CREATIVITY STARTS HERE
The early years are a key point in a child’s development: a time to investigate problem-solving, nurture curiosity, and develop self-confidence. This makes an adventure in the arts—whether it’s a first Dance, Visual Arts, or Theatre class—all the more important. Arts Umbrella programs are designed to encourage discovery in a fun, supportive, and inspiring environment.
Publisher & Managing Editor
Andrea Vance editor@westcoastfamilies.com
Editor Bianca Bujan bianca@westcoastfamilies.com
Contributing Editor
Jodi Iverson jodi@westcoastfamilies.com
Art Director & Layout
Kristy Hill studio@westcoastfamilies.com
Administration Jennifer Bruyns admin@westcoastfamilies.com
Accounts Receivable & Payable finance@westcoastfamilies.com
Advertising sales@westcoastfamilies.com 604 249 2866
Contributors
Alyssa Bauman
Sharon Van Epps
Claire Newell
Bianca Bujan
Andrea Vance
For distribution inquiries, please email publisher@westcoastfamilies.com
Mailing
Team up against ANXIETY
Confident Parents: Thriving Kids - Anxiety is a free program helping BC families overcome anxiety challenges in children ages 3–12. This web- and phone-based coaching service helps parents and caregivers learn effective skills and strategies for managing anxiety.
Learn more at
OUR CONTRIBUTORS
FROM OUR TO YOURS
I didn’t really catch the travel bug until after I became a parent. Growing up, my family didn’t venture too far beyond Vancouver, opting instead for road trips along the Oregon Coast, or local jaunts to Harrison Hot Springs, Whistler, or Vancouver Island. We went on a few treat trips to Disneyland, Hawaii and Mexico as I got older, but my love for travel wasn’t truly sparked until 2017, when I became a travel writer and started to explore off-the-beaten path destinations found further beyond the borders of BC.
Since then, I’ve visited a variety of places both near and far from home. From Bend, to Barbados, to Baden-Baden, my explorations have expanded, and with each trip, my love for travel has grown deeper.
I wrapped up 2019 with a bucket-list trip to the Galapagos Islands, where I found myself snorkelling nose-to-nose with reef sharks, strolling alongside sea lions and marine iguanas, and enjoying a land-based stay at the top of a volcano, nestled in the heart of a private giant tortoise reserve, and one thing that I realized during my visit, was that the destination would be a great spot to visit with my kids, too.
Now that I’ve solidified my love for travel and my desire to see more of the world, I’m hoping to share more of my far-flung adventures with my family. Through both one-on-one trips with each of my three children, and getaways with my whole family of five, I hope to share the world with them too, and hopefully their love for travel will grow too, just as it has for me.
In this issue, you’ll find our Annual Family Travel & Adventure Guide, which is packed with useful tips for wherever your travels may take you this year. Find out the benefits of booking with a travel agent, discover the top 5 family travel destinations for 2020, and see what’s trending in travel for the upcoming year.
Looking for travel inspiration? We share some of our favourite destinations with you. From a staycation in the North Shore’s new Shipyard District, to two new ways to explore Victoria, to how you can enjoy your own bucket-list trip to the Galapagos Islands with kids, we’ve got you covered.
Plus, we share some of the best overnight camps to book for your kids this summer, and some spring break ideas that will keep your kids busy as the weather gets warmer. Enjoy this and so much more in our March/ April 2020 issue.
Happy travels!
Editor
Alyssa Bauman
Nutrition on the Go
Certified Holistic nutritionist, Alyssa Bauman, founded Nourished after constantly being asked for healthy living advice. Catch her as a regular nutrition expert on CTV Morning Live and CBC, and watch her videos series, read her nutrition tips, and get inspired with healthy recipes at Nourished.ca or on Instagram: @nourished_by_alyssa.
Sharon Van Epps
Flying Solo: What You Should Know Before Your Child Takes Off
Sharon Van Epps is a freelance writer and the married mother of three teenagers. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Week, The Kitchn, Fodor’s Travel, and many more publications. She lives in Seattle, Washington.
Claire Newell
The Benefits Of Using A Travel Agent
Travel Best Bets is a leader in Canada’s travel industry, offering award-winning service and sales as a leading travel agency and wholesaler. Travel Best Bet’s state-of-the-art call centre is open 7 days a week to handle your sales enquiries.
At Learn & Experience we think the perfect summer would be to attend our World Camp, take a teen travel trip, and then spend time with the family. What would your perfect summer be? Please share with us, in essay format, what your perfect summer would be (max 300 words).The chosen entry will win one week at Learn & Experience World Camp at Shawnigan Lake School on Vancouver Island (valued at $850).
Deadline: April 17, 2020 Note: Entrants must be between 8-15 years old.
Enter Online: www.westcoastfamilies.com/contest
WIN ONE WEEK AT LEARN & EXPERIENCE WORLD CAMP ($850 VALUE)
www.baysidesleepsolutions.com
ADVENTURE TRAVEL&
Publisher & Managing Editor
Andrea Vance editor@westcoastfamilies.com
Editor Bianca Bujan bianca@westcoastfamilies.com
Contributing Editor
Jodi Iverson jodi@westcoastfamilies.com
Art Director & Layout
Kristy Hill studio@westcoastfamilies.com
Administration Jennifer Bruyns admin@westcoastfamilies.com
Accounts Receivable & Payable finance@westcoastfamilies.com
Advertising
sales@westcoastfamilies.com 604 249 2866
Contributors
Alyssa Bauman
Sharon Van Epps
Claire Newell
Bianca Bujan
Andrea Vance
For distribution inquiries, please email publisher@westcoastfamilies.com
All contents copyrighted © Written permission from the publisher is required to reproduce, quote, reprint or copy any material from WestCoast Families
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One thing that we love about family travel and adventure is the many different ways in which we can explore the world around us with our kids. From adventures found in our own backyard, to experiences found abroad, travel can be a great bonding tool, and a way to share life lessons with your kids that will stick with them as they grow up.
