Inflight Magazine for Pacific Coastal Airlines SNOW WITH the FLOW! It’s snow time in BC
CARIBOO STRONG Williams Lake exhibit revisits the 2017 wildfires
ON TAP! Something’s brewing in the West Kootenays
December/January 2020/21 | Volume 14 | Number 6 Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com • Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com Cove facilities. Premier shingregion formoorage adjacent oceanfrontlotswithapproval Professional build, new home warranty. On one of three Spacious rooms, lotsofwindows, fulloceansidedeck. andwalkoutbasement. style withmainlevelentry New Quatsino Quatsino SoundAcreage:4 Close toBCmainlandandButeInlet. Bay ontheSEendofisland.Mermaid Islands. Propertyisfullyforestedinhealthysecondgrowth. areaintheDiscovery Phenomenalactivetidalwater Dent Island Acreage: 80.7 acresonDentIsland, eastendofCorderoChannel. Encompassestheentiresouthernandwesternshorelinespluswell-protected two cabins. shingregion. Great distance tothecommunitydock. Zoningpermitsupto to thelot. roadaccesstotheproperty,Village walking forest,in secondgrowth drilledwell, hydroelectricpower Winter Harbour Oceanfront: NW Vancouver Island. Vancouver NW Oceanfront: Harbour Winter Oceanfront Island Residence: 7 agreement. Inthe light,natural throughout. beautiful wood features shed. Detachedshopandlarge wood storage Sharedprotectedmoorage. Comprehensive shareholders/co-ownership which is part of the boat access community of accesscommunityof whichispartoftheboat 1664 onnorthwest sqft new home, modern contemporary Discovery Islands Discovery Vancouver Island www.bcoceanfront.com
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Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com • Great Choices for Recreational Use & Year-round Living • www.bcoceanfront.com • Living Year-round & Use Recreational for Choices Great • www.bcoceanfront.com • Living Year-round & Use Recreational for Choices Great DISCOVER BC’S UNESCO GLOBAL Geopark this winter!
CONTENTS Cover: Big White Ski Resort. Big White Cover:
Features Departments 9 A WINTER DISCOVERY: 18 CARIBOO STRONG 4 UP FRONT UNESCO Global Geopark 2017 wild res exhibit President’s Message 11 SNOW YOUR OWN WAY! 6 MEET A PCA EMPLOYEE It’s snow time in BC 22 ON TAP! Find your new beer style in the 6 AROUND BC 15 SOAKING IN THE SENSES West Kootenays News from Paci c Coastal Whistler’s Scandinave Spa Airlines
Group Publisher Penny Sakamoto, [email protected] - 250.480.3204 Advertising • Patty Doering, [email protected] - 250.480.3244 • Ruby Della Siega, [email protected] - 250.480.3222 Managing Editor Susan Lundy, [email protected] • Natasha Gri ths, natasha.gri [email protected] - 250.902.8040 Creative Director Lily Chan | Graphic Design Janice Marshall, Michelle Gjerde • Mario Gedicke, [email protected] - 250.891.5627 • Vicki Clark, [email protected] - 250.588.2424
Published by Black Press | www.blackpress.ca • 818 Broughton Street , Victoria, BC V8W 1E4 SOAR magazine is published six times per year and is distributed on all Paci c Coastal Airlines ights. The points of view or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily re ect the views of the publisher or Paci c Coastal Airlines. The contents of SOAR magazine are protected by copyright, including the designed advertising. Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher.
Black Press Media Brand Assets Guide
INTERNAL DOCUMENT Version 1.0 - May 2018 Your Lakeside Resort in the City!
Model A Inn in Cranbrook, is situated on the Strip and convenient to Tamarack Centre and Cranbrook Golf and Country Club.
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December/January 2020/21 | 3 | paci ccoastal.com — PORT HARDY’S PREMIER — First Nations’ Destination Hotel ADAPTING TO COVID-19 AND THE NEW WORLD OF TRAVEL MESSAGE PRESIDENT’S
s many of you are aware, COV- Since we returned our scheduled ID-19 has had a massive impact service, we have introduced additional on the travel industry and, in safety measures, including a mandatory particular, the aviation sector. In mask policy, enhanced aircraft sanita- AMarch, we made the decision to imple- tion practices, physical distancing and Plan a trip and stay at the brand new Kwa’ lilas First Nation’s Hotel ment a temporary suspension of Paci c hand-sanitizer stations at airport facilities, Coastal network operations. Following reduced contact between customers and government and healthcare o cial’s sta , and a health check questionnaire at guidance, on June 1, we reinitiated our check-in. We have currently suspended scheduled service with many enhanced the o ering of our in- ight magazine FEATURING safety practices to ensure the health and to reduce unnecessary contact. Moving well-being of our customers, employees forward, you can expect to receive SOAR > 85 guestrooms and the communities that we serve. magazine as a digital publication that > meeting space can be viewed on our website or your > curated selection of There is no historical precedence or personal mobile device. authentic local data to forecast the pace at which the Aboriginal art demand for air travel will return. As a I want to thank all of our custom- > High Speed Wifi business, we can only move forward as ers, partners and employees for your > Licensed Ha’me Restaurant we adapt to the new world of travel. We continued understanding, patience and > Nax’id Pub support. We all have a role to play in will continue to monitor the demand > K’awat’si Tours throughout our network and publish ensuring safe and responsible travel in schedule changes on our website in British Columbia. advance to provide customers with a reli- Stay safe, stay healthy and thank you able schedule to book with con dence for choosing to y with us. and make travel plans accordingly.
