The Summer I turned Canadian

BY AYUSH MADAN

I’ve always had visions of a crisp, refreshing summer that invites outdoor adventures. A summer immersed in nature, surrounded by loved ones, and filled with daily escapades This past August, in beautiful British Columbia (BC), my visions came true.

Whether you’re a parent dropping your child off at the University of British Columbia (UBC), or a traveller exploring the Pacific Northwest, summer in BC is when the magic truly happens. The constant rain takes a break, and the great outdoors beckon. It’s your window to savour all the fruits BC has to offer – literally, if you’re into blackberry picking!

While Americans often snicker at their neighbours to the north, it’s the Canadians who have the last laugh, holding the gems of the natural world right in their backyards. So, whether you’re a thrill seeker looking for pier jumping or white-water rafting, or a laid-back vacationer eager to explore museums and sip wine, BC has you covered and cared for.

VANCOUVER: The Best of Both Worlds

Nestled between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver offers a synergistic blend of urban life and breathtaking natural beauty. Exploring the city is an adventure in it of itself. As you wander, keep an eye out for hidden gems like the jewellery cart outside CF Pacific Centre, where you can snag rings for as little as CAD 3. One memorable day, I stumbled upon an unexpected dance competition right next to the main metro station, turning an ordinary Tuesday into a Step-Up (2006) fan’s dream.

From the heart of the city, it’s just a short journey to Kitsilano Beach, where the lively energy of the city continues by the ocean.

KITSILANO BEACH

Often dubbed Vancouver’s most social beach, the lively energy of Kitsilano Beach enveloped me. Here, volleyball courts buzzed with friendly competition, while the air was filled with the smell of tanning oil,  sea spray, and the sounds of laughter. Across from the beach, calisthenics enthusiasts showcased impressive moves like the one- arm pull-up and muscle-ups. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike gather, basking in the joy of summer.

GRANVILLE ISLAND

One of Vancouver’s highlights is Granville Island, easily accessible via the Aquabus ferry for just CAD 5. The bustling atmosphere of the Public Market is a treat,  highlighting local vendors and tasty treats like honey mustard pickles and lemon tarts. With sunny views of the city and benches to relax on, it is a terrific spot to unwind.

QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK

Queen Elizabeth Park – the prettiest park in the city – is perched atop a hill, boasting a plethora of carefully-kept trees and vibrant flowers. The Bloedel Conservatory offers a tropical escape with exotic flora and fauna. Don’t miss the panoramic views of Vancouver’s skyline from the park’s summit, perfect for capturing photos or enjoying a quiet moment of reflection.

STANLEY PARK

Known as Vancouver’s green oasis, Stanley Park is just steps from the buzzing downtown area. Biking around the seawall is an absolute must, with scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and towering mountains going with you the entire way. I recommend venturing further into the park’s interior to explore its more secluded trails, where you’ll find a blend of untouched forest and hidden gardens. Stanley Park is also home to a rich array of wildlife, including the famous herons that make their nests in the park’s trees.

LYNN CANYON

For a quieter but equally-stunning alternative to the Capilano Suspension Bridge,Lynn Canyon is a must-visit. Located across the Lions Gate Bridge in North Vancouver, this park offers forested trails, waterfalls, and natural swimming pools that make it a perfect spot for adventure seekers. One highlight is the 80-Foot Pool, where crystal- clear waters plunge into the canyon below, creating a refreshing spot to take a dip after a long hike. However, be cautious: the water is extremely cold, and the area around the pools can be slippery and dangerous.

UBC ENDOWMENT LANDS:
Campus Oasis

MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY

The UBC Endowment Lands offer a treasure trove of exploration. From pristine Japanese gardens to eclectic beaches, and the stunning architecture of the library, the campus boasts a variety of natural and cultural attractions. At the Museum of Anthropology, I was mesmerised by the stunning In Pursuit of Venus (Infected) installation, a sweeping 24-metre artwork that constantly pans across its vast canvas. It tells a powerful story about the oppressive relationships between European colonists and Polynesians. The museum also showcases the rich culture of Haida Gwaii, featuring giant hand-carved canoes,  intricate totem poles, and exquisite ceramic pieces.

WRECK BEACH

Featuring a steep descent of 473 steps, Wreck Beach was thriving with visitors seeking a unique coastal experience. This clothing-optional beach is cannabis-friendly, creating a relaxed and open atmosphere that draws a diverse crowd. As you stroll along the shore, you might even find Indian-style clothing like kaftans and palazzo pants for sale, adding a touch of desi flair to your beach day.

WHITE ROCK:
A Small-Town Coastal Escape

A day trip to White Rock offers a charming blend of beachfront fun and laid-back Canadian vibes. The iconic White Rock Pier, stretching out over the calm waters of Semiahmoo Bay, is perfect for a relaxing walk or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a bit of pier jumping. There’s also great paddleboarding and fishing opportunities by the docks!

For those who love a good bargain, White Rock is home to some fantastic thrift stores, like The Salvation Army and The Wilder Thrift Store, where you can score unique finds and contribute to a good cause. I picked up a Brazilian folk music vinyl for just CAD 2, a BC photography book for CAD 1, and a pair of gold maple earrings for CAD 4.

Before you head back, make a pit stop at the at Semiahmoo Mall to get a taste of Canada’s classic offerings. Personally, I love grabbing a Purdy’s Chocolatier treat and a coffee from Tim Hortons (way better than the Bangkok version, I promise!)

