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British Columbia articles page 5

Farms, food and fun in Kelowna this summer

The Farm to Table agri-tourism program is one of Tourism Kelowna's top picks for family fun this year.

May 2013 » by Lisa Crane
A woman sits on a dock looking over a lake with a bike beside her.

Full of pleasant surprises

For most families, camping is about the opportunity to relax outdoors, explore nature and have fun together. Mackenzie, B.C., it turns out, is a great destination for all three.

April 2013 » by Kristen Mitchell

A delicious family-friendly destination

Nanaimo, on Vancouver Island, is known as the Harbour City as well as the source of a deliciously decadent dessert.

April 2013 » by Kristen Mitchell

Make Fort Nelson your family’s destination in the northern Rockies

Here's what to look for if you're RVing with kids in and around Fort Nelson, B.C.

April 2013 » by Karissa Gall

Mile 0 Park is headquarters for family fun in Dawson Creek

A campground, pioneer village and man-made lake make up this park situated at the start of the Alaska Highway.

April 2013 » by Karissa Gall
children, adults and a costumed interpreter panning for gold at a long trough filled with water

Bring the family to Barkerville for an adventure they won’t forget

Learn about gold mining in the mid-1800s while visiting Barkerville Historic Town, a restored gold rush town in central British Columbia.

April 2013 » by Carol Ann Quibell
Kids in Kimberley, BC

Alpine delights in Kimberley

Kimberley, the Bavarian City of the Rockies, is a paradise for families keen on adventure in the great outdoors.

April 2013 » by Stephanie Warner
A townsend’s solitaire looks majestic at Okanagan Falls Provincial Park.

Anyone can be a birder

An avid birdwatcher shares her tips to make the pastime a great one for anybody.

April 2013 » by Guest blogger Kathy Stewart
View of lake with misty clouds in the background.

It’s summer playtime in Chetwynd

Visitors to Chetwynd, B.C., can explore the great outdoors or take in the annual Chainsaw Carving Championship or the Let ‘Er Rip! country music festival. 

April 2013 » by Karissa Gall
A couple stand, arms around each other, smiling for the camera in front of their RV.

RV Voyageurs

René and Jeanette Genereux are semi-retirees who use their RV to enjoy winters and to explore some of their other hobbies, such as riding motorcycles and the outdoors.

April 2013 » by Kristen Mitchell

Exploring nature on Vancouver’s North Shore

The North Shore community of West Vancouver offers a range of outdoor activities to engage thrill-seekers and nature explorers of all ages.

 

April 2013 » by Jessica Kirby
two boys fishing in a creek

Get outdoors with the family in Fruitvale

The area surrounding this picturesque village in southeastern B.C. offers camping, hiking and fishing for the whole family.

April 2013 » by Jessica Kirby

Waterfalls and dinosaurs in Tumbler Ridge

See a waterfall higher than Niagara Falls, then check out the Dinosaur Discovery Museum.

April 2013 » by Jessica Kirby
mountains, sunset, tree, dandelions

There’s plenty of fun for families in the beautiful Creston Valley

Take a guided tour of the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area, ride your bike or visit a farm in Creston.

 

April 2013 » by Carol Ann Quibell
hikers looking at a river

Families enjoy the network of trails near Williams Lake

Family vacations to Williams Lake may include hiking or mountain biking over kilometres of trails.

April 2013 » by Carol Ann Quibell
A man with two children stand outside a building bearing the sign

Sample the frontier with your children

A few leisurely hours spent at Fort Steele Heritage Town is an educational and entertaining experience.

April 2013 » by Marie Milner
boy with fish

Fishing with kids in Campbell River makes a great vacation even more memorable

The beautiful waterfront city of Vancouver Island’s Campbell River is a natural setting for anyone wanting to enjoy a fabulous family adventure.

April 2013 » by Carol Ann Quibell
Yacht on the ocean

Undiscovered treasures in Lund and Desolation Sound

There is always something new to discover—for kids of all ages—in Lund and Desolation Sound, among the prettiest areas of B.C.'s Sunshine Coast.

April 2013 » by Lisa Crane
Two girls run around in the front of a set up RV.

RVing: a family affair

The Lynns wanted to make the most of their family vacations and RVing provided the answer.

April 2013 » by Kristen Mitchell
Rose, wearing a vest, jeans and t-shirt, smiles at the camera while she takes notes on a clipboard.

All in a day’s work

Optimism and a friendly disposition are some of the biggest assets for Rose Higgins as she manages the Barkerville campgrounds.

April 2013 » by Kristen Mitchell
A man stands at the front of a black pickup with an adventure camper uploaded. It has kayaks on top.

