A Local’s Guide to Spending 3 Days Around Oak Bay, Vancouver Island

July 18, 2023 by Shannon Colman

If you’re spending time in Victoria on Vancouver Island and are looking for places to visit outside of the downtown hub, this guide is for you. For those that enjoy recreation and nature and don’t have a car, there are several interesting neighbourhoods to explore on foot outide of the city centre.

Located on the traditional Indigenous lands of the Songhees Nations, the localities of Gonzales, Oak Bay, and Uplands can all be considered affluent neighbourhoods. With leafy streets, pretty parks, ocean views, and sandy beaches, they are pleasant areas in which to unwind and enjoy island living.

Read on for ideas on how to spend 3 days in these picturesque neighbourhoods.

Day 1:

After enjoying a sleep-in, head to Good Earth Coffeehouse on Oak Bay Ave for a quick breakfast. It’s here that a friend introduced me to vanilla rooibos lattes. I’m not a huge tea drinker but these are delicious if you’re looking for something without caffeine.

After breakfast, walk down Foul Bay Road, admiring the grand houses and saying hello to the deer that can often be found snacking on someone’s lawn. At Crescent Road, cross the crosswalk and turn left. Shortly on the right, there’ll be a small parking area. Some stairs lead down to Gonzales Bay, a sandy beach that makes a good spot for an ocean dip and ball games. If you were to wake up and see this beach for the first time, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in California. The sight of snow-capped mountains in the distance across the ocean will remind you that you’re further north! I recommend visiting Gonzales Bay on a weekday as it’s a very popular beach during summer weekends.

After you’ve had your fill of beach time, head back to Crescent Road and continue right. The road becomes King George Terrace as you walk up a hill that winds to the right. After a couple hundred metres, you’ll come to a rest area with parking spaces. If you feel like it, follow the path down to Trafalgar Park for a breezy view of the ocean.

From here, continue along King George Terrace as it winds downhill. Once the road flattens and it’s safe to do so, you’ll want to cross to the other side. Just next to the start of Sunny Lane is a narrow footpath that leads up to Walbran Park. The path involves a set of stairs and is quite a workout (not accessible for wheelchairs, sorry!) At the top, cross the road and follow a path to the viewing platform. The panoramic vista that includes views of the San Juan Islands of the US will be worth the thigh burn from the stairs!

If you feel like returning here during your trip, Walbran Park is an excellent spot to watch a sunset!

From this park, you can continue onto another nice viewpoint by walking left along Denison Road. After a few hundred metres, you’ll come to the entrance of Gonzales Hill Regional Park. Home to a striking white observatory, there are great views of glittering ocean, the leafy neighbourhoods of Fairfield and James Bay, the Westshore communities, and distant mountains of Sooke.

After all that walking, it’s time for a break and some cake! Exit Gonzales Hill via the path down Fairfield Place and, once on Fairfield Road, cross and walk down towards Foul Bay Road. On the right you’ll see an entrance to the Abhkazi Gardens, open everyday 11am-5pm with entry by donation. While they don’t have the same size and splendour as the world-renowned Butchart Gardens, these gardens are a lovely, tranquil place to wander through, without large crowds and the constant click of cameras. You might even see the small turtles by the pond!

The Teahouse within the gardens offers a few different menu options for high tea, provided in a cozy and non-pretentious setting. I had the afternoon tea last year and it was delicious! The final tea sitting is at 4pm. (Note that there is a dress code.)

Day 2:

Start your day by stopping at Demitasse Cafe & Garden Centre on McNeill Ave. As well as selling plants, this sweet little cafe has yummy savoury and sweet pastries, including gluten-free options. The double-baked almond croissant is one of my favourites. Fun fact: if you read my book, this cafe is featured a few times in part 3!

From the cafe, walk south down Hampshire Road, turn left on Lafayette St, and then turn right down Monterey Ave. The road will lead you to Beach Drive with McNeill Bay in front of you. This wide pebble beach is popular with dog walkers, but not so popular for swimming due to the prevalance of seaweed and fairly choppy waves.

Walk along the esplanade before turning left up Transit Road. After a hundred metres or so, there’ll be a sign on the right indicating the Centennial Trail. Follow the narrow path that’s cloaked by trees and you’ll come to Anderson Hill Park. Looking over NcNeill Bay, it’s a good place to sit and eat your almond croissant!

Go back the way you came down Transit Road until you return to Beach Drive. Cyclists will often pass by (some panting more than others!) as the road winds uphill to the right. At a rest area, you’ll see a small pebble beach below and some rocky bluffs with a few wooden chairs on top. This area is called Kitty Islet. Follow the path down and take a seat to enjoy a couple chapters of a book or watch the boats go by.

Once you’re ready to move again, continue along Beach Drive. Soon you’ll be surrounded by the neatly manicured lawns of Victoria Golf Club. Enjoy the ocean and mountain views as you walk – just keep an eye out for flying golf balls!

Beyond the golf course, you’ll eventually pass Oak Bay Beach Hotel, popular for it Boathouse Spa. A few years ago, some coworkers kindly gave me a gift card which I used to book a massage. At the time, guests received complimentary access to the sauna and mineral pools after their treatment. Now you have to pay an additional $30 to access them. If you have the cash to splash, I recommend booking yourself an appointment for a true self-care treat. Alternatively, you could stop for some lunch in the Hotel’s Faro restaurant, which specializes in Neopolitan-style pizzas.

Continuing along Beach Drive, the interestingly named Turkey Head Walkway is by Oak Bay Marina. Seals can often be seen swimming by the shoreline. Around here, you can book a fishing charter or rent a kayak or canoe to explore the calm surrounding waters. A little further along is Queen’s Park – a pretty, grassy park good for picnics, reading, or just enjoying the view of boats bobbing up and down.

When you continue along Beach Drive, you’ll pass a shallow bay and then see Haynes Park on your right. Turn left up the crosswalk away from the park and follow the path that goes up some steps and joins Oak Bay Ave. This bustling main street has many businesses to keep you entertained – a chocolate shop, florist, garden centre, art shop, bike shop, and fashion boutique to name a few. You’ll often see retired locals sitting with their dogs outside a coffee shop, chatting away. Popular dinner options include the Penny Farthing Pub, Vis-a-Vis, Bon Sushi, Deadbeetz Burgers, and Tapas on Oak.

On the second Wednesday during the summer months, the Avenue comes alive with Oak Bay Night Market. Live musicians play as local vendors sell crafts, jewellery, art, jams, honey, cheese, and more. A barbecue sizzles and food trucks sells various dishes, from Greek wraps to poutine to curries.

Day 3:

Grab a beverage and breakfast item to-go from Pure Vanilla Bakery on Cadboro Bay Road, or alternatively, sit down for a meal at The Village restaurant on Estevan Ave. I haven’t eaten at The Village myself, but everyone I know that’s eaten here has said good things.

Continue down Estevan Ave and the sight of sparkling water will come into view. This is Willows Beach, one of Victoria’s most popular places for sunbathing, picnics, paddleboarding, and an ocean dip. Runners will often jog along the esplanade and on an evening, seals might pop their heads up out of the water curiously. On a clear day, Washington’s Olympic Mountains rise up formidably in the distant west. The beach area also has a playground and public washrooms. Dogs are not permitted on Willows Beach between May 1st and September 30th. If you visit outside of this season, you can enjoy the sight of dogs galloping gleefully along the sand, making furry friends.

After catching some rays and having a splash, wander east along the espalanade and walk up the stairs. Following the path to the right takes you to Cattle Point. Where does this name come from, I hear you ask. Well, during the late 19th Century and early 20th Century, this area was the destination for unloading cows from steamships, and the cows would swim a short distance to shore (a funny image to picture, I know!) No cows are unloaded today and instead there is a boat launch. The east side of Cattle Point looks out towards Cadboro Bay, the next neighbourhood along. On a clear day, you’ll get a striking view of Mt. Baker in Washington State.

Willows Beach and Cattle Point are pretty places to visit during the evening, with the sky turning a soft lilac as the sun goes down. They are regularly featured in my book!

Cattle Point is part of Uplands Park. If you follow the loop round until you rejoin Beach Drive, across the road you’ll find an entrance to the main section of the park. It’s a peaceful oasis with various flat trails through Garry Oak meadow. Whenever I come here, I think it would be a great location for an engagement shoot or wedding photos.

For lunch, walk back along Beach Drive with its million-dollar houses and turn right back up Estevan Ave. Willows Galley is a family-run fish and chip shop open 12pm-6pm except Mondays and Tuesdays. As someone who comes from the country of fish and chips, I can confidently say I approve! The menu also includes burgers, poutine, and ice cream. Just up the road past Musgrave St is Lokier Garden, a quiet setting in which to enjoy your meal.

Within Estevan Village there is a florist, jewellers, barber shop, women’s gym, and clothing consignment store. You’re bound to see customers outside the popular Ruth and Dean bakery and cake shop, and near here is Bungalow gift shop which sells a variety of items including home decor, stuffed toys, soaps, and cards.

When it comes to dinner plans, Nohra Thai Kitchen on Estevan Ave has excellent reviews, as does the nearby Taiwanese restaurant AsUsual Cafe. Another option is the fancy farm-to-table restaurant Sedona, on Cadboro Bay Rod. Otherwise, The Old Farm Market on this road has a good selection of local products if you’d like to make your own dinner.

If you’re planning a trip to Victoria, I hope you’ll give yourself a few days to explore some of the neighbourhoods outside of the downtown core. I’ve lived in or around Oak Bay for most of the years I’ve lived in Canada, and the places I’ve mentioned in this post never lose their charm. If you like going for walks and finding scenic views, you’ll love exploring these areas!

GPSMyCity is an app that adds GPS coordinates to blog posts so you can access your favourite travel guides from your iOS or Android device, with a map included to help you navigate your way around. If you have a trip to Oak Bay planned and would like to reference this article, follow this link to download : https://www.gpsmycity.com/gps-tour-guides/victoria-4511.html

Me Time on Mayne Island

June 12, 2023 by Shannon Colman

For my birthday this year, I decided to give myself the gift of alone time and plan a short trip somewhere. I opted for Mayne Island, one of the Southern Gulf Islands a 55-minute ferry ride away from Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island. One of the smaller of the Gulf Islands, Mayne’s Indigenous name is SḴŦAḴ in SENĆOŦEN, the language of the W̱SÁNEĆ people who are part of the Coast Salish Nation.