BOOK NOW! Quentin Smith For Reservations Call 1-855-949-8525 [email protected] • www.kwalilashotel.ca December/January 2020/21 | 4 | paci ccoastal.com Port Hardy, British Columbia — PORT HARDY’S PREMIER — First Nations’ Destination Hotel
Plan a trip and stay at the brand new Kwa’ lilas First Nation’s Hotel
FEATURING > 85 guestrooms > meeting space > curated selection of authentic local Aboriginal art > High Speed Wifi > Licensed Ha’me Restaurant > Nax’id Pub > K’awat’si Tours
BOOK NOW! For Reservations Call 1-855-949-8525 [email protected] • www.kwalilashotel.ca Port Hardy, British Columbia experience inights.experience day by giving themthe bestpossible such joy to beableto touch someone’s givesbabies andsmallchildren. me It from passengers, elderly mothers with withpeoplefromnect allwalks oflife — I amgrateful to have thechanceto con- nameplate has My “I care” onit. printed What doyou like thisjob? about best time ieswhenyou’re ying. 20 years inthisindustry, itistruethat meant to be. Andtherest ishistory. After fell into placeasifitwas but everything wasn’ta localairline. It my rstchoice, ation, my invited friend meto applyto breakdegree. gradu- after ashort During Initially, Igraduated withanursing job? What path didyou take to getthis pines. Philip- andraisedinManila, I wasborn you grow up? Where were you andwhere born did arise. situations asthey secure thecabinandhandleemergency Imonitor,customer service. manageand to passengers, whileproviding thebest guide andassistfor safety andcomfort role isto primary My description: Job Time withPaci c Coastal: 2years Flight Attendant /Calgary, AB ARLENE BALITOS EMPLOYEE PACIFIC COASTAL MEET A
Photo courtesy Apex Adventure Plex AROUND BC nounced that, after monthsofcare- nounced that, after George Folkfest have an- Society PRINCE GEORGE: is happening! Coldsnap 2021 safety measures online. ing. Learn more abouttheadditional questionsbeforehealth-check board- travel withafacemaskandanswer the requirement for allcustomers to facilities, reducedpointsand contact practices, physical distancingatairport include enhancedaircraft sanitation of sta andcustomers. The measures to ensure thehealthandwellbeing adopted additionalsafety measures counters. airport online check-in orcheck-in atoneofan during within 24hoursofdeparture customers choosingavailable seats isavailable for selection ight. Seat all in advancefor $5perpassenger, per have theirseat theoptionto select ers travelling onallotherfares will Fares andQuikPass Encore. Custom- to customers travelling onEncoretary theairline’scontacting Call Centre. has beenmadeby goingonlineorby theirreservation aseatafter also select process.line booking Customers may available for theon- customers during their preferred seatonouraircraft.” tomers will valuetheoptionto choose mercial services. believe thatcus- “We Paci c Coastal’s vicepresident ofcom- Airlines,” Richardson, saidJohnathan troduce atPaci c seatselection Coastal e ective November 30. network, for scheduledightswithinthePCA options seat-selection duced new RICHMOND: option seat-selection PCA annoucesnew December/January 2020/21 | December/January The board and sta ofPrince Paci c hasalso Coastal Airlines willbecomplimen- selection Seat The optionwillbe seat-selection hasbeenalong-timegoalto in- “It Paci c hasintro- Coastal Airlines 6 | paci ccoastal.com tickets. protocols andwhen how to buy lineup, schedule,artist venues, safety snapfestival.com, for detailsonthe volunteers. our funders, sponsors, members and we have receivedthe support from planning for Coldsnap 2021withall excitedwe are andgrateful very to be ible inourpresentation andplans. But thatwe needto stayplease know ex- volunteers andsta isparamount,so safety ofouraudience, artists, “The live audience,” say festival organizers. do mostoralloftheseonlinewithno now we althoughright planto week, daytime the outreach during series funders andsponsors!. ofthesociety’sat nocharge, courtesy streamed onlineplatforms