A complementary pastime

Lin and Brian Weich love the outdoor lifestyle and have found that a camper works best for the exploring that they love to do.

April 2013 » by Kristen Mitchell
Impressive looking Victorian building

Visit the Maritime Museum, then take an amphibious vehicle tour of Victoria

It's all about the ocean when you're looking around beautiful downtown Victoria.

April 2013 » by Karissa Gall
Scenic picture of the golf course in the forground, trees, mountains and ski in the background.

Top five things to do in Whistler

To start your visit to Whistler on a truly high note, hit the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, side-by-side peaks which offer over 200 marked runs.

March 2013 » by Karissa Gall
Photo of a beautiful historic house with a large white front porch, awnings and gable windows.

History and mystery at the Caetani Cultural Centre in Vernon

An Italian woman who was once virtually a prisoner in her own home leaves behind a gift for Vernon's artists.

March 2013 » by Karissa Gall
A man standing in front of his large RV home.

A luxurious alternative to a tiny, expensive apartment in Vancouver

Ron Hollingshead has combined saving for retirement with an affordable alternative to renting or buying a place to live in B.C.'s Lower Mainland.

March 2013 » by Karissa Gall
An acrylic painting of snow covered mountains.

Locals stick together in the Whistler arts scene

Restaurants and shops serve up art you won't find in the exclusive galleries of the village.

March 2013 » by Karissa Gall
A woman painting beside a river.

Fort St. John: the Energetic City has a vibrant art scene

The North Peace Cultural Centre is the perfect launching point for artistic pursuits.

March 2013 » by Jessica Kirby
The artist Siobhan Humston sitting cross legged on the floor painting one of her pictures.

Harrison Hot Springs inspires creativity in artists and photographers

Visual artist Siobhan Humston is artist in residence at the Ranger Station Art Gallery in Harrison Hot Springs.

March 2013 » by Karissa Gall
A picture showing the beach with the tide out, there a large sandy area with pockets of water that goes on until it reaches the ocean.

Treasures on Vancouver Island’s Oceanside beaches

The Finders Keepers initiative gives treasure hunters another reason to explore the beaches around Parksville and Qualicum Beach.

March 2013 » by Jessica Kirby
This is a picture of a sculpture that reflects Vancouver Island's coast.

From sandcastles to stained glass in artistic Parksville and Qualicum Beach

Experience a high density of artists at work in a small area along the white, sandy beaches of Rathtrevor and the public waterfront. 

March 2013 » by Jessica Kirby
a woman using a large pitchfork to put a piece of raku pottery into a bed of straw to cool after being fired

Unique venues for the arts in Kelowna

While the Okanagan is sometimes thought of as a region of retirement communities, Kelowna is bustling when it comes to its cultural aspects.

March 2013 » by Karissa Gall
This is a photo of a Raku shaker.

Take a ferry to discover the artists of Powell River

This resource-based community in flux has a West Coast setting that inspires art and performance.

March 2013 » by Jessica Kirby
clay bowls

A tasty event that raises money for Vernon artists

What better way to support the arts than with a big handmade bowl full of Irish stew on St. Patrick's day?

March 2013 » by Karissa Gall
Woman in evening dress leaping high in the air, arms outflung, left hand holding her shoes

Coquitlam arts and artisans

Coquitlam’s arts and cultural centres offer exhibits, performances, workshops and art camps all year round.

March 2013 » by Marie Milner
A large brightly coloured heritage building.

Focusing on Fort Steele

Camera in hand, I headed to Fort Steele Heritage Town for my photography class with Brian Clarkson, the owner of Cranbrook Photo & Studio in Cranbrook, B.C. It was a pleasant day in August last year, and I met up with a small group of budding photographers who had signed up for one of Clarkson’s monthly camera classes.

February 2013 » by Kirsten Armleder
a painted mural on the side of a building at night lit by a vintage streetlight; mural is of two men standing beside an old truck

Become inspired in Fruitvale

Fruitvale has a lot to offer the artistically inclined. The area boasts beautiful mountains and sparkling lakes as well as wildlife—all perfect subjects for the perfect painting or photo.

February 2013 » by Lisa Crane
Woman in a shop holding a handpainted glass.

La Galeria ll is art central

This art shop in Fairmont Hot Springs features locally crafted works as well as artisan wares from around the globe

February 2013 » by Lisa Crane
Liz and Anders stand in front of a rail. Behind them is the curve of a river, and several kayaks.

Can’t get enough of Canada

Never mind that Anders Treiberg is originally from Sweden, or that his wife, Liz, moved to Canada from Switzerland. The fact is, they have probably seen more of Canada than just about anyone you know.

