A Short Trip to Eden

By Doreen Marion Gee

This is the life! Chomping down on scrumptious juicy battered cod and Old English Style chips while sitting at the edge of the sparkling ocean. The village of Steveston is a welcome mecca hidden away from the insanity of Vancouver on this summery September afternoon. On a recent mini-holiday in Vancouver, I decided to treat myself to a solitary sojourn at Steveston, a scenic place by the water in Richmond. After only a couple of hours of pure organic enjoyment where sun meets sea, I felt my mind healing from all the stresses of my life in Victoria. That is all it takes sometimes. This bliss doesn't need to be far or costly. Within a hundred miles of Victoria and James Bay lie new horizons to explore and excitement for all ages and wallet sizes.

There are many wonderful trips to be relished in a 100 mile arc around Victoria. In every direction, you will find adventure and thrills. Let the easterly winds sweep you to a day in Vancouver. Travelling on the new Canada Line, you will feel like a mole flying through underground tunnels at lightning speeds. For $5, this otherworldly high-tech transit system is spectacular and not to be missed. Of course, Vancouver itself offers a world of fun and entertainment. A day trip as a foot ferry passenger can cost less than $50 and be worth a million.

Travelling north and east, Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands boast a treasure chest of day trips and small excursions to soothe the soul. Our Islands are heaven for wine lovers. The Cowichan Valley Grand Wine Tours promise a memorable day or overnight stay with wine-tasting at eight different wineries complete with a three course gourmet lunch. Plus, you receive five star service in a limousine. Nanaimo boasts the Chateau Wolff Vineyard and makes a delightful day excursion. A rare treat is the Chemainus Dinner Theatre experience. Exquisite culture, great food and a quirky small town full of murals - what fun!

Another magical adventure is relishing the farming community of the Saanich Peninsula, Metchosin, Sooke and the Gulf Islands. Babe's Honey Farm is a great day trip destination located northwest of Elk Lake. Arrange a tour of the farm and savour all their honey products, balsamic honey vinegar and honey beeswax soaps. Abbey Lane Farm in Duncan advertises an "Awesome Autumn Adventure" with a fun-filled 45 minute horse drawn wagon ride to their pumpkin patch. After picking your own pumpkin, just sling it to the stars with their medieval catapult.

Salt Spring Island is a haven for artists, outdoor markets and interesting festivals. After living there for six months, I am convinced that the Ganges Market is one of the most extraordinary markets on our west coast. The eclectic showcase of local talent is something to behold and worth a day trip in itself. Have a blast in "Apple Heaven" at Salt Spring Island's 12^th Annual Apple Festival on October 3, 2010. Children attend for free and get an Apple Festival Badge. This is an apple wonderland where 350 different apple varieties are grown organically. At just one farm, you can taste more than a 100 apple varieties. With map in hand, visitors can tour any or all of the Salt Spring orchards. 

With a scenic day return trip south on the Coho (plus a passport) anyone can visit the intriguing shops in Port Angeles and soak up the waterfront and mountain scenery. For $15.50 (US) as a foot passenger each way, you can enjoy a walking excursion, have lunch in Port Angeles and come back refreshed and at peace. In Port Angeles, revel in the work of local artists at Landings Art Gallery. In October, the Dungeness Crab and Seafood Festival will please any palate.

A short trip northwest along the west coast of our Island is a must for every traveler. Ocean Island Tours will take you to all the secret wonderful places that define our west coast lifestyle. As you walk along the glistening sands of China Beach and Botanical Beach under an azure sky, all earthly troubles just wash away.

Enjoy.