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Vancouver Island

Dec01

Tis the Season: Vancouver Island’s Charming Christmas Market Events

Blog, British Columbia, Events, Family Activities, Food and drink, Holidays, Vancouver Island no responses

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

Whale Watching on Vancouver Island, BC: A Majestic Marine Safari

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Family Activities, Holidays, Luxury travel, Travel, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island no responses

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.

Nov10

Bringing the Outdoors In: Indoor Plants Perfect for Winter in British Columb

Blog, British Columbia, Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island, Winter no responses

We know that Winter in British Columbia can be a challenging time for those who do not like the cold including our plant babies. With cold temperatures and limited sunlight, maintaining outdoor gardens can be a daunting task. However, the solution to keeping your green thumb active during the winter lies in embracing indoor plants. These resilient houseplants not only add a touch of nature to your living spaces but also improve indoor air quality. Here’s a selection of indoor plants that are perfect for the winter months in BC:

1. Spider Plant:
– Spider plants are hardy and adaptable, making them excellent choices for BC’s winter. They thrive in moderate light conditions, which are often the norm during the winter months.
– These plants are known for their air-purifying qualities, making them ideal for improving indoor air quality.

2. Snake Plant:
– Snake plants are virtually indestructible and can tolerate low light and infrequent watering.
– Their striking upright leaves add a unique aesthetic to your home while requiring minimal care.

3. Peace Lily:
– Peace lilies are popular for their elegant white flowers and their ability to thrive in low light.
– They can help remove common indoor air pollutants, providing a breath of fresh air during the winter.

4. ZZ Plant:
– ZZ plants are incredibly resilient and can tolerate low light, drought, and fluctuating temperatures.
– Their glossy, dark green foliage adds a touch of sophistication to any room.

5. Aloe Vera:
– Aloe vera is not only a beautiful succulent but also a practical one. Its gel is well-known for its soothing properties, which can be used to treat minor skin irritations.
– Place it in a sunny spot near a window to ensure it gets adequate light.

6. Philodendron:
– Philodendrons come in various species, and many are suitable for indoor growing during the winter.
– They are low-maintenance and can tolerate low light, although they appreciate a bit of indirect sunlight.

7. Pothos:
– Pothos is an excellent trailing plant that can thrive in low to moderate light.
– It’s also known for its air-purifying abilities, making it a great choice for indoor winter spaces.

8. Ficus:
– Ficus plants, including the weeping fig, add an elegant and classic touch to your interior decor.
– They prefer bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.

9. Ferns:
– Ferns, such as the Boston fern or maidenhair fern, are known for their delicate, feathery fronds.
– While they do require more humidity, they can thrive indoors if provided with adequate moisture.

With a little attention and the right selection of indoor plants, you can enjoy the benefits of greenery and fresh air throughout the winter in beautiful British Columbia.

Aug23

Exploring Vancouver Island

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Holidays, Road Trip, Travel, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island no responses

Vancouver Island is a large island located in the southwestern part of British Columbia, Canada. It is separated from the mainland of British Columbia by the Strait of Georgia to the east and the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the south. The island is known for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant communities.

Key features of Vancouver Island include:

  1. Natural Beauty: The island is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and majestic mountains. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, kayaking, and whale watching.
  2. Victoria: The capital city of British Columbia, Victoria, is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. It is known for its British colonial architecture, beautiful gardens, and a charming waterfront. The famous Butchart Gardens and the Royal BC Museum are popular attractions in Victoria.
  3. Tofino and Ucluelet: These coastal communities on the western side of Vancouver Island are known for their stunning beaches, surfing opportunities, and access to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The area is also famous for its storm watching during the winter months.
  4. Nanaimo: A city located on the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is known for its harbor, waterfront walkways, and the Nanaimo Bar (a popular Canadian dessert).
  5. Wildlife: The island is rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, sea lions, and bald eagles. The island’s proximity to the ocean and its varied ecosystems contribute to its diverse animal and plant life.
  6. Outdoor Activities: Vancouver Island offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking in Strathcona Provincial Park (the oldest provincial park in British Columbia), fishing in its numerous lakes and rivers, and exploring the many trails and parks.
  7. Island Communities: Beyond the larger cities, Vancouver Island is dotted with charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character and attractions.

Overall, Vancouver Island is a popular destination for both residents and tourists alike, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. It’s a place where you can enjoy the tranquillity of nature and the vibrancy of local communities.