My idea of “me time” involves being outside exploring woods, strolling along beaches, and hiking up mountains before a quiet, relaxing evening of watching the sun go down. Read on for my observations of places I explored while on Mayne Island!

If you do a simple Google search for trails on Mayne Island, you won’t see many options appear. During the journey with BC Ferries, be sure to grab a map as this will highlight the various trails that are available.

After driving out of Village Bay ferry terminal, I took a right down Dalton Rd and headed towards Dinner Bay Park, which is home to the Japanese Garden. A little oasis, the garden was beautifully serene. It was created to honour the large community of Japanese people that lived on the Island between 1900 and 1942, before they were interned as a result of the Pacific War. Entrance is free but there is a donation box. I dropped in a $5 bill which was the only cash on me and a small gesture of appreciation for the volunteers who do a great job maintaining this gem.

From Dinner Bay Rd, I drove down Mariners Way, turned right onto Marine Drive, then joined the narrow Navy Channel Rd. I parked off road and walked down to the beach that is known as Conconi Reef Community Park. The ferry from Saturna Island will pass through Navy Channel en route to collect passengers from Mayne. As I walked back up from the beach, a starling on the path tottered ahead, only to stop and look back at me, hop a few more paces, then stop again. It did this for a minute or so, as if showing me the way to go.

Something I really liked about Mayne was the limited signage. I realize this might seem like an odd thing to like. Indeed, when I’d looked on Google Maps for ideas of where to go, some people had written reviews complaining about the lack of signage. To me this is a sad reflection of a modern society in which people want things instantly and with zero inconvenience. It’s as if humans have reached such a point of anxiety that they’re afraid to get lost or make mistakes, and don’t know how to be resourceful. Maybe it’s childhood memories of my parents turning the car round while road tripping through a foreign country, but I enjoy the process of trial and error. It feels more adventurous. And hey, it’s made me great at 3-point turns!

I parked my car off Simpson Rd and walked up Punch’s Alley – a pathway flanked by large meadows – into Henderson Park. The striking turqouise-blue shell of a cracked starling egg near the entrance of another pathway signalled the start of the Doreen McLeod trail, which takes you on a tranquil walk through lush vegetation down to a pebble beach overlooking Navy Channel.

By the time I returned to my car, it was two o’clock and I was feeling peckish. I drove up Gallagher Bay Rd, passing dogwalkers that would wave, and turned left onto Fernhill Rd, passing a bookstore and farmstore on the left and an elementary school on the right where children played ball games. There’s a little village in Miners Bay with a library, bakery, restaurant, grocers, and a community park. Sunny Mayne Bakery has housemade sandwiches and baked goods.

As I sat eating, a car honked loudly from outside. The group of locals that were sat on the patio enjoying afternoon coffee and cake looked over in its direction with surprise. The aggressive noise seemed so out of place in this quaint little hub. The driver of the vehicle was trying to get the attention of the passenger that had gotten out. There was no doubt they were a tourist. What was that I said about people wanting things instantly with no inconvenience..?

Not wanting to contradict myself on the topic of convenience, but the reality is that we all need to access WiFi sometimes. Cross the road to the public library and you should be able to get signal from the outside porch. (Because I hate being that person who goes inside a place and says “I’m just looking to use your WiFi.”) For groceries, Tru Value Foods has a pretty large selection of foods, including a deli section. The Trading Post on Fernhill Rd has a fairly limited selection of food but is the place to go for alcohol. I proactively handed the cashier my ID, and she said in a cheery voice that she wasn’t even going to ask me. Is this what happens when you turn 31?

My accommodation was an airbnb right inside Mt. Parke, accessed via a private track road. The views from the balcony and living room of Raven’s Nest cottage were gorgeous – a peaceful place to sit and watch eagles and turkey vultures gliding through the sky. The hosts provided lots of amenities (including binoculars) and put a lot of thought into little details.

One of the things I wanted to see most on Mayne Island was the view from the top of Mt. Parke. I joined the track that continued from the airbnb and turned right up a narrow trail. (If you take the trail on the left, you join a network of trails within Plumper Pass Community Park.) At the ridge, the views were similar to those seen from Mt. Warburton Pike on Saturna Island, but no less impressive or exciting. A dazzling vista of lush green islands, sparkling blue ocean, and distant mountains. At the cliff edge, I looked down to see a blanket of Douglas, Fir and Red Cedar trees below. This would have been a bad time to turn around and see a cougar or bear. Thankfully, there are none of those on the Island!

*Maps indicate that the trail to the summit can be accessed from Kim Rd or Mt. Parke Rd. The latter is technically a private road that I was only allowed to take because I was an airbnb guest within the park. Expect to be asked to leave if you’re not a guest and you’ve parked before the emergency gate.

Satisfied with the day’s activities, I returned to my airbnb and spent the evening looking out at the view, watching the hourly ferry sailing through Active Pass to and from the mainland. The white-capped North Shore mountains behind Vancouver were visible in the distance as the sky softened into a palette of lilac and pink. I spent a lot of time peering through the binoculars in hopes of seeing a whale, but no luck this time.

After a peaceful sleep in a comfy bed, I woke early the next morning, ready for an active day. Hummingbirds zoomed past the kitchen window and hovered at the feeder. First, I drove to Horton Bay Rd and took a right on Beechwood Drive to access the other side of Henderson Park. There’s a small parking lot at the end of a short gravel track. The Vulture Ridge Viewpoint Trail up Henderson Hill was a fun, moderately steep hike about 1km long. Along the way, a couple of deer looked up timidly from behind the trees before trotting off gracefully.

The viewpoint looked out at the Navy Channel sea passage in front of North Pender Island. Bald eagles and turkey vultures soared overhead. An informational board explained that turkey vultures will vomit their food if a predator or human comes across them eating their prey. This is so they can fly off to safety with as little weight hindering them as possible. They also pee on their own legs to help stay cool. (I found this interesting but I apologize if you were eating while reading that..!)

Due to its location, this would probably be a great place to watch the sunset. After spending several minutes admiring the view, I came back down via the East Boundary Trail.

Next, I drove back to Horton Bay Rd and turned right to go down to St. John Point Regional Park. This was a place that had received some negative reviews on Google for being “hard to find.” Either those people are blind or things have been updated, because there was a sign referencing the park’s name. A small parking lot can be found at the end of a short gravel track.

I followed a grassy path down to Kadonaga Bay and then joined a trail into the woods. As I crouched down to retie my shoelace, a dog that looked like a mix of a Poodle and Border Collie bounded up from behind and jumped on me excitedly before running off again. Things became a little calmer in the forest, which was filled with the peaceful sound of birdsong. Decorated with Arbutus trees, the trail along coastal bluffs overlooking Plumper Sound was lovely. I imagine this would be a great place to spot whales and other sea life, but none of them fancied making an appearance today.

As I rejoined the grassy path, the dog reappeared, tail wagging madly and tongue shaking saliva. I spent a couple of minutes giving him belly and head scratches before asking “Where’s home?” Upon hearing the H word, he galloped off suddenly without a goodbye. And that was that.

Next on my itinerary was a visit to Campbell Point on the north east of the island. Off Wilkes Rd there’s a shaded parking lot in front of Bennett Bay Beach. Along the Campbell Point Trail I greeted a few friendly locals walking their dogs. Part of the Gulf Island National Park Reserve, the tip of the park looks out over Georgia Strait and towards Saturna Island. I’d recommend coming here for sunrise as I imagine the view would be wonderful.

I followed a trail back along the bay, passing a heron perched on a rock down below the cliff. The beach was sandy, but overall it wasn’t as amazing as I’d expected it to be from my reading. I don’t know if it was because the tide was out or there was a boat launch jutting out that affected the view, but this beach just didn’t do it for me for some reason. That said, I’m sure there are many that would love it.

I was curious to explore Mt. Parke from the actual public trailhead. Afterall, it’s not just about the view at the top, but the journey to get there! So I headed inland and parked at the end of Kim Rd off Felix Jack Rd. The Mary Jeffery Nature Appreciation Park Lowland Nature Trail is a loop trail. I took the southern side of the trail, from where you can turn off briefly to view the aptly named Giant Arbutus Tree. I then took a right and joined the Halliday Ridge trail which takes you on a lovely route through the forest. Along the way, I spotted a woodpecker working away on a fallen log. It’s about 2km to get up to the ridge. I was having one of those days where my energy seemed limitless (that dog’s saliva must have had something special in it) and I made it up to the top very quickly.

As the trail began to elevate, I came to a section with a map indicating where the trail entered private property. The words “Continue at your own risk” were written. (My instant reaction was that the sign was warning of violence, but when I told my manager a few days later, she said it was more likely related to law suits.)

At the viewpoint, I saw a couple sat on the bench. Not wanting to disrupt (you never know, maybe he was about to pop the question!) I continued along the trail for a few minutes. If you keep left, the trail will eventually join private property.

The viewpoint had a bench you could rest on and an informational board that displayed the names of the Gulf islands, sea passages, and mountains in view. I can definitely identify Plumper Sound, Saturna Island, and the Pender Islands, but I still get confused by the others. One day I’ll know them all!

I came back down via the Old Gulch trail. If you want to go up to the Mt. Parke summit, there’ll be a sign along this trail indicating an option to join the Plumper Pass Community Park Loop. Take this option and there’ll be a few signs along the route directing you towards the viewpoint. After a kilometre or so, you’ll cross the private track of Mt. Parke Rd and join the narrow viewpoint trail.

Once back at my car, it was onto Campbell Bay as I was curious to see the beach here. There isn’t an official sign indicating a beach, but when you pass a house on the right, there’s some space off the road that seems intended for cars. You then take a short walk down a hill…and boy, what a lovely beach awaits. I’m really glad I stopped here as it made up for the “meh” reaction I had to Bennett Bay. What a beautiful spot! I’d read that Campbell Bay is one of the best places for swimming, and I regretted not bringing my swimsuit down with me. I had a quick paddle instead, admiring the cleanliness of the water. This side of the island sees less boat traffic which probably contributes to the beach’s charm. I could have spent a while sitting on one of the many driftwood logs under the gentle breeze of the trees. I’ll definitely spend more time here if I visit in future. It would be a great place to kayak too!