In our annual Family Travel & Adventure guide, we share our personal family travel experiences - from a staycation in North Vancouver, to an escape abroad to the Galapagos Islands - and hope our stories will encourage you to get out and explore with your kids, too! For more travel inspiration, don’t forget to check out our original content online.
Happy Travels!
TRAVEL BITS
by Claire Newell, Travel
Best Bets
Benefits of Using a Travel Agent
In today's digitally-driven world, it may seem unnecessary to work with a travel advisor to book your next trip, but before you get started clicking away and comparing flights, I want to make the case about why you should enlist the skills of a professional travel agency - especially when travelling with kids.
First, time is money! There is something to be said about the value of your time. If you're crunched for time or find the various options to be dizzying and not exciting, working with an agent can save you several hours that could be spent on trip planning.
Another benefit is receiving personal assistance if anything goes wrong. For example, if a snowstorm delays your flight or you miss your transfer to your hotel, you can call your agent for help, whereas if you use an online booking site you most likely will not get that same level of personalized attention. This can be a huge relief - especially with kids in tow.
Another major bonus of having a trusted travel agent is that they can help you with your long-term travel goals, beyond short-term trips. They can help you plan and curate a long-term travel plan that will help you strategically cross items off your bucket list in an order that can save you time and money.
Together, you can plan for your next trip - and for your next five trips - to ensure that you don't run out of time or money along the way. An often overlooked benefit is that a good agent is passionate about travel and is able to inspire you to visit destinations that you may not have otherwise considered, or they can simply get you more excited about the next trip on your list.
Travel Trends for 2020
I love checking out the latest travel trends and thinking back on how they’ve changed from year to year. Here are some of the trends that I have noticed for 2020.
Trend #1:
Discovering new, off-the-beaten-path destinations
The first trend I have noticed is an increased focus on travellers seeking out the areas with fewer tourists. The more well-seasoned travellers will be looking for remote, unspoiled destinations to avoid big crowds. Borneo, Greenland and Oman are countries that are expected to be on their itineraries for this year.
Trend #2:
Country coupling
Another trend that seems to be on the rise is country coupling. Travellers are looking to explore multiple countries during one trip, even on shorter trips.
Trend #3:
Culinary travel
Not surprisingly, culinary travel is going to be even more prominent this year - and these experiences will go beyond seeking out local restaurants for specialty dining. Trips will often include cooking classes, eating in private homes, and enjoying authentic farm-to-table experiences.
Trend #4:
Multigenerational travel
Still trending will be multigenerational travel, which has gained popularity in recent years. Millennials, Gen Xers, and Boomers are travelling together to bond with family and friends.
Also, more people are using travel as an excuse to celebrate important milestones, such as big birthdays, wedding anniversaries, family reunions, and even pre-milestone events such as babymoons.
Trend #5:
Finding joy in the journey
Another trend popping up is enjoying the journey itself. Travellers with extra money to spend are using exclusive services such as airport lounges for layovers, and even planeside guided airport services to avoid the stress of changing terminals.
I’m already starting to see some other neat trends forming out there and I can’t wait to see what happens in 2021!
Top 5 Family Travel Destinations To Visit From Vancouver
OSOYOOS, BC
Living in BC, we are so lucky to have a place like Osoyoos available to us for nearby summer fun. It’s about a 4.5 hour drive from Vancouver, and the hot, sunny days, sandy beaches, and warm waters of Osoyoos Lake make for a perfect summer family vacation. Kids will love the endless water activities, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, or stand up paddling boarding, and generations of families who have visited in the past, come back year after year to experience summer in Osoyoos.
GO THERE : Osoyoos, BC | June 16 - Sept 15 | From $299 +tax 2 night stay at the Watermark Beach Resort (studio suite with kitchenette)
(Rates are per person, based on double occupancy, kids 17 & under free)
LONDON, ENGLAND
London has a vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere. While it may be a big city, it is easy to navigate. In fact, of all the cities in the world, London might be my top pick for children because of the wealth of things to do. There is so much to do that caters to kids, as the city offers both educational and fun activities fit for the whole family. There are parks and free museums, and historical landmarks and entertainment - enough to keep your family busy for months!
GO THERE : London, England | July 7-Aug 25
Air + 7 nights hotel, breakfast daily & transfers
Adults $1299 +tax | Kids 2-17 $1099 +tax
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA
The year-round warm weather creates the perfect climate for enjoying the fun-filled destinations that surround the everpopular Disneyland® Resort. You’ll want to spend at least two days exploring Disneyland® Resort if your family will be exploring the original park and the newer park, Disney California Adventure®. For a more economical theme park experience, the old west town and roller coasters found at Knott’s Berry Farm® are sure to please all family members. Orange County (or “the OC”) has plenty of beaches for a true California sand and surf experience.
GO THERE : Anaheim, California | July 10-Aug 25
Air + 5 night hotel stay | Adults $599 +tax | Kids 2-17 $299 +tax
MAUI, HAWAII
Maui caters really well to tourists, so there is no shortage of things to do for travelers of every age. There is also no shortage of accommodation options fit for every budget. From my own experience traveling to Maui as a family, I prefer the condo-style hotels or a hotel with a mini fridge since it can be expensive to eat every meal out on the island. I also suggest arranging for grocery delivery ahead of time, scheduled to arrive on the same day as you check in. Hawaii’s Nature Center and the Maui Ocean Center are great places for little ones to learn about the state’s natural environment. Another place worth visiting is Paia, a laid back heritage town which has a unique blend of shops, boutiques, and restaurants nestled along some of Maui’s best beaches and surrounded by sugar cane.