onvarious the music, alltheshows willbelive- the numberofpeoplethatcanenjoy world. entertainment To maximize lated withsafety consultantsfrom the following current PHOs, andformu- fully developed safety planisinplace, with alive audience(ifpossible)!A intermission. a maximumof90minutes withno perevening show for performers two throughout thefestival with week, plans to present live musicshows reasonable price. ticket The society bypermitted PHOs—attheusual front ofasmall-but-live audience—if be announcedsoon. aswell asthevenues,performers, will BCandvisiting exceptional Northern 29andFebruary 6. ary The lineupof festival Janu- willhappenbetween music festival! edition ofthefamedColdsnap live exciting, safe 2021 andcomfortable orders planto (PHOs),they present an consideration ofprovincial health ful deliberation,consultationand Watch thefestival website, cold- willalsopresent ourfamous “We Also ontapis “Coldsnap for Kids” The planisto present live musicin The Prince George winter music
GRIZZLY BEARS: TEACHERS OF THE LAND A new art exhibit explores the lessons of the Grizzly
or Indigenous peoples in North As a keystone species, saving the Bateman’s 90th birthday!” America, the grizzly is a teacher. grizzly and conserving its habitat not Many of the artists featured in the Knowledge of it strengthens our only creates sustainable natural land- exhibit have original paintings, prints relationship with the land, guides scapes, but helps to enrich our own and art cards available in the Bateman Fstewardship and o ers insights into human- lives as co-inhabitants of our shared Gallery Shop, which also stocks Grizzly ity. By observing a society so outwardly lands. Bear Foundation merchandise. All sales di erent from our own, through reverence Nicholas Scapillati, executive direc- support the artists, grizzly bear conser- and kinship, we grow closer to nding our tor of the Grizzly Bear Foundation, vation e orts, and the philanthropic place within the whole. said: “The Grizzly Bear Foundation is work of the Bateman Foundation. Grizzly Bears: Teachers of the Land proud to partner with the Bateman Grizzly Bears: Teachers of the Land is a brand new exhibit at the Bate- Foundation on this one-of-a-kind will be at the Bateman Gallery until man Gallery in downtown Victoria, on exhibition celebrating an icon of the January 23, running alongside a new Lekwungen Territory, produced by the North American wilderness: the grizzly permanent exhibit, The World of Robert Bateman Foundation and the Grizzly bear. This culturally and ecologically Bateman, which celebrates the career Bear Foundation. It features work from important species captures our hearts of the iconic Canadian artist. The gal- more than 20 artists, and includes and imaginations. Through art, griz- lery is open Tuesday to Saturday, 11 paintings, photography and sculptures zlies inspire a sense of wonder and am to 4 pm, with physical distancing that capture this majestic creature strengthen our connection to the wild. protocols in place. A late night open- from a range of perspectives, along- Thank you to all the talented painters, ing takes place on the third Thursday side an immersive storytelling space, sculptors, carvers, photographers and of the month from 4:30 to 7 pm. and a family activity area with drawing artists who have come together to Admission is by donation. materials. celebrate the grizzly bear, and Robert
December/January 2020/21 | 7 | paci ccoastal.com own way! inspiredArt by the natural world.
Background image by Robert Bateman
The Gallery of Nature Gift Shop carries Robert Bateman prints and handmade items by BC artists.
BATEMANFOUNDATION.ORG | 250.940.3630 470 Belleville Street, Victoria, B.C Located on Victoria’s downtown waterfront on the traditional lands of the Songhees & Esquimalt First Nations.
December/January 2020/21 | 8 | pacifi ccoastal.com PRINCE GEORGE own way! inspiredArt by the natural world.
Discover BC’s UNESCO Global Geopark this winter!
