along mountain ranges or less populated areas, so think paper. The Alberta Motor Association provides its members with complimentary TripTiks, a travel plan you create online and they print and mail to you based on your personalized itinerary. TripTiks include maps, attractions, accommodation information, detailed driving instructions—even road construction warnings and detour information. The added roadside assistance perks make getting a membership before any road trip a no-brainer.

RV There Yet?

Travelling with your own bed offers a certain degree of peace of mind. However, it’s best not to leave overnighting to chance—particularly if you have a larger rig that’s harder to accommodate. Sites with RV hookups and services are often fully booked weeks ahead of time, so planning is key. Many provincial campgrounds are first-come, first-served, and popular areas fill up early. Plan your arrival times accordingly, allowing for unexpected maintenance stops and sightseeing along the way. Tip: A little feng shui goes a long way when sharing a small living space with others. Use space-saving tricks to cut down on clutter: buy collapsible kitchenware (like colanders), and free up cupboard space by removing packaging before stocking the pantry. Limiting the number of toys kids can have out at any time and leaving others in storage until the next rotation will also cut down on clutter.

A Train of Thought

For a truly exceptional way to see our home and native land, take the train. VIA Rail has 19 routes running cross-country and travel options that suit all budgets. Take advantage of economy seating or treat yourself to the unique luxury of a sleeper car, which comes with showers and other extras. Full-service restaurants, lounge cars, onboard activities and observation areas make train travel a treat. A great budgeting option for long-distance travellers is the CanRail pass, which allows passengers to choose their own itinerary through a set number of one-way trips or unlimited travel within a specified timeframe. Musicians can apply to the Artists on Board Program, which offers free or discounted train travel in exchange for performances. Tip: The dining car can get expensive, so bring a portable cooler with snacks, and do grocery runs during longer stops. Just remember that passengers have access to hot water but not to fridges or microwaves. To stay comfy, bring slippers and non-restrictive clothing, earplugs, a blanket for chilly nights and plenty of entertainment.

Leaving on a Jet Plane

For those more interested in the destination than the journey, flying remains the most efficient way to travel. Big-time budgeters can find great deals through websites like Expedia, Kayak, RedTag and Orbitz. For the best prices, start searching for flights early and often, and keep an eye out for flash sales. If you don’t want to do all the legwork, hire a professional. For a small fee your local travel agent will do all the research and can help you reschedule should a flight get delayed or rerouted. Consider also joining your favourite airline’s loyalty club; you’ll collect points with each trip, enjoy membership benefits and increase your chances of getting a free flight upgrade. Tip: Pack light. Travelling with just a carry-on means you’ll save on baggage fees and get to avoid long lines at baggage claim and check-in. It also guarantees you’ll arrive with all your possessions in tow.

Nautical Nation

Few summer activities beat boating on a hot day. Luckily, plenty of opportunities exist for water lovers of all levels. You could kayak on one of Manitoba’s picturesque lakes, paddle and camp along the banks of Alberta’s Bow River or head to the West Coast where thousands of islands beckon curious explorers to their unspoiled shorelines. Local favourites include the Gulf Islands, Desolation Sound and the Princess Louisa Inlet. Take a day trip from Granville Island into Howe Sound, or travel around the Broughton Archipelago Provincial Park for weeks. Rent a speedboat, a sailboat, even a houseboat! Just remember, proper safety certification is required for anyone operating a power-driven boat in Canada. Tip: Cut fuel costs by shedding unnecessary boat weight and by travelling with the wind instead of against it. Boats burn more fuel in high seas and at high speeds. Accelerate slowly, idle less and fill up early in the morning when fuel is colder and denser—you’ll get more bang for your buck. [post_title] => Travel Canada [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => travel-canada [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-03-19 23:40:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-03-20 05:40:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://www.summercity.ca/?p=1976 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [_excerpt] => East, West, Home Is Best Make our nation your destination By Vanessa Roset You’ve heard the saying, “Not all those who wander are lost.” It is the globetrotter’s mantra, often … ) 1

