Storey Creek Golf Club: Campbell River

Overview:
Situated just 14 kms south of Campbell River, British Columbia, Storey Creek Golf Club is internationally renowned for its stunningly picturesque and challenging, yet playable Les Furber designed golf course, located on the east-central coastline of Vancouver Island.

Thoughts:
This is a great course for golfers of all skill.  For the most part you are secluded and will not see anyone except for the group in front of you or behind as you are surrounded by trees on almost every hole.  The fairways are nice and wide with plenty of room between them and the treeline making it easier to keep your ball in play.  The are plenty of spots that will challenge even the best golfers but offer easier ways around for others.

The course was covered with dear on most holes and the tall trees made for great scenery during the round.  A couple of water hazards and scattered sand traps added some beauty and challenge to some holes. This is a great course and a decent price, I would definitely recommend this course for anyone in the area and looking for a relaxing game.

Grounds:
Because it was winter golf we could not expect a perfect course. But from what I could tell the traps were well taken care of and the greens, fairways and rough looked like they would be pristine in the summer season.  Drainage was almost perfect as well keeping our feet out of deep puddles as we made our way around.

Staff:
I didn't pay so didn't enter the clubhouse and we didn't see any marshals or other staff on the course, probably because of the season.

Amenities:
Again I didn't go in but there is a grill and pro shop. As well there was an open driving range at the course and chipping and putting green.

Facility:
The outside of the building looked nice, not too big but well maintained.

Price:
Regular - $69.00
Junior (13-18) - $30.00
Child (7-12) - $10

Course Type:
Parkland | Public | 18

Par:
72

Pros:
Nice course with a little something for everyone, every level can play. Decent price for the course.

Cons:
It is a long course and walking it would take some time, unfortunately golf carts are not included with green fees.

Contact Information:
300 McGimpsy Road
Campbell River, BC
V9W 6J3

Phone: 250-923-3673
Toll Free: 1866-923-3674
Fax: 250-923-1816

Website: http://www.storeycreek.bc.ca/

Robin's Den Park: Nanaimo

Overview:
This park was installed in 2008 at the end of Prince John Way.  The park was upgraded with new equipment and is maintained by the City of Nanaimo.

Thoughts:
This is a nice little park for the kids with equipment mainly for smaller children.  There is a picnic table for use as well.  The park though is nestled in between the trees and a rock cliff so sun is not something that is plentiful. It seemed as well that people walking their dogs along the trail beside the park didn't care that their dogs used the park as bathroom either.  Because of the lack of sun, there was an abundance of mushrooms growing in the mulch.

Pros:
Newer equipment and good place to go to kill an hour or so.  Not too small and not overly big making it easy to keep an eye on running kids.

Cons:
Uncaring dog owners not cleaning up and lack of sunlight.

Contact Information:
Top of Prince John Way
Nanaimo, BC

Taves Family Farms Applebarn: Abbotsford

Overview:
One farm quickly grew to a few, and now we harvest everything from apples to heirloom tomatoes to pumpkins. We decided to share our gifts by creating an agritourism attraction called the Applebarn. Every September, our communities tell us that they eagerly wait for the doors to open so they can pick their own apples or bring their families out for some fall family entertainment!

Thoughts:
This is a great place for a variety of reasons.  Farm fresh produce, U-Pick fruit, family attractions and fun,  this place has it all.  The attractions were targeted more for the smaller kids with a petting zoo, bouncy castle, swings/park, push tractors and slides, but older kids will also have a blast with the corn maze, bouncing pillow, or corn/pumpkin cannon.

The store had a few fruits and vegetables or farm fresh cider for sale, as well as local honey.

If you are going to get some local fruits and vegetables then there is always something else you can do while there but, to visit for a couple of hours it is definitely geared more towards kids 10 and under.

Pros:
Lots to do and see for the little kids and some stuff for older kids too.  I like that it is not just an attraction but also a local market as well.  Decently priced.

Cons:
Parking was a bit confusing with 3 lots and no one directing traffic,  had to circle the lot a couple of times to find a spot.

Price:
Children (2 and under) FREE
Children (3-17 years of age) $7.00
Adults (18 yrs and older) $5.50
Senior (65 yrs and older) $4.50
Family (2 adults and 2 or more children) $24.50

Hayride $2.00/person
Corn Gun $2.50/3 shots
Pumpkin Cannon $5.00/shot
Ponyride $5.00/person

Hours:
August 6 – August 31: Friday to Sunday (10:30 am to 5:30 pm)  
September 1 - October 31: Seven Days a Week (9:00 am to 5:30 pm)
October 10- October 26: Extended Hours! Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 7:00 pm
November 1 – December 22: Thursday to Saturday (10:00 am to 5:00 pm)
Open all Statutory Holidays!