Go There : Maui, Hawai | Jul 14-Aug 25
Air + 7 nights in a 1 bedroom condo Adults $999 +tax | Kids 2-17 $399 + tax
PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO
Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic resort destination located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, and from YVR there are several airlines offering non-stop flights year-round. There are many options for accommodations - from resorts and hotels, to villas and Airbnbs, catering to all budgets. If you do opt for one of the more traditional all-inclusive resorts, you can relax by the pool while your children have a blast at one of the many kids clubs. The all-inclusive options are fantastic for giving everyone in the family a break – no cooking, cleaning or worrying about handing over money every time the kids want a smoothie or snack, since everything isl included in the price and paid for before you leave.
GO THERE :
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico | Jul 4 - Aug 29
Air + 7 night stay in a 4.5-star beachfront all-inclusive resort
Adults: $999 +tax | Kids 2-17: $599 +tax
FRESHFINDS
Travel
1. Butzi Whistler Puzzle
You don’t always have to leave the comfort of home to explore a new place. With these puzzles designed by Butzi Kids, you can piece together a visit to Whistler, and enjoy the stunning scenery from wherever you may be. Designed by a local mom with a puzzleloving son, the Whistler puzzle highlights the best features of her favourite ski town. As you put together the 60 pieces, be sure to look out for skiers, zip liners, and wildlife! A Vancouver version is available too, as well as placemats and prints.
www.hipbaby.com | $18
2. FLIGHTFŪD Inflight Elixir (8 Travel Packs)
For many travellers, dehydration, bloating, and tiredness have become the expected side effects of air travel. As a former flight attendant with a background in holistic nutrition, the Nelson-based co-founder of FLIGHTFŪD designed a superfood drink mix for frequent travellers that improves circulation, boosts immunity, enhances hydration, and manages jet lag. Want to feel better on your next flight? Just add water!
www.flightfud.com | $29
2
www.lezethelabel.ca | $119
www.WestcoastFamilies.com/current-issue
wild things are Where the
Explore The Galapagos Islands With Kids
by Bianca Bujan
Standing barefoot on the secluded white sand beach of Mosquera Islet, one of the smallest of the Galapagos Islands, I smile as two friendly sea lion pups pause their play and waddle my way.
They’re not afraid of me - a wildlife trait that is unique to the Galapagos Islands because there are no natural predators for the animals to fear. They’re young, their whiskers writhing with curiosity as they smell the air to gauge what kind of species I might be. They stop only two feet from me, and then turn left, disinterested in my presence - likely due to my unwillingness to play.
Though I’m significantly outnumbered by the piles of sea lions that are sunning themselves along the shore, I too am not afraid. Here, humans respect that the animals are in charge, and if we give them space, they will leave us alone too.
“My kids would love it here” I say to one of my friends in my tour group, and I make a mental note to return one day with my whole family in tow.
There are many reasons why the Galapagos Islands appeal to most travellers - the unique species of wildlife that can only be found in the archipelago topping the list, but what many don’t realize is that a visit to this bucket-list destination doesn’t mean that you have to leave the kids at home. Save up, bring your kids, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure like no other.
Photo Credit: Pikaia Lodge
Where To Stay
While cruising is the most common way to explore the islands, guests who are hesitant to spend a week on the water, or who are looking to balance unparalleled outdoor adventures with laid-back luxury now have another option - one that not only provides the creature comforts of home, but that provides a fully-immersive experience for visitors, who can walk in fields with wild horses and crawling tortoises, and then plant a tree to help the surrounding species grow and thrive.
Set in the centre of a private giant tortoise reserve, nestled between two inactive volcanic craters, and surrounded by stunning Scalesia trees (endemic to the area), Pikaia Lodge is an eco-lodge like no other.
For kids, the lodge offers an infinity pool, a 3-D movie room, and spacious suites where they can spread out and play, or enjoy a little downtime after a day of outdoor adventures. At Pikaia, guests receive personal attentionfrom creating custom itineraries, to meeting dietary needs in the all-inclusive dining room. This is the ultimate luxury family vacation destination, and while the price may be high, the experience you will have there will be priceless.
What To Do
Whether you tour the islands by water or by land, an experienced, local tour guide is mandatory. If you’re staying at a land-based hotel, sea excursions will likely be included in your package. When staying at Pikaia Lodge, day outings on their private, 105-foot luxury yacht are included (this is the only hotel on the Galapagos Islands that has their own private yacht, others are shared). The Pikaia yacht is perfect for kids, as each guest has access to their own private cabin, where they can nap, change, or shower as they are transported from island-to-island, and the onboard chef keeps you fuelled up with delicious cuisine too.
Besides the island-hopping tours, there are some great spots to explore inland as well. On Santa Cruz Island, you’ll want to visit El Chato Tortoise Reserve, where you can roam alongside the giant tortoises of the Galapagos, creep through lava tube caves, and learn all about the species that are found in the area.
Tortuga Bay is another must-see site, accessed by a short stroll along a cobblestone walkway (or by water taxi). There, you can get an up-close look at the marine iguanas that swim, stroll, and sun on the sandy beaches. Head past the unswimmable Playa Brava beach (the currents are too dangerous for swimmers), and enjoy waterplay at the neighbouring Playa Mansa beach, where you can rent a kayak and observe the sea life in the area through the crystal blue waters.
Getting There
It’s a long trek from Vancouver to the Galapagos Islands, and there are no direct flights, so an overnight stopover on Ecuador’s mainland is a must. There are two cities to choose from when passing through - Quito, and Guayaquil. While Quito may be the more popular choice for travellers, a stay in Guayaquil is a great option, as the destination is closer, and the trip into town to and from the airport is shorter - only a 10-minute bus ride will have you at the front door of Hotel del Parque.