By Carleen Nugent kind spot—rich with heritage, cap- ine Trail system is a popular choice s sunshine fades and the last of tivating landscapes and remarkable for many, with the 10-kilometre route the leaves fall, it can mean just biodiversity. showcasing stunning forest views, and Background image by Robert Bateman one thing—winter is here. And, With more than 50 geosites to many interlocking loops letting you when cold weather calls, Canadi- visit year-round, there are numerous turn back whenever you want to. Aans will be the rst to answer! opportunities to connect to the earth Snowmobiling: This year as winter beckons, grab and explore, and activities that reach The Gallery of Nature Gift Shop Ready to rev up the adrenaline your gear and make your way to Tum- far beyond hiking and exploring. With this winter season? Exploring Tumbler bler Ridge Global Geopark, located dropping temperatures, here are a Ridge trails on a snowmobile is a sure- carries Robert Bateman prints and about 4.5 hours from Paci c Coastal few favourite winter festivities to take re way to get your heart pounding! Air’s Prince George destination. advantage of this season. Snaking through the foothills of the handmade items by BC artists. Here are the reasons that it is THE Cross-Country Skiing: Rockies, speeding up hills and racing place to be this winter! With many Nordic trails to choose back down, nd thick layers of white What is a UNESCO Global from for traditional and skate skiing, glistening powder greeting your quest Geopark? Tumbler Ridge has something for all for adventure. BATEMANFOUNDATION.ORG | 250.940.3630 To earn the title of a UNESCO skill levels. Whether you’re in the mood Snowshoeing: for rugged ski mountaineering or if a Global Geopark, an area must have Once the cold weather hits, what cruising trip is more your cup of cocoa, international geological signi cance. was once a summer trail transforms 470 Belleville Street, Victoria, B.C Rare to come by, with only ve in all of nearby hills, valleys and atlands o er Located on Victoria’s downtown waterfront on the into a snowshoer’s paradise, meaning Canada, Tumbler Ridge is a one-of-a- something for everyone. The Wolver- traditional lands of the Songhees & Esquimalt First Nations.
December/January 2020/21 | 9 | paci ccoastal.com there’s a good selection of trails for everyone. If you wait a little longer to strap on your snowshoes, the patience will be well worth it—rivers become frozen highways winding to the base of thundering waterfalls that you can’t reach come summer.
Ice Climbing: As the Waterfall Capital of the North, Tumbler Ridge o ers doz- ens of seeps and falls for climbers to conquer. With so many of these natural wonders throughout the area, you might be the rst to stumble across one—leading your own kind of discovery. Whether you’re on the hunt for a short, easy climb or a challenging technical ascent, you’ll be sure to nd something in your skill range. A popular choice for many in winter is Babcock Falls. Toboganning: There’s nothing quite like sledding down a snowy hill and feeling the rush of this wild winter pass time. Get close and cosy and load up the family together to go soaring down or y solo and send snow spraying!
Before you go: Before you head to Tumbler Ridge this winter, make sure to check local information about conditions, includ- ing snow and avalanche reports. You can nd this information on Tumbler Ridge’s website, or you can visit their Facebook and Twitter pages for activ- ity reports. Also check in advance for CO- VID-19 safety and protocols. Dress warmly, plan ahead, and get ready for a wild winter season! Visit tumbler- ridgegeopark.ca to learn more and plan your visit. This story rst appeared on west- coasttraveller.com. Plan your travel adventures here and on Facebook and Instagram @thewestcoasttraveller.
Ice climbing at Tumbler Ridge.
December/January 2020/21 | 10 | paci ccoastal.com Snow with the flow! Big White Ski Resort.
By Susan Quinn legitimately feel con dent” about the ties or as we nd e ciencies, on an lpine resorts across British season ahead because of the collabo- ongoing basis,” says Cypress Mountain Columbia have re-tooled winter ration of resorts to include COVID-19 president and general manager Russell operations in the wake of the protocols in their operations, mini- Chamberlain. He called for patience, novel coronavirus pandemic mizing risk to guests and sta alike. exibility and understanding this year. Athat hit last year in the prime of the 2019-20 Resorts have posted their protocols on “We are all in this together.” season. their individual websites. All—like oth- This year, many resorts were poised er businesses in BC—require guests to KELOWNA to open on a solid snow season in wear face coverings, wash their hands, early and mid-November when BC’s observe social distancing and not visit Big White medical health o cer temporarily put if they are feeling unwell. Big White is ready for a big season. the brakes on non-essential travel, in- The impact of ski areas in western “Everyone in our resort has done a cluding travel for recreation. Operators Canada accounts for $2.51 billion huge amount of work, we have a really are holding out hope that the travel annually to provincial and national strong and amazing winter product, restrictions will be lifted as the prov- economies, according to a 2018-19 and I want us to convey to our guests ince “attens the curve” on COVID-19. valuation conducted by the CWSAA. that their skiing experience will not be “The adrenaline of opening day is a More than 27,000 employees earned compromised,” president and CEO Pe- favourite part of the year for many of $1.12 billion in wages and bene ts. ter Plimmer wrote in a letter to visitors. us, and admittedly, this year is espe- Resorts were forced to close their Sta spent the o -season working cially signi cant,” wrote Christopher doors last March as Canada’s federal on ways to accommodate COVID-19 Nicolson in a November 2020 Canada government instituted emergency protocols: automatic sliding doors to West Ski Area Association newsletter. measures in the face of the pandemic. reduce contact points, touchless taps The CWSAA is considered the voice of As they work to recover nancially, in public washrooms, and plexiglass the ski industry in western Canada. operators have been quick to adjust to partitions installed in all day lodges. As “The ski season is no longer a the swiftly changing landscape. well, the lodges will be operating at 50 concept or distant abstract viewed “We expect that we may need to per cent seating capacity to abide by through a pandemic haze…it is here make some revisions and adjustments, physical distancing standards. and we are in it.” sometimes day to day, based on the The resort has instituted online-on- Nicolson said the industry “can recommendations of health authori- ly booking for seasons’ passes and day
December/January 2020/21 | 11 | paci ccoastal.com Big White Ski Resort.
