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Family road trip blog
Apr05

Travel Trivia Delight: Turning Road Trips into Learning Adventures

Embarking on a family road trip presents the perfect opportunity to infuse education with entertainment, and one engaging way to achieve this is through the exciting game of “Travel Trivia.” Whether you’re headed to a specific destination or just exploring the open road, this game adds a delightful layer of knowledge-sharing to your journey.

Imagine the scene: the car is cruising along. Eager minds are buzzing with anticipation. Instead of the typical, “Are we there yet?” scenario, you introduce a round of travel trivia. The rules are simple. You take turns asking and answering questions related to the destination or general knowledge. It’s a game that tests knowledge and transforms the car into a dynamic learning space. Travel Trivia Delight: Turning road trips into Learning adventures.

For instance, you might ask, “What famous landmark are we headed to, known for its iconic tower?” The correct answer, of course, is the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Alternatively, you could delve into general knowledge with questions like, “What is the capital city of Australia?” The joy of discovery and friendly competition ensues as family members try to outwit each other with their knowledge.

The Travel Trivia game makes the journey more enjoyable. It also imparts valuable information about the destination or the world at large. Parents can tailor questions to suit the age and interests of their children, making the trivia session both accessible and educational.

As the road unfolds before you, Travel Trivia becomes a shared adventure of learning. Lots of laughter, and friendly rivalry. So, pack your curiosity alongside your luggage, and let the road trip become a voyage of discovery. One trivia question at a time. After all, learning is not confined to classrooms. It can happen anywhere, even in the cozy confines of a family car hurtling down the highway.

As the miles roll on, the Travel Trivia game transforms into fun and a car into an educational haven. This proves that learning can be an adventure, even on the open road.

 

So, buckle up and dive into the alphabetically-ordered world of animals with your young travel companions. Make it a journey filled with laughter, knowledge, and the joy of exploration.

 

Fun Car Games for Kids

Healthy Road Trip Snacks Children Will Love

 

Share your favourite Road trip game when you come to visit us at Breakaway this 2024 season and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @breakawayvacations for a chance to be featured!

Are you still looking to book your cottage getaway? Take a look at our amazing rentals and you can get in touch if you have any questions! We are always happy to help you book your amazing getaway! Call us today

 

 

 

Shows what the recipe will make.
Mar22

March Cocktails and Mocktails!

March Cocktails and Mocktails! Spring is in the air this month and we’ve put together a couple of fun cocktails and mocktails for the whole family!

Enjoy the season of freshness with some tasty drink recipes. So many people automatically think of green drinks and shamrocks when they think of March and Spring. So let’s jump into Spring and get the taste buds dancing with delight! March cocktails and Mocktails.

Irish Mule

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Irish Whiskey
  • 1/2 oz of Lime Juice
  • Ginger Beer
  • Garnish with a slice of Lime

Stir gently to incorporate all the flavours. Add ice if desired. Garnish will a fresh slice of lime.

Minty Shamrock Shake

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of Vanilla Ice cream
  • 1 cup of Milk
  • 1/2 tsp of Peppermint Extract
  • Green food colouring(Optional)
  • Whipped cream and green sprinkles to garnish.

Add all the ingredients except the whipped cream and sprinkles to a blender and mix for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with whipping cream and green sprinkles. See the smiles for miles with  March  Cocktails and Mocktails. Let us know which recipes were your favourites and feel free to drop us a line about any of your favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes. We will be sure to share! Here is a link to some other tasty recipes to pair with your drinks March Food Recipes

Save these recipes for when visiting us at Breakaway Cottages this 2024 season, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @Breakaway for a chance to be featured!  Find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok!

Let us know which recipes were your favourites and feel free to drop us a line about any of your favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes and we will be sure to share!

Still looking to book your cottage getaway? Look at our amazing rentals and get in touch if you have any questions!