February 2013 » by Kristen Mitchell
A large decorative carved native mask resembles a sun with a central face and arms that look like birds. It is painted in reds, purples and browns.

Take an artistic journey

Over the years, prolific writers, carvers and painters have chosen to live in the Campbell River area, leaving behind artistic legacies and a number of intriguing sites.

February 2013 » by Kristen Mitchell
a photo of a prairie landscape with metal rods coming out the top and bottom, and a photo of a man with glasses

Dawson Creek Art Gallery’s 30th anniversary

The 30th anniversary of the Dawson Creek Art Gallery is being celebrated in 2013. Curator Kit Fast looks forward to the celebrations, which will showcase local and visiting artists.

February 2013 » by Lisa Crane
An RV driving windy highway.

Living the northern dream

Sue and Steve Thomas have been RVing in Yukon and Alaska for the past 20 years. So enamoured of the north were these two that they decided to make it their permanent home. 

January 2013 » by Kirsten Armleder

Where the locals eat in Vanderhoof

The North Country Inn is a family restaurant serving up hearty German fare.

January 2013 » by Carol Ann Quibell
Woman and man holding a very large fish

How to catch (and cook) a big fish in Mackenzie, BC

There are so many fish-filled lakes and rivers in Mackenzie it’s almost impossible for anglers to go home empty-handed.

January 2013 » by Jessica Kirby

Head to Tumbler Ridge if you’re hungry for classic rock

The August long weekend brings thousands of people to Grizfest, Tumbler Ridge’s claim to musical fame.

January 2013 » by Jessica Kirby
Grain elevator

Dawson Creek’s grain-growing heritage is reflected in its art gallery

A refurbished grain elevator makes a stunning space for displaying art.

January 2013 » by Karissa Gall
Four women sit at a dining table on a patio overlooking vineyards, lake, low mountains and sky

Okanagan festival central

Kelowna offers free arts and entertainment shows at outdoor venues all summer long, and there are lots of community festivals within an easy drive of the city.

January 2013 » by Marie Milner
people having coffee at a cafe

Coffee shops in Kitimat

This tourist-friendly community has a number of appealing cafés.

January 2013 » by Danielle Cameron
house

A Smithers restaurant that respects the seasons of the Bulkley Valley

Seasons in the Valley is a restaurant operated by a mother-and-son team with a menu dictated by available produce and great taste.

January 2013 » by Karissa Gall
Woman in chef tunic

The Parksville chef loves sharing her passion

Chef Denise Paré-Watson loves her life in Parksville's Craig Bay community.

December 2012 » by Carol Ann Quibell
salmon pâté on a plate with stuffed pasta

Sample the sea’s finest at Campbell River’s annual Salmon Festival

Chefs from near and far enter the highly competitive Seafood Cook-Off.

December 2012 » by Carol Ann Quibell
Salmon drying on a fishing net

Treat yourself to authentic aboriginal food near Kitimat

The bounty of the land, sea and river provides a delicious feast in each season for the Haisla people of B.C.'s north coast.

December 2012 » by Carol Ann Quibell
Summer market scene with a young female vendor handing a bag of produce to a smiling woman customer

Wild delicacies in Hudson’s Hope

If you're travelling through the Peace country this summer, plan a Tuesday afternoon stop in Hudson's Hope for their summer market.

December 2012 » by Marie Milner
mountains, valley

Comox Valley farms are producing unique Vancouver Island spirits

Growers are taking advantage of a temperate climate and fertile soil to produce award-winning spirits that are distinctly Island-style.

December 2012 » by Carol Ann Quibell
Goldstream campground

Miss snowbirding? These destinations in B.C. have pleasant weather year-round

Snowbirding doesn’t have to mean heading south—there are plenty of areas in B.C. that offer temperate climates and ideal conditions for RVing all year round.

November 2012 » by Danielle Cameron
Photo of food like that served in the restaurants in in Hudson's Hope BC

Best restaurants in Hudson’s Hope

Hudson’s Hope brings out the foodie in every RV camper.

November 2012 » by Danielle Cameron

Nanaimo: a romantic destination

Cradled between the Gulf Islands and beautiful mountain peaks, the stage is set for adventure and discovery in Vancouver Island’s Harbour City.

November 2012 » by Jessica Kirby

Comox Valley: a couples retreat that refreshes

Couples can rejuvenate and reconnect West Coast style in this stunning landscape of rolling mountains, alpine meadows and rushing rivers.

November 2012 » by Jessica Kirby
Photo of a couple

Parksville and Qualicum Beach: A couple’s getaway

A playground of beaches, parks, trails and natural wonders with excitement and relaxation for couples looking for the perfect getaway.