Red Mountain Red Mountain was due to open tickets. Walk-ups won’t be accom- Red Mountain is ready for guests. December 12. modated. Rentals must also be pre- With COVID-19 protocols in place, the redresort.com booked online. Lifts will be loaded ski and snowboard experience may according to visitors’ “bubbles.” look a bit di erent this year. CRANBROOK Among the changes for 2020-21 Some of the changes include Fernie and Kimberley Alpine is the lack of express-bus service to having a parking attendant in the Resorts were still formulating their the resort from central Okanagan/ parking lot, the removal of guest opening plans in late November. Kelowna. services’ indoor area and a move to Resorts of the Canadian Rockies Big White was able to keep all its solely outdoors. Visitors are asked to suspended operations March 15 employees despite an early closure boot up before they get to the lodge, and cancelled the remainder of its last ski season; something manage- as indoor boot-up areas have been 2019-20 winter season at all their ment felt was signi cant. removed. With food services, sta western Canadian resorts shortly Big White was due to open No- recommends spreading out the time thereafter. vember 23. you want to eat to avoid a lunch rush. “Here at RCR our No. 1 priority is bigwhite.com Online ordering and reservations the safety, health and well-being of will be available, and there will be our guests, team members and the outdoor seating in some areas. TRAIL communities which we live,” presi-
December/January 2020/21 | 12 | paci ccoastal.com dent and Chief Resorts Officer John Shea said. Grouse Mountain skircr.com Grouse Mountain opened with limited terrain access on November 20. In addition to the requirement of face cov- VANCOUVER ISLAND erings inside all resort facilities, access will only be granted with advanced Skyride reservations. Visitors may reserve Mount Washington Alpine Resort upload and download times as part of their lift ticket “There has never been a time when I anticipated the purchases or with the passholder Skyride reservations. arrival of a winter season more than this year,” Mount Loading of individual chairlifts will be limited to family or Washington Alpine Resort general manager Dean Pren- household groupings. tice said. “The magic of winter—snow silently falling, the grousemountain.com crisp winter air and the excitement of linking turns on every unique run is always special.” Mount Seymour He added: “This year it’s safe to say ‘special’ could be Mt. Seymour has introduced staggered, reservable expanded to include therapeutic. In a sense, we need four-hour time slots on weekend and holidays for visitors this ski season for our emotional and physical wellbeing with season’s passes or purchased lift tickets. This will help as much as for the enjoyment. We believe recreation is manage capacity while keeping to COVID-19 protocols. one of the essential food groups—now more than ever.” All activities at Mt. Seymour will need to be booked and Embracing unexpected changes is going to be critical paid for in advance this year. to a successful ski season, he added. Season’s pass hold- mtseymour.ca ers will be given priority, and capacity will be managed by limiting the number of daily lift tickets, if necessary. Cypress Mountain An online advanced reservation system has been cre- Cypress Mountain on Vancouver’s North Shore was ated in the event terrain is limited. the rst coastal resort to open in 2020-21, opening their Mount Washington was slated to open December 4, downhill area on November 13. Like other resorts, its plan with a base of both natural and man-made snow. is to ease into operations as conditions dictate. Lift tickets mountwashington.ca and tickets to the Gnarly Tube Park need to be purchased in advance. Mount Cain cypressmountain.com Mount Cain is playing its 2020-21 season cautiously. Accommodation bookings were being put on hold until Discover Vancouver Island’s Best mid-November. Opening day was tentatively scheduled for December 12, depending on snow and provincial travel recommendations. The Mount Cain Alpine Park Society has yet to reveal POWDER its COVID-19 operating strategy. mountcain.com
LOWER MAINLAND Whistler Blackcomb “Safety rst” is the mantra at Whistler Blackcomb this season, says Rob Katz, CEO of parent company Vail Re- sorts. In a lengthy letter to stakeholders and visitors, Katz outlines changes to operations during the pandemic and said community health recommendations will drive the winter season. Physical distancing, health screenings and pre- booking are requirements this year, especially in ski and snowboard rental locations. Face coverings are a must throughout the resort. Food options will be a ected this year, depending on restaurant con gurations. Chairlifts and gondolas will be loaded with related parties and physical distancing will be required in lineups. Capacity will be managed through a reservation system. Visit us for your next ski vacation Any changes will be updated on the resorts’ website. 1-888-668-6622 whistlerblackcomb.com www.mountcain.com