Contact Information:
333 Gladwin Rd
Abbotsford, BC
V2T 5Y1

Phone: 604.853.3108
Toll Free: 1.888.345.0193
Fax: 1.888.345.8972

Website: http://www.tavesfamilyfarms.com/
Email: info@tavesfamilyfarms.com

Fright Nights at Playland: Vancouver

Overview:
Western Canada’s Scariest Haunt. Face your fears. Fright Nights possesses Playland from October 11 to November 2 and features 6 fright houses, 12 rides, and the freaky sideshow, The Monsters of Schlock.

Thoughts:
I personally have not gone but have heard good things about this attraction.  Apparently it is a little scary for younger kids and not recommended for children under 12.  Times and costs vary and you need to purchase your tickets for the days you wish to go.

If you go please leave a review of it in the comments section.

Price:
7pm-11pm
Admission: Gate $25, Online $22
Fast Pass: Gate $50, Online $44

7pm-Midnight
Admission: Gate $30, Online $27
Fast Pass: Gate $60, Online $54

7pm-1am
Admission: Gate $35, Online $32
Fast Pass: Gate $70, Online $64

Contact Information:
E Hastings St & Windermere St
Vancouver, BC
V5K 5J3

Phone: 604-253-2311

Website: http://www.frightnights.ca
Email: info@pne.ca

Kinsman Park: Oliver

Overview:
Welcome to Kinsmen Playground. This family park is, without question, one of the highest use parks in Oliver. A fully equipped playground for young children is just one of the main attractions. It is also home to Oliver’s waterpark which is one of the busiest fun spots in the area.

Kids of all ages can and do play for hours on end under the various water features. Public washrooms are available. It is a very popular location for birthday parties. Kinsmen Playground is located along the west side of the Okanagan River on 350th Avenue and is a short walk from downtown.

Thoughts:
This is a great place for the kids to play either on a quick stop while driving through or if you are in the area and need somewhere for them to run around for a while.  The equipment is pretty new and the park is surrounded by a fence so that kids can't just wander off.

The park has swings, slides, climbing equipment and one of the best features is the spray park.  It is big enough that it could accommodate quite a few people, especially in the small town, and has a public washroom as well.

We stopped for a quick bite to eat before heading out on the road and let the kids wear themselves out before getting back into the car.

Pros:
Plenty of equipment and a good variety too.

Cons:
Not a lot of picnic tables which could be a problem if it was busy.

Contact Info:
255 Park Drive
Oliver, B.C.

Water Park open May-September

Gasthaus on the Lake: Peachland

Overview:

Located in the heart of the Okanagan, 20 minute drive from Kelowna and 25 minute drive from Penticton, the Gasthaus on the Lake pub and restaurant provides a year round dining destination.  Whether it’s for the beautiful garden patio in the summer or the famous medieval feasts in the winter months, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience at the Gasthaus.

Side view of Gasthaus on the Lake Pub

Thoughts:

This is a nice restaurant in a great location.  We did the Medieval Feast and the foods was good.  The price of the feast was not exactly worth the amount of food you could eat, especially if you did not plan on staying all night.  The display and decor was great and the atmosphere was perfect.  The staff was extremely friendly and the dinner and appetizer was delicious.  The desert (ice cream and apple fritters) though was definitely lacking, the fritters were pretty bland tasting as I did not get any apple taste out of it.

As well it wasn't enough that we were charged for the meals but we asked for just ice cream for a child (the dinner comes with the endless ice cream and fritters) but because the ice cream came in a separate dish and had to pay extra, should have just got another round of fritters to throw out.

I liked the place and would return to try the restaurant out and not the feast.

Pros:

Good food and great atmosphere.  Nice location.

Cons:

A bit on the high side for the price of the feast for the average party.

Contact Information: 

5790 Beach Ave
Peachland, BC

V0H 1X6

Phone: 250-767-6625

Fax: 250-767-6437

Website: http://www.gasthaus.ca

Email: info@gasthaus.ca

Central Park: Merritt

Overview:

This park is home to 5 ball fields, kid’s playground, sand volleyball court, washrooms and a gazebo for all your tournament needs. Also you can follow the paved trail along the golf course that will lead you right to Rotary Park.

Kids Playground at Central Park in Merritt

Thoughts:
This large park is close to the highway so is very convenient for stopping at if you are travelling through and need a place to stop and stretch your legs.  There is not a lot of places to eat nearby but you pass by McDonalds, Subway, Dairy Queen, Tim Hortons and Starbucks on your way down if you want something to bring. The kids area is nice and clean, some large tires for playing on and around, beach volleyball ball courts were there but no nets were set up, plenty of baseball diamonds,  skate park,  large parking lot,

covered picnic area,  bmx track, and the bathrooms were a converted Atco trailer.

Pros:
Close to highway and plenty of room.  Good variety of things to do.

Cons:
Kids area is a bit old and doesn't seem as sturdy as some of the newer playgrounds.

