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Tofino Pacific Sands Beach Resort Sold By One B.C. Family To Another

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With foreign investors snapping up recreational properties in B.C., the sale of a family-run Tofino resort has gone against the tide.

The Pacific Sands Beach Resort, with 77 rooms on more than 40 acres, was built by Bill and Joan Pettinger in the '70s. The family has sold the beachfront property on Cox Bay to Gordon Nelson, an apartment building and investment company based in Vancouver.

Chinese-owned Adestra Hotel Group, which bought Harrison Hot Springs Resort for $32.3 million in 2013, was rumoured to be bidding for the Tofino property. But the Pettingers went with a local buyer.

"If you’d asked me what kind of buyer we envisioned — an investment trust, a big resort company, an offshore buyer or local — we would immediately have said local and these guys came to the top. They are younger versions of us," Rick Pettinger told The Times Colonist.

"One aspect of this sale that we're very proud of is the fact that this resort was created and developed by a local family for the past 42 years, and it will continue to be a part of another local family-run business moving forward," said Jason Gordon, co-owner of Gordon Nelson, in an email to The Huffington Post B.C.

Robert Brown, one of the partners in the deal, noted that he spent part of his honeymoon 22 years ago in a suite at Pacific Sands.

British Columbia has been a popular place for overseas investors, particularly from Asia, to buy homes, but the interest has moved to businesses in recent years.

Tourism properties are especially hot, as foreign buyers look to capitalize on the increasing number of Chinese tourists to B.C., reported Business in Vancouver. Those visitors have jumped 80 per cent since 2009.

Four hotels in Victoria and Richmond are now run by Chinese owners, said the magazine.

Last winter, a Chinese group bought the ghost town of Bradian, north of Whistler, and plans to turn into it into a recreational attraction.

In the spring of 2014 alone, various Chinese investors purchased a 43-acre island on the southern B.C. coast, a 156-acre farm in Langley, and a golf and country club in Sechelt.

Pacific Sands was put on the market in the summer of 2013 for $29.8 million, reported The Times Colonist.

Gordon Nelson plans on opening Pacific Sands' pool for local resident swims and continue sponsoring local groups and events, as they did when they bought Ocean Village Resorts, also in Tofino, said co-owner Chris Nelson.

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Vancouver Has Some Pretty Cool Tunnel Stories, Too

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The mastermind behind the infamous "Toronto tunnel" came forward this week, describing it as a "fun project," but the Vancouver area has had its own share of urban tunnels.

One of the more well-known passages is the Canada Post tunnel, which runs from the downtown Canada Post building to what is today’s Waterfront SkyTrain station.

The tunnel — which is over 2,000 feet long — was originally built as a bicycle route to help mailmen cart the post around the Vancouver, reported CBC News.

tunnelvancouver

However, it was shut down for good in 1965 and was scheduled to be filled in by 2014.

Out at the University of British Columbia campus in Vancouver, there's a series of steam tunnels that act as a thouroughfare for maintenance workers. Student Bryce Warnes vividly recounted his adventures underground in an article for The Ubyssey in 2011.

"At one point, at this part of the adventure, with my head scraping the ceiling and my friends’ flashlight beams drawing away, I was distinctly aware of the thousands of tons of dirt and rock pressing in at all sides," the article reads. "If something went wrong, there was only one way out — back the way we had come.”

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(Photo courtesy Geoff Lister Photography)

Despite the eloquent storytelling, the institution wasn't happy to hear that students had been venturing below ground.

Ron Holton, UBC’s chief risk officer, published a letter in 2013 in reply to another post, demanding that students keep their distance because the tunnels are extremely dangerous.

The university has since increased security, adding locking covers to the tunnel entrances to keep curious explorers away, said Andrew Riley, UBC associate director of public affairs, to The Huffington Post B.C. in an email.

Turns out, it may be illegal to explore the tunnels anyway. Last year, a Reddit user said that a group had been fined and arrested for trespassing after poking around the passageways.

aldergrove drug tunnel

In 2005, U.S. federal agents found an elaborate tunnel dug under the border with Canada in the Fraser Valley. It led from a Quonset hut in Langley, B.C. to the living room of an abandoned house 300 feet south of the border in Washington state, according to NBC News.

The passageway, which was about four feet high and four feet wide, was used to smuggle hockey bags and garbage bags full of marijuana, reported CBC News. Three B.C. men were convicted of conspiracy to distribute marijuana and conspiracy to import marijuana, and given prison terms of nine years.

Finally, Vancouver's Chinatown was rumored to be home to a series of tunnels but The Vancouver Sun busted that myth in 2011.

Despite the lack of spelunking opportunities in Vancouver, there's still something universally enchanting about using secret passageways beneath the city's streets. Alas, it seems Vancouverites will have to put up with walking around in the sunshine on the surface for now. (Not like we have a world-famous Seawall to use, or anything.)