December/January 2020/21 | 13 | paci ccoastal.com WHISTLER
Soaking in the Senses
December/January 2020/21 | 14 | pacificcoastal.com Outdoor spa adds to the Whistler experience
By Susan Lundy As we entered the main lodge, we were immedi- Photos courtesy Scaninave Spa and Tourism Whistler ately transported to a place of peace: it seemed as though our entire bodies exhaled. Embraced by the ach of my ves sense comes to life as I move be- building’s beauty and its calm and sweet scent, we tween warm, cold and relax cycles at the outdoor peered through the windows at a ring of forest that Scandinave Spa in Whistler. surrounded grassy-roofed buildings, hot pools and Sitting in the hot pool, I feel the brush of a trickling creek winding its way through the entire Ebreeze on my face and hear a gentle whistle of wind scene. in the spruce trees above me. Moving indoors, and Set within a spruce and cedar forest, and over- now relaxing on a cushiony recliner, I take in the looking Whistler’s white mountain vistas, this beauty of lush foliage seen though oor-to-ceiling 20,000-square-foot outdoor day spa is a Nordic- windows. And the moment after I run through an inspired oasis of calm. Here, visitors can access any icy cold waterfall, my skin tingles with an electric- number of massage treatments and/or ow through like buzz. the various hydrotherapy stations. We spent the rec- There’s the heat of a re pit, the cosy embrace of a ommended minimum of two hours, moving several blanket, the sound of a running stream, the scent of times through the hot, cold and relax cycle, which essential oils and the sensation of steam and sweat promised to soothe tired muscles, eliminate toxins lingering on my skin. and improve circulation. Most important—the experience of every sense Hot cycles take place in eucalyptus steam rooms, is exaggerated due to the absolute and mandatory outdoor hot baths, a Finnish wood-burning sauna or silence. People move between the various stations a dry sauna. Cold cycles—a bracing-but-necessary step without a word. And I understand completely: silence to achieving the full bene ts of the hydrotherapy experi- is golden. ence—include a Nordic waterfall, rain showers and cold We discovered Scandinave Spa on a trip to plunges. We were less fond of this part of the cycle, but Whistler late last fall. After driving just ve minutes up emerged proud of ourselves for doing them! the highway from Whistler Village, we were unsure The nal stage of “rest” o ers choices between loung- of what to expect when we arrived. But we left a few ing peacefully beside an outdoor repit, in one of the hours later as absolute converts to this year-round, solariums, in a quiet room in front of the replace or in a outdoor spa experience. fully-stocked, multi-purpose yoga studio.
Set within a spruce and cedar forest, and overlooking Whistler’s white mountain vistas, this 20,000-square- foot outdoor day spa is a Nordic-inspired oasis of calm.
December/January 2020/21 | 15 | paci ccoastal.com Eventually, fully refreshed and relaxed, we headed back into the main build- ing to discover a small food outlet o ering hot and cold beverages, as well as healthy snacks from one of our favourite Whistler restaurants, The Green Moustache Or- ganic Cafe. Now completely satiated, we headed back to Whistler Village—and every- thing it has to o er. Consistently ranked among the world’s top golf, biking and skiing resorts, Whistler is a year-round destination, located just 120 kilometres north of Vancou- ver. Whistler has a range of accommodations, totalling 10,000 bedrooms in more than 24 hotels, as well as an extensive assortment of townhomes, condos, B&Bs and chalets. On this trip, we stayed at Crystal Lodge. Our room was super spacious and comfort- able, but the very best thing about this hotel might be its location right in the heart of the Village. In fact, the hotel’s slogan is: “At the centre of it all.” Within easy walking distance of the base of the mountain, shopping and res- taurants, Crystal Lodge also o ers a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, sauna, tness centre and several on-site retail and dining options. As a winter playground, Whistler and adjoining Black- comb mountains feature 8,171 acres of terrain and receive an average of 38.2 feet of snow annually. It’s de nitely a place to revel in all of the senses — starting (or ending) with the Scandinave Spa experience. No reservations required, and baths are open from 10 am to 9 pm daily.
December/January 2020/21 | 16 | paci ccoastal.com PHOTO BY MIKE CRANE.