 

 

 

To show the place in the description
Mar15

Cathedral Grove: A Majestic Sanctuary of Ancient Giants

A short drive from the quaint communities of Parksville and Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, unveils a place of wonder and reverence: Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park. This natural sanctuary is home to a congregation of ancient giants. Towering Douglas fir and red cedar trees that have witnessed centuries of changing seasons. Telling tales of resilience, survival, and the timeless beauty of the temperate rainforest. Cathedral Grove: A Majestic Sanctuary of Ancient Giants

As you enter Cathedral Grove, the air becomes infused with a palpable sense of antiquity.  Towering trees, with their colossal trunks and expansive canopies, create a living cathedral that inspires awe and admiration. The star attractions of this arboreal haven are the Douglas fir trees.  Some reaching heights of over 75 meters (250 feet), and the majestic red cedars, standing as sentinels of the ancient forest.

Walking through the grove, visitors are enveloped in a serene hush.  Broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or the distant call of a bird. The forest floor, adorned with a carpet of ferns and moss, provides a soft underfoot experience. Inviting you to slow down and immerse yourself in the grandeur of nature’s cathedral.

One cannot help but feel a sense of humility in the presence of these ancient trees.  Some of which have stood tall for more than 800 years. Their weathered bark tells a story of resilience against the elements. Their towering height beckons visitors to crane their necks skyward, attempting to grasp the magnitude of these arboreal titans.

Cathedral Grove offers a network of well-maintained trails.  Allowing visitors to meander through the heart of this ancient forest. The trails are suitable for all ages and fitness levels, offering a gentle introduction to the wonders of the temperate rainforest. As you traverse the pathways, informational signs provide insights into the ecological significance of the forest. The forest educates visitors about the delicate balance that sustains this unique ecosystem.

Photographers and nature enthusiasts will find Cathedral Grove a treasure trove of visual delights. The play of light filtering through the dense canopy creates a mesmerizing dance of shadows and highlights.  Adding a dynamic element to the forest’s timeless beauty. The textures of the moss-covered trees and the intricate patterns in the bark provide endless opportunities for capturing the essence of this enchanted woodland.

Beyond the aesthetic appeal, Cathedral Grove serves as a vital educational resource. Fostering an understanding of the importance of preserving ancient forests. The park’s interpretive programs and guided walks offer visitors a chance to delve deeper into the ecological intricacies of the temperate rainforest and the role these ancient trees play in maintaining biodiversity.

Visiting Cathedral Grove is not just a nature excursion; it’s a pilgrimage to a living testament of time. It’s a journey that reconnects us with the natural world. Reminding us of our place within the intricate web of life. The sheer magnitude of the trees and the ancient wisdom they embody inspire a sense of awe and respect for the delicate ecosystems that sustain our planet.

Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park is a sanctuary for the soul! Inviting all who venture within its bounds to witness the majesty of ancient giants and to reflect on the importance of preserving these living monuments for generations to come. It’s a destination that transcends the ordinary, offering a glimpse into the enduring beauty of nature and the profound interconnectedness of all living things.

Cathedral Grove, MacMillan Provincial Park

Activities

MacMillan Park (Cathedral Grove) Map 

So, what are you waiting for? Load up the car and the kids and head out for an experience of a lifetime! 

Share your favourite experiences at the Cathedral Grove and come visit us at Breakaway this 2024 season, don’t forget to tag us in your photos @breakawayvacations for a chance to be featured!

Are you still looking to book your cottage getaway? Look at our amazing rentals and you can get in touch if you have any questions! We are always happy to help you book your amazing getaway! Call us today

 

 

 

Family Road Trip
Mar08

Fun & Educational Car Games for Kids – Animal Alphabet Adventure

 

When embarking on a road trip with kids in tow, it can sometimes be a challenge. With a bit of creativity, it can also be a fantastic opportunity for fun and educational car games for kids.

One engaging game to keep young minds active during the journey is the “Animal Kingdom” game. This fun and educational car game for kids-Animal Adventure can change how travelling goes.