Aug09

Sandcastle Building Ideas

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Family Activities, Holidays, Vancouver Island no responses

Building sandcastles at the beach can be a fun and creative activity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a simple sandcastle, along with some ideas to take your sandcastle-building skills to the next level:

Basic Sandcastle:

  1. Choose Your Location: Find a spot on the beach with slightly damp sand, as it holds its shape better.
  2. Gather Tools: Bring along some buckets, shovels, and plastic cups for shaping and molding the sand.
  3. Create a Base: Fill a large bucket with damp sand, pack it down, and then flip it over to create the base of your sandcastle.
  4. Build Towers: Fill smaller buckets or plastic cups with damp sand, pack it, and then flip them over to create towers. Place these towers on the corners of the base.
  5. Add Walls: Create walls by packing more sand around the towers. You can use your hands to shape and smooth the sand.
  6. Carve Details: Use smaller tools like sticks or straws to carve details like windows, doors, and crenellations.
  7. Decorate: Add seashells, pebbles, or seaweed as decoration. Be mindful of the environment and don’t disturb the natural ecosystem.
  8. Moat: Dig a shallow moat around your sandcastle. You can use a small cup to pour water into the moat, creating a protective barrier for your castle.
  9. Tide Awareness: Remember that the tide can wash away your creation, so build closer to the shore during low tide if you want your sandcastle to last longer.

Advanced Sandcastle Ideas:

  1. Sand Sculptures: Instead of a traditional castle, create elaborate sculptures like animals, mythical creatures, or famous landmarks.
  2. Multiple Levels: Build multi-level castles with ramps, staircases, and bridges connecting different sections.
  3. Tunnels: Create tunnels and archways within your sandcastle for added complexity.
  4. Incorporate Water: Create channels or waterways within your sandcastle design, allowing water to flow through and around your creation.
  5. Team Effort: If you’re with a group, have each person or team build their own unique section of the sandcastle, then connect them to make a collaborative masterpiece.
  6. Beach Landscape: Design a whole landscape, including hills, valleys, and more, incorporating various elements like sand, water, and vegetation.
  7. Themed Castles: Build sandcastles inspired by your favourite movies, books, or historical periods.
  8. Drip Castles: Use a bucket to create a tall, pointed tower. Slowly pour wet sand over the tower to create a drip effect.

Remember, the key to building impressive sandcastles is practice and creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment, learn from your mistakes, and have fun while you’re at it!

What will your sand castle look like?

Jan25

Breakfast ideas to try during your stay with us!

Blog, British Columbia, Food and drink, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island no responses

Nothing is better then the smell of a freshly brewed coffee, birds chirping, bacon sizzling and family laughter dancing through the house. During your stay with us we want you to be as comfortable as possible, skip the meal planning we have already done that for you. Giving you extra time to enjoy that coffee and time with your loved ones.

Clementine Sunshine Smoothie

This deliciously fresh, citrus smoothie will kick start your day and energize you for the adventures to come around the beautiful land surrounding La Casa!

  • 4 clementines, preferably chilled
  • ½ cup ice
  • ¼ cup yogurt or almond milk (plain or vanilla flavors work)
  • Tiny dash sea salt

Savoury Breakfast Bowl

Bring your favourite breakfast bowl from the cafe of your dreams to reality with this delicious recipe.

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 2 cups spinach
  • ½ cup halved cherry or grape tomatoes
  • ¼ avocado, sliced
  • ½ cup Everything Bagel Potatoes
  • 1 to 2 eggs (fried, scrambled, soft boiled, whatever your preference)
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Sprinkle of feta cheese or nutritional yeast, optional
  • Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or basil, if desired
  • Hot sauce or salsa, optional

Baked Sweet Potato Egg Cups

  • Olive oil spray
  • 2 1/2 cups peeled and grated, on large holes sweet potatoes (about 1 8-ounce potato)
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste,
  • 1 ounce finely grated Pecorino cheese, 2 teaspoons reserved
  • 6 large eggs

Apple Dutch Baby

  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ½ cup milk
  • 6 tablespoons salted butter – divided
  • 1 apple – peeled and thinly sliced
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon – optional
  • powdered sugar – for serving, optional
Dec14

Holiday Cookie Recipes

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Family Activities, Food and drink, Holidays, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island, Winter no responses

Nothing says holidays like over indulging in cookies, or coming home to the smell of freshly baked cookies. Treat yourself this year.. literally!

Our home away from home offer beautiful kitchens that are ready to be baked in, stop by the store for a few ingredients and you are ready to bake. At Breakaway Vacation homes the smell of your freshly baked cookies will linger throughout your stay and bring joy and happiness to your stay. Celebrate the holiday with us this year, we offer houses ranging from sizes at 3 locations including Tanglewood, Qualicum Landing, and Otter Bay – book now and relax later!

