'You could totally hitch-hike' Is what we are consistently told when we enquire how to get somewhere on the island. Much to the disapproval of Canadians, but I'm sure relief of our mothers we have yet to stand on the side of the motorway, thumbs outstretched to the passing traffic. We are however accepting lifts from strangers that we meet in hostels.
So, despite the humble town of Tofino's best efforts to keep under it's population quota by two, we have eventually managed to set foot in this BEAUTIFUL town - (it deserves every capital). Every which way you turn offers spectacular views. Mountains layered upon snow capped mountains. Tall standing fir trees encased by glistening lakes. Nearby islands that encapsulate the charm of an ancient era long gone. It's a masterpiece! Our hostel even has a sauna. We've explored forbidden beaches and unearthed Canada's FINEST ice cream - (it too deserves every capital).
Our day began bright and early. We packed our bags in silence:
Electrical equipment adorning sandwich bag poncho's (years of watching Blue Peter finally paying off) - Check!
Swimwear (didn't bring any) - never mind - Check!
Travel sickness pills (not that there's any helping me) - Check!
We set sail. No sooner had our vessel left the harbour my hair was entangled from the sea breeze racing through it and I was reaching for the sick bag - Pretty image. Why would I put myself through such torture you ask? Grey Whales - google that image, it is pretty! My queasiness was temporarily suppressed as we scanned the surface of the water, surveying the horizon. It didn't take long. First, the sound of a blow hole clearing, everyone's heads turned to catch the spurting water being flung high into the sky. Then another, and another.... all in quick succession. Mouths gaping, we watched as their grey mass broke the surface of the water, as it formed a lone island that was delicately rising. I looked around. We were accompanied by the rising sun reflecting off the waves. Mountain peaks peered over a tree covered coastline. Giant tails were the last to leave the surface before elegantly disappearing into the depths, without a trace. We were lucky enough to observe several of these majestic creatures on their migration.
As we drew closer to our destination we encountered more and more islands crammed with vegetation. So with the Jurassic Park theme tune repeating in my head we stepped onto dry land. It was a short walk through the dense forest with its canopies looming over us. I couldn't help but think we were travelling further into the pre-cretaceous period. In fact, I half expected to see a stegosaurus saunter past us, much to my disappointment, it didn't. We finally arrived where the rainforest met the ocean. I felt that like an intrepid explorer emerging from an expedition. Truth be told it was a half hour walk through the foliage, but as we stepped out into the sunshine it felt epic!
Our journey back was another wildlife extravaganza with lots to see on the menu. Bald eagles flew overhead as sea otters fleetingly popped up to say hello. Curiosity sooner got the better of them and they shortly re-emerged trying to decipher our intentions. A short glance in their direction and they'd vanish, quick as a flash. Best of all we observed California and Steller seals upon a remote island. They continually scrambled over each other, I can only assume they were fighting to get the best tan. What a feast!
Fun Recipe: During our travels lunch can sometimes be problematic as we are often on the move. Tins of baked beans or tuna were a staple throughout Asia with their handy ring pulls, but with shoddy can openers in Canada I was forced to think outside the tin can. It can provide the perfect antidote to travel sickness. May contain nuts. Readers discretion advised.
Take one seeded wrap and liberally apply the peanut butter of your choosing be it smooth/crunchy with or without maple syrup. (An optional but recommended layer of strawberry jam can be applied at this stage).
Peel the banana of your desired maturity and position said banana upon wrap... roll...enjoy!
So, despite the humble town of Tofino's best efforts to keep under it's population quota by two, we have eventually managed to set foot in this BEAUTIFUL town - (it deserves every capital). Every which way you turn offers spectacular views. Mountains layered upon snow capped mountains. Tall standing fir trees encased by glistening lakes. Nearby islands that encapsulate the charm of an ancient era long gone. It's a masterpiece! Our hostel even has a sauna. We've explored forbidden beaches and unearthed Canada's FINEST ice cream - (it too deserves every capital).
Electrical equipment adorning sandwich bag poncho's (years of watching Blue Peter finally paying off) - Check!
Swimwear (didn't bring any) - never mind - Check!
Travel sickness pills (not that there's any helping me) - Check!
We set sail. No sooner had our vessel left the harbour my hair was entangled from the sea breeze racing through it and I was reaching for the sick bag - Pretty image. Why would I put myself through such torture you ask? Grey Whales - google that image, it is pretty! My queasiness was temporarily suppressed as we scanned the surface of the water, surveying the horizon. It didn't take long. First, the sound of a blow hole clearing, everyone's heads turned to catch the spurting water being flung high into the sky. Then another, and another.... all in quick succession. Mouths gaping, we watched as their grey mass broke the surface of the water, as it formed a lone island that was delicately rising. I looked around. We were accompanied by the rising sun reflecting off the waves. Mountain peaks peered over a tree covered coastline. Giant tails were the last to leave the surface before elegantly disappearing into the depths, without a trace. We were lucky enough to observe several of these majestic creatures on their migration.
We had reached the hot springs. The waterfall cascaded down the rocks forming pools, all the while whisps of steam clung to the surface of the water. I was reminded of opening the freezer door on a hot summers day.... but this was back to front?! The steam lingered around the coastline - it looked ludicrous! So, with the numbing winter air surrounding us there was only one thing to do.... strip to our undies. We tip toed across the rocks and reached the base of the waterfall. Big toe tested the waters... Boiling. However, we soon became accustomed to the searing heat and rather enjoyed submerging ourselves in the hot water. It was mesmerising listening to the icy waves from the ocean crashing over the rocks just down from where we were sat.
Our journey back was another wildlife extravaganza with lots to see on the menu. Bald eagles flew overhead as sea otters fleetingly popped up to say hello. Curiosity sooner got the better of them and they shortly re-emerged trying to decipher our intentions. A short glance in their direction and they'd vanish, quick as a flash. Best of all we observed California and Steller seals upon a remote island. They continually scrambled over each other, I can only assume they were fighting to get the best tan. What a feast!
Fun Recipe: During our travels lunch can sometimes be problematic as we are often on the move. Tins of baked beans or tuna were a staple throughout Asia with their handy ring pulls, but with shoddy can openers in Canada I was forced to think outside the tin can. It can provide the perfect antidote to travel sickness. May contain nuts. Readers discretion advised.
Take one seeded wrap and liberally apply the peanut butter of your choosing be it smooth/crunchy with or without maple syrup. (An optional but recommended layer of strawberry jam can be applied at this stage).
Peel the banana of your desired maturity and position said banana upon wrap... roll...enjoy!
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