Models\Post Object ( [_post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 1970 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2016-05-19 01:37:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-05-19 01:37:08 [post_content] =>

Drawing a bowstring and a crowd

By Robert Michon Let’s face it, archery’s had a pretty bad run the past few hundred years. Accustomed to modern conveniences, the majority of us aren’t hunting for our own food these days. And those who are, aren’t often favouring bows and arrows. But thanks to a current pop-culture obsession with all things Katniss, archery is enjoying a spike in popularity. Not only are Edmontonians eager to learn this lost art, there are ranges, like Wyld Archery, just waiting to get you started. Care to take aim? Here are a few things to know. ______

A Growing Community

Edmonton has always had its hunting suppliers, but when Wyld Archery’s founder Justin Watson set up shop, his was the only dedicated archery range in the city. “I’ve been shooting for 30 years now,” he says, “and during most of that time there were just never any official lanes that I could use. Eventually, I just decided to fill that gap myself.” It took a while for the idea of dedicated lanes to catch on, but over the years, Wyld Archery has built a solid community of shooters, which continues to grow along with the rising global archery trend. Edmonton’s archery community has grown so much in fact, that while Justin may have been the first in the city to open up dedicated lanes, he wasn’t the only one who noticed a business opportunity. There are over half a dozen archery shops, complete with ranges, open across the capital region today. While many of these shops cater more towards the hunting community, Wyld proudly serves every kind of archer you could imagine. “We’re an archery shop first and foremost,” says Justin, “We don’t care if you want to hunt, shoot at paper targets, whether you’re amateur, pro, young, old—whatever. We just want people to have fun shooting.” And true to this philosophy, Justin does get quite a wide range of customers, from kids on school field trips, to sharp shooters, to historical role-playing groups. Wyld welcomes anyone looking to hone his or her skills. _____

The Hollywood Effect

If you’re wondering who is responsible for the sudden rise in the popularity of archery, you need look no further than Hollywood. Justin keeps track of archery on the big screen. “Pretty much any time we see something new in the media that highlights archery in some way, we see a huge surge of people coming in to shoot. The Hunger Games, Arrow, The Avengers, Brave—Disney has honestly been great for us. They get people excited about archery.” While all kinds of people are starting to pick up bows, Justin has noticed that women are coming out in especially large numbers. “In my first few years of shooting, I only knew of two female shooters, and they were both coaches of mine. I really like seeing more women getting into the sport. I think a lot of it does have to do with movies like The Hunger Games and Brave. Women are seeing these positive role models in movies and saying, ‘If she can do it, then so can I.’” ________

Practice, Practice, Practice

Of course, many of these archery hopefuls lose interest after about a month of shooting, disappointed that they have not quite become Hawkeye or Katniss Everdeen. But each surge also brings in new people who excel at the sport and quickly become archers for life. As a veteran archer, Justin has the same advice for all newcomers, “What people really need to understand is that archery is a patience sport. It’s rewarding, but you have to expect to put some practice in before you start seeing results.” If all of that practice sounds daunting though, don’t worry, you’ll be improving more than your aim. Archery works out muscles that you really don’t use in day-to-day life. Master archers might not notice the strain, but as a beginner, you’ll feel the burn. So whether you’re looking to get into hunting, historical re-enactments, sharpshooting or just wanting to try out a fun new activity this summer, look no further than your nearest archery range. The lanes are open, the bows are strung and your target awaits. _____

