By Blair Qualey
As we enter the final weeks of summer, thereās nothing quite like the feeling of a road trip ā and whether itās for a āstaycationā or a weekend getaway, it can be difficult to choose the best spot here in B.C. The picturesque Sea-to-Sky Highway offers a scenic drive to Whistler, which is always beautiful, even without the snow. For people who donāt mind a ferry crossing (unless already on the Island), Tofino offers surfing, hiking, whale watching and spectacular sunsets. A visit to one of the provinceās many vineyards is also a real treat.
āItās not the destination, itās the journey.ā ā Ralph Waldo Emerson
When it comes to a vacation, some people might disagree with Emerson, but a little planning is needed for a smooth journey.
Itās best to expect that there will be frustrating, annoying, and stressful moments. Why? Because thousands of other people are probably also headed to āyourā vacation spot. There will likely be heavy traffic along popular routes and at various times during the day. Where thereās bumper to bumper traffic, there are usually impatient drivers who do something unsafe like trying to get ahead by zipping through the road shoulder.
has plenty of useful, essential and emergency information. The website has road conditions, construction activity, highway webcams, info on the Lions Gate Bridge, ferry delays and links to Environment Canada forecasts for specific highways.
Review your route the night before and in the morning, to check for possible issues, closures or construction slowdowns that could, for example, result in a missed ferry crossing.
Another important thing to watch for: forest fires. Firefighters are battling numerous blazes in B.C. and driving through one can be dangerous. Smoke reduces visibility, clogs up air filters, and ash clings to car windows. Keeping up to date on the latest news will ensure you donāt end up in a fire zone and have time to plan an alternate route.
Be kind
According to medical experts, showing kindness can reduce the ultimate stress hormone ācortisol. So, let another vehicle pass in front of you. Wave to the driver who let you in their lane to say thanks. Donāt blare the horn at other drivers who arenāt following the rules of the road.
Remember back when you could find a hotel or B&B when you arrived and possibly negotiate a good price because itās late in the evening? Well, thatās not a good idea these days. Reservations for ferries and accommodations are generally made online and if it says āfully bookedā or āno vacancy,ā believe it.
After all, as much as the family loves their new car or truck, they probably donāt want to sleep in it all night.
Happy vacationing!
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at bqualey@newcardealers.ca.