Contact Information:
2975 Voght St

Website: http://www.merritt.ca/city-services/public-works/parks

The Green House Cafe & Bistro: Maple Ridge

Overview:

The Green House Cafe and Bistro provides healthy organic cuisine for the whole family in the heart of downtown Maple Ridge. With individually prepared meals at a great price, you'll be hooked after your first visit.  A good selection of food and drinks can be enjoyed on the patio or inside.

Thoughts:
Nice place with a relaxing atmosphere. The portion sizes were larger than expected and the food was good.  The menu selection was diverse and there was all day breakfast. No website though so you need to get their information from Facebook.

Price:

$10-$20

Pros:

Atmosphere was good and the staff was friendly.  Large portions.

Cons:

Wasn't the cheapest place around and no website makes it hard to get any information regarding menus and hours.

Contact Information:

11997 224 St.

Maple Ridge, British Columbia
V2X 6B4

Phone: 604.466.4007

E-Mail: Greenhousebistro@gmail.com 

Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Green-House-Cafe-Bistro/139201666146430

Hours:

Tue - Wed: 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

Thu - Sat: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm

Sun: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Penticton

Penticton is located in the south central region of British Columbia, in an area known collectively as the Okanagan Valley. With over 2100 hours of sunshine, and only 15 inches or rain annually, the area has a comfortable climate year round.

The City is surrounded by two fresh water lakes and gentle rolling mountains. A wide variety of outdoor recreational activities is augmented by amentities such as a newly renovated Community Centre containing two indoor pools, 4 sheets of ice, tennis courts, a curling rink, and a state of the art South Okanagan Events Centre housing the Penticton Vees hockey team.

Activities:
Lots of stuff to do here, especially if you like the outdoors. Plenty of golf, wineries, hiking and beaches are located in and around Penticton. Float down the canal in either a rented tube from Coyote Cruises for $5 or bring your own. Coyote Cruises also offers rides back up the channel for $5. Mini golf, bumber boats and a large floating playground in Okanagan Lake fill the summer days. Skiing is close by at Apex Mountain.
4.0/5

Events:
Plenty of Summer events are held hear including both local events like Peach Fest and regional and provincial events like triathalons and even Canucks training camps.
3.5/5

View:
Rolling sage hills and 2 spectacular lakes this place has lots too see. The Kettle Valley Railway also has great historic value to the area and you can walk or cycle along the old route up to Naramata and even on to Kelowna.
2.0/5

Accommodations:
Lots of camping in and very close by to the city itself. B&B's and hostels also offer some variety to you accommodations and there are plenty of long-term and short-term hotels, motels and apartments for rent. Penticton Lakeside Resort, Convention Centre & Casino can give you the more luxurious stay you might be looking for as well.
3.5/5

Dinning & Shopping:
Plenty of restaurants and a good variety of food types makes this a visitors paradise. The down town area offers quite a few specialty and tourist shops while the larger Cherry Lane mall gives you the regular shopping need you might have. Larger stores like Wal-Mart have also started to move in giving people another place to get their daily items.
3.0/5

Visit-ability:
A great place to spend some time in the summer. Always something to do or see and there is always a spot on the beach for you.
4.0/5

Total Rating: 20/30

Thoughts:
I love it here and could spend most of the summer in the warm sun. The activities here have great "re-play" value and even if you happen to get bored of them there is usually some sort of event or festival going on. Being a small city and not as busy as nearby Kelowna, Penticton is a must visit place in my books.

Website: http://www.penticton.ca/

Jericho Beach: Vancouver

Overview: 
Jericho Beach is located on the north side of Jericho Park at the west end of Point Grey Rd. The east side of the beach caters to swimmers and the west side to sailboats and windsurfers.

Thoughts:
A nice beach area and plenty of facilities for users.  There is also plenty of free street parking in addition to the large pay parking lot.  The concession has a good variety but is also a little bit pricey.

The water seems warmer than the beaches to the west (Lacarno and Spanish Banks), but the beach itself is quite rocky and full of shells near the shoreline.

Pros:
Lots of facilities, parking and sand area to site and play in.  Fields and a large pond offer areas to walk as well.

Cons: 
Rocky shoreline and expensive concession.

Features:

• Concession
• Public washrooms
• Playing fields
• Tennis courts
• Picnic tables
• Swimming raft
• Pay parking
• Lifeguards between Victoria Day and Labour Day (late May to early September)
• Beach wheelchair for persons with physical disabilities
• Jericho Sailing Centre 
• Vancouver Youth Hostel

Honeybee Centre: Surrey

Overview:

Honeybee Centre is home to the Bees & Bugs Lab which offers an interactive exhibit full of live invertebrates & bees, hands-on activities, honey tasting and more!  Self-guided tours are perfect for families, or book a guided tour for your school field trip or group.

