Between classes, homework, internships or jobs, and social commitments, it’s easy for students to fall into a routine. While that is not necessarily a bad thing, there is a case to be made for adventure, at least every once in a while.
I’m not talking about some extravagant trip to Hawaii or the Bahamas that most of us can’t afford. The type of adventure I mean is one that doesn’t break the bank.
If you’re blessed enough to have a car, you could literally be anywhere in the province within a day. Think about that for a second; you could be walking the Capilano suspension bridge, surrounded by nature over 200 feet above the ground, within four hours of your class ending.
If you don’t have a car, most of the same adventures are open to you. BC has fantastic public transit, so go see a part of the island you haven’t yet. There is so much more to this place than Oak Bay and Saanich.
There are beautiful hikes all across Vancouver Island, and with a student bus pass, you have several options to choose from that won’t take an extra cent out of your wallet.
I firmly believe that the best adventures are outside, and we’re lucky to live in one of the most beautiful, adventure-abundant places in Canada.
Goldstream Park is a fantastic option to explore. From the salmon running to the trails filled with ancient trees, this is a fantastic day trip.
Another island-based adventure that I couldn’t recommend enough is Cathedral Grove. With stunning scenery and trails that you’ll want to walk more than once, it’s worth the two-hour drive.
The moral of all this adventure talk, and the reason I feel strongly enough to write about it, is that we’re only young once. School is important, but do you really want to look back at your time at Camosun and only have memories of studying or going to the same spots downtown every weekend?
I try to go on one adventure a month; like I said, it doesn’t need to cost a ton of money, or any at all, and the rewards are so worth it.
Go outside. Live a little.