Hotel del Parque is a luxury boutique hotel nestled in a tropical oasis and featuring 19th century architecture. There, you’ll not only enjoy luxury accommodations and upscale dining, but the expansive property also boasts an abundance of wildlife, including a group of on-site spider monkeys, and a resident crocodile. Stretch your legs with a stroll through the forested trails, or take in the views from the wooden beachfront boardwalk before settling in for a sleepover and continuing on your way.
From Guayaquil, you’ll fly into Baltra Island, where you’ll take a bus and then a water taxi to Santa Cruz Island - the most popular tourist hub and home to Pikaia Lodge if you’re looking for a land-based stay. The trek may be long, but it’ll be well worth it once you arrive.
Group & Private classes in Vancouver and West Vancouver GRADES K-12 join@fdtacademy.com
Photo Credit: Pikaia Lodge
Photo Credit: Pikaia Lodge
STAYCATION
North Shore’s Shipyards District
by Andrea Vance
The Shipyards District in Lower Lonsdale is the perfect weekend getaway - for couples, a girls trip, or family fun. We visited recently to find the hot spots for our readers.
STAY
We chose the Seaside Hotel as the perfect spot to spend the nightor stay for a whole weekend. Luxurious and modern are great words to describe the newest hotel in this area. Combine your stay with an on-site spa visit, ski trip to the North Shore mountains, or an adventure to Capilano Suspension Bridge to add some extra fun. The rooms are large, beautifully decorated, and equipped with modern amenities like electronic controls, streaming TV services, and automated blinds. This hotel gives you the best location and access to everything in the Shipyards District.
EAT
Food choices are endless in this area. In the morning, we stopped at Shipyards Coffee for their award-winning Cortado coffee and a breakfast sandwich. During the day, there are food stalls of every type at the Lonsdale Quay so everyone can get what they’re craving.
At night, Joey Shipyards is right below the Seaside if you’re looking for high-energy fun, but lineups on the weekends can be long. We opted for the laid-back cozy feel of Tap & Barrel for dinner, where they had beautiful salads, a good kids menu, and plenty of beer and wine choices. Also close, Anatoli Souvlaki has been in this area for decades, and Burgoo offers comfort food that will fill you up.
Definitely end your evening with an ice cream treat from Welcome Parlour, a North Vancouver staple for decades. Enjoy artisan ice cream, candy, floats, and hot chocolate with custom toppings.
PLAY
In the winter, the Shipyard Skating Plaza is the perfect place to play. The rink is open every day from 12pm-7pm until March 1. For the summer months, the area is transformed into a water play zone. Surrounding the plaza, you’ll find coffee shops, ice cream and chocolate shops, and restaurants too. In the summer, there is also a night market that is worth visiting for food, music, and some local shopping.
For some quiet contemplation time, consider a visit to The Polygon art gallery, found right next door, with a beautiful gift shop and exhibitions that rotate. The space is bright and modern, and admission is by donation. They welcome kids and it’s not a long visit.
The waterfront features a long promenade for strolling, and several piers to explore. The day we were there, the pier in front of the Seaside Hotel had a huge impressive tug boat moored to admire. Great photo ops were everywhere we looked, and no matter who you take with you to this great new area in North Vancouver, you’re sure to create some magical memories.
Victoria Modern Victoria Retro Rewind
by Andrea Vance by Bianca Bujan
Surrounded by retro rotary phones, old-school board games, vinyl listening stations, classic comic books, and a rainbow-walled ping pong lounge, you'd think that I'd stepped into an Austin Powers movie, but in fact, I'm exploring Hotel Zed in Victoria for my very first time.
As someone who was born in the (late) 70s, I thought it would be fun to take my kids on a throwback trip to B.C.'s capital city, where we could disconnect from the distractions of today, and enjoy the simpler pleasures that we basked in back in the day. While at first, the idea of disconnecting from devices and giving in to the joys of yesteryear didn’t quite sit well with my kids, they soon grew to enjoy the adventure.
For our stay, Hotel Zed provided the perfect home base for our retrothemed weekend - the rainbow-coloured motel gives off the ultimate throwback vibe with vintage-themed everything. Stepping into the rooms is like stepping into a time machine (wacky carpets, rotary phones, and vintage filing cabinets set the scene), but there are also subtle touches that give guests the comforts of today (free wifi and flatscreen TVs). For a 70s-style camping vibe, you can also stay in an on-site Airstream trailer, and bright pink and blue vintage VW vans make the perfect shuttle into town if you want to leave your own car behind.
For food, we ended up enjoying most of our meals at The Ruby, an Austinstyle breakfast diner featuring classic favourites with a sophisticated twist (the Duck Confit & Waffle was a personal brunch favourite). For an off-property lunch, we stumbled upon the Board Game Cafe - where you can choose from hundreds of board games to play while you nosh on pizza or paninis and sip on homemade thick shakes. Board games from my childhood days, such as Battleship, and Chutes & Ladders, provided hours of family fun.
Keeping with the retro vibe, we headed to Quazar’s Arcade and took turns on the rows of vintage video games found there. My youngest loved playing Mrs. Packman and Fix it Felix, while the older kids had a go on the retro pinball machines. A browse through Cherry Bomb Toys was a retro treat, where we could browse collectible toys that brought us back to our childhood days.
Our groovy getaway was the perfect reminder to take time to unplug and explore familiar places in a whole new light. Show your kids the joys of life in the 70s, and feel like a kid again too.
Victoria is known for its history, antiques, and old buildings. But it’s become clear over recent years that my son loves the clean, bright and uncluttered feel of a modern space. Many of the older buildings in Victoria have been revitalized with modern interiors while still keeping the classic Victorian look the city is known for.