Thoughts:
Kind of a cool idea with the bug lab and bee hive tour to do with the kids but if you don't get there for the tour you can still self guide yourself through. This is both good and bad. You pay full price and if you don't know that much about what you are looking at it can be overwhelming.  Some of the bugs were impossible to find and the free samples you got as part of the tour are available to anyone who walks in the store.

The tea house is nice though with a relaxing atmosphere bit it seems a bit far from anywhere to go for tea.

Pros:
Got to see some different bugs and learn a bit about bees. The free samples give you an idea of how different honeys taste.

Cons:
A bit much for a self guided tour with not too much to look at on your own and not knowing what's there.

Price:
$5 per person

3 and under Free

Hours:

Mon to Sat:   9 am - 6 pm

Sun:              10 am - 6 pm

Contact Information:

7480 - 176 Street

Surrey, B.C.

Canada V3S 7B1

Phone: 604 - 575 - 2337

Fax: 604 - 575 - 2338

Website: http://www.honeybeecentre.com/

Cultus Lake Water Park

Overview:

When looking for watersliding and water parks in Vancouver, look no further than Cultus Lake Waterpark.

Cultus Lake Waterpark is BC's biggest and best Waterpark. Our waterslides are supervised by quality-trained water safety staff. And the facility and attractions are constantly maintained, upgraded, and expanded providing something new for every guest and every visit. Top priority is always given to maintaining customer satisfaction as a safe, clean, and fun environment. Whether you are on vacation or just taking a much needed break, visit Cultus Lake Waterpark and experience the ultimate summer recreational activity.

Thoughts:
The variety of slides was great with tube slides, regular slides and speciality slides.  Kids had plenty of options from spray parks, water adventure playground, slides, and hot tub for kids.  Getting there early is definitely key, not for a place to sit because there is plenty of that, but to get in a few slides before the crowds show up.  The slides were fun but the lines got a bit long later in the day.

You are able to take your kids down the main slides and they can go down the tube rides if they are over 36" tall.  Some of the other larger slides though required them to be 48".

The free life jackets helped out as well keeping our 2 year old feeling safe when in the deeper water at the bottom of the slides.

This is a definite must see if you like water activities and are in the area.

Price:

Type	Full Day	Twilight (starts 4 hrs. prior to closing)
48″ and Above	$29.00 (incl. tax)	$20.00 (incl. tax)
Under 48″ tall	$20.00 (incl. tax)	$14.00 (incl. tax)
Seniors(60+)	$20.00 (incl. tax)	$14.00 (incl. tax)

*Children 2 and under are free with paid adult.

Pros:

Lots of slides and lots for kids to do. Free life jackets and plenty of space to put your towels down.

Cons:
When it gets busy line ups take a while, and because of its popularity it will get busy.

Contact Information:
4150 Columbia Valley Hwy
Cultus Lake, BC
V2R 5S4

Phone:  604-858-7241

Website: http://www.cultus.com
Email: info@cultus.com

Rolley Lake: Mission

Overview:

Less than an hour’s drive from Vancouver, Rolley Lake Provincial Park provides a quick escape from urban life.  The small, warm-water lake provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and canoeing. Sixty-four campsites are nestled in the trees just minutes from the lakeshore. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and short hikes.

Beach at Rolley Lake, Mission

Thoughts: 
I like the small lake and its seclusion keeps most of the crowds away.  There is a pretty large grass field for playing in and some shaded and open picnic tables for use.  The beach is pretty rocky though and some water shoes would definitely be recommended.  Not an overly large swimming area but enough space to play in the water and the depth is quite gradual so you don't have to worry about any drop offs for kids. The only facilities at the beach area is an outhouse part way along the walking trail around the lake.

The trail around the lake was a gravel trail with some bridges and wide enough to walk a stroller on.  The trail is 2.6km and would take about 45min to walk.

There looked like a lot of people were fishing but I didn't see anyone catch anything and I am not too sure how big the fish could get with so many people fishing and such a small lake.

Pros:
Small lake so the water is warm. There is more than just swimming and sitting to do with the field, trail and fishing options close at hand. Camping is close by so good for a weekend getaway.

Cons:
Rocks in the sand so shoes are almost a must. Swimming area is a bit small and could get crowded in lots of people show up.

Website: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/rolley.html‎

River Market: New Westminster

Tin Man at New Westminster Quay

Overview:

Shops, walks, and play for the kids! The New West Quay has something for everyone.  Come down and catch an event or concert or enjoy a dinner or beverage on the patio. Explore and enjoy your visit to New Westminster.

Thoughts:

Heading down to the New West Quay is a great idea on a warm day to enjoy a walk. The boardwalk heads along the river with information plaques along the way telling you of the history of the Fraser River and New Westminster.  The Market itself though does not have much going for it other than it was freshly renovated.  It didn't look like there were any shops on the upper floor and the few that they had on the lower did not really entice me to go in.