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Get Your Kicks on Bicycle Route 66

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Most know the history behind the iconic Route 66 highway that runs across the USA. Now Adventure Cycling's 2,493-mile bicycle route will revitalize the "Main Street of America" -- this time with travelling cyclists.

The Adventure Cycling Association recently announced the release of Bicycle Route 66, the latest route from America's bicycle travel experts. Embracing the spirit of "The Mother Road," the new route follows the famous corridor from Chicago to Los Angeles on roads appropriate for cyclists, including sections of the historic highway. The route is covered in a specially designed six-map set, allowing cyclists to tour the whole thing or ride a few preferred sections to maximize their Americana intake.

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"The vision for Bicycle Route 66 is the same as the original vision for Route 66, which was to connect the main streets of rural and urban communities," said Ginny Sullivan, Adventure Cycling's Director of Travel Initiatives. "Bicycle Route 66 will be a perfect choice for travelling cyclists looking to explore the American heartland's natural beauty, history, and funky out-of-the-way places."

The new Bicycle Route 66 maps span eight states (IL, MO, KS, OK, TX, NM, AZ, and CA) and cover 2,493 miles. "Fueled by nostalgia and fired by preservation-minded folks, Route 66 is a magical cross section of the nation, from the massive skyscrapers of Chicago, over the green hills of the Ozarks, the grassy plains, the awesome deserts and mountains, then down into the fascinating mosaic of the Los Angeles basin," wrote Jerry McClanahan, author of EZ 66 Guide for Travelers.

"There's something for everyone here -- the embodiment of freedom, the legendary emblem of 20th century roadside America."

The maps feature turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions, elevation profiles, and services cyclists will need along the route. Now cyclists can explore at their own pace the surviving pieces of architecture, abandoned bridges, landmarks, businesses, and historically important communities from the golden era of U.S. Route 66. "This route can be done as a camping tour in roadside campgrounds, however there are many unique motels along the route which make this a good credit-card touring route. Eating in the old cafes and diners is part of the charm," said Lon Haldeman, an experienced Route 66 bicycle-tour leader.

Cyclists will encounter numerous natural and man-made wonders, including: Gemini Giant in Wilmington, Il, Gateway Arch in St. Louis, MO, Historic Brandbury Bishop Deli in Webb City, MO, Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, TX, Route 66 Museum in Clinton, OK, Catoosa Whale in Catoosa, OK, Petrified Forest in Arizona, and the Ozarks in Missouri. "People come from all over the U.S and around the world to travel Route 66," said Bill Kelly, Executive Director of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway. "Bicycle Route 66 will enhance the non-motorized experience for cyclists touring the route."

Adventure Cycling announced the route at the end of 2010 and spent the next four years researching and laying out the route. "Route 66 was the overwhelming favorite among our members for a new long-distance route," said Carla Majernik, Adventure Cycling's Routes and Mapping Director. "It's a legendary corridor, and for our route network, a critical link through states where there were no established Adventure Cycling routes, such as Oklahoma." The addition of Bicycle Route 66 brings the total Adventure Cycling Route Network to 44,673 miles. The network passes through 47 states and parts of Canada and is the largest mapped national cycling network in the world.

The design of Bicycle Route 66 involved collaboration between Adventure Cycling, cycling organizations, government agencies, and tourism bureaus already working to bring cycling to Route 66. These partnerships helped ensure the route incorporates the right mix of historic elements and cycling-friendly roads and trails. Ed Barsotti, executive director of the League of Illinois Bicyclists, commented: "Illinois has an early lead in bicycling Route 66, with a user's guide of an interim route available. Adventure Cycling's work will leverage Illinois' momentum into a national vision."

The National Park Service also played an integral role in the development of Bicycle Route 66, providing valuable leadership through the national Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program and technical assistance through the Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program.

Similar to the flow of motor vehicle travellers along the original "Main Street of America," the influx of cyclists will provide an economic boost to small communities along the route. There is growing evidence that touring cyclists spend more money and time than the average tourist. For example, a recent survey done in Montana by the Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research found that multi-day cyclists spend $75 to $103 per day and stay an average of eight or more nights while travelling through the state. Conversely, motorized travellers only spend between $54 and $68 per day and spend an average of three days in the state. Oregon found that the state benefits by $400 million annually from bicycle tourism alone and Washington State just released a study on outdoor recreation, which recognizes that bicycling contributes $3.1 billion to the state's economy annually.

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The most famous road in America has been called the "Mother Road" and the "Main Street of America," and it now has one more moniker to add to its storied history: "Bicycle Route 66."

Adventure Cycling Association inspires and empowers people to travel by bicycle. It is the largest cycling membership organization in North America with more than 47,000 members. Adventure Cycling produces cycling routes and maps for North America, organizes more than 100 tours annually, and publishes the best bicycle-travel information anywhere, including Adventure Cyclist magazine. With 44,673 meticulously mapped miles in the Adventure Cycling Route Network, Adventure Cycling gives cyclists the tools and confidence to create their own bike-travel adventures. Phone: 800-755-BIKE (2453) or click here for more information.

Check out the Adventure Cycling Association on Twitter.