With two growing kids and a big dog, we have learned to value the convenience and space of an apartment-style hotel room, giving everyone room to move around. Traditionally, the “suite” was always considered luxury and high priced, but this trip to Victoria, we stayed at the Parkside Hotel & Spa and loved the great value and amenities. Every room is a suite, with a separate bedroom, living space, and kitchenette. The decor is modern and clean, and the lobby is spectacular with its atrium, massive glass walls, greenery and water feature. The massive pool and hot tub area meant we had all boxes checked!
We love a hotel with great amenities, and this one did not disappoint, with a huge pool and hot tub big enough to fit any family, a popular coffee shop in the lobby, free bikes to borrow, and a location that is close to everything you want to see.
We opted for dinner in one evening, made possible by the kitchenette, which allowed us to save some money, and then walking just minutes away at night to take in the lights of the Harbour.
We spent our day borrowing bikes from the Parkside Hotel, and cruising around to the beautiful shops of Johnson Street for customized Converse sneakers at Baggins Shoes, and made-In-BC minimalist clothing at Oxford. Up and down Fisgard we strolled beautiful stores like Smoking Lily and Fan Tan Home & Style, and treated ourselves to macarons at La Roux Patisserie.
The buildings may be old, but Victoria’s style is all new and we’re loving it.
FAVOURITE STOPS
A water taxi to Fisherman’s Wharf for fish’n chips
The petting zoo at Beacon Hill Park
The deck at the Empress at night Rogers Chocolate Store for free samples
Royal BC Museum exhibition: Orcas: Our Shared Future, starting May 15
HOW TO GET TO VICTORIA
By Car
Drive to the BC Ferries terminal in Tsawwassen. Ferries leave many times each day, and reservations are highly recommended. www.bcferries.com
By Bus
Take advantage of the BC Ferries Connector bus that can pick you up at one of many locations in Vancouver and drop you off in Victoria, even right at your hotel.
Walk-on
Drive to the ferry terminal and park, then hop on the ferry as a foot passenger. From Schwartz Bay terminal you can take the BC Ferries Connector to your Victoria hotel.
FAMILY TRAVEL & ADVENTURE
Flying SOLO
What You Should Know Before Your Child Takes Off
by Sharon Van Epps
When my husband and I agreed to let our 17-year-old son fly by himself on a college visit, I wasn’t worried. He’s traveled throughout the US and Canada with his soccer team, and we’ve logged countless flights as a family.
I never thought that my nearly-grown boy would lose his wallet in transit and end up alone in a strange city 2,800 miles from home, without cash, credit cards, or identification. Naturally, I was terrified!
No matter how old your child is, watching them board a plane solo constitutes a leap of faith. Airline service can be unpredictable, and travellers of any age can make mistakes. Despite the challenges, a solo trip to grandma’s can be a delightful adventure, and certain situations, like shared custody after a divorce, may demand that a child travel alone. Parents can make the process less fraught by frankly assessing their offspring’s readiness for independent travel. If your child seems excited about travelling alone, and can communicate their needs to unfamiliar adults with clarity and confidence, they’re probably ready for takeoff.
Most airlines require parents to purchase unaccompanied minor service for younger children, and offer optional service for preteen and teenage passengers (see sidebar.) Although the unaccompanied minor program provides some extra security, it doesn’t guarantee TLC from the flight crew. Thoughtful planning in a few key areas will help young travelers enjoy themselves and give parents greater peace of mind.
ASSEMBLY OF
March 16-20, 2020 - 10:00 am to 11:30 am March 23-27, 2020 - 10:00 am to 11:30 am Parliament Buildings, Victoria, BC Email tours@leg.bc.ca or call 250-387-1771
Here’s what you should know before your child takes flight on their own:
Flying solo gives children an opportunity to test their independence and build confidence. Despite the anxiety I felt when my son’s trip went awry, he coped just fine. Meals and lodging had been pre-arranged as part of his college visit, and he used a ride-sharing app on his phone to meet his transportation needs. The only real glitch seemed to be buying food for the 6-hour flight home. I spent several frustrating hours trying to find a solution on his departure day, only to learn that he’d already gobbled down a fried chicken dinner courtesy of Apple Pay, a backup option that hadn’t occurred to me! A Good Samaritan found his lost wallet in the Atlanta airport and shipped it to our home, free of charge. According to my son, his trip couldn’t have gone better.
Make a Payment Plan
Your child should have a credit, debit or prepaid gift card for in-flight purchases and to address any emergencies caused by a flight delay. Although my son was loaded with both debit and credit cards, when he lost his wallet I realized I hadn’t advised him to tuck cash or an extra card in a separate location, which is something I always do when I travel, just in case my purse disappears. Lesson learned.
Make a Communication Plan
Even if your child doesn’t normally carry a cell phone, providing one for travel is essential. Make sure a phone charger, backup battery, and list of emergency contacts goes in the carry-on bag. If Wi-Fi will be available during the flight, inquire about prepaying for service at the time of booking. If it’s possible to pay in advance, make sure your child knows how to use a credit or debit card to purchase Wi-Fi on board, so they can message you from the air.
Make a Meal Plan
Prepaid meals are a great option if offered by your airline, but parents should pack snacks as well. I shoved so much “emergency” food into my son’s bag that he managed to return home with a few uneaten granola bars - despite travelling penniless for four days.
Make A Health Plan
If your child has special health considerations like ADHD or asthma, needed medications should be added to the child’s carry-on bag. Review dosages and treatment schedules before departure. Consider sending a small comfort kit with items like aspirin, tissues, and cough drops as well. My son suffered a cold on his ill-fated trip, and I was glad I’d packed supplies when he was left with no way to purchase over-the-counter relief.