This simple yet entertaining activity involves naming animals in alphabetical order. This makes the miles fly by while expanding children’s knowledge of the animal kingdom.

Fun & Educational Car Games for Kids – Animal Alphabet Adventure. As you hit the road, the game begins with the letter ‘A.’ “A is for armadillo,” says the first participant. This sparks the journey into the enchanting world of animals. The next player eagerly chimes in with “B is for bear,”. Fun & Educational Car Games for Kids – Animal Alphabet Adventure.

This is how the alphabetical adventure unfolds. This is a fun and educational car game for everyone to take part in.

This game not only keeps children entertained. It promotes literacy skills as they associate letters with animal names. It encourages teamwork and camaraderie as the entire family collaborates. And begin to create a comprehensive list of animals from A to Z.

The challenge lies in recalling lesser-known animals for certain letters. This can also foster curiosity and expand vocabulary.

The Animal Kingdom game provides a unique opportunity for informal learning. Parents can seize the moment to share fascinating facts about each animal. This can turn the game into a mini wildlife lesson.

From the armoured armadillo to the majestic bear, each creature becomes a gateway to discovering the diversity of the animal kingdom.

Fun & Educational Car Games for Kids -Animal Alphabet Adventure can change the way travelling can be when the kids are bored.

As the miles roll on, the Animal Alphabet Adventure game transforms into fun and car into an educational haven. This proves that learning can be an adventure, even on the open road.

 

So, buckle up and dive into the alphabetically-ordered world of animals with your young travel companions. Make it a journey filled with laughter, knowledge, and the joy of exploration.

 

Fun Car Games for Kids

Healthy Road Trip Snacks Children Will Love

 

Share your favourite Road trip game when you come to visit us at Breakaway this 2024 season and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @breakawayvacations for a chance to be featured!

Are you still looking to book your cottage getaway? Take a look at our amazing rentals and you can get in touch if you have any questions! We are always happy to help you book your amazing getaway! Call us today

 

 

 

Rathtrevor Beach location Destination
Feb21

Rathtrevor Beach: A Hidden Gem on Vancouver Island  

Are you feeling stressed out and in need of a break? Consider taking a trip to Rathtevor Beach!  This stunning beach is a feast for the eyes, but it also offers a range of surprising health benefits. Here are just a few reasons why spending time at Rathtevor Beach could be just what the doctor ordered: 

  1. Come Soak Up the Sun: Rathtevor Beach is known for its warm and sunny climate. This makes it the perfect place to soak up some Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, a strong immune system, and even improved mood.

  

  1. Get Moving: Whether swimming in crystal-clear waters or taking a stroll on the sand, spending time at Rathtevor Beach is a great way to get moving. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost energy levels, and even improve cognitive function.

  

  1. Breathe Easy: Are you ready for some sea air at Rathtevor Beach? The sea air is rich in negative ions, which have been shown to improve mood and reduce stress levels. Breathing in this fresh sea air can also help to clear your lungs and improve respiratory function. take a breath of fresh Sea air.

  

  1. Take time to Unwind and Relax: When you hear the sound of the waves crashing against the shore has a soothing effect on the mind and body. Spending time at Rathtevor Beach can help to reduce stress levels, promote relaxation, and even improve sleep quality.

  

  1. You can Boost Your Mental Health: If You like Spending time in nature it has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health. The beautiful scenery, fresh sea air, and peaceful surroundings at Rathtevor Beach can all contribute to a sense of calm and well-being.

Rathtrevor Park Map

Activities

Parksville Qualicum Beach 

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Rathtevor Beach for a rejuvenating and health-boosting getaway! 

Share your favourite way that Rathtrevor Park benefits your health and come visit us at Breakaway this 2024 season, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @breakawayvacations for a chance to be featured!

Are you still looking to book your cottage getaway? Take a look at our amazing rentals and you can get in touch if you have any questions! We are always happy to help you book your amazing getaway! Call us today

 

 

 

To showcase a recipe.
Feb15

February Cocktails and Mocktails!