SQUAMISH:
Where the Mountains Meet the Sea

THE GRAND WALL

Just a short drive up the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver, Squamish offers a striking change of pace and altitude, delivering stunning cliffs and a treasure trove of outdoor adventure. Known as the climbing capital of the world, it’s home to the awe-inspiring Grand Wall, a sheer granite cliff that attracts climbers from around the globe.  If you’re a fan of mountaineering, you might have heard of Alex Honnold and his famous free-solo climbs here. Even if you’re not scaling the walls yourself, watching climbers from below is a thrilling experience. We even found an abandoned Black Diamond chalk bag near the Grand Wall, which has since come in handy at the bouldering gym!

For those who love a hiking challenge, the Stawamus Chief Trail offers an intense vertical ascent, and trust me, it’s not for the uninitiated. One hiker joked on Google that it felt like climbing the stairs to Mount Doom, and I couldn’t agree more.

SHANNON FALLS
No trip to Squamish is complete without seeing the spectacle of Shannon Falls, where cascading water plunges over rugged cliffs, creating a magnificent natural spectacle. Hiking through its lush trails, I was surrounded by towering Douglas firs and the sound of rushing water – refreshing in every sense.

THE OKANAGAN:
Wine, Water, and Warmth

SALMON ARM

As I made my way up to the Cariboo, I had to make a detour to Salmon Arm, where the Shuswap (pronounced “shoo-shwap”) drew me in with its massive, H-shaped lake, perfect for waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The natural beauty here is stunning, and the lake’s expansive shoreline is ideal for a day of adventure. A big shout out to my friends and homestay family, the Allaways, for letting me stay in their beautiful home, while I took in the beauty of this quaint, scenic, lakeside haven.

For hiking enthusiasts, the Rubberhead Trail offers pristine mountain-top views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect spot for both beginners and seasoned hikers looking to take in the serene surroundings.

KELOWNA

My favourite city in the Okanagan was Kelowna. The Waterfront Boardwalk is the perfect place to start exploring. I took a stroll here during sunset, soaking in the uniquely-dazzling culture of the place as the UBC-O rowing team heaved and hoed in the distance. Later, I met up with my friend Brooklyn, a Kelowna native I connected with during her exchange in Thailand, who showed me more of her lovely town.

Known as the heart of wine country, this area offers incredible wine-tasting experiences. Renowned wineries like Mission Hill Family Estate and Quails’ Gate Winery are famous for their stunning architecture, views of the rolling hills, and delicious pairings with artisanal food. Enrich your experience further at the Kelowna Art Gallery, home to a wide range of creative art showcases by local university students.

VANCOUVER ISLAND:

For those with a bit more time, Vancouver Island is well worth the visit. After a ferry ride from Tsawwassen, head to Victoria, the provincial capital. Explore charming neighbourhoods like James Bay and Fairfield, meet the peacocks at Beacon Hill Park, and visit the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel. One of my favourite museums in Canada, the Royal BC Museum, features incredible biome models, including a lush rainforest, coastal marine environments, and unique dry forest ecosystems, offering insights into the region’s rich natural history.

Next, make your way to Tofino, a haven for surfers and beach lovers. Stay at HI Whalers on The Point for stunning ocean views – you might get lucky like me and spot a whale breaching! In Tofino, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, or surfing at Tonquin Beach, where the lush forest meets the shoreline.

THE CARIBOO: BC’s Historic Heartland

Sparked by a close friend’s wedding, a road trip allowed me to discover the Cariboo, a region rich in history and natural beauty,  offered miles of stunning landscape.

WELLS

Wells, a historic gold mining town, was the setting for my friend Meaghan’s wedding. The small town is full of character, with vibrantly-coloured wooden buildings and a sense of timelessness that gives it its charm.  The surrounding Cariboo Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, and the nearby Bowron Lake Provincial Park is famous for its canoe circuit—a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts. After the wedding, I took time to stroll through town, capturing its rustic beauty through my camera lens. The visit felt like stepping into a postcard from the past.

WELL WORTH THE VISIT

From the lively beaches of Vancouver to the tranquil lakes of the Okanagan, British Columbia offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every traveller’s desires. Whether you seek adrenaline- pumping adventures or serene retreats, this province has something for everyone. I invite you to explore and uncover your own piece of paradise among the majestic mountains and lush forests and create your own lasting memories with your loved ones.

BEST EATS IN BC
• Orto Artisan Pasta: Seasonal Italian fare
• Brekka: Freshly-brewed coffee and pastries
• Mr. Shawarma: Delicious falafel wraps
• A la Mode: Not-to-be-missed French onion pot pie
• Kinton Ramen UBC: Order their Pork spicy garlic ramen
• Laura’s Coffee Corner: Bagels, especially their Lox of love bagel
• CRAFT Beer Market Kelowna: CAD 6 burgers!
• AMORE MIO: Known for their vegan chocolate gelato
• Tacofino: The place for fish tacos

TRAVEL TIPS FOR BRITISH COLUMBIA:

1. Getting There: Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR), the main gateway to BC.
2. Getting Around:
• Public Transport: Vancouver’s SkyTrain and bus systems.
• Car Rentals: A must for exploring outside the city.
3. Dress in Layers: The weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for the cold.
4. Stay Hydrated: Always carry water and snacks, especially when hiking or spending time outdoors.
5. Respect Nature: Stick to marked trails, carry bear spray if necessary, and keep a safe distance from wildlife.