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Canadian Military Wages Never-Ending Battle Against B.C. Avalanches

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ROGERS PASS, B.C. - It's a never-ending war that the Canadian Forces has no hope of winning. They have to settle for victories in small battles along the way.

Despite lengthy stints in wars overseas, Canada's longest military mission continues in Rogers Pass, where it has taken part in Op PALACI doing avalanche control for more than 50 years.

Every year since 1961, from November to April, the artillery task force is deployed in the pass with 105-mm howitzers modified for precision firing from roadside gun platforms.

The shells are fired into rock formations to reduce natural avalanches.

The objective is to prevent blockage of the Trans-Canada Highway and Canadian Pacific rail corridors between Vancouver and the rest of Canada.

Sgt. David Chelkowski, the troop sergeant-major for the 1st Regiment of the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery (1RCHA), served two tours in Afghanistan.

This year marks his second deployment doing avalanche control.

"This is the only part of Canada where the soldiers deploy to support avalanche control," says Chelkowski. "At the end of the day it is a mission and we're here to do a job that's asked of us."

He says he and the new recruits here for the first time realize they are taking part in a bit of history.

"Members of our regiment and other regiments in Canada have been doing this since the 1960s and for them it is important to write another chapter."

Between 700 and 1,500 rounds are fired each year at predetermined targets in the peaks most at risk. Within a couple of minutes the guns are locked into place on reinforced firing platforms, aimed and ready to fire.



Story continues after slideshow:




Chelkowski says the results can be awe-inspiring.

"It's Mother Nature at its best. You can just watch the trees tumble in front of it. It's out of control and you can't do anything but stand in awe and watch the view."

It is Parks Canada who is calling the shots — literally.

Jeff Goodrich, the senior avalanche officer, says his people do the science and the forecasting and the Canadian Forces provide the firepower.

In a 40-kilometre stretch within Glacier National Park, he says there are 134 avalanche paths that could hit the road.

"It's amazing how much it can snow here," Goodrich says.

"We get periods where we don't get blue sky for weeks on end and we can get into periods of stormy weather where we need to do avalanche control and the next day get back at it again."

Lt. Steen Hinman-Miller, the troop commander, is in the Rogers Pass for the first time this year. It's not something that is covered in basic training.

"Shooting down avalanches? No, it's not included in the job description," he says with a laugh.

"We train for general warfare for the most part, but anything we can do to help another government agency for the people of Canada is what we do."

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WestJet Flight Attendant's 'Uptown Funk' Groove Just Made Our Day

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We've seen more than our share of takes on "Uptown Funk" by now. But that doesn't mean we're done with it yet.

There was the time that Western University students did a lipdub to it. Or the time a mother who, at 60 years young, showed off her moves to the song in a hip hop class.

And then, of course, there was that time someone edited Barack Obama's words into a clever remix.

Now, WestJet flight attendant Caralee Savage has been filmed performing a routine to the song before takeoff.

The Calgarian posted the video to YouTube on Monday, saying that she was providing a little entertainment as passengers waited.

"My captain introduced me saying I had a little performance for them and that I'd offer workshops in the air," said a video description.

Even better, her brother then posted on Reddit about it, explaining his sister was a former breakdancer who just wanted to entertain the passengers.

Caralee, never, EVER stop dancing!

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Breastfeeding Mom From B.C. Outraged By United Airlines

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A Canadian mom is outraged by how she was treated while breastfeeding her son on a United Airlines flight from Houston to Vancouver.

Kristen Hilderman, a magazine editor from Burnaby, B.C., said her five-month-old baby began to cry on the Sunday evening flight because the cabin pressure changed while the plane taxied on the runway, reported CBC News. She decided to feed him so his crying didn't disturb other passengers.

Hilderman was wearing a breastfeeding tank top, and had a blanket under her baby and another draped across her knees on the "hot and stuffy" plane, she said.

A male flight attendant then approached her and her husband, she wrote in a Twitter post, and asked loudly "Are you two together?" When Hilderman's husband replied yes, the attendant then tossed a blanket at him and said, "Then here, help her out."

Hilderman said the flight attendant ignored her follow-up questions and walked away.

"I felt so completely embarrassed, uncomfortable, and self-conscious for the rest of the flight," wrote Hilderman.

She said other passengers were sympathetic, and told her they weren't even aware she was breastfeeding until the flight attendant "tried to make an example" out of her.

The United flight ended up being diverted to Seattle because of fog. When passengers re-boarded, Hilderman said a blanket had been placed on only her seat.

"I am so furious about this entire incident," Hilderman wrote. "I've been breastfeeding my son in myriad public places since he was born, and never has anyone made me feel so uncomfortable and ashamed for feeding my baby without putting a cover over his head."

Hilderman said United Airlines called her on Tuesday to apologize for her "frustrating experience."




"United welcomes nursing mothers on board and we ask that crew members do their best to ensure their comfort and safety as they do with all customers. After we learned of Ms. Hilderman’s experience we spoke with her and offered an apology," United Airlines said in a statement to Yahoo Parenting.

