British Columbia: Pristine wilderness, unique communities and a seriously laid-back attitude
Chances are if you search Google for images of Canada, something from British Columbia will turn up first. That’s not surprising, given that this province is one of the country’s most beautiful when it comes to landscapes. Pristine lakes, rugged snow-capped mountains and soaring old growth forests make this one of the most dramatic parts of the country when it comes to landscapes, and it is also what many people imagine when they think of Canada.
But British Columbia is much more than just unspoiled wilderness and natural wonders, which the province has in spades. There are also diverse communities with unique lifestyles and experiences for visitors to enjoy: there is the hippy/surf vibe of Tofino on Vancouver Island that feels like Canada’s version of southern California; the multicultural metropolis of Vancouver whose residents love to leave the corporate towers to play outside when the sun comes out; and of course the West Coast indigenous peoples who have lived here in harmony with the land for thousands of years.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast of any kind, British Columbia is your year-round mecca. Warmer months offers opportunities to go hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, surfing, horseback riding, fishing and more. And when winter comes, BC is where you can enjoy some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Canada, with top resorts like Whistler (a venue for the 2010 Winter Olympics) offering all the challenging runs and après ski action you could want.
Urban ‘culture vultures’ will enjoy BC’s world-class attractions like the Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver, a standout example with thousands of artefacts from Papua New Guinea to the high Arctic). There are also stellar culinary offerings from farm-to-table local fare on Vancouver Island to 5-star gastronomy in Vancouver. And all around the province are cities large and small where you can meet local artisans, stroll galleries, and see some of the most iconic indigenous art in North America.
The Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria
Wherever you go, or whatever you choose to do in British Columbia, you’ll discover one thing that the people who live here all have in common: a deep appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds them, and a more laid-back attitude that gives them the permission to get out there and enjoy it. We could learn a lot from them.
TIP: With its spectacular scenery, British Columbia is a great province for driving tours, but keep in mind that map distances can be deceiving compared to driving times – drives can take much longer if you are following coasts or going through mountains.
READ MORE ARTICLES ON WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN BRITISH COLUMBIA:
The Coolest Hike Near Whistler, BC
A mangled, graffiti-covered boxcar perches precariously close to the lip of a forest ravine where 30 feet below, the icy waters of the Cheakamus River rage through the gorge. Another wrecked train car lies on its side farther up the trail, an entire panel from its roof peeled back as if it has been pried open by a giant can opener. Farther up the slope, more cars lie between towering cedars and firs, none of which seem to have been damaged by the metal carnage lying adjacent to them. The site begs the question, where did the train cars come from, and how did they end up here, with train tracks nowhere in sight? The answer may not be as mysterious or enigmatic as the train wrecks themselves, but the history and the juxtaposition of street art, metal and beautiful rainforest make this Train Wreck Hike the coolest hike near Whistler, British Columbia.
Embracing “Woo-Woo” Wellness on the West Coast of Canada
“Forest bathing”, “sound bathing” and ocean bathing on a floating sauna in the middle of Howe Sound. When it comes to wellness activities in British Columbia, Vancouver and environs is where you will find a concentration of experiences that lean towards alternative lifestyles and spiritual practices, or the “woo-woo” side of life as I tend to think of it. Here is what you can expect, from a skeptic’s perspective.
7 Things to Do That Are Oh So Osoyoos!
Adobe-style storefronts, an Indigenous cultural centre and stellar winery, warm climate and a desert ecosystem: no, it’s not the American southwest, it’s Osoyoos, British Columbia. But you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve crossed the border when you arrive here, because this little town is unlike any other in Canada…
