Nanaimo, Ferries, and Pixies


The view from the docks was priceless, and we enjoyed it every day in Nanaimo during spring break. My recommendations include: the Buccaneer's kitchenette as a base for daily explorations and the basic necessities, Javawocky for chai tea and chili, Troller's for fish and chips, Hub Cycle downtown for bike rentals, and a hike on Newcastle Island for restoring your soul. Of the five I just mentioned, the last two are complicated and require some explanation.

When we visited, Hub Cycle was right next to a couple of downtown buildings that burned down. That meant a safety fence, and restricted sidewalk use. If you walk from the big casino towards the A&W downtown, straight through the Shaw Building parking lot, then take the stairs down on your right, you will descend into a street that you would not have otherwise guessed existed. In this alternate domain, there will be cool people who will gladly rent you a couple of wheels.

Another thing you need to know about Nanaimo is that many things don't open or run until April 1. For example, we were very lucky that Troller's had a soft opening a few days early or I could never have sampled the delectable grilled oysters that I enjoyed March 30. Many of the ferries are on reduced schedules, or not running at all, during low season, which includes the colder months. We found this out the hard way when we waited for the Newcastle Island ferry to no avail. Never mind the posted schedule, phoning the posted number was no help, and the wharf manager didn't know either. Finally, we got wise and paid the skipper of the Protection Island ferry a few extra dollars to take us a little further. If you do the same, just make sure you agree upon a return time, as the accommodation on the deserted provincial park would consist of camping gear you had thought to bring yourself.


P.S. I almost forgot about the "pixies." On a number of islands in the area, there will be signs referencing pixies crossing roadways, pixies in the forest, and pixies that will punish you if you don't pick up after your dog. There are also lots of references to pirates and smugglers. You may see skulls, or soft toys tied up in trees. Don't worry... it's how islanders amuse themselves.

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