"We also ask nursing mothers and passengers seated near them to be mindful of one another’s space and comfort," the airline told CBC News.

Hilderman said she raised the issue not to get the flight attendant fired, but hopes that other mothers will be able to breastfeed on United flights without having to cover their heads with blankets, reported The Vancouver Sun.

Hilderman's post has received much attention and support online. Lauren Modeen, a Delta Airlines passenger who was forced to check her breast pump as luggage, told CNN that social media has increased pressure on airlines to improve service to parents and children.

United had to apologize in 2006 after a flight attendant asked a mother to stop breastfeeding her baby out of "concern" for other passengers.

In 2013, American Airlines was the focus of protests after a breastfeeding mom was told to cover up because there were other kids on the flight.

Here's Kristen Hilderman's original Twitter post:




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Canadian Killed In Mexico After Whale Lands On Tourist Boat

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CABO SAN LUCAS, Mexico - Mexican authorities say a 35-year-old Canadian woman died from injuries suffered when a surfacing grey whale crashed onto a tourist boat.

The Baja California Sur state prosecutor's office says the collision with the whale less than two kilometrs from the Cabo San Lucas resort tossed the victim into the water.

Firefighter commander Juan Carvajal Figueroa says the woman was in a boat with other tourists returning to port around noon when the whale jumped from the water and landed on the boat.

Mexican navy personnel responded to the scene and moved the woman to shore.

She was taken to a clinic, where she died during treatment.

Authorities have not yet released her name or hometown.

Killer Whales In Vancouver Waters Stir Up Excitement

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A pod of killer whales gave people in the Vancouver area a reason to stop in the middle of their day.

Starting around noon Thursday, the orcas swam into Burrard Inlet to Deep Cove and then English Bay by Stanley Park, giving spectators a close-up look at the majestic creatures.

Look who joined me on my run today! So beautiful.. #Orcas #Vancouver #StanleyPark #frolick

A video posted by christina erl (@xtinaerl) on





CTV cameraman Murray Titus had the best view from the station's helicopter:










The Bigg's killer whales were likely in the Deep Cove area to hunt seals, said the Vancouver Aquarium, whose cetacean research team was monitoring the pod.







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'Little Hobo' Restaurant In Kelowna Voted The Best In B.C.

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Move over, fancy Vancouver restaurants and your accolades, B.C.'s top restaurant is actually a cozy little eatery in Kelowna.

Based on travellers reviews on TripAdvisor, Little Hobo, a small soup and sandwich shop in the city's downtown core, is the number one place to eat in the province.

Regulars are greeted by name and some visit the Little Hobo once a day, according to Global News. The owners say building up that clientele was done by putting in four years of good old-fashioned hard work.

Crystal Dougan and her partner Steve MacDonald took over Little Hobo back in 2011, according to Castanet. Neither had ever owned a restaurant before, but decided to buy the place on a whim.

Clearly, it was a risk that paid off.

TripAdvisor users gushed about Little Hobo.

"These people are the kindest, sweetest people," reads one review. "You actually feel like you are eating at an old friends house who just happens to be (an) amazing cook!"

MacDonald told Castanet Little Hobo is not trying to compete with high-end restaurants or trained chefs: "We want to feed you the food your mom fed you."

Added Dougan: "I think the most important thing about TripAdvisor and Urbanspoon is that it’s customer-rated reviews. It’s people who have come in, had our food, experienced the restaurant and walked away with something positive."

A whopping 95 of 105 reviewers gave Little Hobo the maximum rating of five stars.

Even B.C. Premier Christy Clark approves:




Despite the newfound publicity, Dougan and MacDonald are running business as usual, continuing to chat with their regulars daily — but now working with what many would say is the recognition they deserve.

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Five Places to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day Around the World

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No matter where you are in the world, March 17 will likely be marked with a St. Patrick's Day celebration. The date marks the death of Saint Patrick, Ireland's most celebrated patron saint.

But as we all know, it's also one of the liveliest shindigs of the year. The world goes green for one day, letting loose with foamy pints of green beer and crazy-looking leprechaun hats. While 5.5-million pints of Guinness are consumed daily around the world, on St. Patrick's Day, that number skyrockets to 13 million. As U2's Bono once said: "The whole thing about Lent -- as any Irishman will tell you -- is that it stops on St Patrick's Day."

If you're travelling overseas, here are a few international sites where you can get your St. Paddy's Day on:

New York City, USA
The Big Apple hosts the biggest bash in the United States, attracting over 2 million spectators to the parade. For years, The Pogues even performed an annual show in the city on St. Patrick's Day. But there's more to St. Paddy's Day in New York than hangover. How about feeding your brain with some Irish history? Take an historic walking tour of Five Points neighbourhood and the Lower East Side, a former Irish enclave that housed more Irish residents than Dublin in the 19th-century. Since you're in the 'hood, check out the "Irish Outsiders" exhibit at the Tenement Museum.