Good for an hours walk or so while you eat some ice cream on a hot day, but it would have to be part of another activity in the area unless you were staying close by.

Hours:

Sunday to Thursday 10 am – 6 pm

Friday to Saturday 10 am – 7 pm.

Contact Info:

810 Quayside Drive

New Westminster, BC

Canada V3M 6B9

Tel 604.520.3881

Fax 604.520.6130

Website: http://www.rivermarket.ca/

Email: info@rivermarket.ca

Playland: Vancouver

Overview:
Playland offers rides to match the most extreme thrillseeker to the slightly queasy stomach fairgoer. Are you looking for an experience you can share with the whole family? Jump on one of our TWO NEW FAMILY RIDES, Teacups and Balloon Explorers. If it's games you seek, Playland's midway games section will keep your brain and hand/eye coordination busy. Interested in an adrenaline rush? Check out ATMOSFEAR, the historic Wooden Roller Coaster, Revelation or the Haunted Mansion. Need a break from all the excitement? Grab a tasty treat from any of the different food venues at Playland. At Playland, there’s literally something for everyone.

Thoughts:
Although the price is quite steep, you can get a guardian pass if you are bringing children under 12. Plenty of rides and things to do to keep you busy for a couple of hours.  The lines were quite short earlier in the day and got longer as the day when on.  There is not much for kids under 36" and they are not very lenient on the rules.  My kid was just under and even though she was smart enough to go on her tippy toes to make it over the height they made her stand flat footed.  And even though you can take any kid on some of the rides with an adult, they had to have their own seat and seat belt, which did not go over well with the 8 month old.

This place is definately best for kids over 48" but for those that are under you can still have some fun but there might be a lot of, "sorry, you can't ride that one yet".

Price:
Over 48": $32.50
Under 48": $23.75
Children Under 3 and 48": free

Pros:
Quite a few rides and fun things to do. Was a good place to spend a few hours and let the kids have some fun.

Cons:
Expensive. Not only do you have to pay to get in the gate, there are certain rides and activities that cost more once you are in, and the food is very expensive too.  Not a great place for smaller kids but they can definitely do some things if you are taking older kids.

Contact Info:
2901 East Hastings Street,
Vancouver, BC, Canada
V5K 5J1

Phone: 604-252-3620

Website: http://www.pne.ca/playland/
Email: info@pne.ca

Golden Eagle South: Pitt Meadows

Overview:
Located only 45 minutes from Vancouver, Golden Eagle Golf Club is situated amidst the beautiful Thompson Mountains located in scenic Pitt Meadows. At Golden Eagle Golf Club in Pitt Meadows you will find 18 fun and challenging hole South Golf Course. Rolling fairways surrounded by plenty of water and bunkers lead you to massive bent grass greens testing all aspects of your game.

14th Hole Green at Sunset

Grounds:
Grounds maintenance does not seem to be a top priority on the south course.  Spotty fairways, modelled greens and bunkers that blend with the rough make some shots very challenging or worth actually moving your ball a little.  Bunkers do not look like they have had new sand in a while with pebbles showing up on top of most.

Staff:
The only person we saw on the course was the pro shop teller that took our green fees.  He was very friendly and nothing to complain about.

Amenities:
There is a beer cart but perhaps not during the week or for later tee times.  A restaurant, putting green and a couple of warm up cages.

Facility:
Nice clubhouse and pro shop.  Things looked clean and well taken care of.

Price:
$54 per round and $35 for a cart makes it a mid range course.  The twilight deal at 5pm for $25 is a good deal though as during the summer months it is still light enough to make it through the course.

Course Type:
Parkland | Public | 18

Par:
70

Thoughts:
Lots of water and creeks to help thin out your extra balls.  This course plays nicely as long as you keep the ball straight.  The grounds definately could use some care and attention,  it looks like there was some draining issues in places when it rains and then some patches in the fairways and greens.  The bunkers created a new hazard type offering a blend between rough and sand around most edges.

Pros: 
Not a long course in distance and you can find some good deals for green fees.

Cons:
Maintenance issues stand out the most and the need to hit the ball straight.

Contact Information:
21770 Ladner Road,
Pitt Meadows, BC,
V3Y 1Z1

Phone: 604-460-1111

Website: http://www.goldeneaglegolfclub.com
Email: info@goldeneaglegolfclub.com

Swiss Gourmet Restaurant: Harrison Hot Springs

Overview:
Based within the Hot Springs Villa Hotel, this quaint restaurant offers a German/Swiss cuisine mixed with some west coast favourites.  Enjoy the food and drinks in either the open restaurant or on the patio overlooking the beach at Harrison Hot Springs.