Where to Shoot

Wyld Archery Pro Shops and Lanes: 14805 Yellowhead Trail, Edmonton ___ Cabela’s North: 15320 37 Street NW, Edmonton _____ Cabela’s South: 6150 Currents Dr NW, Edmonton _____ Jim-Bows Archery Edmonton: 13955 156 St NW, Edmonton _____ Capital Region Archery Club: 5618 76 Ave NW, Edmonton _____ Sherwood Park Archery Club: 51419 Range Rd 223, Sherwood Park [post_title] => Archery - The Revival [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => archery-the-revival [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-03-19 23:23:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-03-20 05:23:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://www.summercity.ca/?p=1970 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [_excerpt] => Drawing a bowstring and a crowd By Robert Michon Let’s face it, archery’s had a pretty bad run the past few hundred years. Accustomed to modern conveniences, the majority of … ) 1

Models\Post Object ( [_post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 2580 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2016-04-30 16:33:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-04-30 16:33:34 [post_content] => Love at First Sight Sunglasses Shopping Made Easy Fewer things are more confusing than shopping for a pair of shades. Your sunnies should be fashionable, functional and flattering, but oftentimes the perfect pair is the needle in an endless stack of frames, lenses and tints. The good news is you can simplify your search before even entering the store. Here are eight tips to consider when buying sunglasses.

1. Protect Those Peepers

Sunglasses have become such a fashion statement that we sometimes overlook their primary purpose to protect. To help save your eyes from sun damage, look for lenses that block at least 98% of UV light. To stop the sun’s glare, look to a polarized lens. Light travels in all directions, and when it bounces off reflective surfaces, we get glare. Polarized lenses let only vertical rays through (not horizontal rays), helping reduce glare.

2. Don’t Disregard Durability

Frames and lenses are made with many different materials that affect how durable your sunglasses will be. To help avoid scratches, look for a lens made from polycarbonate—a scratch-resistant material that still provides good clarity. For strong frames, set your sights on nylon; it’s more durable than plastic or metal.

3. Consider Colour

Sunglass tints come in a rainbow of colours; each tint filters light differently and affects how we see through our lenses. Red and rosy tints brighten our vision in low light, so they are great for cloudy days. Brown and amber tints also improve visibility on cloudy days. These tints provide contrast against green and blue backgrounds, such as grass, trees and water. Grey minimizes brightness and glare; it’s a neutral tint, so it doesn’t distort how we see colour naturally. Green also reduces brightness and glare, but it also provides contrast on sunny days. Blue and purple are not only the trendiest tints in the bunch but also limit glare and enhance colour perception. Yellow and orange tints offer the least sun protection but are excellent for foggy or hazy conditions.

4. Factor In Fit

Proper fit is important: the width of your frames and the width of your face should align, and your frames should sit in the middle of your face (equal distance from the top frame to the top of your head and from the bottom frame to the bottom of your chin).

5. Make No Mistake About Shape

The best shape for your sunnies depends on your face shape. Round faces look best in angular frames. Look for rectangle, square, wayfarer or shield frames. Oval faces look good in pretty much any frame (lucky ducks), but frames slightly wider than the forehead can provide balance. Heart faces do best with rounded edges—think shield, butterfly, cat eye or aviator. Square faces are complemented by thin, rounded frames. Aviators are a good choice; so are butterfly frames.

6. Complement Your Look

Your sunnies should reflect your signature style. Are you an edgy aviator girl? A retro wayfarer-wearing guy? And what about colour? Do you like bold bright frames, or is a classic neutral more your speed? Consider your personal style and the shapes that best suit your face to narrow your sunglass search.

7. Reflect on Your Lifestyle

Think about your lifestyle. If you’re an athletic type, sporty wrap-around shades may be your go-to. If you’re always on the go, a grey tint perfect for driving may be your top consideration. If you tend to handle things with care, you could easily opt for some less durable plastic frames or glass lenses.

8. Read the Fine Print

Depending on the brand and where you buy them, many sunglasses come with a warranty. Before you buy, be sure to ask the salesperson about warranties and repair and return policies. Also make sure you’re clear on whether the policy is offered by the store or the manufacturer. t8n Did You Know? One of this season’s top trends in sunglasses is the mirrored lens. Spotted on runways, celebrities and the style-savvy among us, mirrored lenses (in a variety of colours) are giving classic styles—like cat eye, butterfly and aviator glasses—a new twist.