PCA ROUTE MAP
December/January 2020/21 | 17 | paci ccoastal.com WILLIAMS LAKE Cariboo Strong
December/January 2020/21 | 18 | paci ccoastal.com Cariboo Strong
December/January 2020/21 | 19 | pacifi ccoastal.com Museum exhibit shares stories, experiences through 2017 wildfires
Story and photos by Greg Sabatino new exhibition at the Museum exhibition’s opening. “You’ll see sad One museum wall is entirely dedi- of the Cariboo Chilcotin has stories; you’ll see uplifting stories. It’s cated to photos and story excerpts Cariboo residents sharing their really something that everyone here submitted by residents. The muse- stories and experiences in the [in the Cariboo] can relate to—it af- um’s website will further share those Ahistoric 2017 wild res. fected everybody.” stories in their entirety in what will be Cariboo Strong—Resiliency in the Alex Geris, MCC manager, said a living, virtual exhibit. Submissions Face of the 2017 Wild res aims to paint initial work on the project got un- will also be collected throughout the a picture of how the community derway in 2018 after they received a exhibit’s run at the museum, which banded together in the face of the grant from the Canadian Red Cross, sta expects to stay open for at least devastating impacts of the wild res, as part of the MCC’s relocation and a year. which forced an almost two-week restoration project. “We’re hoping the online portion evacuation of the city in July of 2017. Initial plans to have the Cariboo will provide a nice space for people The exhibition showcases a vast Strong exhibit open to the public to interact and have those shared collection of submitted stories, earlier this year were dashed due to experiences, as well as when they photographs, videos and objects the pandemic, which also presented visit the museum,” Geris said. loaned to the museum by residents, its own challenges in coming up Objects on display at the museum, businesses and rst responders on with ways to share and display the to name a few, include three logs, how they were a ected during the vast amount of information through donated by Pioneer Log Homes of BC wild res. submissions and interviews received and bearing hundreds of signatures “I think the overall theme through- from the community. from emergency personnel who out is it’s something that connects “It’s de nitely been a di cult year assisted during the wild res in the and unites us,” said Casey Bennett, to open an exhibit where we are Cariboo-Chilcotin, and a bench built project assistant with the MCC who, hoping to engage the community, from reclaimed wood created by Bill along with fellow sta members, has but it’s come together very nicely,” James, and featuring metal fabrication been hard at work setting up for the Geris said. done by Monster Industries Ltd.
December/January 2020/21 | 20 | paci ccoastal.com Nemiah Valley resident Jesaja Class at the MCC for its help, including MCC to spearhead the MCC’s ongoing also created a lm titled Afterlight— marketing and promotions coordinator deaccessioning project, added the captured entirely by drone and Davana Mahon, artifact technician and submissions in the exhibit have depicting the devastating impacts of professional museum conservator Raene helped her empathize and connect the wild res in the Chilcotin—which Poisson, the MCC directors, former proj- with people. is viewable at the museum. ect assistant Nadia Erasmus and research “In my work I’m usually in the Due to its location at the Tourism assistant Rowan Paulsen. back, but this made me more aware Discovery Centre, the exhibit will also “It’s been an entire team e ort,” she of how I should prepare for and provide an opportunity to educate said. think about this type of disaster visitors from outside the community Bennett noted that for him, it’s been actually happening,” she said. on the series of events that transpired an insightful process to revisit the sum- The MCC and the Cariboo during the summer of 2017. mer of 2017. Strong—Resiliency in the Face of the Bennett and Geris both noted that “It’s been quite eye-opening for me 2017 Wild res exhibition is open a lot of thought and time has gone to hear what other people experienced Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 into the project by many members of during that time,” he said. “I’d only been pm To view the online exhibit visit: the community; they are extremely back here in Williams Lake for two years, cowboy-museum.com/cariboo- grateful to residents for sharing their and to come back and have something strong-exhibit. stories with the museum. like that happen, it really shows you how “Without their stories and with- a community can pull itself together and out their information, this exhibit operate.” This story rst appeared on west- wouldn’t be possible,” Bennett said. Poisson, who arrived in Williams Lake coasttraveller.com. Plan your travel Geris also thanked the entire team from Saskatchewan during the summer adventures here and on Facebook and Instagram @thewestcoasttraveller.