Tokyo, Japan
In Tokyo, the Irish Network Japan first launched the parade in 1992 as a cultural exchange between Japan and Ireland. Since then, it's been a popular holiday celebrated with Irish costumes, performers, music, and of course, a parade. But you don't have to be in Tokyo: there are St. Patrick's Day celebrations across Japan.

Buenos Aires, Argentina
Don't cry for Argentina! They aren't excluded from the party. In Buenos Aires, more than 50,000 Argentines celebrate St Patrick's Day each year. A block party is held in the downtown street of Reconquista, where a bunch of Irish pubs are clustered. The parade on March 17 ends up in Plaza San Martin, where Irish bands and Celtic dance perform in the square.

Boston, USA
Boston is a golden oldie: the city has hosted its annual St. Patrick's Day Parade since (brace yourselves) 1737(!). It's actually the country's longest-running public parade. Plus, Boston is known as the Irish epicentre of America, with 25 per cent of Boston residents claiming to have Irish ancestry.

Pints and parades aside, the Boston Irish Tourism Association offers guided tours of the Boston Irish Heritage Trail. Over a few hours, an expert guide illuminates 300 years of the city's Irish history, including the Irish role in the Revolution and Civil War, the Potato Famine generation, and influential political figures with Irish ancestry, such as the Kennedys. Learnin' stuff: it feels good.

Dublin, Ireland
Well, duh! Of course Ireland is a prime spot to celebrate the holiday. Every year, Dublin hosts a multi-day festival with everything from salsa dancing to céilís (traditional dances), and a colourful parade that attracts over one-million visitors.

If you visit Ireland for St. Paddy's, also consider celebrating outside Dublin. A kickass party and an equally authentic experience is pretty much guaranteed in any town. For instance, the St. Patrick's Day parade in County Wexford is the oldest one in Ireland. It began in 1917 and is still going strong. Cork's festival has a food and crafts market, as well as music, street performers and children's workshops. Besides, smaller towns may have fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy a foamy pint of Murphy's while rubbing shoulders with the locals.

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Three Steps to the Perfect Spring Road Trip

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As the temperature begins to rise this spring, you may begin thinking about taking a road trip.

Road trips are perfect for adventure-seeking travelers because you truly can plan your own schedule. You're not at the mercy of an air or train schedule, which offers you the freedom to change plans on a whim and travel at your own pace.

If you're thinking about packing up the car and taking a road trip this spring, here are three ways to make it perfect.

Choose the Right Vehicle


Having the right vehicle for a road trip is critical. Consider things like passenger comfort and gas mileage before committing to a specific vehicle.

You'll likely be spending hours in the car, so you want to be comfortable and have plenty of space. Large windows can also make a road trip more enjoyable and easier to appreciate sweeping vistas and other natural settings. If your road trip itinerary heads South, insure your vehicle also has air conditioning so you can stay comfortable.

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Finally, don't forget about music. The right playlist is key to setting the mood for your trip and passengers in the car. Consider creating a collaborative playlist on Spotify or a similar music-sharing application, giving each passenger a set number of songs so every musical taste is accounted for.

Prepare Your Car

Before setting out, be sure to prepare your car. Make sure your vehicle is clean, well maintained and ready to cover some serious miles.

Begin by making sure the windows are clean. One clever way to do this is to mix together some white vinegar, washing up liquid and hot water. Take some scrunched up newspaper and use this to wash the windows with the solution for sparkling clean windows.

To remove dust and dirt that may be stuck in window crevasses or cup holders, warp some tape around your hand sticky side out. Push this into the small spaces to collect dust on the tape.

Keep your car clear by installing a handy trash container. Plastic cereal containers can work really well because they can be sealed shut, which prevents smells from leaking out.

You can even maximize space by storing things on the interior of your roof. Instead of having a roof rack on the outside of your car, consider attaching a bungee net to the top of the inside of your roof to carry extra clothes and other non-bulky items.

Plan Your Adventure

Be sure to spend some time planning your route based on miles covered per day. Think about how long you want to be in the car each day, consider how many days you have available, and plan an itinerary around that.

Most importantly, be sure to plan a route that hits side roads and takes you off the beaten path. Remember, road trips are all about seeing the countryside and exploring the country beyond highways, McDonalds and gas stations.

Consider making a small investment in a real, paper map. Use this to map out a general route together with your travel partners. Having something physical to reference can be fun, as well as practical if you're traveling in remote areas with limited mobile connectivity.

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Here's a preliminary packing checklist to get you started for hitting the open road this spring.

Packing List: Aviators, flip-flops, cooler stocked with ice and soft drinks, Maps, GPS, emergency car kit (jack, flashlight, spare tire), first aid kit, snacks, and games to keep the children entertained. Don't forget to include your playlist and phone charger!

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Big White Luxury Log Castle Crafted From Centuries-Old Trees (PHOTOS)

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big white log cabin

A custom-built castle in B.C.'s Okanagan region is taking "log cabin" to a whole 'nother level.