Love is in the air this month and we’ve put together a couple of fun cocktails and mocktails for the whole family!

Enjoy the season of love with these fresh and tasty drink recipes. So many people automatically think of strawberries as the ‘fruit of Valentine’s Day’ – chocolate dipped, mixed in drinks, or just on their own. But we think raspberries are just as worthy and we can’t wait for you to try out these tantalizing recipes.

Raspberry Rose Fizz

Ingredients

  • 2 oz of Gin
  • 1 oz of Raspberry Liqueur
  • 1/2 oz of Rose Syrup
  • Champagne

Stir gently to incorporate all the flavours. Add ice if desired. Garnish with fresh raspberries.

Love Potion Mocktail

Ingredients

  • 3 oz Cranberry Juice
  • 2 oz of Pomegranate Juice
  • 1 oz of Raspberry Puree
  • Splash of Club Soda

Stir gently to incorporate flavours. Add ice if desired. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve.

Save these recipes for when visiting us at La Casa Cottages this 2024 season, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @lacasacottages for a chance to be featured!  Find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok!

Let us know which recipes were your favourites and feel free to drop us a line about any of your favourite cocktail and mocktail recipes and we will be sure to share!

Still looking to book your cottage getaway? Take a look at our amazing rentals and get in touch if you have any questions!

 

 

 

Feb10

Chocolates, with their luscious textures, rich flavours, and irresistible aromas, have been captivating our taste buds for centuries. This delectable treat, derived from the cacao bean, has evolved into an art form that transcends mere indulgence. In this blog, we embark on a delightful journey through the world of chocolates, exploring their history, diverse varieties, health benefits, and the sheer joy they bring to our lives.

A Brief History of Chocolate:
Chocolates have a fascinating history that dates back to ancient Mesoamerica, where the Mayans and Aztecs revered cacao as a divine gift. It was considered a precious commodity and used in religious rituals, as well as for currency. It was only after the arrival of cacao in Europe that it underwent transformations, becoming the sweet, creamy treat we adore today.

Chocolate Varieties:
1. Dark Chocolate: With a high cocoa content, dark chocolate offers intense, bittersweet flavors. It’s cherished for its potential health benefits, including antioxidants and potential mood-boosting properties.

2. Milk Chocolate: Creamy and sweet, milk chocolate is a beloved choice for many. It contains milk solids, giving it a smoother texture and a milder flavor.

3. White Chocolate: Though technically not chocolate (as it lacks cocoa solids), white chocolate is a sweet confection made from cocoa butter. It’s characterized by its sweet, vanilla-rich taste.

4. Ruby Chocolate: A relatively new addition to the chocolate world, ruby chocolate is naturally pink in color, with a unique berry-like flavor. It’s created from special ruby cacao beans.

5. Artisanal and Craft Chocolate: Small-batch, artisanal chocolates have gained popularity for their attention to detail and unique flavor profiles. Craft chocolatiers often source high-quality cacao beans and experiment with various ingredients to create exceptional chocolates.

Chocolate and Health:
While it’s essential to enjoy chocolates in moderation, they do offer some surprising health benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Dark chocolate, in particular, is a good source of antioxidants like flavonoids, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress.

2. Heart Health: Some studies suggest that moderate consumption of dark chocolate may have a positive impact on heart health, including lower blood pressure and improved blood flow.

3. Mood Enhancement: Chocolate contains compounds that can stimulate the production of endorphins and serotonin, potentially contributing to improved mood.

4. Brain Function: The flavonoids in chocolate may help enhance cognitive function and memory.

The Joy of Chocolate:
Beyond its nutritional benefits, chocolate plays a significant role in our emotional well-being. It’s a universal symbol of love and affection, making it a favorite gift on occasions like Valentine’s Day. Chocolate has the magical ability to comfort, soothe, and bring smiles to faces, which is why it’s often turned to in times of celebration, solace, or simply to savor life’s little pleasures.