From Campbell Bay, I drove along Waugh Rd and turned right down Georgina Point Rd. People that get anxious about a lack of signage, be warned: there isn’t a huge big sign inidicating it, but the small road will lead you to the famous lighthouse. A seal swam close to the shore as a ferry from the Mainland approached Active Pass. I will have passed this lighthouse many times without much thought. It’s nice to know that now whenever I’m on the ferry heading to Vancouver, I can see this beacon and say “I stood there.”

After the lighthouse, I continued in the opposite direction down Georgina Point Rd. It’s a pretty drive past the small boats in Miners Bay. After stocking up on food at Tru Value Foods on Village Bay Rd, I returned to my airbnb for another walk up to the Mt. Parke ridge before a relaxing evening of staring at the views of Active Pass and willing a whale to appear. (It did not.)

With my ferry to Vancouver Island not leaving until after noon, I checked out of my airbnb around 9 a.m. so I could get a couple more walks in. On my way out, I met one of my hosts for the first time. He seemed surprised that I was visiting by myself. I have to remind myself that some people still find it strange that someone in a relationship might want to go on a trip by themselves, or that a young-looking female would want to travel somewhere alone. For me, having alone time helps me be better in my relationship, friendships and job by giving me time to recharge. I hope it’s something we will start to normalize in society as I think being comfortable with one’s company is healthy and beneficial!

I drove through Village Bay and continued along Waugh Rd, squinting at house numbers to see if I was close to the trailhead listed on my map. Naturally, I had to turn around. A car came up behind as I midway through turning. The car stopped at a distance and didn’t move again until I was facing the right direction. The driver then waved at me as they passed. See, going wrong and turning around ain’t so scary!

I parked in a grassy space and walked about a hundred metres back up the road before turning left up a trail marked with a sign that said Chu-an Park. It was a short trail that got quite steep near the end. The view of Georgia Strait was a little underwhelming as the map had made it seem like there would be a bigger view. But a good workout, nonetheless. Another thing about this trail was that I kept seeing signs noting a park boundary, and yet in a couple of places it wasn’t very clear where the trail was and therefore whether or not I was on private property. I’d hate for someone to be yelled at or threatened with legal action (or worse) for making an innocent mistake.

This leads me onto the one thing I didn’t like about Mayne: the abundance of private property signs in certain places. I understand the desire for quiet and solitude, but the prevalance of signs seemed to demonstrate a paranoia or suspicion of strangers that seemed slightly excessive. People are entitled to do what they want with their money when it comes to buying property, but do you really need THAT many signs? It all seemed rather passive-aggressive. I think the concept of private property is simply still quite new to me, as it’s not really something I came across growing up in England. My family lived in a rented house in a national park where all were welcome and visitors were trusted to stay on the path, so I have a different outlook. (Now, if you left a gate open and sheep got out, you could then expect a yelling from the farmers..!)

From here, I drove east and parked at the end of Edith Point Rd. A short trail leads down to the shore, overlooking Georgia Strait. Many have reported seeing whales here. I can’t say I was one of them. Sigh. But it was a lovely spot. My host had recommended a trail that leads round to Campbell Bay. He said it involved crossing private property. I probably should have written down his instructions because it wasn’t clear to me where said trail began. I didn’t fancy being sued for accidentally stepping on someone’s patch of soil, so I didn’t bother looking.

I stayed a little while looking at the view before heading back to my car and driving back the way I’d come, turning right down Cotton Rd which leads to Cotton Community Park. The Orca Trail (named because it’s a common spot for people to see whales, unless you’re me ;)) takes you along the foreshore overlooking Active Pass. It’s a lovely tranquil walk. As I sat enjoying the sounds of the water lapping against the shore, a movement caught my eye. A sea otter popped up and roamed around the shoreline hunting for food. A few times he would dip back down into the water with a flick of his tail before surfacing again. He then came onto the beach to enjoy his catch. Sea otters are one of my favourite animals so to be able to watch that fella for 10 minutes or so was a real treat and a lovely send off before I headed to the ferry terminal.

How do I sum up my me time on Mayne Island? It was a lovely quiet place where I could switch off and relax, fortunate to have most of the trails completely to myself. An interesting mix of friendly and patient locals, combined with a slightly off-putting prevalence of private property signs. A great getaway for the individual, in a place that values privacy.

Having spent my birthday on the Island, I came away with a reminder of the attitude I want to take on this next journey around the sun: stay curious, don’t be afraid of going wrong, and make time for me time, but be open to the goodness of strangers.

How to Spend a Rainy Day in Victoria, BC

April 1, 2023 by Shannon Colman

You’ve arrived in Victoria for a couple of days and it’s scheduled to rain on your first full day. With its many forests, lakes, and mountain views across the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver Island looks beautiful in the rain. But if you don’t have a car with you, what can you do?

Luckily, there are many options to keep you entertained in the downtown core of British Columbia’s capital city.

The first decision of the day is breakfast. Victoria has many great breakfast and brunch options, including Jam Cafe and Blue Fox Cafe. The problem is, because these restaurants are so popular, you often have to wait in line. If the lineup continues once you have your table, you might feel somewhat rushed to eat quickly so others can get inside (or maybe this is just me?). These restaurants are also quite small and can feel a little crammed.

For a relaxing sit-down experience in a light and spacious environment, consider Fathom Restaurant inside the Hotel Grand Pacific on Belleville St. At the time of writing, the menu includes avocado toast, coconut chia pudding, tiramisu pancakes, chorizo and bacon hash, salmon and shrimp tartine, and more exciting options. If you’re less of a sit-down breakfast person, the Hotel is also home to the cozy Courtyard Cafe which sells various warm beverages, smoothies, sandwiches and baked goods (all made in house) in a friendly, quiet atmosphere.

If you’re visiting Victoria during a weekday, consider taking a tour of the BC Legislature located next to Hotel Grand Pacific. You can go self-guided or join a guided tour. Times are posted on the legislature’s website. Be aware that visitors are required to go through security screening before entering the building. Unknown to many, the parliament building also has a small dining room with some tasty food for great prices.

*The BC Legislature on a clear evening.*

Also located on Belleville St is the Royal BC Museum. A lovely space, it hosts various exhibits and its large IMAX theatre features interesting documentaries that showcase Indigenous culture and the beautiful wildlife and landscapes of British Columbia.

From the museum, you can walk through the gardens of the famous Fairmont Empress Hotel and up Douglas St before turning right up Fort St. On this block there are a load of great local shops to peruse. You could spend hours browsing the book shelves at Russell Books, and plant lovers will like Brown’s the Florist. Just opposite, The Papery sells beautiful cards, journals, calendars, and craft decorations. If you’re looking to buy household and cosmetic goods that contain less plastic and are made more sustainably, The Good Planet Company sells various items including candles, bed linens, dish cloths, soaps, food containers, and more! Even if you’re not buying, it’s worth visiting this shop just to feel inspired by the various consumer options that are better for the planet. Just up the street, you can build your vinyl collection at Ditch Records & CDs, and across from here, Oscar & Libby’s is a great place to buy gifts for someone that likes puzzles and games.

By now, you might be ready for some lunch. In this block of Fort St, you’re in a prime area to try food from various cultures. Fans of Vietnamese cuisine can try Pho Boi, Burger Crush has a small menu that’s done well, and La Taqueria offers a more authentic Mexican menu (and strong margharitas!). A short stroll down either side of Blanshard St also opens up more options, including the Italian Deli that makes delicious paninis and sells imported goods, and a couple of ramen and Korean restaurants. For a sweet treat, the award-winning Crust Bakery on Fort St is known for its delicious pastries (blueberry custard is a must-try!) while the nearby Dutch Bakery offers special chocolates and cakes. (If you like marzipan, almonds and whipped cream, you’ll love the Dollar Roll!)

From here, you can head to Yates St by crossing through St. Andrew’s Square on View St. If you have any room left in your stomach while inside this small mall, you’ll probably be tempted by the smells from Empire Donuts, as well as the freshly made soup from Soupa Cafe.

Yates St is home to the Interactivity Board Game Cafe. Bring your friend(s), choose a game, and play away. You can also order food from the menu, which includes a long list of milkshake flavours. If boardgames aren’t your thing and you’re more of a pool person, you could spend a couple of hours at Peacock Billiards on Blanshard at View.

If you’d rather not do anything and just want to switch off for an hour or so, Sapphire Day Spa is on View St, while The Spa Magnolia on Courtney St is considered a luxury spa accomodation.

If you want to give your feet a rest and get out on the water, consider booking a tour with Victoria Harbour Ferry. This 45-minute tour in a sweet little water taxi shares information about the homeland of the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations, the development of Victoria as a city, and its naval history. You might see some sea otters and seals in the harbour. Even orca whales sometimes make a brief appearance! Visit the Victoria Harbour Ferry website for more information.

Locals love Victoria for its thrift stores, and there are many to choose from. Value Village on Store St is probably the biggest, but if you’d rather have your money go towards a non-profit, choose Women In Need on Pandora Avenue or the Salvation Army on Johnson St. You can find some great bargains!

When it comes to dinner, there are so many good choices in the downtown core that aren’t part of a chain. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, there’s Rebar near Bastion Square, or Green Cuisine in the Market Square off Johnson St. Tapas lovers will love Tapa Bar in Trounce Alley or Perro Negro on Yates St. For true farm-to-table cuisine, 10 Acres Bistro is a good choice. If you like the pub scene, Bard & Banker or the Irish Times on Government St might appeal to you. Fans of Italian can try the beloved Pagliacci’s on Broad St, Fiamo on Yates St, or the fancy Il Terazzo on Johnson St. If you like seafood, consider Finn’s or Nautical Nellies on Wharf St, or Ferris’ Oyster Bar on Yates St. For something more casual, Tacofino on Pandora Avenue is one of Victoria’s most popular eateries, making big burritos with a blend of Mexican and North American style.

*The weather in Victoria can often change throughout the day. There*‘s always a possibility you could get a lovely sunset in the evening!

If rain is forecast during your visit to Victoria, don’t despair. With a vibrant community of locally owned businesses and organizations, there are many great things to see, do and eat in this west coast city! Whether you like art, history, shopping, games, or being pampered, you’re sure to find something to keep you happy on a rainy day.

