A Mazda Canada 150 Road Trip!

I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate Canada 150 than to hit the road in a 2017 Mazda 6 with our kids to explore BC’s bounty. They don’t call our province “beautiful BC” for nothing! The west is the best with much to discover.   Some advice for travellers: Lake Time: No matter where the journey takes you…make sure your road trip includes lake time especially in the heat of summer. It’s so refreshing! Pit Stops: Make spotting Canadian roadside attractions a family affair. Be sure to have your camera on hand   Heritage and History: You can’t road trip right past some of the best heritage sights in BC and not stop and learn a little bit more about our history here in the west.   Find Hidden Gems: You’d be surprised at all the hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Western Canada and we only made a small dent. From natural hot springs to miles of lava beds and waterfalls…Canada rocks! Play Outdoors: No matter where... ...

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Surf-In Surf-Out – A Swell Convenience

Whether you are a seasoned weekend wave-warrior or a newbie braving your bucket list, surfing is a sport that everyone must try at least once in a lifetime. The West Coast of Vancouver Island boasts some of the best beaches and surf breaks in the country. Tofino, BC is a famous cold water paradise and home to surf-in-surf-out Pacific Sands Beach Resort …the best in beach bliss. Since the 60’s, catching waves has been considered not just cool but a sub-culture. Secondly, it’s a rush. Surfing is much harder than it looks to master and thus, humbling. So, let go of the outcome and really enjoy the ride. If you are ever to succeed in catching your first wave you must be open, brave and willing to laugh at your own failures, which are a big part of learning to surf. The bails and wipeouts are all part of the fun. Plan a get-away this summer and indulge. Treat yourself and your soul to a seaside escape for some well deserved “Tofino... ...

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Review: Whistler 50 Years of Going Beyond

I was fortunate enough to attend the screening of 50 Years of Going Beyond. The event took place in Whistler and was attended by about 250 people, mostly locals. The audience was a potpourri of young and old, athletes and ex-athletes, Whistler originals and newcomers. I expected to see a Warren Miller type of film, with skiers and boarders jumping off cliffs and sun worshippers galore. Instead the film was a clever, concise documentary of the birth, struggles and success of a world-class ski resort. One of the more poignant moments occurred when the moderator asked the audience to stand up. Confused by the request, we did as asked. He then asked all those who have used Whistler for less than 10 years to sit down. Then he asked for those who have used Whistler for 20 years or less to sit down, then 30 years, then 40 years. At 45 years a few were still standing but at over 50 years, just a handful l of gray haired athletes... ...

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See you at the ROAM Winter Expo!

Need some winter inspiration? Join us at the ROAM Winter Expo! Stephanie Florian will be hosting the Adventure Travel Stage at the new ROAM Winter Expo  October 17 & 18 Vancouver Convention Centre The first of its kind in Vancouver, ROAM will bring together exhibitors from premiere tourist destinations, experiential tour companies, snow sport outfitters, health and fitness experts and more under “The Sails” at the world class Vancouver Convention Centre to help inspire you to enjoy winter activities and adventures. ROAM will feature three unique marketplaces: Winter Adventure, Travel, Fitness and Lifestyle. By combining these three elements, ROAM will bring a unique experience to anyone looking for enlivening ways to spend the low sun months. Shop the trends in winter gear, explore exciting travel destinations and connect with industry professionals to help beat the winter blues. Don’t miss the Oktoberfest Craft Tent featuring the best local craft beers, free fitness classes on the show floor with yoga sessions from a lululemon ambassador, and the Burton Riglet Kids Zone to ensure the whole... ...

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Family Adventure: A night in the wild at the GV Zoo

Calling all wildlife fans looking for a family adventure! Join us at the Greater Vancouver Zoo, just a forty-minute drive to Aldergrove. Arriving at the gates just shy of closing, the anticipation and excitement builds. Smack in the middle of the zoo is a large park-like setting next to a pond complete with gazebos, fire pits and even port-o-lets. Nothing compares to the thrill of pitching a tent under the stars kitty-corner to a Siberian Tiger, a couple of playful baboons and a stealth jaguar. Just knowing the lions, tigers and bears are in close proximity ups the adventure ante plenty. After setting up camp, getting settled and meeting our camping neighbors we head off on a private exploration. Zoo grounds cover a large area so you will get your fill of fresh air, nature and exercise. Note to parents: DO bring bikes or scooters for the kids if possible. The trails are paved. Although you can rent a quad cycle onsite, children old enough to pedal or push themselves... ...

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Thelma and Louise go rafting

Don’t judge a book by it’s cover. Thelma and Lousie (AKA media warriors Steph Florian and Laurie Logan) hit the road on a rafting playcation in the new 2015 Ford Focus. About a two hour drive to Yale, BC deep into Sasquatch Country – Steph and Laurie are not only adventure loving tree huggers, keen on saving the planet but they love Ford Focus features like the Eco Boost and fuel economy. Zippy and fun, the ride to Yale was an adventure in itself. It wasn’t until we settled into The Teague House B&B onsite at Fraser River Raft Expeditions that we learned firsthand from owners Darwin and Sue that the house was an original BC built home, The Teague Family is said to still live in the house and stands now more like a museum than a traditional Bed and Breakfast. With over ten significant ghost sightings, Steph, Laurie and Camera guy Rob decide to chicken out and snuggle up together to shake off the spooks. Fraser River Raft Expeditions takes... ...

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