Dec15

The holiday season is synonymous with many things: twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and, of course, the delightful aroma of freshly baked Christmas cookies filling our homes. From classic sugar cookies to intricately decorated gingerbread houses, Christmas cookies are a cherished tradition that brings joy and warmth to this festive time of year. In this blog, we’ll dive into the sweet world of Christmas cookies, exploring the history, popular varieties, and tips for baking and decorating these delectable treats.

The Sweet History of Christmas Cookies:
The tradition of baking cookies during the holiday season has a rich history. In Medieval Europe, spices and dried fruits were expensive and reserved for special occasions, including Christmas. These ingredients found their way into cookies, creating the foundation for the modern Christmas cookie.

Popular Christmas Cookie Varieties:
1. Sugar Cookies: These classic treats are a canvas for creativity, often decorated with royal icing and festive sprinkles.

2. Gingerbread Cookies: Gingerbread cookies, including the iconic gingerbread men, offer a warm and spicy flavour that evokes the holiday spirit.

3. Peppermint Bark Cookies: Combining the flavours of chocolate and peppermint, these cookies are a refreshing delight.

4. Snickerdoodles: Cinnamon-sugar-coated snickerdoodles provide a comforting and nostalgic taste of the holidays.

5. Thumbprint Cookies: These cookies, with their indents filled with jam or chocolate, are both visually appealing and delicious.

6. Shortbread Cookies: Buttery and crumbly, shortbread cookies are a melt-in-your-mouth delight that can be shaped into festive designs.

7. Rugelach: A Jewish pastry, rugelach, is often enjoyed during Hanukkah and Christmas, featuring a flaky dough filled with nuts, raisins, and cinnamon.

Baking and Decorating Tips:
1. Plan Ahead: Start by choosing the cookie recipes you want to bake and make a shopping list. This ensures you have all the ingredients you need.

2. Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality ingredients, such as real butter and fresh spices, can make a significant difference in the flavour of your cookies.

3. Chill the Dough: For cookies that hold their shape, chill the dough before rolling it out and cutting shapes.

4. Get Creative with Decorations: Use royal icing, fondant, and food colouring to create intricate designs and festive patterns on your cookies.

5. Package with Care: Share the joy of Christmas cookies by gifting them in beautifully decorated tins, boxes, or cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons.

The Joy of Christmas Cookies:
Baking and sharing Christmas cookies is not just about the delicious treats themselves; it’s about creating memories, traditions, and moments of togetherness with loved ones. Whether you’re baking with family, hosting a cookie exchange, or leaving a plate of cookies for Santa, these sweet delights bring a sense of warmth and goodwill to the holiday season.

Christmas cookies are more than just baked goods; they are the embodiment of the holiday spirit. Whether you’re indulging in the cozy process of baking or savouring the final delicious results, Christmas cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the magic of the season. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let the sweet traditions of Christmas cookies fill your home with joy and love this holiday season.

Dec01

The holiday season is just around the corner, and Vancouver Island is gearing up for a festive celebration. With Christmas markets, craft fairs, twinkling lights, and delicious treats, the island is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. Here’s a guide to some of the magical Christmas events happening this year:

Coombs Christmas Market:
Location: To be determined
When: December 2 & 3, from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Kick off the holiday shopping season at the Coombs Christmas Market. Discover the perfect, locally crafted gifts for your loved ones. From artisan crafts to gourmet food items, this market is a treasure trove of handmade, local Christmas goodness. For more details, visit the Arrowsmith Agricultural Association.

Christmas Market & Walk of Lights at Arbutus Meadows:
Location: 1515 Island Hwy E, Nanoose Bay
Dates: December 2, 9, and 16, from 4:00 – 8:00 pm; Festival of Lights on December 23

Experience the magic of Christmas at Arbutus Meadows every Saturday in December. Explore the indoor venue with talented local vendors, enjoy live music, and savor delicious food. Outside, you’ll find a Festival of Lights Walk, Bethlehem Village, a live Nativity Scene, farm animals, hay wagon rides, bonfires, smores, a Lego Winter Village Display, and more. It’s an enchanting holiday experience.