The author wishes to acknowledge the traditional territory of the Lekwungen speaking peoples, on whose lands the establishments mentioned in this article are based.

Found this post useful? You can download it to your iOS or Android device from the GPSMyCity site and have a mapped version for reference during your trip! Follow this link for the guide: https://www.gpsmycity.com/gps-tour-guides/victoria-4511.html

My 10-Year Anniversary with Canada

August 5, 2021 by Shannon Colman

August 2nd, 2021 marked ten years since I first stepped foot in Canada.

I remember the teary goodbye with my mum at Gatwick Airport and sitting on the plane next to a mother and daughter from Quebec, smiling to conceal my nerves. As I walked into the the arrival lounge at Toronto Pearson International Airport, I clutched my backpack as if holding onto the only friend I had. When I stepped off the bus in downtown Toronto and gazed around at the tall buildings, I felt tiny. For a moment, the sound of traffic blurred out as I took in my new surroundings. The hustle and bustle of the city was quite overwhelming, and I quickly got lost. The sight of drivers turning right on a red light confused me, and I was thrown off in a shop when I learned tax was added to a product’s price at the till.

With some inner pep talks, I began to find my feet. I pushed through the nerves to approach a group of people sat on my hostel’s patio. The next morning, I smiled with relief when two Italian girls on the same Niagara Falls tour as me invited me to join them for the day. When we approached their stop on the way home, I held a scrap of paper in my hand with my name on it, only to smile with relief once again when they turned and asked the question that seemed so common in those days of, “Do you have Facebook?” A couple of days later, I shared a cab with a stranger after both of us missed the bus to the airport.

It was when I flew west to the Rockies and bussed through BC that I realized this country would remain special to me for all the memories made. But I definitely didn’t expect that ten years later, I’d be a permanent resident soon to be applying for dual citizenship, with a book published about my experience of moving here.

In reflecting on that first visit to Canada, I feel a corny sense of pride because I realize just how much I kept putting myself out of my comfort zone. Finding my way around unfamiliar places, introducing myself to a room full of chatting people, asking strangers on the street for directions, reacting to unexpected changes, moving forward after losing my backpack.

I always think of that time in Canada as the time when “life really became fun.” It was definitely fun before then, but that experience spawned a more confident and adventurous me – someone who saw the world as her oyster, who realized that we’re just tiny specks of dust in a huge galaxy and there are so many bigger issues than a few minutes of us feeling awkward or embarrassed. I began to approach new experiences with less worry and more faith that “things will work out.”

When I consider the increased rates of anxiety among younger generations today, I sometimes wonder if some of these cases stem fom these individuals having been too sheltered and having not put themselves out of comfort enough. I think back to the time I was fourteen years old and my mum drove me to a school friend’s party in the nearest town. We arrived late because it had been snowing, and when we pulled up outside the town hall, I heard loud music and laughing from inside. For some reason that I still don’t understand, I was suddenly overcome by nerves and asked mum to drive me home.

I could have done the very same thing at Gatwick Airport when I caught my mum crying, but instead, I swallowed the emotional feelings and turned around to walk towards departures. How different my life would be if I hadn’t turned around that day.

I truly believe that making progress towards a more fulfilling life (however you personally define that) comes from challenging yourself and putting yourself out of your comfort zone. At first it feels daunting and awkward and uncomfortable, but when you take the plunge and make those little steps, you start to realize that the world isn’t as scary as you might have once thought. Sometimes you need to push aside your ego and push through your anxiety and take the opportunities before you. Progress won’t be achieved without taking some risks and navigating some challenges. It’s these experiences that build character and make you a more confident, competent person.

It’s because of the associations with increased independence and confidence that I have such a soft spot for Canada. I grew up a lot during those five weeks in the country, and I’ve continued to grow up since moving here almost five years ago.

I write this post with an awareness of the privileges I have as a resident of Canada. I can love and appreciate this country for my own reasons while also knowing it needs to do better for others. I respectfully acknowledge the Indigenous peoples, on whose unceded territories I am fortunate to live and explore. I wish for more harmony and less hostility in the ongoing process of reconciliation.

New Book Available for Purchase | Trail of Worth

July 8, 2021 by Shannon Colman

It’s been a busy couple of months balancing my full-time job with finishing up my book, Trail of Worth. After 18+ months of effort, I’m very excited to announce that this book has now been published!

In writing Trail of Worth, I’ve tried to:

Give an honest portrayal of moving overseas and the various challenges it entails
Take a candid look at relationships and their fascinating complexities
Capture the way people (especially women) can perceive themselves during their twenties
Provide a commentary of travel experiences
Demonstrate the importance and influence of family and friendships

In writing this piece of creative non-fiction, the most important thing for me was to be authentic – to show the main protagonist’s flaws and strengths, the mistakes and moments of vulnerability as well as the little wins. There is genuine dialogue and I have not catered to a “mainstream” narrative. I’ve tried to create something that is both realistic and relatable.

Trail of Worth covers many themes and topics – travel, immigration, careers, running, friendship, relationships, mental health, and self-worth. Some of the content will make you smile, some will make you think, some may trigger sad or painful memories, and some I hope will inspire. If you’re a member of a book club, this story would be a great choice for initiating meaningful conversations.

Trail of Worth is written from the perspective of a female, millenial expat. It’s based on actual events recorded from the time, but identities have been changed. Interpretations of events and behaviours in the story will be influenced by the readers’ own attitudes and life experiences. I would simply encourage anyone reading the book to try to read it with an open and reflective mind.

Here’s a summary of what my editor had to say when she read the manuscript.

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Something my editor mentioned when reviewing Trail of Worth was how relatable the story would be for women in their 20s-30s. However, she also said that as an older woman, she really enjoyed the story – it made her reflect on her younger years and the experiences she had.

I think you would enjoy this book if you:

Have experienced or would like to experience moving overseas
Like to travel or have travelled solo as a female
Have experienced what has felt like a quarter-life crisis or a loss of self-worth
Have been in a long-distance relationship
Have struggled with emotionally difficult relationships, including those impacted by mental health issues
Are a competitive runner or simply find fulfillment in this activity
Have worked in recruitment and HR
Have struggled with age bias and Imposter Syndrome in your career
Can’t relate to any of the above but are curious 🙂

Links for Purchase:

Trail of Worth is available to buy online in Kindle or paperback format from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and some other small online retailers.

If your country doesn’t have an Amazon site, you can get worldwide shipping from amazon.com

Amazon UK

Amazon Canada

Amazon US/EU/Worldwide

Amazon Australia

Barnes & Noble (US customers)

Book Depository

If you’d like to receive more commentary on the book and further insights into the topics discussed, you can follow my main Instagram page @shannelizabethco

And if you’re interested in completing and publishing a book review, please don’t hesitate to contact me!

Thank you in advance for reading Trail of Worth. I hope you enjoy this story that is very special to me 🙂

Publishing a Book | The Editing Process

April 25, 2021 by Shannon Colman

In my last blog post I shared that I am in the process of publishing a book. Since December, I’ve been working on editing my manuscript. Today I’m going to talk a little more about that part of the process.

The most challenging things I’ve found about the editing process are 1) being selective and 2) not being too much of a perfectionist.

I used journals to frame a lot of my manuscript’s content. Having these references was super helpful for dialogue and structure. The downside was that I sometimes struggled to decide whether something should or shouldn’t be included. I almost seemed to feel a need to do justice to something that had happened in real life. I might feel compelled to write about an interesting side-event, even though I knew it didn’t necessarily fit in with the course of the narrative.

It was this challenge that particularly influenced me to request an editorial evaluation from the book publishing company. This is where a professional editor reads your manuscript without making any changes on the document, and then writes a summary of its strengths and weaknesses.

It took two weeks for my editorial evaluation to come back, and I really appreciated the editor’s input. I’m fairly confident in my writing ability and had been pretty satisfied with my content, but hearing an external person’s perspective was really valuable. I really came to realize that some of the content I had didn’t add much to the story and its purpose. It might have been an interesting detail, but oftentimes it was actually disrupting the flow and pace of the story. Having the impartial eyes of someone I didn’t know really helped me cut out the needless content I felt committed to!

A highlight of my editorial evaluation was seeing that the editor felt the central theme of the book was clear and believed in the importance of its message. I’m sure a lot of writers go through moments of doubt during the process where they wonder if their story is “even any good” and worth sharing. After getting the editor’s feedback, I felt encouraged. I also felt like her feedback wasn’t given for the sake of being critical, but was given with my best interests and those of my book in mind.

One of the great things about an editorial evaluation when self-publishing is that you have the power to do what you want with the feedback. You might elect to request a substantive edit where the editor studies your content in-depth to suggest changes to the flow, voice and characterization etc., or you might just make a few minor changes and then request a copy edit, or you might not make any changes and just go straight to publish.

In my case, the editor recommended a copy edit (which is standard). She also recommended some changes to the content, and said that if I didn’t feel confident making these changes on my own, she’d be happy to help with a substantive edit.

I chose to work on the changes myself. I loved the challenge of it. I almost felt like I was back in school, improving a draft of a story an English teacher had read. It was a really fun project for me because it allowed me to test my skills as a writer while maintaining creative control.

I spent two weeks working on the edits while continuing to work full-time. Some of the edits were pretty quick and simple changes, while others took more thinking and a few tries of different approaches. Overall, it was a really rewarding process. I had a goal of finishing the edits in two weeks, but I also felt it important to be flexible. As mentioned in my last blog post, the editing process shouldn’t be rushed.

On the day I went to re-submit the manuscript to the publisher, I found myself having last-minute thoughts of “Maybe I’d better read that section one more time”. I would then find little things to change – adjective or adverb replacements, rephrasing of a sentence, removal of a word. That’s where the perfectionist in me comes out. Even after re-submitting, I’ve made notes of little things I want to change once I get the copy edit back. I don’t think this is a bad thing; I just hope I won’t be doing it once the final copy has been sent for interior layout design ;). There’s definitely a fine balance between putting effort into ensuring something’s quality and obsessing unnecessarily over tiny things!

Tips for Other First-Time Writers (from a Non-Expert!)

· Be selective. Journals can be a great source of inspiration for creating content and dialogue, but it’s important to keep the content relevant to the narrative and purpose of the story.

