The top 6 reasons you need to come to UVic and Victoria

I will openly admit that the weather recently has influenced this post and I have the need to sell you on UVic and Victoria, or perhaps remind you of how lucky we are to be living in such a gorgeous place on Earth.

1) Weather

The weather on the West (Wet) Coast is unbeatable! Yes, you may complain about the rain sometimes, but I’ll take rain any day over cold temperatures and piles of snow. I value my extremities. This week has been gorgeous. I ate lunch outside on both days I had classes – I can’t complain. Plus, I did all my workouts in shorts and a sweater; try doing that across the country.

If my incredibly descriptive writing (sarcasm alert – I’m no meteorologist) hasn’t sold you on the weather, just look at this post from Buzzfeed on the snow in Eastern Canada and compare that to the sunset and cherry blossoms we are getting here.

The sunset I saw after finishing a conditioning session Monday evening.

I couldn’t resist this picture on my way to coaching Wednesday.

2) Views

I’m not even going to try to do this reason justice because I can’t. There are places you can find that completely take your breath away. Among my favourites are: Saxe Point Park, Gonzales Hill, Dallas Road, China Beach, and Cadboro Bay.

3) Outdoor activities

Going hand-in-hand with the views, there is no shortage of excellent hikes and walks. Check out fellow blogger Heather’s recent post on her top 5 best hikes and walks . A few more good hikes can be found at: Goldstream Provincial Park to the Kinsol Trestle Bridge and up around Shawnigan if you can find your way to the quarry

Sooke Potholes

4) Downtown Victoria

It might not be a gigantic metropolis haven, but it does the trick. The best part of it all? FREE parking courtesy of the City of Victoria after 6 pm Monday-Friday and FREE parking all day Sunday!!! Sorry, WHAT! Who doesn’t love free! The best places to check out are: along the waterfront, Johnson Street, Chinatown and Government Street if you’re looking to find some neat shops.

5) Restaurant and cafe scene

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not a major foodie, but as an athlete, I do consume large amounts of food quite happily…and often. Victoria does not fall short on its offerings in the food department. There are tons of cool, hipster (if I may say) and cozy places that serve amazing meals. As a confessed London-Fog-A-Holic, there are some great cafes for studying.

• The Mint
• Bin 4 Burger Lounge (Best after 9pm because it’s 1/2 off your burger with the purchase of any drink – but it gets busy. Be prepared to wait; it’s well worth it!)
• Cherries Breakfast Bistro
• The Urban Cup Cafe
• Nourish Kitchen and Cafe
• The Bubble Tea Place
• Union Pacific Coffee

Breakfast special at Nourish

6) Island time

The atmosphere in Victoria is hands-down laid-back, relaxing and unique. There’s enough city to keep you entertained, but within a few minutes in any direction you can escape to beach, mountains or green space. Plus, people are friendly and willing to lend a hand if you ask.

Hope to see you soon!

Jess