Make an Entertainment Plan
In-flight entertainment can definitely help your child to overcome any travel jitters. Although many airlines provide programming, consider downloading your child’s favourite shows or podcasts in advance. Not all planes provide seat power, so make sure your child understands the importance of arriving at their destination with a fully-charged phone. If possible, provide a tablet or e-reader for diversion, and reserve the phone for essential communication.
What you need to know about Unaccompanied Minor Service:
There are no official regulations governing unaccompanied minor service.
Vancouver Airport Authority recommends checking directly with your preferred carrier, since policies and fees vary widely.
Some airlines, including Air North and Sunwing, welcome unaccompanied children as young as 5. Others, like Air Transat and WestJet, require solo passengers to be age 8 or older. Some airlines cannot accommodate children with certain medical conditions. A few, including Flair, do not offer unaccompanied minor service at all. Parents should review airline rules carefully before purchasing a ticket.
Parents should understand that purchasing unaccompanied minor service doesn’t mean your child will be constantly supervised. Flight attendants are responsible for serving all passengers, and an unaccompanied minor will get less attention on a full flight.
The main advantage that unaccompanied minor service provides is the ability to accompany your child to the departure gate, and for the adult meeting your child at the destination to be waiting at the gate when the plane lands. You’ll need to provide the name and contact information for the person meeting your child in advance. An airline representative will need to see that individual’s government-issued identification before releasing the child to their care.
If your child needs to make a connection in transit, some airlines include an escort to the connecting gate as part of their unaccompanied minor service, but others, including Air Canada, will only book passengers under the age of 18 on nonstop flights. If changing planes is unavoidable, try to route your child through a city where you have trusted family or friends willing to help in case of a missed connection.
Stay Nourished On The Go
3 Healthy Snacks To Prep Before Your Trip
by Alyssa Bauman, Nourished.ca
Keeping well nourished while travelling is, no doubt, harder to do than eating well at home. But with a little know-how, it can be easy to source out healthier options to keep you fuelled up while exploring the world.
Airports are now stocking healthier food options like cut-up veggies and hummus, fruit cups, pre-packed salads, and in some cities, even smoothie bars are offered. But packing some non-perishable and healthy travel essentials can also be helpful, especially when you’re in a pinch.
Before I go on a trip, I always prep several individual Ziploc bags full of assorted nuts, seeds and dried fruit. Lara Bars are a favourite high-fibre,
high-protein snack as well, and of course veggies and fruit. When I know travel routes are going to be a long haul, I take a bit more time to prep some packable healthy snacks like the ones I have listed below. Once at my destination - and especially if it’s international, we hit the local markets, grocery stores and specialty food shops first.
Our most memorable family stops and visits to local food markets. It's a great way to explore the local culinary scene, and connect with the culture too.
CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH BITES
These protein-packed fibre bites were so popular, my oldest child enlisted the crew to make yet another batch, while I got to sit back and watch from the sidelines, knowing they would be fuelling their bodies with healthy treats.
Ingredients:
• 3 cups rolled oats
• 2 tblsp chia
• 2 tblsp hemp
• 2 tblsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp Cinnamon
• ½ cup of Maple syrup
• Optional Extras: ½ cup chocolate chips, cranberries
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
Directions:
1. Mix chia in half a cup of water and set aside.
2. Split your oats in half. Process one half into flour. Pour the other half of the oats in a bowl. Mix flour and whole rolled oats. Add in all other dry ingredients.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together wet ingredients. Add to the dry bowl. Mix well. Hands work, and little hands love this.
4. Put in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Remove from the fridge and start rolling about a tablespoon of dough forming into small golf balls. Again, little hands love this. Place on a tray and set in the fridge, again for at least 10 minutes. Prepack in bags and off you go.
For more on-the-go recipes, healthy recipes, and other wellness wisdom, head to www.nourished.ca or follow @nourishedbyalyssa
KALE CHIPS
Easy to make, and so incredibly tasty - just another way to get the veggies in.
Ingredients:
• 2 large heads of organic kale (or more, as they go fast), stems removed
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 3-4 tblsp nutritional yeast
• Olive oil
Directions:
Make sure kale is super dry. In a large bowl, massage kale leaves with 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Season lightly with sea salt and approximately 3-4 tablespoons of nutritional yeast.
Spread out in one layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully shake the kale. Re-check after another 10 minutes. Be careful, as these can burn quite quickly.
Once nearly all crispy, remove from the oven and let crisp up further on the baking sheet until completely cool. Transfer to a bag, and leave it a bit open while travelling.
WHEAT-FREE BLUEBERRY MUFFINS
These are addictive, and fast and easy to make. High in fibre, and full of healthy fat and antioxidants, these wheat and refined sugar-free muffins are the perfect on-the-go snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups almond meal (store bought or grounds from homemade almond milk)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 tblsp hemp seed
• 1 tblsp coconut flour
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2 tblsp honey
• 1/4 cup + 1 tsp melted coconut oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, but fresh is best)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350. Line a 12 count muffin tin. In a mixing bowl,combine dry ingredients (almond flour, oats, coconut flour, salt, cinnamon and baking soda) and stir to combine. Pour in coconut oil, eggs, honey and vanilla, and mix well. Fold in blueberries. Distribute into muffin tin. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Allow to cool and enjoy.