December/January 2020/21 | 21 | paci ccoastal.com On Tap! Find your new favourite beer style in the West Kootenays
By Kate Robertson some unforgettable brews. food [think beef carpaccio and grilled First stop is the Trail Beer Re n- cheese pizza]. Check out our weekly ince the very rst BC micro- ery, Trail’s rst microbrewery, which burger Instagram post!” says co-own- brewery, Horseshoe Bay Brew- opened in 2017. The décor of the er Mike Konkin. In the summer of 2020 ery, was established in 1982, British 75-seat all-ages taproom gives a nod they will release a new Radler brand. Columbians have had a love a air to the city’s main industry of zinc and Ten minutes up the moun- withS craft beers. Today, with more than 150 lead smelting and re ning, with its tain in Rossland is the Rossland Beer breweries strewn across the province, craft- modern twist on industrial, reclaimed Co., where as soon as you go through brewery tourism is alive and well, and the elements. the door, you’re overlooking oor-to- West Kootenays, with ve breweries within “Trail Beer Re nery is quite di er- ceiling tanks. Petri Raito, co-founder/ an hour’s drive from the runway at the Trail ent from other local breweries. We not owner and CEO, says, “The vibe of our airport, are no exception. So assign your only make a full range of beers and tap room is very happy and easy. It’s a designated driver and be prepared to taste vodka sodas but we serve amazing place where you don’t see people on
December/January 2020/21 | 22 | paci ccoastal.com Craft-brewery tourism is alive and well, and the West Kootenays, with ve breweries within an hour’s drive from the runway at the Trail airport, are no exception.
their phones. The beer menu changes all the time, there Brent Malysh, founder and CEO. “We’ve gone for a very cosy are almost always one-o s on the menu, and our beers are cabin vibe. All our tables are community seating, and we always very distinct from each other.” don’t have TV or WiFi, so it all encourages strangers to sit The taproom is small so get there early (especially on together and talk to one another. If you’re one of the lucky Friday nights when there’s live music), but in the sum- ones to get a seat on the patio on a sunny afternoon, it’s mer there’s also a sunny patio to enjoy your beverage. pretty special. Baker Street is known for being really eclec- Either way, it’s guaranteed you’ll be rubbing shoulders tic and sometimes just plain weird, so the people -watch- with friendly locals dropping in for a pint of their favou- ing is next-level.” rite brew after a day of shredding it up on the mountain At BBC they make a lot of traditional beers, plus explore bike or ski trails. lesser-seen styles and do some playful experimentation. A half-hour drive brings you to the new kid on the “There’s been a huge increase in the number of com- block, Tailout Brewing, opened in late 2019 in Castlegar. panies producing beer in our region, and this has really “Tailout” is a shing term that refers to a pool of water helped get locals interested in trying a lot more di erent where sh like to hang out, and true to form, you will styles of beer. Right now, probably the biggest trends are see shing references throughout their taproom. Tai- hazy beers and sour beers,” says Brent. lout doesn’t serve food in house, but they encourage Down closer to Kootenay Lake is Torchlight Brewing Co., patrons to bring their own, or arrange for local deliv- where they serve up craft beers in a spacious industrial- ery straight to their table. style setting. A 40-minute drive and you’re in Nelson. With three craft “It doesn’t have the feel of a conventional bar and breweries and easy walkability, this is the perfect place that’s deliberate,” says managing director and brewmaster to park the car. Stretch your legs with a walk up the hill to Craig Swendson. “We wanted it to be a di erent and more the Nelson Brewing Company, the OG of the West Koote- open space. You can see, and sometimes hear, the equip- nay breweries, established in 1991. In 2006, NBC went fully ment in the back. There are pipes and ducts running on organic to set themselves apart and to cater to Nelson’s the ceiling. We want everyone to know where their beer is all-natural setting and population. They have a very small actually made. At Torchlight we like to pursue the ethos of tasting room, where you can sample some limited edition delicious innovation.” brews and one-o s. Torchlight also has a full kitchen and a menu of tasty Then there’s Backroads Brewing Co, located in pub grub with a twist as well as their own house-made the heart of Nelson’s downtown action. BBC is all about lo- craft sodas on tap as a non-alcoholic option. cal — the 100-seat taproom is made from wood from local Think you can’t be budged from your current favourite mills and forests, and lled with custom-made furniture beer style? A tasting ight at any one of these West Koote- and local art. nay breweries might just change your mind. “Our taproom is for sure our biggest di erentiator,” says
December/January 2020/21 | 23 | paci ccoastal.com More than Meals program
It’s a new world.
Our focus is to help our community get through COVID-19, as we recover and rebuild.
For isolated seniors and elders, we are raising funds to offer weekly meals, reassurance calls, and assistance with errands and appointments through an exciting new program More than Meals.
You can help. Please donate today at uwgv.ca so no senior or elder will have to worry about their next meal.
We thank you in advance for your generosity and for showing your love for your community.
Sh wLet’s rally r to recover. l c #YYJ needs l you.
December/January 2020/21 | 24 | paci ccoastal.com