November 2012 » by Jessica Kirby
The Bard and Banker in Victoria, BC.

A foodie’s tour of Victoria

British Columbia's capital city will tease your palate with some great downtown restaurants.

November 2012 » by Sandra Albers
Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, B.C.

The romance of a harbour city

Victoria, which is B.C.'s capital city, has a compact downtown that is eminently walkable and has some wonderful dining choices.

November 2012 » by Sandra Albers
Avenue Bistro in Comox, BC

Best restaurants in the Comox Valley

Take in a variety of Island flavours at these stellar dining establishments.

November 2012 » by Danielle Cameron
The Dinghy Dock Marine Pub & Bistro
is one of the must-see restaurants in Nanaimo, B.C.

Best restaurants in Nanaimo

Nanaimo, B.C., has its share of culinary delights that are sure to entice you.

October 2012 » by Danielle Cameron
Leftys Restaurant in Parksville and Qualicum Beach, BC

Best restaurants in Parksville and Qualicum Beach

On Vancouver Island, B.C., Parksville and Qualicum Beach are host to several quality eateries.

October 2012 » by Danielle Cameron

Stroll along the waterfront walkway in the village of Nakusp

Nakusp is a jewel of a village on the shores of the Arrow Lakes, surrounded by mountains and adorned with tidy gardens.

September 2012 » by Carol Ann Quibell

What to see in Dawson Creek

Dawson Creek has done a great job promoting its own history as well as the distinction of being the beginning of the Alaska Highway.

September 2012 » by Lynne Benjamin
Couple stands outdoors at the door of their office

Summer in the city RV park

Maxine and Don Bos enjoy the social aspects of managing Mount Baker RV Park in Cranbrook, B.C. They keep busy at this from April to October every year, and spend five months relaxing at their winter home in Mesa, Arizona.

August 2012 » by Marie Milner
Senior couple stand outside their RV.

The best of both worlds

A permanent home in Nanaimo, B.C., and periodic contract work around the province keep this RVing couple grounded. North America is Mike and Donna Mitchell's playground.

August 2012 » by Marie Milner
sandy beaches at Qualicum Beach BC

Kick back and relax

While not a Canadian holiday staple, Parksville-Qualicum Beach has lifted National Relaxation Day from their U.S. neighbours and planted it firmly on the shores of their oceanfront communities.

August 2012 » by the Oceanside Tourism Association
Couple with two small children and a small dog stand in their campsite.

New to RVing

The Beck family enjoyed Wasa Lake Provincial Park campground on their second outing with their trailer.

August 2012 » by Marie Milner
Middle-aged couple stand beside their motorhome.

Convenient for Calgarians

They hate those underground sprinklers.

August 2012 » by Marie Milner
Grandparents, young couple and toddler stand beside their RV.

An alternative to the cottage

Enjoying some family time

August 2012 » by Marie Milner
Smiling man does a thumbs-up, standing in front of his motorhome.

Western tour

James Mastaler from Muskoka, Ontario, enjoyed RVing on his first trip through Western Canada.

August 2012 » by Marie Milner
Woman holding small dog stands beside her RV unit.

No worries

After a lengthy career in health care, RVing is the ultimate in relaxation

August 2012 » by Marie Milner
Two couples and one small dog stand beside their motorhome

Golf attracts RVers

Golf and local festivals are the reason the Hayes and Lukin families return to Cranbrook.

August 2012 » by Marie Milner
Elderly couple standing beside their RV

Friendly folks

The Blighs love to meet people wherever they go.

August 2012 » by Marie Milner

The water’s fine in Nanaimo

In a place nicknamed the Harbour City, it is not difficult to find something fun to do on the water. Swim, snorkel, kayak, water-ski or boat the days away on the ocean or on one of the many beautiful inland lakes near Nanaimo, the Harbour City.

July 2012 » by Jessica Kirby
Telegraph Harbour Marina in Chemainus

Your island adventure

Chemainus has all the components you could ask for in a travel destination.

July 2012 » by Jessica Kirby

Beaches in Boswell

Boswell’s sandy beaches and beautiful forests make it a prime destination for summertime endeavours.

July 2012 » by Kimberly Schoenberger

Swimming, scenery and summer fun

Nakusp in the West Kootenay has an abundance of fun water activities to help beat the heat. 

July 2012 » by Kimberly Schoenberger
A wild otter relaxes in its natural habitat.

Real, natural adventures

Golden has plenty to offer when it comes to outdoor adventures and embracing nature.