· Take your time. Having a deadline to work towards can be motivating, but be mindful that life happens and things can get delayed. Once you are finished writing, don’t rush to send the manuscript off to an editor. Take time to re-read and make revisions until you are completely satisfied.

· Get an editorial evaluation. Even if you consider yourself a skilled writer, getting a summary of the manuscript’s strengths and some recommendations for improvement is really helpful. It gives you a base off which to make more edits that will only make your book better!

· Before submitting your manuscript for an editorial evaluation, prepare notes for the editor. Explain the story’s purpose and your goals for the book, provide context behind the style and methods you’ve used, and summarize the key areas you’re looking for feedback on. This helps ensure you get as much value as possible from the evaluation.

· Be open to feedback. Hearing the opinion of a stranger about something so personal to you, even if it’s constructive criticism, can be daunting. But the feedback is ultimately coming from someone who cares about quality writing and good stories. It could be extremely valuable to you, not just for a current project, but for future projects as well.

· Get a copy edit. If you don’t want to pay much for editing services, it’s still recommended to get a copy edit at minimum. This helps ensure a polished and professional finish to your book. I consider myself a pretty strong writer, but I knew there would be grammatical or structural errors I’d made.

Thanks for following my book publishing journey! I’m now waiting to get the copy edit back, after which the editing process will be complete. My next blog post will be about the cover design process!

If you’re a published author or are in the process of publishing a book, feel free to leave your thoughts and tips on the editing process below 🙂

I’m Publishing a Book!

April 11, 2021 by Shannon Colman

Many people seemed to spend their free time in 2020 making a baby. I spent it writing a book, and I’m excited (and nervous!) to share that I will be publishing it in the coming months 😊

I’ve been writing since I was a kid – pony stories, poems, journals, articles in the local paper. There was a time when I wanted to be an author, but it quickly got to the point where it didn’t seem like a realistic way of making a living. However, the dream of one day writing a book lived on. The issue was that I wasn’t sure what I wanted to write about. I had ideas for novels, but never one that really inspired a devoted effort. So, I just carried on writing my blog and journaling. Through journaling, I’ve always enjoyed the process of identifying interesting trends and themes from daily life.

*Scribbling next to my childhood best friend, Tom*

Then I moved to Canada at the end of 2016 and experienced a big life change that led to some interesting experiences and challenges. Some experiences were unique to my situation, while others exemplified life events and scenarios common to women in their mid-twenties.

In December 2019, I was home alone for Christmas. During a state of restless boredom, I felt a sudden motivation to write. I thought back to my first year in Canada, and the experiences in my first year overseas ended up giving me the inspiration I was looking for. So, I decided to write a piece of creative non-fiction. I opened up my laptop one evening and set myself a goal of finishing writing a draft manuscript by the end of 2020.

About the Book

An honest portrayal of moving overseas, this book creatively explores the various themes and challenges that accompany both an expat life and the general life of a woman navigating her mid-twenties. From adjusting to a new environment, seeking a fulfilling job, establishing oneself in an occupation, and handling complex relationships, the book’s theme centers around self-worth during a quarter-life crisis. It’s a story that will make readers reflect on their own experiences, with the purpose of inspiring and uplifting them.

The Writing Process

A year may sound like a long time in which to write a manuscript, but when you have a full-time office job and don’t want to spend all of your free time staring at a computer screen, it starts to feel more reasonable.

Before starting, I had a good idea of how I wanted to structure the book, the key content I wanted to include, and the main theme I wanted to be conveyed. Some people know what they want their book’s title to be right from the beginning. I personally didn’t have a title in mind when I started, but it came to me a few months into writing.

The social distancing regulations that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic became a strange convenience, because they gave more reason for me to focus on writing in my free time.

For some reason, I’ve always been secretive with my writing. Even as a kid scribbling pony stories, I would hide them away when my family came to look. I think it was because I was shy about others reading what I wrote. During this writing process, it was only my partner that knew I was writing a book. Our suite doesn’t have a separate office for work or writing, so I quickly came to appreciate how great he was at leaving me to it! The reason I decided not to tell anyone else was because I wanted avoid any requests for updates, and just focus on the book without feeling any intrusion or pressure.

One thing I noticed was how easy it was to get fatigued while writing, especially if covering a topic that was complex or emotional in nature. Sometimes my creativity seemed to be lacking. The longest break I took from writing was around 3 weeks. However, there were other times when the words just seemed to flow freely and before I knew it, it was almost midnight!

I met my goal of finishing drafting the content in December 2020, but then my own revisions and edits started. This is such an important part of the process. I found that there were many things I’d written almost a year earlier that I wanted to change, particularly with regards to content and structure. Some of the content no longer seemed to be relevant or add value. In some areas, there was a lack of flow, or I felt things could be written more creatively. I ended up re-writing several sections of the manuscript.

The revisions process took around two months until I was satisfied with the manuscript. In addition to content editing, I also did copy editing to the best of my non-professional ability. Sometimes during my work day, I would suddenly think of something that I felt could be edited or added, and I’d make a note in my phone for later. The revision process is something that really can’t be rushed. It’s amazing what a rested pair of eyes can see! Even if you plan on getting the book professionally edited (which I have), it’s important to ensure you have a relatively polished manuscript in advance.

Choosing a Publishing Path

The next step in the process was deciding how I wanted to publish the book – the traditional route or self-publishing. I’m lucky in that I had knowledge of two experiences. My brother’s book, The Rule (Jack Colman) was published by Harper Voyager in 2015, while my dad self-published his memoir, The Right Thing? (Dr. Richard Colman) in 2014.

Both routes have their pros and cons, depending on the writer’s goals. Getting published the traditional route still carries more prestige, while self-publishing is sometimes termed “vanity publishing”. I get why this term is used for some self-publishers, however, I think it’s also quite offensive to the talented writers who simply feel tired of waiting to hear back from agents, or worry that their book will lose its integrity if managed by someone with a different priority. Does “vanity publishing” mean that artists who sell their paintings at local street markets are “vanity artists”? Are people who turn their passion into a business “vanity business owners”? Frankly, it’s the “stars” of trashy reality TV shows who seemingly have no problem securing a deal to publish a book about their life that are the vain ones.

Here are the reasons I’ve decided to go the self-publishing route (in case anyone is debating the options for their own manuscript):

I like the idea of having ownership over something I’ve created (this book is literally my baby!) instead of having it be owned and managed by someone else.
Because the book is based on real-life personal events, it’s important to me that I maintain a large amount of control over the content. With self-publishing, I can maintain full creative control. I have the final say on any edits suggested, whereas traditional publishing can take away a lot of the writer’s control. I would hate for someone to try to change the content of my book to make it fit what they might see as a more mainstream (aka $$) narrative.
Self-publishing does not mean you’ll have a terribly written book that’s filled with typos. You can have your manuscript professionally edited with a polished design. You have to pay for this service, but if you believe the story is worth sharing, why wouldn’t you invest in its success?
It is extremely competitive and can take a long time to get a literary agent and/or be offered a deal by a publishing company. This isn’t a reason not to try, however I’m personally at the point where I don’t want to wait months to hear back from an agent (or not hear back at all!), only to then wait even longer for the work to be published.
I’m not writing this book to launch a new career as a full-time author. I’m writing it to share a story that I believe (and have been told my editor!) has an important message. I’m also writing it to tick off something from wish list. Perhaps that’s the vain part 😉
You get higher royalties when you self-publish. Who doesn’t like being rewarded more for their writing skills and hard work?!
One thing the pandemic has highlighted is the importance of supporting local.

If I write another book in future, I would definitely be open to trying the traditional publishing route. But for this particular story, self-publishing seems to work well for me. Plus, if I did want to write more books in the future, having an already published book could be helpful in securing an agent.

Side note: I recently learned that The Martian was initially self-published in 2011, before a traditional publishing company bought the rights a few years later. Then it was turned into a film! That’s pretty cool.

To get things going, I researched two local publishing companies in Victoria. I contacted both for more information. Ultimately, I opted for the one whose website content spoke more to my interests and goals, whose publishing consultants seemed less sales-driven, and whose publishing package offered better value for what I was looking for.

I’m currently working on content edits, and am excited for the next stage! I’ll be posting updates on my Instagram page if you’d like to follow along 🙂

Have you written and self-published a book? What tips would you share?

15 Great Hikes to try on Southern Vancouver Island

January 8, 2021 by Shannon Colman

Happy 2021! Although we are in a new year and vaccinations are underway, the coronavirus isn’t showing signs of going away anytime soon. With this in mind, it’s time to continue exploring local. For me this means enjoying the various hiking options around Victoria on southern Vancouver Island. If you’re planning a visit in the future, I recommend incorporating a few of these hikes into your itinerary!

Matheson Lake Regional Park
Located in the quiet region of Metchosin, Matheson Lake is circled by an undulating scenic loop trail, from which you can connect to other parks and trails, including the Galloping Goose bike trail. It’s a nice option for a peaceful after-work hike in the summer months, and a good swim spot too. On the way home, you can enjoy either a hearty meal or a tasty treat at the locally owned My Chosen Café.

Pickles’ Bluff Loop
Located in John Dean Provincial Park in North Saanich, this hike leads to great views of the Saanich Peninsula and surrounding ocean. It’s not uncommon to see eagles flying overhead as you sit on the ledge admiring the view in front of you.

Joceyln Hill via Caleb Pike
On a sunny summer morning, get up early for this hike in the Highlands. Fairly challenging at points, the trail offers some awesome view points overlooking Finlayson Arm and the Saanich Inlet. If you feel like a really long hike, you can follow the trail all the way over to the north side of Gowlland Todd Provincial Park. Doing this will take you to our next spot.

McKenzie Bight
Accessed either via the Timerbman Trail coming from Jocelyn Hill loop or from a wider trail starting at the north end of Gowlland Todd Provincial Park, McKenzie Bight is a surprise gem at the bottom of the forest. This picturesque ocean inlet is a great option for a swim and if you’re lucky, you may even spot some sea otters. In the winter months, a fog hangs over the distant evergreens, evoking classic Vancouver Island vibes. There are two trails you can take on your way back up; the Cascade Trail to the right of the bridge is a real thigh-burner, but in the winter season you will pass the pretty Cascade Falls.