Top Sunglass Styles Defined

Aviator: Tear-drop-shaped lenses; usually with a metal frame. Butterfly: Oversized glasses; shape -resembles a butterfly. Think Jackie O. Cat Eye: Frames with pointed edges; shape resembles the eye of a cat. Shield: Glasses with a single, large lens. Wayfarer: Glasses with a classic, trapezoidal frame style; Tom Cruise wore wayfarers in Risky Business. [post_title] => Sunglasses [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => sunglasses [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-05-25 20:23:48 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-05-26 02:23:48 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://www.summercity.ca/?p=2580 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [_excerpt] => Love at First Sight Sunglasses Shopping Made Easy Fewer things are more confusing than shopping for a pair of shades. Your sunnies should be fashionable, functional and flattering, but oftentimes … ) 1

Models\Post Object ( [_post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 2575 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2016-04-30 16:29:39 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-04-30 16:29:39 [post_content] => EXPLORE VICTORIA AND THE WONDERS OF VANCOUVER ISLAND. If your dollar won’t stretch to a European vacation, one alternative might be Alberta’s left-hand neighbour, British Columbia. July through September is an excellent time to visit Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. The weather is warm, and nature is at its finest. Whether shopping, dining or culture is your pleasure, this regional overview will get you ready to pack your bags. Victoria Sure, you’ve heard it called the home of the newlywed and the nearly dead, but BC’s capital isn’t the city you visited in the 90s. Recently praised in Vogue for its robust high-tech community and dedication to craft brewing, Victoria is both a family-friendly destination and a sophisticated city for those travelling without kids. Most tourism focuses around the Inner Harbour, at the intersection of Government and Belleville streets. Here you’ll find the Royal British Columbia Museum, the Empress Hotel, BC’s Legislative Assembly grounds, access to city tours on double-decker buses, harbour tours on mini-ferries and whale-watching expeditions in Zodiacs. Close by you’ll find horse-drawn carriages, kayak rentals and numerous shopping destinations, including the newly renovated Market Square, Lower Johnson Street (one-of-a-kind boutiques) and Fort Street (Antique Row, plus galleries and specialty shops). There’s, even more, to see if you leave the core. Here are a few Victoria-area “musts”: Craigdarroch Castle—sumptuous former home of a Victorian industrialist; Craigdarroch Castle Video The Galloping Goose— former railway converted to a gorgeous multi-use trail; [caption id="attachment_14525" align="aligncenter" width="462"] Galloping Goose Trestle Bridge[/caption] ____ Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site— 19th-century coastal defense installation featuring the Fisgard Lighthouse; [caption id="attachment_14527" align="aligncenter" width="543"] Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites[/caption] ____ Sidney by the Sea— Canada’s Book Town, plus dozens of quaint shops; _____ Butchart Gardens— botanical wonderland. [caption id="attachment_14532" align="alignnone" width="458"] Butchart Gardens[/caption] You might be surprised to learn Victoria is also a foodie paradise. Locally sourced, organically grown food is a priority in -Canada’s fittest capital. You’ve gotta eat, right? ___