Spring & Summer Music Camps
COMMUNITYCALENDAR
COMMU
explore
Healthy Family Expo
March 29
Vancouver Convention Centre (East Building)
999 Canada Place Way
Healthy Family Expo is Canada's largest food and health event with 200+ exhibitors, a huge active Kid Zone, PAW Patrol storytimes, and fun for Vancouver families! www.healthyfamilyexpo.com
REUZ Pop Up Market
April 4
Massey Theatre, 735 8th Ave, New Westminster
This is a market focused on sustainability through reuse. You’ll find everything from upcycled, repurposed, curated clothing, to sustainable lifestyle products, and so much more. www.reuz.ca
The 18th annual Early Years Festival
April 25
Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre, Surrey Parents, caregivers, educators and children aged 0-6 years are invited to attend this free festival. Experts will be on site to share information about how children can develop a healthy and active
watch
Mini Pop Kids Bright Lights Tour
March 17, 19, 21, 22
Nanaimo, Victoria, Abbotsford, North Van
The Mini Pop Kids are back and shining bright with their brand new “Bright Lights Tour”, featuring the year’s biggest hits! Performing hit songs by Ariana Grande, Shawn Mendes, The Jonas Brothers, Taylor Swift, to throwback favourites, this is a concert that everyone in the family will enjoy. www.minipopkids.com/tour
Dino-Light
March 25
Kay Meek Arts Centre
A famous scientist with magic powers brings a friendly dinosaur to life in this on-stage performance. When the dinosaur wanders away from home, he discovers a wonderful world full of creatures that light up the darkness and help him find the true meaning of love. www.kaymeek.com/events/
Brat Kids Carnival
April 19, April 26 & May 3
York Theatre, Vancouver
At this thrilling kids carnival, you will see hula hoops at top speed, acrobatics at alarming heights, and some cheeky clowning antics suitable for kids of all ages—and parents too. www.thecultch.com/events/brat-kids-carnival/
move
The Big Easter Run
April 11
Jericho Beach
Winding through the trails and alongside the beach you are guaranteed to see unbeatable views of the North Shore and Vancouver skyline while you enjoy a hopping good time! This route is suitable for all ages and abilities, and is pet and stroller friendly. A 1-3km kids run with Easter egg hunt happens at 1pm, and a 5k & 10k route begins at 2 P.M.
www.easterrun.ca
see
Exhibition: Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Until March 29
Royal BC Museum, Victoria
Experience the wonders of nature through the lenses of award-winning photographers from around the world. The images evoke a wide range of emotions but are always visually stunning and thought-provoking. A family favourite.
www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
For more family events, or to add your own event to our community calendar, please visit www.westcoastfamilies.com
WCFNEWS
Vancouver International Art Fair Returns For Its 6th Year
Now in its 6th year, the Vancouver International Art Fair, hosted by Art Vancouver, is a four-day showcase of over 100 local and international galleries and artists, providing an opportunity for art lovers to view and purchase artwork from over 20 countries, all under one roof.
This event is Western Canada's largest contemporary art fair, attracting over 10,000 art lovers annually to the Vancouver Convention Centre. Not only can visitors purchase and view art, this event also features panel talks, speakers series, live paintings, art classes, guided tours, and more. Visitors can expect an exciting venue with a casual atmosphere, and a great selection of food and wine to enjoy while you’re there.
The International Art Fair will be coming to the Vancouver Convention Centre from April 16-19, 2020, kicking off the festivities with an opening night premiere party featuring innovative international art from over 100 galleries & artists, plus a live DJ, and the Face of Art Runway Show.
For more event information and to purchase your tickets, please visit www.artvancouver.net
Bill Reid Gallery Celebrates Artist’s 100th Birthday
The Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art is celebrating the milestone centennial birthday of Bill Reid (1920–1998) with an exhibition about his life and legacy. To Speak With a Golden Voice, the commemorative exhibit, will be running from April 22–October 4, 2020.
The exhibition will bring a fresh perspective to Bill Reid’s legacy with rarely seen artworks and new commissions by Northwest Coast artists inspired by his life and practice. To Speak With a Golden Voice will provide new insights into the nuanced facets and creative complexities of Reid’s life and legacy. The exhibition will follow four thematic threads: Voice, Process, Lineage, and Legacy, covering all aspects of his life’s work, and highlighting the iconic Haida artist’s impact as one of Canada’s most renowned Indigneous artists.
The gallery will mark the centennial with a weekend of special events on June 27–28, 2020, which will include artist demonstrations, exhibition tours, dropin activities, and cake — in addition to free admission for visitors to the gallery.
To learn more, please visit www.billreidgallery.ca
Ronald McDonald House Expansion Plans Now Underway
Each year, 2,000 families from across BC and the Yukon travel to Vancouver in search of life-saving treatment for their children. Far from their homes, they desperately need affordable accommodation and a place to stay together under one roof. Ronald McDonald House offers a home away from home, a community of support, and a restful space for families to heal better together.
This year, Ronald McDonald House BC & Yukon (RMH BC) announced its plans to expand across the province with a new Family Room at Royal Inland Hospital (RIH) in Kamloops, BC. Launched in partnership with the Interior Health and Royal Inland Hospital Foundation (RIH), the new Family Room will offer a home-like retreat for parents and loved ones of all pediatric patients undergoing medical treatment for illness or injuries at RIH.
The Family Room, slated to open its doors in 2024, will be designed as a comforting retreat for families seeking solace and a place for rest and relaxation. The Family Room at RIH will play a key role, providing a community of support to parents where they are able to build connections with others in a calm and supportive environment. The Kamloops Family Room will be the second to open in BC, with the first located at Surrey Memorial Hospital.
For more information about RMH BC, please visit www.rmhbc.ca
Ballet BC Announces New Artistic Director
After her 11-year tenure with Ballet BC, Emily Molnar will be moving on to a new role as the Artistic Director of Nederlands Dans Theater (NDT). Molnar’s vision and legacy will continue on through a new artistic leader, Medhi Walerski, who will begin his first full season with the Company as Artistic Director for the 2020/2021 season, which will coincide with the 35th anniversary of Ballet BC.