Mt. Tzouhalem
A short drive east of the town of Duncan, this hike offers some great views of the sprawling Cowichan Valley. The hike involves an uphill climb before winding through forest to the famous white cross lookout point. This area also has several dirt bike trails, so don’t be surprised if you see a bike whizzing through the trees!

Mt. Wells Regional Park
Located past Langford, the fairly challenging hike up Mt. Wells takes you to a mossy rock outcrop that overlooks the Sooke Hills, Victoria, the Juan de Fuca Strait, and snow-capped mountains of Washington State. A good workout with great views as a reward. This park is also a popular bouldering spot.

East Sooke Regional Park
Located just before the town of Sooke, this park is home to several trails of varying difficulty and length. The coastal trail is a popular option for dog-owners and endurance-walkers. If you’re looking for a more accessible trail or don’t feel like walking far, the easy walk to Iron Mine Bay takes you to a scenic beach with clear ocean water.

Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park
The 10k flat loop around Elk Lake is a lovely outing for walkers or runners, especially during the autumn months when the fall colours are in full bloom. Accessible via public transit, this lake is home to Victoria City Rowing Club, and is also popular with windsurfers and water-skiers. Horseback riders tend to enjoy the trails around Beaver Lake.

Mt. Douglas
Mt. Doug (as it’s more commonly known) is appreciated by many for its easy access from downtown Victoria. Various trails will take you to a viewpoint with stunning 360 views over the city, ocean, and surrounding Gulf Islands. Accessibility-wise, there is also the option to drive up to the top. A great place to watch a sunset, go for a run, or catch up with friends.

Mt. Finlayson
One of the most challenging hikes in the area, Mt. Fin as it’s known by locals has 360 views of hills swathed in evergreens. The steep trail starts in Goldstream Provincial Park, a short drive from downtown Victoria. If visiting in October, you can loosen your stiff legs after the hike with a leisurely stroll to the riverside to watch the yearly salmon run.

Mt. Work Regional Park
Adjacent to Gowland Todd Provincial Park, the steep hike from this park leads you to views over the Saanich Inlet. On a summer’s day, you can finish your hike by driving back down the road for a refreshing dip in Durrance Lake, and then follow it with a sandwich made fresh in front of your eyes at the Red Barn Market.

Mystic Beach
Located along the Juan de Fuca Trail, this long beach awaits you after a 2k hike through tranquil forest. The trail is well-signed, however it is not wheelchair-accessible like some of the paths that lead to other beaches across this section of the coast. Mystic Beach is popular for its waterfall and rope swing, but it’s the vast collection of mussels covering the rocks that catches my eye whenever I go.

Sandcut Beach
For a shorter and more accessible beach hike, consider Sandcut Beach which is located just on from French Beach Provincial Park. Depending on recent weather, a waterfall may flow onto the pebble beach. On the way home, consider stopping at the locally owned Shirley Delicious for a warm brew and tasty snack, or stop in Sooke town for a hearty meal and delicious slice of pie at Mom’s Café.

Sooke Potholes Regional Park
Enjoy exploring the rustic trail that leads up the river with its clear water and inviting pools. Expect to see varied wildlife (maybe even bears!) and people jumping off the cliffs. The turn off for this park is just before you reach the town of Sooke.

Gonzales Hill Regional Park
I include this one last because it really is the ideal option if you want to stretch your legs and see a nice view, but don’t feel like venturing far. Located off Fairfield Road and just up from Gonzales Bay, a short steep walk (or drive) up a side road will take you to the distinctive observatory, from where there are wonderful views of the neighbourhood, distant hills, and Juan de Fuca Strait. Although another great sunset spot, it’s equally enjoyable to watch moody skies brew over the ocean.

From beach scenes to mountain views, southern Vancouver Island offers so many great hiking options, and there are still many more I have yet to experience. Making a wishlist of places or trails to explore in your region can be a handy way to keep motivated and upbeat during this strange time. Which other hikes would you recommend in this area?

Seeing out Summer on Saturna Island

September 17, 2020 by Shannon Colman

When my flights to England were cancelled this summer due to COVID-19, I had to make new plans for how I would spend my annual leave. I changed my dates and booked a staycation week for September, with little planned other than day trips and hikes. After a friend mentioned the Gulf Islands surrounding Vancouver Island, BC, my mopey self felt a spark of inspiration. I had only been to the famous Salt Spring Island, so decided to explore a different island. After doing some research, I booked myself two nights in a B&B on Saturna Island. Just 12 square miles in size, Saturna is one of the most scenic and untouched of the Southern Gulf Islands, and this was part of its appeal to me. An enthusiastic hiker, I was also really interested in experiencing one of its best natural features – Mt. Warburton Pike.

The day before my trip, I woke to smoky skies in Victoria. The smoke had blown over from wildfires in the United States, and I feared it would cloud my views on Saturna. However, when I set off to the Swartz Bay BC Ferries terminal early on September 9th, the skies were clear and blue. The two-way ferry ticket for a car and one passenger cost around $46. I felt a sudden sense of childhood excitement as I drove onto the 9:10 ferry in my 1989 Toyota (it’s older than me but it still received compliments from one of the BC Ferries traffic handlers). The direct journey lasted just over an hour, and there were only around 12 other masked people on the ferry.

I don’t use GPS in my car, and instead will study maps before a trip to get a rough idea of where I need to go. Saturna is so small that a sat-nav system really isn’t necessary anyway, as it’s impossible to get lost. After leaving Lyall Harbour, I followed East Point Rd towards the top of the island, winding along roads lined by large swathes of forest. Since my check-in time wasn’t until 3 pm, I drove all the way to East Point Community Park on the eastern tip. It’s so convenient when nobody is around and you can just take off your trousers and change into shorts outside of your car instead of writhing around hopelessly in the backseat to avoid being seen by people.

Now better dressed for the heat, I followed a short path down to a bluff where I was greeted by a wide view of sparkling blue ocean. This area is known as the Whale Trail because of the potential for sightings of Orcas and humpbacks. Unfortunately I wasn’t blessed with any appearances, but the view of the vast ocean and distant islands was still delightful. The snowy head of Mt. Baker even rose up in the distance. I sat for a while taking in the view while snacking on an apple and some cheesy bread. A local woman walking her dog stopped to comment on the weather, and shortly after that, an elderly man from the ferry whose car had been even older than mine took a seat on a bench with a large sketchbook.

On the other side of the hill was a grassy area perfect for picnics, and below that was a sandstone shoreline with tidal pools. I decided to lie down on a smooth face of rock, and before I knew it I had dozed off under the sun. It was that quiet and peaceful. As I made my way back to the car, the water at Shell Beach contained patches of turquoise that looked like a scene from the Mediterranean.

I left the park around noon, just before a group of older lycra-clad cyclists from the ferry were about to take up half the road. Families of deer grazed along the grassy side of the winding road as I made my way back to Winter Cove, on the north-west side of the island. A picnic area looked out over a quiet bay dotted with sailboats. The Xwiwxwyus Trail is a simple loop through the forest that leads to a look out point over the Strait of Georgia. As I lay under the sun on a rock in yet another spontaneous doze, I could hear sea lions grunting to each other in the distance.

After spending a quiet half an hour reading under the shade of a tree, I set off back towards Four Winds B&B on East Point Rd. A short but fairly steep gravel track led down to a wooden cabin that overlooked the ocean. I typically choose budget accommodation options when doing solo trips, so to have a place as nice and well-kept as this suite was a real treat. Cooking wise it had all the simple amenities I needed – a fridge/freezer, hot plate, microwave, utensils and cutlery. The host didn’t offer breakfast at this time of year. This was fine with me as I had brought my own food anyway, but after reading comments from previous visitors in the little guest journal, I have a feeling the breakfast would have been delicious.

After admiring the view of the water and outline of Washington State’s mountains through the large living room window, I put on my swimsuit and walked across the field to a small beach that I had all to myself. The water was cold but refreshing. I left the water to see a man walking down to the beach. I said hello and he said “Sorry to disrupt your privacy.” He was a friend of the hosts and had come down to collect his crab traps. As I sat against a piece of driftwood in yet another doze, another voice came and I turned to see the host approaching to say a quick hello and check everything was okay in the suite. I commented on how lovely and quiet the island was, and she said it was pretty much always like this, aside from when it hosts the famous Canada Day Lamb BBQ. She left me with a “Sorry to disturb you. Enjoy!”

Saturna Island had put me in such a relaxed state that I almost felt like lounging in the suite for the rest of the day with a book. Something told me I would regret doing this, so just before 7 pm I got in my car and drove back in the direction of Winter Cove. After passing the turn-off I’d gone down earlier, a sign on the right led me down a short gravel road to a small parking place. From here I walked down to Veruna Bay, which the map in my B&B had recommended for sunset-watching. Although there were a couple of private property signs around this area, it still had a welcoming feel to it. I didn’t get the sense that someone was going to come storming out of their house telling me to keep away from their fence.

The sun was slowly lowering as I crossed the empty sand beach and took a seat on a log. A heron posed quietly fifty metres away. A moment later, a cheerful dog bounded down the path, splashed in the water, and then raised a leg against a tree. His owner came down the path calling him. Upon seeing me, he said “Sorry to disturb your peaceful evening.”

I returned to my B&B where through my bedroom window I could see the pink sky in the distance morphing into an orange colour. As my pasta slowly cooked on the hot plate, I looked further into the hike up to Mt. Warburton Pike. Standing at 1340 feet, this is one of the most popular hikes among the Gulf Islands. None of the B&B’s pamphlets explained how to access the hike, so my main source of information was TripAdvisor reviews online. It appeared that everyone leaving a review had driven up to the summit via Staples Rd, and then walked along Brown Ridge from there. Staples Rd was described as a bumpy, steep, single-lane track that took about 15 minutes to drive. Reading this concerned me slightly when I considered my old car’s suspension and cracked windshield (it was like this when I bought it for cheap, I’d like to add). I didn’t want to cause any further damage, so looked for other ways to access the summit. One blogger had written about an unmarked path further down the road, but the process of finding it sounded a little confusing.