Thoughts:
The staff was friendly and the taste of the food was ok but the downsides definitely outweighed the upsides.  The portions of food were smaller than expected, I could have counted the number of fries on my fingers, and the price was too high for both quality and quantity of the food.  The interior could use some updating as well as the tables and chairs inside were looking old.  I would not recommend this restaurant especially given the other choices in such close proximity in the same price range.

Price:
Appy's $8-$12
Burgers $9-$14
Entree's $15-$25
Too much.  Not for a meal but for what you get here it was too much.

Pros:
Location is great, and food was ok.

Cons:
Overpriced and no very big portions.

Contact Info:
270 Esplanade
Harrison Hot Springs BC, Canada

Phone: (604) 796-9339
Toll Free: 1-866-796-9339

Websites: http://www.harrisonvilla.com
Email: t9445@telus.net

Splashdown Park: Tsawwassen

Overview:
One of only 2 water slide parks in the Vancouver area, this park offers 13 slides for everyone from toddlers to adults, with 3 tube rides, 2 intermediate slides, and 4 advanced slides.  Spend the day and make use of the concession, bbq's and tent rentals.

Thoughts:
Not the biggest water park but it was large enough to keep relatively short lines and a fun atmosphere.  Plenty of grass space in both shade and full sun so you are not too crowded when taking a break or getting something to eat.  One of the best things about the park though was that we could take our toddler down any of the slides that were not tube rides.  Giving them the fun of both the kids slides that they can do on their own and also going down the bigger slides with an adult.

The price was good as well, adults are only about $20 and children under 3 are free for all day fun. As well you get a $2 discount per member when you sign up for email newsletters.

Price:

AGE:	FULL DAY:	TWILIGHT: (starts 4 hrs. prior to closing)
Age 4 + (while under 48")	16.96	11.99
Over 48" (to Age 64)	22.99	16.96
Tots (3yrs & under)	Free	Free
Seniors (65+ with ID)	9.99	7.99
Family of 4	81.99	59.99

Pros:
Large area so it didn't get too crowded, plenty of options for kids and the price was good for something that you can do all day.

Cons:
Tsawwassen is quite far away from most places and takes some time to get to.  There could be a couple more slides for adults to give them a better experience.

Contact Information:
4775 Nulelum Way
Tsawwassen, B.C.

Phone: (604) 943-2251

Website: http://www.splashdownpark.ca
Email: info@splashdownpark.ca

Pacific Inn Resort and Conference Centre: White Rock

Overview:
A full-service resort hotel’s with luxurious accommodations inspired by the lush ambience of the tropics, offering a one-of-a-kind relaxation experience.  The hotel comes complete with a swimming pool, hot tub, spa, as well as a few shops and services right inside the hotel offering massage, and other services.

Thoughts:
The hotel is a bit older and could use some new paint and freshening up.  The weather outside was extremely hot while inside during our stay the air conditioning seemed to not be working in neither the lobby/foyer or the rooms.  The lobby was nicely done though and the atmosphere was very much that of a tropical resort.  The rooms however you noticed the age of the building with scuff marks, dents and dings all throughout the halls.

The restaurant was mediocre as the food was nothing to write home about, although there was a bar, a couple of the drinks we tried to order they couldn't make and they apparently ran out of milk so the kids were forced to choose different drinks.

The front desk staff seemed more pre-occupied with other tasks while we waited about 5 min to check in with 2 of them looking through a book or another 5 when we tried to get towels for the pool. Overall the price was a bit higher but not unreasonable for the rooms and the amenities offered. Might try a different hotel if planning on staying in the area again but would not discourage people from staying here.

Price:
$110 - $250
Although not overly high it did seem like it could use some updates for the price.

Pros:
Tropics like atmosphere and a nice pool and hot tub.  The rooms were a decent size and the beds comfortable enough.

Cons:
No working AC (while we were there), restaurant food left something to be desired and could use some sprucing up.

Contact Information:
1160 King George Boulevard
White Rock/Surrey, British Columbia  V4A 4Z2
Canada

Phone: (604)-535-1432
Fax: (604)-531-6979
Toll Free: 1-800-667-2248

Website: http://www.pacificinn.com
Email: sales@pacificinn.com

H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre: Kelowna

Overview:
Not just a swimming pool. this complex offers an Olympic length pool with diving boards, waterslides, a wave pool, kids play area, toddler play area, lazy river, 2 hot tubs, Flowrider indoor surfing, and a gym.  A great place to spend the day with the family.

Thoughts:
A very large complex with lots to offer and space to accommodate a lot of people without feeling crammed. The kids play area is ideal for children of all ages, although the spraying water was a bit strong for really small kids.  The toddler area was a perfect temperature to make sure users are not getting cold.  The wave pool was great although it did flow over into the kids playing area making the waters a bit choppy and could be better separated.  The lazy river was perfect with a good depth for adults to take younger kids but because of that the depth may be too much for some to go alone.

