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See, Do, Eat All Things
Mikaela Judd, Editor
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go exploring. I invite you to
do the same.
Because one of the
things. Eat all the things. I decided most
delightful things
these were my 2019 goals on a
about a late-winter storm
mild day in mid-December.
is how it freshens up the
region. Hiking trails are
But Mother Nature is a fickle
mistress. She brought a late season given a crispness. Chefs
inspired by the arrival
snowpocalypse that threw a wrench in many are
of new crops. Classic vistas
a Pacific Northwesterner’s plans — including often hold onto lingering
mine. We were snowed in for 10 days and
snowcaps. It really is a
season unlike any other
without power for five.
— particularly in Victoria
where gardens abound and
While I was postponed in my goals,
pedestrian-friendly streets make explor-
dissuaded I am not. A born and raised
ing a delight.
Seattleite, I’ve learned not to let a little
Now is the time to see tulips in full
weather delay stop my adventure-hun-
bloom. I’m certain if seasons were as-
gry soul. Which is why I find myself
signed a flower mascot, the tulip would
welcoming the arrival of spring with
be spring’s, a fact the BC capital embrac-
added exuberance and determination to
es with gusto. You’ll find a plethora of
EE ALL THE THINGS. DO all the
E
R
them throughout this stunning destina-
tion, including the 200-acre Beacon Hill
Park nestled beside the downtown core
(p. 20) and The Butchart Gardens (p.
26), a quintessential experience for any
Victoria trip.
Flowers aren’t all the northern gem
has to offer, something we discovered
while exploring Victoria’s breweries
and gastropubs (p. 21). Though small
in comparison to the thriving metrop-
olis’ in Seattle and Vancouver, Victoria’s
developed a substantial collection of
toast-worthy pours. (Cheers to that!)
Like its brewmasters, Victoria chefs
are also bringing big flavor bombs,
a fact which is abundantly apparent
at the Victoria Public Market (p. 24).
The in-door market is home to several
local eateries that range from savory to
sweet, with bites so decadent you might
need a nap after.
Plus, don’t miss Lisette
Wolter-McKinley’s first-hand guide to a
luxurious long-weekend in Victoria (p.
46). Her delightful recommendations
not only highlight exciting things to do
in the city, but showcase fun adventures
up the island’s coast.
While it’s easy to quickly become
smitten with Victoria, I encourage you
not to overlook the rest of the region.
(Remember, we’re on a mission to eat,
see, and do all the things.) Destinations
like Orcas Island are home to James
Beard nominated chefs, rave-worthy day
hikes, and luxurious clothing-optional
spas (p. 34). Lopez offers some of the
best biking (p. 28). And, San Juan Island
is home to one of the world’s top land-
based whale watching outposts (p. 22).
Sure, weather delays can force even
the most determined among us to call
an audible. (If it does, consider visiting
the Museum of Flight (p. 26), an indoor
museum filled with historical aircraft
and interactive exhibits.) But with some
many things to eat, see, and do, don’t
let small a hiccup keep you down. Join
me in layering up and getting out to
explore.