April 23 edition: Your spring adventure guide

Hi there. Are you ready for something completely different? 

Today, we’re bringing you the best of our travel hits. If you’re dreaming of getting away somewhere, then we’ve got the goods. From small-town getaways and quirky city breaks to once-in-a-lifetime trips, get ready for a hit of good, old-fashioned wanderlust—and to start planning your next adventure.

— V.
Associate Editor

WEEKEND TRIP

Powell River is onto something good

The north end of the Sunshine Coast feels more spread out than the south end: trees are taller and skinnier, beaches narrower, cliffs more rugged and vertiginous. The town currently known as Powell River, accessible by a short flight or a two-ferry jaunt, lies at the heart of the Qathet region. Mixing heritage history with outdoorsy activities and small-town charm, it’s what Squamish used to be.

CITY BREAK

The cultural prowess of Eugene, OR

Portland might get all the attention, but roam a bit further afield and you’ll find that Eugene can also lay claim to being one of Oregon’s coolest cities. With agricultural roots and a strong identity, Eugene is singularly itself: embracing literary locals, trippy music, and farm-to-table food. The quirky is the everyday here.

• Located between Victoria and Nanaimo, Cowichan offers small town coastal charm, unspoiled views, lakes, farms and wineries. From thrill to chill, choose your own pace and explore Cowichan.*

  *sponsored listing

FESTIVAL MUST-GOS

Music festivals worth travelling for

Vancouver has its fair share of big music events, but there’s also something so enticing about taking a trip to soak up the vibes elsewhere. Check out some of the coolest festivals happening across North America, and start planning your sonic summer getaways.

• Brooklyn rock group GUSTAF take their new album 'Package Pt. 2' on tour. Don't miss them at The Fox Cabaret on May 2nd with Neighbourly.*

ONE BIG ADVENTURE

Falling hard and fast for Auckland

Aotearoa is a hop, skip, and a jump away across the Pacific—if you’re Superman. But Auckland is well worth the trip. This city is one of culinary delights, stretching along peninsulas and wrapped up in hip bayside charm. Head to blissful beaches, flourishing vineyards, and nature sanctuaries—or stay urban and experience a feast for every sense.

HIDDEN GEM

Hobart, Tasmania: Australia’s unsung hero

A typical trip Down Under probably comes with a stacked itinerary taking in the big cities and famous landmarks. But venture a little off the beaten path and you might find somewhere as delightful as Hobart, capital of Tasmania. In the shadow of Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, the city bursts with eccentric energy: a buzzing, beautiful bubble of possibilities that might be Australia’s best-kept secret.

THINGS TO DO THIS WEEKEND

VISUAL ART 🖼️
Immersive exhibit From Hate to Hope brings murals to life—for one day only. (April 23 @ UBC Robson Square)

MUSIC 🎤
Indie legend José González will tug at your heartstrings. (April 23 @ Orpheum Theatre)

TALKS 🗣️
Artist Jay Pahre and professor Stephanie Springgay discuss critical walking methodologies. (April 23 @ online)

DANCE 💃
Contemporary company Dance//Novella shows its stuff in a lunchtime performance. (April 25 @ Scotiabank Dance Centre) 

DANCE 💃
Sadhana: An Evening of Bharatanatyam celebrates India’s oldest classical dance tradition. (April 25 @ Vancouver Playhouse)

MUSIC 🎤
Post-hardcore powerhouse Our Last Night does things its own way. (April 25 @ Vogue Theatre)

FILM 📽️
The Smell of Money has its local premiere as a fundraiser for Home for Hooves Farm Sanctuary. (April 25 @ UBC Robson Square)

COMEDY 🤣
Los Angeles comic Leah Rudick gets weird for laughs. (April 25 @ Biltmore Cabaret)

Want to know what else is happening in Vancouver? Check out our events listings.

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