The 10,000 sq.-ft. home, located at the Big White Ski Resort southeast of Kelowna, has a hefty price tag of $9.2 million but comes with some impressive pedigree.

Pioneer Log Homes — the B.C. company featured on the HGTV reality show "Timber Kings" — crafted the mansion out of massive old-growth cedar logs, salvaged from storms, oceans, and fires, according to the Sotheby's International Realty listing.

Almost 30 logging trucks transported the centuries-old logs to Williams Lake where Pioneer is based, realtor Justin O'Connor told CBC News. The home was built there before being shipped to Big White and re-assembled.

big white log cabin kitchen

O'Connor said the owners are selling the property because they're too busy travelling around the world to spend much time there, CBC reported.

There are only four bedrooms — but the master suite is bigger than some condos at 1,400 square feet!

A triple-faced stone fireplace, wine cellar, stone staircases with motion-sensor lighting are among the home's features, not to mention being able to ski right in and out to the mountain.

With a castle like this, who needs to go anywhere else?

See photos of the White Spirit Lodge, and other Timber King projects:




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Tofino, B.C. Named Reader's Choice For Best Spring Trip By National Geographic Travel

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The remote hamlet of Tofino, B.C. has landed a big endorsement through National Geographic Travel's annual list of the world's best vacation spots for spring.

The serene spot on Vancouver Island was named reader's choice by the iconic magazine.

Tofino is sought after for its gorgeous beachfront resorts and fine dining. There's also ample opportunity for visitors to go surfing, camping, fishing, kayaking, hiking... basically to enjoy everything B.C. has to offer.

But the activity that helped nab the coveted reader's choice title? Whale-watching.

“We watch whales from the beach sometimes,” Jeff Mikus, co-owner of Tofino’s Wildside Grill, told National Geographic. “You could be sitting in the Point Restaurant having dinner and watch the whales go by.”

Tofino's whale-watching season officially kicks off Saturday, coinciding with the annual Pacific Rim Whale Watching Festival. The event's website estimates that 20,000 grey whales pass by the coast of Tofino every year.

National Geographic is fond of B.C.

Earlier this year, the family-run Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort in the Great Bear Rainforest was chosen by National Geographic as one of its unique lodges of the world.

And last year, secluded Haida Gwaii was included in the magazine’s list of must-see places in the world for 2015.

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Time To Thai One On Edmonton!

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With so many tempting Thai restaurants in town, the delicious debate over who's serving up crave-worthy curry or the most phenomenal Pad Thai has been raging on in River City for some time now. When you provide savoury, sweet, spicy and serious sensuality all in one meal, Thai may just be the total culinary package. So ditch doing the dishes tonight, and just say "Phuket, let's do Thai." It's a good day to live free and Thai hard, Edmonton.

Lan's Asian Grill
A true cult favourite amongst YEG Yelpers, Lan's owner Tom and his partner Trudy, truly bring something special to this NAIT neighbourhood resto, and that something special is love. Famed as much for the home made limeade as they are for the Tom Yum soup and green curry dish.

Numchok Wilai
It's easy to get curried away at this yelpy 124th Street hot spot! Check out the daily lunch special -- 12 different menu items like Pa-Nang chicken or beef, with lemongrass soup, veggie spring rolls and rice, all for only $12.95. That is Thai-no-mite my friends!

Thai Orchid
Slurp up the sensations of Siam in this quaint south side spot. From captivating Barbie dolls at the front counter dressed in traditional Thai outfits, to the menu created from family recipes, Thai Orchid is something special. Try out a jay (vegetarian) dish or two, so good even the biggest carnivores love them.

Boualouang Laos & Thai Cuisine
Oh so spicy, but so darn tasty! Boualouang has a reputation for tasty Thai that is hot, hot, hot! If you can't take the heat, you'd better stay out of the kitchen. Well, even if you can take the heat, you probably shouldn't enter the kitchen. Just make sure to save room for their coveted mango ice cream with sticky rice for dessert.

Viphalay
This family run business is based on sharing the wonderful culture that the Mounma family grew up with: one that is centered on incredible food and a strong sense of community. And now with two locations, (Viphalay, near the Stadium, and now downtown), there is twice the spice and the love for this Laos and Thai eatery. Make sure to order the coconut rice with whatever dish you get, Yelpers all agree -- it's en-Thai-cing.

Thai Flavours
Who says there's no Thai in the Wild, Wild West-end? Thai Flavours has brought some serious heat to the suburbs. With daily specials like Massamun and Panang curry for $12.95 all day long, a slew of stir fries, and even a Thai inspired Caesar on the cocktail menu, this place has got it going on!

Syphay Restaurant
From mixing exotic ingredients to create incredible flavours, to combining their first names to come up with the business name, owners Sye and Phay's dynamite establishments are definitely an E-town fave. Go a little crazy and swap your usual rice out for their pineapple fried-rice.