Walerski launched his dance career at the Paris Opera Ballet, and made his choreographic debut with NDT in 2008. Since then, Walerski has continued to create for NDT as well as other companies as an independent choreographer, including Ballet BC. He created the highly successful Petite Céremonie, a work that has toured across the globe and remains a highlight of Ballet BC’s repertoire, and he also created Ballet BC’s Romeo + Juliet in 2018 — his first full-length narrative work — which has become the Company’s most successful production to date.
Walerski has a deep knowledge of and respect for the vision that Molnar has maintained, and brings his own highly inspiring vision for the Company as well.
For ticket information for the upcoming season, please visit www.balletbc.com
Camp Elphinstone (YMCA)
www.gv.ymca.ca
Gibsons
Camp Fircom www.fircom.ca
Gambier Island
Eureka Camp www.eurekacamp.ca
Sunshine Coast, Deka Lake
Camp Squeah
www.squeah.com
Hope
Camp Qwanoes
www.qwanoes.ca
Crofton
Learn & Experience www.learnandexperience.com
Shawnigan Lake
Camp Luther www.campluther.ca
Mission
Green Bay Bible Camp www.greenbay.bc.ca
Kelowna
Timberline Ranch
www.timberlineranch.com
Maple Ridge
Pioneer Camp Pacific www.pioneercamppacific.ca
Thetis Island
Academic Camp Canada www.academiccamp.org
Mill Bay
Camp Imadene www.imadene.com
Mesachie Lake
Camp Homewood www.camphomewood.com
Quadra Island
Camp Summit www.campsummit.ca
Squamish
Camp Artaban www.campartaban.com
Gambier Island
Camp Latona www.camplatona.com
Gambier Island
Fireside Adventures www.firesideadventures.ca
West Vancouver
Camp Stillwood www.stillwood.ca
Cultus Lake
Evans Lake Forest Education Society www.evanslake.com
Squamish
Keats Camp www.keatscamps.com
Keats Island
Debate Camp www.debatecamp.com/vancouver
Shawnigan Lake, Vancouver
14 Camp Hatikvah www.camphatikvah.com
Lake Kalamalka
Camp Morice www.campmorice.ca
Fort St. James
Camp Bow-Isle www.bowisle.ca
Bowen Island
Camp Firwood www.campfirwood.org
Bellingham, WA
Camp Douglas www.campdouglas.ca
Roberts Creek
Digital Media Academy www.digitalmediaacademy.org
Vancouver
Mountain View Adventures www.mvtrailriding.com
Smithers
CYMC Comox Valley Youth Music Centre www.cymc.ca
Courtenay
Zajac Ranch for Children www.zajacranch.com
Mission
YMCA Camps... where kids can be themselves. Through YMCA’s day and overnight camp programs, kids ages 5 to 17 learn new skills, build confidence, connect with others and make lasting memories. Our programs run throughout the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, and at YMCA Camp Elphinstone on the Sunshine Coast.
Canada’s largest food & health event for families returns to the Vancouver Convention Centre – the last day of Spring Break!
ENJOY FOOD & DRINK SAMPLING GALORE
Taste your way through aisles of mouth-watering food & drink samples covering everything from plant-based pizza, non-dairy ice cream and vegan chocolate, to grab & go healthy snacks and allergen-friendly treats for the whole family. And when you need a break, take a load off in the Daiya Foods Rest Stop to recharge with some colouring fun
GET READY FOR THE STELLAR STAGE LINEUP
For the first time, PAW Patrol hits the Expo! Thanks to PDG Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, PAW Patrol pups, Chase, Marshall and Skye, will be joining for storytimes on stage, alongside returning favourites like the incredible LIVE Dino shows, a Taekwondo demo, a DANCEPl3Y class, a performance by Ava Music & Arts Centre students, a Sea Smart ocean conservation interactive show, and an audience-favourite Gumboot Kids Live Show featuring Jessie Farrell, Scout & Daisy and special guest Daniel Tiger from CBC Kids!
FAMILY-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCE FOR ALL
Did you know that kids up to age 16 get FREE ADMISSION courtesy of
The Healthy Family Expo producers also offer a baby feeding-friendly show, including a decked-out baby lounge thanks to Hello Bello. And CAN is returning for Expo 2020 to provide families with a safe space to calm down away from the bustle of the Expo. They will have sensory kits on loan with noise-cancelling headsets and sensory toys that can be used as families explore the Expo.
This year introduces a new FAMILY VIP PASS that allows 2 adults to skip the lineup at the door, plus receive a gift bag valued at over $250 including food samples and passes to BC’s hottest attractions including Cultus Lake Waterpark, Cultus Lake Adventure Park, Sea to Sky Gondola, Vancouver Aquarium, Science World, Britannia Mine Museum & Maplewood Farm.
DON’T MISS THE HUGE
ACTIVE KID ZONE
New attractions in this year’s Active Kid Zone include an 80 ft long inflatable obstacle course, a Rabbitats Rescue area where kids can feed & adopt adorable bunnies thanks to Wholly Veggie, WestCoast Families magazine photo contest in partnership with the Vancouver Aquarium, and a Kits Gym Club inflatable track & gymnastics circuit. Plus, Hoverball Safe Archery, Climb Base5 rock wall, Ocean Wise AquaVan, Science World on the Road, toddler sandboxes, Sportball, Springfree Trampolines, and more!
Highlights of this must-visit event for Lower Mainland families include the HUGE 35,000 square foot Active Kid Zone, stage shows including PAW Patrol storytimes, healthy food & drink sampling in the Whole Foods Market Zone and London Drugs Health Zone, plus fantastic shopping from over 200 family friendly exhibitors, sensory-friendly lounge, and a brand new Portobello West Pop Up showcasing local Vancouver artisan makers.
for spring break FUN IN VANCOUVER
There’s no need to leave Metro Vancouver for Spring Break fun! Here are the top 10 local ways to try new things and make the most of your Spring Break:
