Vacationing Close to Home

COVID-19 has changed how—and when and where—we will be travelling this summer. Grand plans for overseas holidays or cross-country roadtrips may have to be put on hold; but that's okay. We live in arguably one of the most idyllic, vacation-like places already, and no matter how long you've lived here, there's a new hike or restaurant or road you haven't yet seen. This is the perfect summer to take advantage of exploring the paradise we get to call home.

Take the weekend to explore B.C.'s farm-to-table capital of Saanich. Many restaurants have reopened and will be depending on support from locals—so whether you decide to dine-in or take-out, you'll soon find your belly full and satisfied as you take the time to be a tourist in what may even be your own city. And while you're on the southern Island, maybe take a drive from Sooke to Port Renfrew, an idyllic trip for culinary adventurers looking to enjoy the wild West Coast and find some lovely restaurants, breweries, distilleries, bakeries and pubs. And if cider is your thing, you can't go wrong with taking a trip from Victoria to Cowichan, where Island cideries are producing fresh and crisp ciders in the midst of picture-perfect landscapes.

Tofino is the Island destination everyone talks about, but even just getting there involves one of the most beautiful scenic drives. Enjoy the entire trip from Nanaimo to the West Coast, with plenty of local restaurants available along the way. And once you reach the coast, consider turning left at the T-intersection that requires the choice between Ucluelet and Tofino. Ucluelet offers its own wild and rugged coastal views that can be enjoyed from many of their resorts and restaurants, which serve fresh West Coast fare made by chefs who are passionate about the area and the products they use to create delectable and beautiful dishes.

And if you want a little more change in scenery, all you need to do is hop on a little ferry to one of the many Gulf Islands that pepper the ocean between us and the mainland. Gabriola, Pender, Mayne and Galiano Island are just a few options that will make you truly feel like you are on vacation, with relaxed atmospheres and plenty of dining and drinking options that will soon have you planning a return trip for even when worldwide travel becomes normal again.

There's no need to look across the ocean or state lines to have a beautiful and relaxing vacation. This summer, support our restaurants, cafes, bakeries, breweries, B&Bs, resorts and more, and enjoy a beautiful and safe close-to-home holiday.