The King & I Thai Cuisine
For over 17 years, Edmontonians have been tickling their taste buds at this Whyte Ave dining room. Serving upscale eats with tantalizing dishes like regional curries in a plethora of colours, and tiger prawns that are so big, jumbo just barely describes them. This place is definitely fit for a King... & I!

This article was compiled by Jennie Marshall, Community Manager for Yelp Edmonton, @yelpedmonton.

Meet the Youngest Pilot to Fly Around the World Solo

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If you've ever thought a dream was too big to achieve or an idea too ridiculous to pursue, look to Matt Guthmiller to inspire you to your highest ambitions. Guthmiller, a sophomore at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, spent his summer vacation last year flying around the world. On his own. In a single-engine plane more than a decade older than him. With little cargo other than a fuel tank and a stash of Oreos and Coke to satisfy his mid-air hunger.

Inspired by another young pilot who accomplished the same feat, Guthmiller set out to become the youngest person to ever accomplish the feat of flying solo around the world. He accomplished it on July 14, 2014, when he returned to his starting point in San Diego. He brought back to California stories of his journey -- Athens was his favourite place, Cairo where he had the most fun -- and a profound sense that anything can be accomplished with enough determination and courage.

"I sat down and put together how I could do it, then I went ahead and tried to make it happen. I think others can take that away from what I've done. They can go have some big ambitious goal and break it down and map out a plan, and then go do it," Guthmiller told me over the phone.

Prior to the trip, Guthmiller had to get his pilot's licence -- which he did on his 17th birthday -- and raise funds for his trip and then gain enough hours in flight to feel comfortable he could succeed. He needed to convince his parents he was serious, too. His dad would ask him what time he planned to be home for dinner, among other sarcastic remarks. "But when I put it together, they were excited and supportive," the South Dakota-born Guthmiller says. He carried a satellite pack phone and could text his parents daily while he was in the air on the 1981 Beechcraft A36 bonanza. It is a six-seat plane that has a cruising speed of up to 203 miles per hour.

On May 31, he took off from San Diego and spent 44 days circling the planet. Each day, he mapped his flight path, aiming to go as far as his fuel would take him. He flew approximately 10 hours per day and 170 hours in total. As his trek gained notoriety, cheerleaders would arrive to greet him and urge him on.

"People would take me out for dinner and show me around town. In London, a couple of pilots who had flown a plane to Australia and back met up to take me out. In Rome, a pilot took the day off work to show me all the sites there. In Manila, an aviation company sponsored my trip there and welcomed me. More people welcomed me in the Philippines than when I got back to San Diego," he says with a chuckle.

See Vacay.ca for Photos of Matthew Guthmiller and His Plane

Seeing the world turned out to be a scholarly exercise for the electrical engineering and science student. "There are so many different customs and different ways of doing things, but ultimately it's all just one big world of all the same ideas. There are islands, deserts, mountains, but when it comes down to it they look the same. Whether you fly over the South Pacific or the Mediterranean, it's all kind of the same," Guthmiller says, adding that his best memories were of the time he spent on the ground. "My favourite part of the whole experience was all of these incredibly friendly, helpful people all over the world."

While he was thousands of feet high, there were tense moments. On a flight from India to Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, he had to fly around "a bunch of thunderstorms" and the time it took to avoid the torrential weather put his fuel supply at risk. A predicament that him sweating through that leg of his trip. His longest flight was 16.5 hours, from American Samoa to Hilo, Hawaii, a journey along the equator that had non-stop storms and plenty of anxious moments.

"All the big airliners can see where thunderstorms are and can go around them. I didn't have that kind of technology. A few times I had to see the clouds before I could react, then I was getting tossed all over the place. I had to figure out how to get around it. Sometimes that would add a couple of hours to the flight," says the Guinness record-holder. "You try to avoid the frightening situations. It is nerve wracking and you wonder, 'Am I ever going to get around this?'"

Guthmiller survived all the dangerous moments, though. He keeps a website, Limitless-Horizons.org, where you can visit to see a map that shows his stops and itineraries on his journey, which cost $150,000. Along with his school responsibilities, Guthmiller has made speaking appearances to discuss his trip. He raises money for Code.org, which supports computer science education.

"It's cool to have done," Guthmiller says of his feat. "I hope other people see it and are inspired to do something like it themselves."

March 16-22 Is Canada Water Week - Let's Celebrate!

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Someone recently asked me if I knew what watershed I lived in. I live in the Humber River watershed. My wish for Canada Water Week is that every Canadian across the country knows which watershed they live in.

Every Canadian is connected to a river through its watershed -- no matter where you live in Canada. Knowing your local waters is a good first step to caring about the health of the local lakes, rivers and streams that you're connected to.

"Know your H2O" is also the national Canada Water Week theme this year -- as Canadians across the country celebrate with river film festivals, watershed friendly yard campaigns, water-themed concerts, eco art exhibits and even yoga by the river. Check out the event listings to find out what local water events are taking place near you.