I got into my comfortable bed and set my alarm early with the intention that this would give me time to find the right starting point and get me to Mt. Warburton Pike’s summit before it got too hot and/or busy. Before setting off the next morning, I took a few minutes to admire the pink sun that was starting to rise up behind some trees on a distant island. On the drive along East Point Rd, I had to pull over to get another look because the view was so beautiful!

After turning onto Harris Rd, the surface soon became gravel and wound upwards to the left. ‘Is this already Staples Rd?’ I thought in surprise as I steered past bumps and potholes. Then I saw a sign pop up on the left for said road. There was a flat grassy space on the right before the track started to climb, so I impulsively decided to park there and walk up the track. It was 7:15 as I set off along the trail enclosed by the quiet forest. The track grew progressively steeper, but aside from two squawking crows that looked a little suspicious, it didn’t pose any particular challenges. This route certainly doesn’t compare to some exciting trails out there, but the anticipation of reaching the summit kept me motivated. As I neared the top (continuously guessing out loud how much further it would be), some feral goats bleated and ran further into the trees. I reached the summit just before 8 am and was quickly reminded to not base decisions on Trip Advisor reviews.

As expected, the views from Mt. Warburton Pike were breathtaking. One of those views that reminds you how beautiful this planet is and how lucky you are. After a few minutes of looking around in awe and trying to identify which island was which, I started to follow the narrow path along Brown Ridge. Unused to the human company at this time of day, several goats were on the path, and I stopped to give them time and space to wander away calmly.

As I continued along the ridge, the views gradually changed to show the San Juan Islands of the United States. I spent a good hour on the summit just admiring the views and appreciating the fact that I had them all to myself.

As I walked back down the track, I saw just one car heading up to the summit. I wonder how many people arrive at the top and wish they had just walked. If you don’t have any mobility problems, I recommend doing this. Good exercise, good for the environment, and good for your car!

It was 10:15 when I spotted my beloved Ronnie waiting for me at the bottom of the track. I approached only to discover that I’d forgotten to lock the doors, but when I looked inside, my debit card was still in the storage box next to my seat. There aren’t many places where you could leave your car unlocked for three hours and return to find it untouched!

Further down Harris Rd is Thomson Park, described as the locals’ favourite community park, beach, and sunset spot. Because I was keen to avoid more bumpy gravel roads where possible, and I prefer the more secluded spots anyway, I decided not to bother visiting it. Instead I turned east onto Narvaez Bay Rd which, ironically, soon turned into gravel road for a few kilometres. Poor Ronnie. From the parking area, I followed the easy trail to the viewpoint at Monarch Head for more glistening ocean views. Sadly, the whales still refused to wave at me. Narvaez Bay has a quiet campsite and was a lovely tranquil spot for a picnic.

By the early afternoon, I began to feel tiredness creep in from my early morning start and large amount of walking. I drove slowly back along the gravel road and on to my B&B, reminding myself that I had paid $150 per night for the suite, and I should enjoy spending time in it if that was what I wanted to do. (A very different outlook from the hostel days!) The host had thoughtfully provided binoculars for guests, so I sat by the window for a few minutes observing a small pod of seals playing with each other in the water.

After another quick dip in the ocean, I ran a bath. The bathtub was probably my favourite thing about the suite; it had a sloping back, a head rest, and a skylight above. I lowered my tired legs down in the warm water and it was heavenly. The bathroom also had great acoustics for singing, and I updated my karaoke/open mic list so that it now included ‘Me and Mrs Jones’ by Billy Paul, ‘The Look of Love’ by Dusty Springfield, ‘I’ll Never Fall in Love Again’ by Tom Jones, ‘Dreams’ by Fleetwood Mac, ‘Let’s Stay Together’ by Al Green, and a few songs by Neil Young. (The list is regularly reviewed and updated.)

In the evening, I walked back along the field towards the beach. Although I couldn’t see the setting sun from this area, I could still watch the changing palette of colours in the sky and the silhouettes of islands and mountains. It was all very relaxing.

After an early night, I woke naturally at 6:30 and opened my blinds to see the sun just starting to pop up. I quickly threw on some clothes and went to sit outside to watch. The sky was more hazy pink today; smoke was starting to blow over again. I was extremely lucky that I escaped its presence and had amazing sunny weather for the two days of my trip.

I loaded up the car with some reluctance. Although I had seen most of what I could on Saturna Island in the two days, it was such a relaxing and rejuvenating time away following a busy year of working mostly from home during the pandemic. When I used to visit Vancouver Island as a tourist, I always thought of it as one of the calmest, friendliest, and slowest-paced places. Since living and working there, my level of exposure has increased and my view on that has changed slightly. Saturna Island is now my new example of easy-going island life!

When I pulled up outside Lyall Harbour terminal, I loved how the BC Ferries representative that went up the cars asking COVID screening questions would say “Hey, Judy!” or “How’s it going, Bob?” to customers she recognized. There was a yellowish smoky haze in the sky as the ferry pulled away from the harbour. That was too bad, as I’d have loved to look back up to Mt. Warburton Pike and remind myself of that lovely experience. The weather was gloomy and grey in the days after I got back to Victoria. It seemed that Saturna Island had offered me my last slice of summer, and I was grateful to have finished it there.

If you’re a BC resident who is looking for a solo getaway and a peaceful place to recharge your batteries, Saturna Island is the place for you!

A Brit’s Guide to Living in British Columbia, Canada

April 4, 2020 by Shannon Colman

As a former colony and a current member of the Commonwealth, you might assume that there are many similarities with the UK when it comes to Canada’s culture, education system, and provision of community services. If you’re planning to move to Canada’s western province, below is a large compilation of some of the main differences I’ve discovered as a Brit living in British Columbia.

Before we start, it’s important to make it clear that there are more than 200 distinct First Nations in British Columbia, each with their own unique traditions and history. This post was written on the unceded territories of the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations.

Stawamus Chief in Squamish, BC

Driving

You probably all know that in Canada, you drive on the right side of the road. It makes sense to have the same system as the neighbouring USA, since a lot of trade between the countries is delivered via road. In terms of speed and distance, the metric system of kilometres is used, which differs from both the UK and USA.

Getting a driver’s license as a new driver is also a different process. Upon turning 17, people in the UK are eligible to get their provisional license, which allows them to drive on the road with a supervisor with L plates attached to the vehicle. Most drivers will learn the basics from a family member, before taking driving lessons from a qualified instructor. After a learner has passed the theory test, the instructor will ultimately determine when they are ready to take the road test. This will typically be after 40 hours of lessons.

In British Columbia, it is less common for new drivers to take formal lessons from an instructor. Before doing any driving, they must acquire their learner’s license by passing a knowledge test and vision test. This can be done on or after their 16th birthday. After a year of practice with an eligible supervisor (someone 25 or older with a Class 5 license), they can then take their first road test. Passing this gives them their Class 7 or “N” license. Certain restrictions come with this. N plates (which stand for “novice”) must be displayed on the vehicle, and they can only carry one passenger at a time (with the exception of immediate family members), unless one of the passengers is 25+ and has a full license. After two years of safe driving with no tickets or prohibitions, they can take another road test. Passing this would give them their full Class 5 license.

Note that if you move to BC with a clean UK licence, you can switch it over to a Class 5 for free within 90 days, without having to take a road test.

When it comes to actual driving, there are some interesting differences. The ‘turn-right-on-red’ rule means drivers can make a right turn when the walking man light is on for pedestrians, so long as no pedestrians are crossing at the time. I personally don’t like this rule because of the risks it can pose to pedestrians if a driver shoots around the corner due to not seeing the pedestrian or simply not caring.

Another difference is 4-way stops. When drivers approach this type of junction, they must all come to a halt, even if the roads appear clear. The vehicle that arrives first is entitled to proceed first, and so on. If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the driver on the right has right of way. I find that when two cars from opposite directions arrive at the same time and want to turn instead of going straight, a silent interaction between drivers takes place through gestures. It goes something like this: “Oh, after you.”…”No no, you first.”…”No, please, I insist.” …”Are you sure?”… “Oh, quite sure!” ….”Okay, thank you! And sorry.”

With regards to insurance, UK insurance companies insure the driver. In BC, the vehicle is insured. This means you are more likely to see friends lending their cars to each other in BC. BC’s government-owned insurance corporation now requests that a second driver be listed on the policy if they will be using the vehicle on a regular basis.

Drinking

Each province in Canada sets its own regulations for determining legal drinking ages. In British Columbia, it’s 19. Bear this in mind if you’re visiting from the UK aged 18; you won’t be able to buy alcohol or go to clubs. Skip over a province to Alberta however and you would be fine.

Although the province of Ontario is now allowing beer to be sold in some supermarkets, in most cases alcohol can only be purchased in provincially owned or private liquor stores, or from a brewery. Anyone who looks under 30 can expect to be asked to show ID.

While there are a few differences between the countries in terms of the laws that apply to people operating a vehicle, the rule regarding drinking is one Brits should be aware of. Last summer, I was in the backseat of a car with friends driving back from a camping weekend in Hope. I asked my boyfriend to open the cooler and get me a Radler drink. He looked at me in confusion and asked why. “Because it’s hot and I’d like a refreshing drink,” I replied with an innocent shrug. I then learned that in BC, passengers are prohibited from consuming alcohol in a vehicle. The idea is that they might distract or influence the driver. No refreshing lager for me.

Banking

I quickly noticed that Visa debit cards can be used for fewer transactions in Canada than they can in the UK. I never had a credit card in England, but for the aforementioned reason I got one when I moved to BC. My chequing account (what we in the UK would call a “current account”) has a monthly fee based on how many transactions I make. It gets waived if I maintain a certain balance. My UK account doesn’t charge such fees. Something to consider if you plan to set up a Canadian bank account.

Salt Spring Island, BC

Education

In the UK, the word “school” is typically associated with primary school (elementary) and secondary school (high school). If we do A-Levels (from age 16-18) or a vocational diploma, we say we’re going to “college” or “sixth form”. If we do a degree, we tell people that we go to “university” (or “uni”). In Canada, the term “school” is used for all levels of education. I first learned this in Toronto airport several years ago, when an elderly couple queuing for check-in behind me started chatting. “Are you heading back to school?” the man asked. “To university,” I said, to indicate my age. “So, back to school?” he replied with a cheeky smile.