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
½ tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
¼ cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup coarse sugar or granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
1 teaspoon baking powder
pinch of salt
¼ cup vegetable oil
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
¼ cup confectioners’ sugar (for the coating)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
⅔ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
⅓ cup jam, raspberry or strawberry
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
1-2 tablespoons almond milk
Dec09

Holiday Dinner Recipes

Blog, British Columbia, Events, Family Activities, Food and drink, Holidays, Vancouver Island, Winter no responses

You have arrived at your destination and packed your bags inside your cozy cottage and your vacation has begun your stomach begins to grumble and at last it comes time to utilize your large kitchen that is equipped with most the supplies you need, now what to cook? You are reading the perfect blog for you with some of our favourite home cooked meals to make your stay extra memorable from the kitchen outwards.

Turkey Biscuit Stew – a delicious dish to keep your warm and utilize that leftover turkey

  • ⅓ cup chopped onion
  • ¼ cup butter, cubed
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 can (10-½ ounces) condensed chicken broth, undiluted
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 2 cups cubed cooked turkey
  • 1 cup cooked peas
  • 1 cup cooked, sliced carrots
  • 1 tube (10 ounces) refrigerated buttermilk biscuits, not flaky

Creamy Chicken Piccata

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 5 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 ¼ cups chicken stock
  • ¼ cup dry white wine
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
  • ¼ cup capers, drained

Easy Red Lentil Dal Recipe – super simple and ingredients you will have in your pantry

  • red lentils- which are cost effective, shelf stable, and a staple in our pantry
  • Spices – curry powder, turmeric, garam masala, cumin, ground coriander and salt
  • Aromatics – finely chopped onion, minced garlic and finely grated ginger
  • tomatoes- one 15 oz can (juices included)
  • stock- vegetable stock for vegetarians, homemade bone broth if you are not. Using stock infuses even more flavor into the lentils as they cook!
Nov21

Winterfest Craft Fair Qualicum Beach

Blog, British Columbia, Events, Family Activities, Food and drink, Holidays, Sustainability, Travel, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island, Winter no responses

We are counting down the days till the Winterfest Craft Fair at Qualicum Beach! 50+ Crafters, Artisans and in between will be attending the Winterfest the list of vendors can be found here. While you are checking out all of the vendors there will be 7 types stage entertainment from Highland dance, bands and live music.

Admission price is $4 per person – come and go as you please!

Not only will you be supporting local while shopping at the Winterfest Craft Fair event you will also be donating to local community groups. From the beginning  of 2012 they have raise $24,108 for local community groups!

Last year they were able to raise $3,323 which was split to the following community groups. Sourced from Winterfest Website

Bikers Against Child Abuse $447,    Oceanside Hospice $408,
Qualicum Beach Cat Resue $237,    Haven Society $1060,
Vancouver Island Compassion Dogs $427,    North Island Wildlife Rescue Ass. $408,
Ballenus Track Rebuild, $200     Building Learning Together $127.

Get to know the community while staying on the property and enjoy the local talent that Qualicum and surrounding area brings.

Where: Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones Street

When: November 25th – 27th

Friday 9am – 5pm

Saturday 9am – 5pm

Sunday 10am – 4pm

Oct23

The Best Fall Recipes!

Blog, British Columbia, Events, Food and drink, Holidays, Travel, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island no responses

Fall has fallen upon us and we found some of the most delicious fall recipes for you try during your stay with us!

Busy day ahead and no time to cook? Not to worry – toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and be prepared for the delicious smells once you arrive back at the Breakaway Properties!

You will need to pick up the following ingredients to make this delicious Slow-Cooker Curried Butternut Squash Soup!

  • Butternut Squash
  • “no-chicken” broth or vegetable broth
  • Onion
  • Curry powder
  • Salt
  • Garlic powder
  • Coconut Milk
  • Lime
  • Cilantro

Do you have a extra pumpkin laying around inspiring you to make a special dish for Halloween..? Look no further this Cheesy Pumpkin Lasagna is a must try!

You will need to pick up the following ingredients to make this delicious Cheesy Pumpkin Lasagna!

  • Butter
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Cider vinegar
  • Dried sage
  • Cans pumpkin purée
  • Maple syrup
  • Freshly grated nutmeg
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Shredded Fontina
  • Egg
  • Box no-boil lasagna noodles
  • Cooking Spray

Halloween birthday upon you? Try these festive cupcakes this year!

You will need to pick up the following ingredients to make these Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes!

  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Ground cloves
  • Ground ginger
  • White sugar
  • Ground allspice
  • Teaspoon salt
  • Brown sugar
  • Butter
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Baking soda
  • Ground cinnamon

Icing:

  • Cream Cheese
  • Butter
  • Confectioners Sugar
  • Vanilla Extract
  • Ground cinnamon