There are three waterslides with a variety of twists and turns to choose from, but there is a height restriction and you must go alone, no doubles.  The Flowrider indoor wave was also included in admission price but I could see the line up getting pretty long there.

Price:
Infant (0-2): Free
Child (3-12): $5.75
Youth (13-18): $6.85
Young Adult (19-24): $7.95
Adults (25-64): $10.10
Seniors (65+): $7.95
Family (2 adults / 3 children): $25.00

Pros:
Water was warm, and a family hot tub that was cooler than a regular one allowed kids to be able to sit as well.  Plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy.

Cons:
No doubles on slides so short children can't enjoy them.  It could get busy and have a lot  of waiting and bumping at times.  With rotating stoppages of activities it made it hard for infants/toddlers in the toddler area to keep playing as there was no more water spraying out of the activities.

Contact Information:
4075 Gordon Drive
Kelowna, BC
V1W 5J2

Phone: 250.764.4040
Fax: 250.764.4085

Website: http://www.h2okelowna.ca
Email:  h2oinfo@ymcaokanagan.ca

EnergyPlex: Kelowna

Overview:
Kelowna's indoor play place for kids.  Plenty of activities to do in the EnergyCube, trampoline room, rock wall and craft room will keep children busy for hours.

Thoughts:
This was a great place for kids that are strong enough to do the activities on their own.  Some of the things required younger children to help out a considerable amount.  this would not have been a problem except that adults were not allowed on half of the equipment at all.

The toddler area does not have a lot to it with only a couple of things that the kids can climb around.

Overall it was a great place to spend a couple of hours and let the kids run around.

Price:
Infants: Free
Toddlers (1-2): $7.95
Kids (3-15): $9.95
Accompanying Parents: $3.00
Adults (16 and up): $9.95

The price for children is quite good, but when it comes to parents who are not allowed to use the equipment and toddlers who aren't strong enough to use half the stuff on their own, it could be a bit cheaper.

Pros:
Large area and a good variety of things to do for the kids.  The EnergyCube is 4 levels of climbing and slides where kids can just run.  The trampoline room is great with a few different things to bounce and play on.

Cons:
Pricey if you have younger kids for what they can actually use without help and the Cafe did not a have a very good variety of food to choose from.  Definitely eat outside and if you need to get a snack inside.

Contact Information:
130 - 948 McCurdy Rd
Kelowna, BC
V1X 2P7

Phone: 250.765.4486
Fax: 250.765.4497

Website: http://www.energyplex.ca
Email: customerservice@energyplex.ca

Best Western Plus Hotel and Suites: Kelowna

Overview:
Located right on Harvey Ave on your way through Kelowna, this hotel features a heated pool, two hot tubs, plenty of rooms and suites, hot buffet breakfast with omelette chef on site to take your order and a restaurant and bar on the premise. The best part about this hotel is that it is one of the only ones in Kelowna that accept Airmiles rewards for rooms.

Thoughts:
The hotel was nice and well maintained. The landscaping was nice and each room came with robe and pool shoes to get you to and from the pool.  Towels were provided by the front desk and coffee and tea were available in the lounge at all times.  the hours for the pool were from 6:30 am to 10:30 pm giving you plenty of time to go for a swim or enjoy the hot tub. The breakfast was about 50/50.  Some of the food was great, especially the al a carte omelettes, but the scrambled eggs left something to be desired.

Price:
$170 - $300
The price is a little on the high end but comparable with like hotels in the area.  The best part being that you can use about 1300 Airmiles Reward Miles to book a standard room for a night.

Pros:
Nice hotel, rooms are a good size and the hotel is quite.  Free hot breakfast buffet and large pool and two hot tubs. Suites are available. And restaurant and bar located on premise.

Cons:
Expensive for a hotel to just stop at for the night.  Some of the breakfast buffet was not very appealing.

Contact Information:
2402 Hwy 97
Kelowna, BC
V1X 4J1

Phone: 250.860.1212

Clearwater Lodge: Clearwater

Overview
Located at the gateway to Wells Gray Park, the Clearwater Lodge offers modern spacious rooms with queens sized beds.  Rooms come fully equipped with kitchenettes, cable tv, air conditioning and direct dial phones.  All rooms have a balcony or patio.  There is a hot continental breakfast and a restaurant on site.

Thoughts
Under new management the service has greatly improved at the hotel. The continental breakfast was offered on weekends now, which was a big plus. Although the restaurant hours were still a little hard to hit.  There is a large pool, hot tub, sauna and fitness area but these were closed for maintenance during our stay.

The rooms are a nice size but no suites are offered. All rooms have outdoor access to either a balcony or a patio overlooking a large field or direct access to parking.

Price
$90-$120
The price is average for a hotel and probably a good deal as it is the only hotel in Clearwater with an indoor pool.

Pros
Indoor pool, continental breakfast and clean and quiet. The price is good and the service seems 100 times better under the new management.