The Holiday Market at Nanaimo North Town Centre:
Location: Nanaimo North Town Centre
Dates: December 2-3; 9-10; 16-17
Hours: Saturdays – 10:00 am – 6:00 pm; Sunday – 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Hosted by The Mom Market Vancouver Island, this Christmas vendor market is your one-stop shop for holiday gifts and goodies. Explore a winter wonderland with free admission, grand prizes, music, Christmas cocktails/mocktails, and more. This market is for everyone, not just moms, and is perfect for finding unique and special presents.

Providence Farm Christmas Craft Fair:
Location: 1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan
Date: Saturday, December 2, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Step back in time and visit the Providence Farm Christmas Craft Fair, set in the historic heritage property. Over 40 local vendors will showcase their handmade crafts, from candles and carvings to toys and clothing. Explore the three floors, take pictures with Santa, engage in kids’ crafts, enjoy live entertainment, and savor nostalgic food in the Dining Room. Best of all, this fair supports Providence Farm’s therapeutic programs for adults and seniors with various challenges.

St. Mark’s Christmas Bazaar:
Location: Church Hall – 138 Hoylake Rd. W, Qualicum Beach
Date: Saturday, December 2, from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm

Don’t miss St. Mark Anglican’s Christmas Bazaar. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up delightful Christmas baking and preserves and discover handcrafted gifts, books, curios, treasures, and mysterious mystery bottles. Relax with a muffin and a cup of tea with friends while you’re there.

The holiday season on Vancouver Island is a time of joy, community, and cherished traditions. These Christmas events offer a chance to find unique gifts, enjoy delicious treats, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. As the island transforms into a winter wonderland, there’s no better time to embrace the festive spirit and celebrate the magic of the season.

Nov26

Nestled off the southwestern coast of British Columbia, Vancouver Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, and one of its most breathtaking experiences is whale watching. With its diverse marine ecosystem, the island offers the chance to encounter a variety of whale species in their natural habitat. Let’s embark on a virtual marine safari to explore the magnificent whales that call the waters around Vancouver Island home.

1. Orcas (Killer Whales):
– These iconic black and white creatures are the stars of the show in these waters.
– The southern resident orcas are known for their unique family groups, each with distinct dialects.
– Witnessing orcas breach the surface or work together in hunting pods is a sight to behold.

2. Humpback Whales:
– Humpbacks are celebrated for their acrobatics, including jaw-dropping breaches.
– Their intricate songs, believed to be a form of communication, add to the wonder of encountering them.

3. Gray Whales:
– Catch a glimpse of gray whales during their annual migration, as they travel from their breeding grounds in Mexico to their Arctic feeding grounds.
– These gentle giants are recognized by their mottled, barnacle-covered skin.

4. Minke Whales:
– Minke whales are the smallest baleen whales and are often seen in the region.
– Their elusive nature adds an element of surprise to any whale-watching tour.

5. Pacific White-Sided Dolphins:
– While not a whale, these playful dolphins are frequent companions during whale-watching trips.
– Their striking black-and-white markings and acrobatic displays make for entertaining sightings.

6. Fin Whales:
– As the second-largest whale species globally, fin whales are known for their sleek appearance and streamlined bodies.
– Although they are not the most common sighting, their presence is always a thrill.

7. Blue Whales:
– The largest animal on the planet, the blue whale is a rare but awe-inspiring sight in the region.
– Their sheer size and the breathtaking blue-gray coloration of their skin leave a lasting impression.

Vancouver Island’s marine environment provides a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature and witness the majesty of these magnificent whales. Whale-watching tours offer not only the chance to observe these creatures up close but also promote the importance of conservation and responsible tourism. As you plan your next adventure, consider embarking on a whale-watching excursion around Vancouver Island, where every glimpse of these gentle giants is a testament to the beauty of our natural world.