July 2012 » by Kimberly Schoenberger
People on a beach

Welcome to Canada’s Mediterranean

Parksville and its surrounding area boast balmy temperatures and convenient, fun facilities for campers. The ocean and rivers offer a multitude of fun activities.

July 2012 » by Lisa Crane

Mackenzie is an outdoor water playground

Mackenzie is located on Williston Lake—a man-made lake that boasts 1,200 kilometres of shoreline and offers lots of summer fun.

July 2012 » by Jessica Kirby

Top things to do and see in Harrison Hot Springs

The town of Harrison Hot Springs has a wide variety of activities for everyone to enjoy, from exciting and adventurous whitewater rafting to relaxing at the calm and soothing spa facilities. 

July 2012 » by Kimberly Schoenberger
A couple in the water

Non-stop fun at Fairmont Hot Springs

Fairmont Hot Springs offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for visitors. There are multiple places to park your RV in and around the springs.

July 2012 » by Lisa Crane
Truck and RV at a lake

So much water fun

There are so many activities to do in, by and around the water in Smithers, it may not be possible to do them all. Gladys Atrill from Tourism Smithers recommends trying a number of them.

July 2012 » by Lisa Crane

Make Chemainus your port of call

Backdropped by a cultural oasis of art, music, and a quaint downtown lifestyle, water activities at Chemainus can go for hours or days, and represent something unique and truly West Coast-inspired.

July 2012 » by Jessica Kirby

Catch of the day at Pedder Bay

Pedder Bay RV Resort and Marina is an angler’s paradise and an oasis for travellers to Vancouver Island. 

July 2012 » by Jessica Kirby
Photo of a lady in a white shirt standing in front of a red Dodge truck and a fifth wheel trailer.

Soaking up the sun

RVwest met full-time RVer Brenda Robson at the Fort Steele Resort and RV Park in Fort Steele, B.C.

June 2012 » by Kirsten Armleder

Vancouver Islanders find adventure in their own neighbourhood

RVers have plenty to see and do without leaving Vancouver Island.

June 2012 » by Carol Ann Quibell
Canada geese and their goslings at Elizabeth Lake in Cranbrook, BC

The enthralling outdoors

Cranbrook, B.C. residents are really spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor recreation.

June 2012 » by Danielle Cameron
Gold panning demonstration in Barkerville

Barkerville hits 150 years

Gold miners are remembered and celebrated in Barkerville Historic Town, which marks 150 years in 2012.

June 2012 » by Marie Milner
Three girls dressed in period costume at Historic O'Keefe Ranch

Engaging with B.C. history

Historic O’Keefe ranch boasts a vibrant legacy.

June 2012 » by Marie Milner
St Eugene building in Cranbrook, BC

Cranbrook’s main attractions

This B.C. community will keep you busy and entertained.

June 2012 » by Danielle Cameron

A million little fishies

As far as family-friendly activities go, a visit to the Kootenay Trout Hatchery near Cranbrook, B.C., is a good bet.

June 2012 » by Marie Milner
A mother and three kids dressed in costume with the mountains in the background.

Unearthing the riches

I grew up near Fort Steele, B.C., and I’ve crossed the Wild Horse Creek many times on my horse. Each time I have done so, I think about the early pioneers who came to this area on horseback to find their fortunes. 

June 2012 » by Kirsten Armledar
two people in the mountains of Fernie BC

Stop and take it all in

Fernie is an all-round winning destination with arts, recreation and other exciting tourism draws.

June 2012 » by Danielle Cameron
lady sliding down a zipline like the one that will be added in Fernie BC

What’s new in Fernie?

This tourism-based community is bursting with new businesses, opportunities and adventures for visitors.

June 2012 » by Danielle Cameron
people at Fort Steele, BC getting a wagon ride.

History comes alive in Cranbrook

This Kootenay city has plenty of historical sites that are well worth exploring.

June 2012 » by Danielle Cameron
waterfront boardwalk in Nakusp, BC

An enormous playground

Jackie Kilburn describes her adopted hometown of Nakusp as one of the most dog-friendly places she’s ever been. 

May 2012 » by Marie Milner
Illuminated Dinosaur track site.

Prehistoric footprints

The Dinosaur Discovery Gallery is an exciting place to learn more about prehistoric creatures.

May 2012 » by Carol Ann Quibell

Snowbirding 101

The ghosts of peoples past

Columnist Lynne Benjamin muses on the daily lives of the Mogollon peoples, who inhabited the Gila cliff dwellings of New Mexico.

Stromberg Carlson came up with a real winner when they made the Lend-a-Hand product.

RV Gear Guide

The Lend-A-Hand by Stromberg Carlson

This product will give you steady support when getting in and out of your RV unit.