Cons
Restaurant hours are mainly for prime dinner time leaving you having to find somewhere else to eat most of the time. Pool and hot tub seem to be down a fair bit (3/4 times staying), so not sure if aging parts are keeping it down.

Contact Information
331 Eden Road
Clearwater, BC
V0E 1N0

Phone: 250.674.3080
Fax: 250.674.3084

Email: clearwaterlodge@mercuryspeed.com

ChongQing Restaurant: Vancouver

ChonQing is a nice little Szechuan restaurant in Vancouver, offering a variety  of Chinese dishes for both lunch and dinner.  The Commercial Dr. location is walking distance from the SkyTrain station and is the largest location. The other Vancouver location on Robson St. is the smallest but probably the best location for accessibility and the Burnaby restaurant is across the street from Metrotown Mall on Kingsway.

Cost
The price for lunch was a bit expensive around $9 per plate but the portions were enough to fill you for sure.

Contact Information

4909 Kingsway
Burnaby, BC V5H 2E5, Canada
(604) 558-0101
11:00am - 10:30pm


2808 Commercial Drive
Vancouver, BC V5N 4C6, Canada
(604) 254-7434
10:00am - 10:00pm


1260 Robson Street
Vancouver, BC V6E 1C2, Canada
(604) 568-0303
11:30am - 10:30pm

Thoughts
It is only assumed that all the locations are similar in décor and taste as the Commercial Dr. restaurant. Overall it is a nice restaurant, the food was good the décor looked to be recently updated and looked very modern. The service was not what I was used to, not that the people were rude but other than taking the order and delivering the food we did not see the staff.  Maybe this is part of the atmosphere they are trying to create. The price was a bit high but the portions were huge.  I would definitely visit again given the opportunity.

Website
http://cqrestaurant.com/ 

Departure Bay Beach: Nanaimo

Located right in the middle of Nanaimo is Departure Bay.  The constant ferry and float plane traffic gives visitors something to watch for while visiting this beautiful spot. Great views of the west side of Piper's Lagoon and the north end of Newcastle Island.  A couple of restaurants and a kids park are here as well.

Departure Bay Beach in Nanaimo

View:
Newcastle Island, ferries, birds and float planes are just some of many sights that can be found down on the beach at Departure Bay.

Wildlife:
Birds and if you are lucky some deer of even marine life that may have happened in to the bay.

Visit-ability:
Nice spot for a picnic or a quick swim during the warm summer days especially if you are staying in the area and only have a couple of hours.

Thoughts:
The beach itself is quite rocky, but during the summers there is an area that is bouyed off for swimming and the logs are moved around for "privacy" areas along the beach.  Across the street area  ocuple of restaurants and a gas station  with a convenience store so that you can get some snacks or food if you did not bring  lunch or dinner along with you.  At the end of the beach there is a kids play park run by the Kinsmen.  If in the area it is a good spot for an afternoon but if you are driving the beaches a few kilometres up the road in Parksville are much better.

Rating:
4/10

BC Ferries - Queen of Cowichan

We took this ferry on the Horseshoe Bay to Duke Point route.  It is the older model that is still being used.  Unfortunately it allows for more people than there is seating for and is difficult to find enough seats together for a family.  The restaurant serves some White Spot Triple-O's hot food, sandwiches and deserts and there is a cafe as well serving some cold food, coffee and tea.  The children's play area had a slide and a couple of car type things with steering wheels.  there was an arcade with some newer games but each one was $1 per play.  A gift shop also sold some B.C. related things and your usual magazines and chocolate bars.

I am not a big fan of these older ferries, especially after being on the new ones with plenty of seating space. If at all possible I would definitely recommend checking the boats on the route you are taking to see if you can get on one of those.

Othello Tunnels

A line of tunnels were built through the Coquihalla Gorge which are known now as the Othello Tunnels. There are spectacular viewing opportunities available on the trail, through the tunnels and on the bridges. The Coquihalla Canyon park highlights the Kettle Valley Railway that passes through the canyon and 5 tunnels which were built in 1914.

View:
Great views of the Coquihalla River and some fantastic spots for photos in and around the tunnels.

Wildlife:
Not much along the trail althouggh you may get lucky and see a black bear.

Time:
About 40 min to the end of the tunnels and back.

Visit-ability:
Good spot to  stop and stretch your legs or if you are in the Hope area to stop in for part of the day.

Website: 
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/coquihalla_cyn/

Open:
Spring to Fall, closed for Winter

Thoughts:
I like this quick little stop to see a part of Canadian history and nice quick walk through nature.  Just outside of Hope makes it easy and fast to get to and the trail is easy to walk on.  The tunnels took about 10 minutes  to get to the first one and the whole trip is about 40 minutes with stops for pictures and to enjoy some of the scenery.

Rating:
7/10