At WWF, we'll be celebrating the unsung heroes working tirelessly across Canada to support the health of Canada's water. Join us this week to hear the stories of our Loblaw Water Fund grantees and others. They're working to save turtles in the Thames River, restore habitat for ancient sturgeon, protect "Hope Spots" for tree frogs, and more.

So dive in! Follow us on Facebook to test your water knowledge, download a Canada Water Week toolkit for your workplace, and read and share our water hero stories.

My hope is that you will find out what watershed you live in too, then join us in the celebration!

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Killer Whale Video From Kayak Shows How Fast They Attack

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If you ever find yourself betting on a fight between a killer whale and a sea lion, yes, you will want to side with the whale.

A video shot near Hornby Island, B.C. and uploaded to YouTube last week shows just how quickly orcas can kill.

The footage shows a pod of orcas on the hunt with a helpless sea lion's final moments in slow motion.



If that wasn't enough to give you the shivers, the video was shot from a kayak. (Presumably by a paddler with nerves of steel.)

On Friday, a Vancouver Island man caught another pod of whales on camera mid-feast. Chad Giesbrecht told CBC News the orcas "were close enough that they could nip your feet."

The videos are just the latest orca encounters in B.C.

The animals caused quite a stir in Vancouver last week when a pod cruised through the Burrard Inlet through to Stanley Park.

Another B.C. sighting captured northern resident orcas giving themselves soothing massages by rubbing along smooth rocks near Discovery Islands.

This most recent video, however, is a stark reminder that orcas aren't placid tourists or spa junkies — they're respectable hunters, first and foremost.

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Vancouver's Stanley Park Herons Go Live On A Webcam

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The public will be able to get up close and personal with Stanley Park's herons when the Vancouver Park Board launches a webcam to stream their lives today at 10 a.m. PT.


The park is home to one of North America's largest urban heron colonies and the camera will take viewers right inside their nests in the trees near the park board's head office at 2099 Beach Avenue.


The webcam will broadcast the long-legged Pacific great blue herons as they go about their daily lives — courting, mating, laying eggs and hatching in early April.


Heron cam viewers can ask an expert about the birds on Twitter at #herontalk.


Last year the heron colony had 116 nests and produced 131 fledgling herons. Herons have been nesting in the park since at least 1921.


There are about 4,000 to 5,000 herons in Canada and the Pacific great blue heron has been designated a "special concern" under the Species at Risk Act.



You can find the live webcam stream by clicking here.

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BC Ferries Proposes 1.9 Per Cent Fare Hike Over 4 Years

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VICTORIA - The commissioner of BC Ferries has proposed fare increases capped at 1.9 per cent per year over four years — from April 2016 to March 2020.

Gord Macatee said he based his decision on lower fuel prices and reduced executive compensation, which is now in line with several Crown corporations.

He said that four years ago, BC Ferries customers were facing the possibility of fares rising by as much as 80 per cent on some routes.

Executive pay at BC Ferries has declined significantly, from $3 million in 2009 to $1.8 million last year, Macatee said in a report issued Wednesday.

Under the current system, half of that compensation is based on performance and the rest comes from achieving corporate financial targets, he said.

"Cost control has been achieved while obtaining good outcomes with customer satisfaction and passenger and employee safety."

Transportation Minister Todd Stone said the price cap of 1.9 per cent a year is the lowest since 2003.

Cost reductions by BC Ferries, the government's historic investment last year of $180 million, which will be ongoing, the elimination of sailings in smaller communities and cutting a seniors' discount helped get fares under control. he said.

BC Ferries was headed for a further $1.2-billion shortfall without such measures, Stone said, adding travellers could have faced fare increases of eight per cent a year for 12 years.

"We said in November of 2013 that our overriding objective and our vision for coastal ferries was to get fares where they were trending at the rate of inflation. At the time we thought that it was probably going to take another four years to achieve that," he said.

However, Stone said fare increases in the last eight years have made ferry travel unaffordable though more people, especially Americans, are now starting to use ferries because of the drop in the Canadian dollar and a stronger U.S. economy.

By 2017, five ferries will be powered by LNG and save a total of $12 million a year for 27 years, he said.

Stone said the province is working with the federal government in trying to get more financial support for ferries.

"We do believe that there may be an opportunity to look at some of the required crewing levels that are mandated by Transport Canada," he said. "Crewing levels are significantly higher than those in other neighbouring jurisdictions like in Washington state and the Alaska ferry system as well."

The public is invited to comment on the fare proposal until June 30, and a final decision will be made in September.

The independent BC Ferry Commission regulates fares charged by BC Ferries.



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Northern Lights Video Made In Whistler Captures The Dancing Sky

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One of our favourite B.C. photographers has done it again.

David McColm captured a spectacular time-lapse video of the northern lights in Whistler Monday night/early Tuesday (watch above).

Even the experienced shooter was stunned by the display, writing: "And what a show it was — simply the most impressive display of northern lights I have ever experienced in Whistler … and fortunately, I have seen many in Whistler!"

northern lights whistler

A severe solar storm made the aurora borealis more beautiful than usual, visible throughout the northern hemisphere.

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