Salt Spring Island

[caption id="attachment_14533" align="alignnone" width="477"] Salt Spring Island[/caption] Take a float plane from Victoria’s Inner Harbour or a ferry from Swartz Bay, and you’ll arrive at Salt Spring Island, BC’s brilliant cultural destination. With a population of just over 10,000, Salt Spring boasts more artists and performers per capita than anywhere else in the province. Janet Clouston of the Salt Spring Island Chamber of Commerce says, “The arts and culture scene here is better than in some medium-sized cities. To be able to have what we have here and a small-town life experience is amazing!” But Salt Spring Island is more than arts and culture. It also supports surprisingly diverse dining. From funky eateries like the Tree House Cafe to the grandeur of Hastings House (one of the West Coast’s most-praised restaurants), there’s something for every palate, much of it locally grown. Salt Spring Island has more than 200 active farms, including three vineyards. You can shop the farmers’ market in Ganges every Tuesday afternoon from June through October. Want just a taste? Visit on a Saturday. From April until late October, you’ll find the gigantic Salt Spring Market in Centennial Park in Ganges. Nearly 150 artisans take part in the market annually, and everything is made or grown on the island—part of Salt Spring’s authentic charm. ______

Nanaimo

Nanaimo, north of Victoria, is Vancouver Island’s new “It” destination. Mountains, beaches, marine life—what’s not to love? Founded as a trading post, Nanaimo grew into a coal-mining hub and later a forestry centre. For decades it was little more than a stopping point for visitors heading to Victoria and Tofino or exploring the Gulf Islands. But today, Nanaimo offers festivals, street performers, museums and water-based activities. It also shares Victoria’s mild, sunny climate and the West Coast commitment to locally grown, locally made food and drink. If you have a boating background, you should know that Nanaimo is an increasingly popular base for folks chartering sailboats and powerboats. Nanaimo’s mid-island location is perfect for boaters travelling north into Desolation Sound or south into the Gulf Islands. On a boat, you have unparalleled access to the incredible Georgia Basin and its many tiny communities, which host some 200,000 visitors annually. Driving to Nanaimo from Victoria? Be sure to visit Chemainus. Featuring dozens of outdoor murals, glorious views of Stuart Channel and yummy baking and ice cream, it’s a delightful stop. -

Port McNeill

Nanaimo is often the end of a journey up island, but visitors who keep going north will discover a wild landscape and numerous small, welcoming communities, including Port McNeill. Graham McNeil, who’s lived in Port McNeill since 1970, says the town “has the reputation for being one of the friendliest towns on the coast.” Port McNeill is the gateway to northern Vancouver Island and the Broughton Archipelago. Visitors enjoy fishing, boating, ecotourism, caving, camping and more in this small town. You can view grizzly bears in the towering wilderness of Knight Inlet, just a boat ride away, and the Broughtons is one of the coast’s top areas to watch whales. Port McNeill is connected by ferry to historic Alert Bay, home of the world-class U’Mista Centre, a museum of aboriginal heritage. Plan to spend several hours there. Another short ferry ride takes you to Sointula on Malcolm Island, originally settled as a utopian cooperative. If you go, drop by the town museum—it’s fascinating! En route to McNeill, or as a day trip out, visit Telegraph Cove, a charming micro-village (population 20!). The boardwalks and historic buildings reflect an industrial past, but today it’s a quiet place for relaxation and exploration. With so much to see and do, Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands really are a paradise next door. The most difficult part of your trip may be convincing yourself to come home. t8n

Three Cheers for BC Beer

Eager to explore Victoria’s craft beer pubs? Here are four you won’t want to miss. Garrick’s Head Pub (1140 Government Street) Swans Brewpub (506 Pandora Avenue) Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub and Guesthouses (308 Catherine Street) Moon Under Water (350B Bay Street) Local breweries host tours—with tastings—throughout the year.

Vancouver Island Fun Facts

Whale sightings along the east side of Vancouver Island peak in August and September. The Royal BC Museum says six of BC’s 34 First Nation languages were spoken on Vancouver Island. Many are now being rediscovered by a new generation. [post_title] => Vancouver Island [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => vancouver-island [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-03-19 23:08:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-03-20 05:08:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://www.summercity.ca/?p=2575 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [_excerpt] => EXPLORE VICTORIA AND THE WONDERS OF VANCOUVER ISLAND. If your dollar won’t stretch to a European vacation, one alternative might be Alberta’s left-hand neighbour, British Columbia. July through September is … ) 1