Indeed, it’s very common to hear someone in their thirties say “I’m going back to school.” This is because the higher (or “post-secondary”) education system of both countries is very different. In the UK, we essentially choose our major by the time we apply to university aged 17 or 18. For example, I chose to study a Bachelor of Arts in History. Such a degree is automatically considered an honours degree, meaning students must submit a dissertation (or “thesis” as North Americans call it) in their final year. Unless they are studying Medicine or another vocational profession, students must complete their undergraduate degree in three years. They have to take a certain number of courses per semester, and will automatically graduate after those three years. Anyone who requests to suspend their studies and take a semester off due to personal reasons will likely have to re-take that year. A Master’s degree is completed in one year.

Students in Canada apply to university in or after their final year of high school. Instead of applying to major in a specific subject, they can choose a general direct entry program, such as Humanities, Engineering, or Science. In their first year, they have the option of taking a few different courses from within the program and a few electives from outside it, before then deciding the subject within that program they wish to major in. Although there are differences in universities across Canada, students in BC can typically choose the number of courses they take per semester, and have more flexibility in the years they take to graduate. Most people I know here graduated after five years. Some may take six years or longer. This is because the university system allows students to take off semesters, either to work or travel. Classes can also be taken in the summer term from May to September, unlike in the UK.

There are also more structured programs available within Canadian institutions to support students with finding paid co-ops (or “internships” as we’d call them in the UK). Students must pay to be involved in this program, but it’s a useful resource I wish I’d had at my university. Some programs, such as a business program, require students to complete a minimum number of co-ops in order to graduate. If a student wishes to graduate with honours, they must apply for the program. One would typically do this if he/she intended to apply for grad school, as writing a thesis could strengthen an application. In order to graduate with a degree, students must apply and provide proof they have met the minimum criteria. It’s common for a Master degree to be completed in two years.

Taking all the above into consideration, it means that a student in BC might not finish their undergrad degree until aged 25 or older, whereas in the UK the standard age of graduates is 21 or 22. I think there are pros and cons to both systems. People with a British education will have specialized more in one subject area, and will typically have a head start in the professional workforce. However, Canadian students are likely to have less tuition debt, have had more chances to gain paid experience and try out different roles while studying, and also have more time to actually enjoy their studies. In comparison, strict timelines for completing courses and graduating sometimes made me feel I hadn’t had a chance to properly explore and understand a course I was taking.

While there are options for people in the UK older than 18/19 to enrol in university degrees, it is still a less common practice; most will attend university from their late teens to early twenties. It seems to be a more culturally accepted thing in Canada for people to either start their first post-secondary program or take a second program in their mid-twenties and above. Some people might complete an undergraduate arts degree and then later take a post-degree diploma to specialize in a specific area, such as HR. Others might work right after they finish high school, and then enrol in a post-secondary program a few years later when they have saved up to pay the tuition fees. And others might be in their early thirties but go back to school because they want to change their career.

The system for tuition fees also differs between the countries. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, there are home and international tuition fees. Currently in the UK, home tuition fees for an undergraduate degree are around 9000 GBP per year. (Scottish students studying in Scotland don’t have to pay!) These fees are general and not based on the degree you are studying. This means that as a History student with only 8 hours of contact with teachers per week, I paid the same as someone studying Mechanical Engineering who had more contact hours. In Canada, however, tuition fees are based on the program you take. Someone in the Humanities program will pay less for tuition than someone in Business or Engineering.

Mt. Finlayson on Vancouver Island, BC

Healthcare

Each province in Canada has its own publicly funded health insurance plan. In British Columbia it’s called the Medical Services Plan (MSP). It used to be the case that recipients were charged premiums, with employers often offering to pay the costs. In January 2020, the fees were scrapped. However, eligible residents must still enrol for the plan in order to receive free or subsidized medical assistance. Enrolled residents must get a Services Card with their photo and Personal Health Number, to prove their eligibility to access these services. This card can also be used as a form of government-issued ID for accessing other services, like opening a bank account. If you’re not registered for MSP, you must pay out of pocket for any medical assistance.

One thing to note if moving to BC from the UK is that, regardless of having MSP coverage, some medical-related services in BC incur fees that would not apply in the UK. For example, if someone in BC calls 911 and is taken to a hospital by ground or air ambulance, they will be billed $80. If an ambulance is requested and then declined, they will receive a bill for $50…so making a prank call would be even more stupid. In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) is funded by tax payers and there are fewer charged services. Say a Brit suddenly develops chest pains and calls 999 for an ambulance to take them to A&E (or “ER”), they won’t pay a penny.

For this reason, I’ve always found it funny when I hear Canadians commend the country’s “free healthcare system”. For sure, the system is much more generous than that of its southern neighbour, but not as generous as the UK. Again, there are pros and cons to both systems. The NHS has strained resources and as a result, some are calling for patients to start paying for certain services. To avoid burdening the Canadian healthcare system, anyone coming to Canada on a working holiday visa is required to show proof that they have purchased medical insurance.

Something for Brits to take note of is the differences with dentistry. In the UK it’s part of the NHS, but in Canada it falls under the category of extended health. This means it’s not covered by the provincial medical services plan. For this reason, having a job that includes benefits is ideal, as these will be used to cover most of the costs of each dental visit. However, even with benefits, it’s typically still slightly cheaper to go the dentist in the UK.

In the UK, the dentist pretty much does everything, and the dental assistant helps with paperwork and equipment prep. In Canada there is a dental hygienist who does the initial assessment, x-rays and cleaning, and then the dentist will do an exam and any necessary surgery.

Marijuana

The growth, sale and use of marijuana for recreational purposes became legalized in Canada in 2018. Any cannabis shops or pharmacies must be licensed and follow certain regulations. Consumers are allowed to grow up to four plants in their house. Of course, Canadians were smoking weed for a long time before it became legal. Marijuana shops are now a normal sight, and it’s not unusual to catch a whiff of weed while walking down a street. Over the past decade, use of marijuana for medical purposes has also become more common in Canada. CBD and THC (chemicals within the plant) have been used to relieve muscle spasms and treat conditions including MS and PTSD.

Sombrio Beach, Vancouver Island

Tipping

While tipping bartenders or servers (aka what the UK would call “waiters/waitresses”) is not required in Canada, it basically feels like it is. A minimum tip of 15% is pretty much expected. Even if you go to a deli (also a more commonly used word in Canada, I’ve noticed) and simply order a sandwich, the option to tip will come up when you pay by card. In such cases, I don’t bother. Why would I if all the person has done is pick up a pre-made, pre-wrapped sandwich from the counter and hand it to me??

I was reminded just how different this custom is from the UK and Europe in general when my parents visited a couple of summers ago. My dad, never one afraid to be honest and express himself, asked our server how much she’d like for a tip. “That’s up to you,” she said politely while I put my head in my hands. As if thinking a negotiation was required, he asked her, “How about 10%?”. At this point I ran away to the ice cream counter. Of course, UK restaurants will now typically add a service charge to the bill in order to get around the cultural reluctance to tip.

On that note, Canadians also ask for the “bill”, and not the “check” like some people assume.

Sports

In the UK, girls in secondary school will often play hockey on grass or turf. In Canada, hockey means “ice” hockey. The less popular UK game would be referred to as “field hockey”. I still struggle not to say “ice hockey” in full, and it always seems to make people smile. If you’re watching a baseball game, prepare to hear lots of people shouting “good hustle” to players. It basically means “good effort”.

Holidays

In England and Wales, there are eight bank holidays: New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, the two in May, one in August, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. In Canada, public holidays are called “statutory holidays”, five of which are nationwide. The remaining holidays are determined by province. In BC there are 11 holidays: New Year’s Day, Family Day (February), Good Friday, Victoria Day (May), Canada Day (July), Civic Day (August), Labour Day (September), National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September), Thanksgiving (October), Remembrance Day (November), and Christmas Day. I appreciate the even distribution!

When it comes to annual vacation leave provided by employers, this is probably the most disappointing thing about Canada. Annual vacation allowance in North America is much lower than in Europe, where 25-35 days of annual leave is standard. Most employers in Canada offer two weeks of paid leave to start, increasing to three weeks after you’ve worked a certain number of years. After moving from the UK, this feels like nothing! With a growing demand from employees for better work-life balance, some companies are offering three or four weeks to start, and a few companies are even offering unlimited vacation time. Hopefully the move for more annual leave will continue with success!

Language

Now we come to my favourite part. As a native English speaker in a country where English is one of the official languages, I expected I’d be pretty well understood by Canadians. Not the case.

The main issue I have is the enunciation of R’s. In England we don’t emphasize them. “Water” is “wawtuh”. “Work” is “wuuuk”. “Art” is “aaat”, and so forth. I once ordered a turkey sandwich from a deli and it took five attempts for the person to understand me. As a result, I’ve found that adapting my accent at certain times in the workplace has been necessary, particularly when speaking with people over the phone.

There are also differences in full pronunciation of words. Some common words I say that incite giggles among my peers are “yoghurt”, “vitamin”, “basil”, “tomato”, “oregano”, and “aluminium”. Meanwhile, I find the way some Canadians say “bagel”, “route”, “thorough” and “details” very odd.

Another issue is different words being to describe the same noun. Here is a non-exhaustive list of examples:
“Jumper” = “sweater”
“Trousers” = “pants”
“Trainers” = “runners” or “sneakers”
“Wellies” =”rubber boots”
“Biscuit” =”cookie”
“Handbag” =”purse”
“Purse” =”wallet”
“Cinema” =”theatre”
“Boot” =”trunk”
“Bonnet” =”hood”
“Nappy” = “diaper”
“Soother” = “dummy”
“Aubergine” =”eggplant”
“Courgette” = “zucchini”
“Rocket” = “arugula”
“Spring onion” = “scallion”

And if you say “brolly”, most will have no idea what you’re talking about. Who knew there would be such a language barrier?!

If you’re planning to move to British Columbia for a while, I hope this article is useful resource to help you prepare yourself for the political and cultural differences you can expect to find!

SoleSeeking

a journal by Shannon Colman

Tag Archives: Canada

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How to Spend a Rainy Day in Victoria, BC

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Publishing a Book | The Editing Process

I’m Publishing a Book!

15 Great Hikes to try on Southern Vancouver Island

Seeing out Summer on Saturna Island

A Brit’s Guide to Living in British Columbia, Canada

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