I remember when my vacation resembled more of a re-enactment of a day in the life of a rotisserie chicken; spending the entire day horizontal on some exotic beach, smelling like a coconut and slowly turning into a first place finish in the BC Hot House Tomato look alike contest.
To this day, I wonder whether it was worth all those hours of melting under a blazing sun, followed by evenings spent in an Olympic-size pool of moisturizing cream, just so I can return to the office on Monday and have someone remark:
“Oh I see you went somewhere on vacation!”
Nowadays, I look forward to a vacation for the reward of mental and physical rest through exploring. Walking is the best way to get to know a city wherever you travel. Wear comfortable shoes, grab a map and bus schedule at a local convenience store and off you go. Rather than observe the world from a window, experience it as if you lived there. Whether you travel to Whistler, Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, the Interior, the same approach can apply.
For me, one interesting discovery leads to another and then to another. Before I know it, I have walked a few miles and a much greater distance that my usual daily routine. The additional calorie burning factor is also important as I might indulge in a treat or two (another reward of vacation) during my travels.
Recently, I spent a week in Whistler. I humbly admit I am not a mountain biker, hand glider, hiker or runner. But I walked to everywhere I wanted to go to. If I forgot something at the store, I would either pass or walk back to get it. No driving under any conditions. I averaged 3 to 4 miles a day and felt great. Mentally and physically rested.
If you are limited by time and finances, you can walk the boardwalk at White Rock, the beaches at Spanish Banks, the perimeter of Stanley Park, Ambleside Park, Lighthouse Park, Crescent Beach Park, Boundary Bay and lots more locations – all free.
When you are walking in such beauty, an hour passes by like a few minutes.
And you won’t have to spend your evenings in an Olympic-size pool of moisturizing cream.
Next week: Golfing for Fun: Seriously!
Have a week of good health,
Rick
