Ryan Hook
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Press Secretary for the BC Green Caucus - Former Journalist - Views expressed are my own.
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Articles by Ryan Hook
Will Vancouver have a white Christmas this year?
Are you dreaming of a white Christmas in Vancouver? Or do you dread the prospect of another snow calamity in our otherwise rainy West Coast city and prefer to have a green Christmas instead? According to Environment and Climate Change Canada meteorologist Matt Loney, it’s difficult to be 100% confident in the outlook of precipitation so far in advance, as Christmas is still two weeks away. Still, the early models show that chances are not good for snow lovers.
What $1 million gets for a home in Victoria vs. the rest of Canada
Dec 11 2024, 12:19 am Sotheby's International Realty If you’re shopping for a family home with a cool $1 million to $1.4 million in your pocket, the kind of space and comfort you’ll get may change depending on where you’re house hunting. From sprawling backyards in some cities to lavish apartments, the price tag can stretch surprisingly far — or feel frustratingly tight.
Victoria reducing speed limits to 30 km/h on most streets by 2027
NewsTransportationUrbanized Dec 9 2024, 6:04 pm GTS Productions/Shutterstock Just when you thought life in Victoria couldn’t get any slower, the city is giving its speed limits a major overhaul. This week, City Council unanimously approved a plan to lower speed limits to 40 km/h or less on most of Victoria’s streets. Some smaller residential roads will see their limits drop even further to a slow-and-steady 30 km/h.
8 awesome things to do in Victoria this weekend: December 6 to 8
It’s another weekend in Victoria, which means more opportunities to embrace some holiday cheer and festive events. Now is the perfect time to shop local and get something special for that certain someone. Plus, there are a ton of holiday-themed events going on around the city. Check them out below. A Touch of Salt Spring Christmas Show Explore unique gifts from over 230 vendors at this iconic craft fair.
The Coda: New operators take over closed Victoria music venue
Dec 4 2024, 10:08 pm Hermann's Upstairs/Facebook It seems Hermann’s Upstairs is getting a coda — literally. A new live music venue, aptly named The Coda, is set to open in the former Hermann’s Upstairs space on View Street in downtown Victoria. After the upstairs venue closed in March 2024 due to financial struggles, the iconic building housing Hermman’s Jazz Club and View Street Social was acquired by the City of Victoria, which pledged to preserve its legacy.
What Craigdarroch and Hatley Castles could cost in today's market
Real EstateArchitecture & DesignUrbanized Dec 4 2024, 8:56 pm Hatley Castle (Shawn.ccf/Shutterstock) | Craigdarroch Castle (achinthamb/Shutterstock) Victoria’s iconic castles, Craigdarroch Castle and Hatley Castle, are steeped in history and grandeur. These sprawling estates have captured the imaginations of locals, visitors, and filmmakers. But what if they weren’t museums or university grounds? What if they were homes on today’s real estate market?
Travelling to Taylor Swift? How to get from Victoria to Vancouver
NewsTransportationUrbanized Dec 3 2024, 8:44 pm Brian Friedman/Shutterstock | Rolf Meinow/Shutterstock Victoria Swifties, if you’re heading to see Taylor Swift at Rogers Arena in Vancouver this week, transit officials have come prepared with additional ferries and public transit options designed to accommodate the influx of fans. Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated Eras Tour will take over Vancouver with three shows on December 6, 7, and 8, each starting at 6:30 pm.
Gulf island near Victoria named one of the best places to travel in 2025 | Curated
Dec 3 2024, 6:45 pm Roxana Gonzalez/Shutterstock Salt Spring Island has earned a spotlight on a list of the 50 best places to visit worldwide, landing in 38th place. For an island already famous for its laid-back charm and vibrant local culture, this is just another feather in its artisan-crafted cap. The list from Travel Lemming heralds Salt Spring’s unique character as a magical spot where the distance between Earth and heaven feels unusually slim.
The Stanley Cup is coming back to Victoria to celebrate historic win
EventsSportsHockeyWinterSpring Dec 2 2024, 11:21 pm Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports It’s been nearly 100 years since the Victoria Cougars etched their names into hockey history by defeating the Montreal Canadiens to claim the Stanley Cup in 1925. Now, the iconic trophy is set to return to Victoria in March 2025, marking the centennial anniversary of that monumental victory.
6 cool and festive concerts happening in Victoria this December
Dec 2 2024, 6:02 pm @thefunkhunters/Instagram | @jonandroy/Instagram From dance floors to cozy concert halls, December in Victoria is all about celebrating the season with good tunes and good company. Whether you’re into folk or electronic beats or just want to soak up some festive cheer, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Here are 6 cool and festive concerts going on this month.
Up to 50 cm of snow expected to blanket parts of BC this weekend
Nov 29 2024, 8:05 pm (ECCC Weather British Columbia/Twitter). A winter storm is on its way to hit British Columbia’s North Coast and Interior, bringing significant snowfall over the next few days, according to Environment Canada. Residents in these regions should brace for up to 50 centimetres of snow. Stewart has accumulated 40 to 55 cm of snow after heavy snowfall since Tuesday night.
Jerry Seinfeld is coming to Victoria next April
Nov 29 2024, 8:17 pm Jerry Seinfeld (Nounpusher Photography/Shutterstock) Big news for comedy fans in Victoria — Jerry Seinfeld is coming to town! The man who helped give us a show about nothing (Seinfeld) will take the stage at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Tickets for the event go on sale December 6 at 10 am and range from $80 for upper bowl to $400 for floor seats. Get tickets here.
Mount Washington is opening early thanks to record-breaking snow
NewsHealth & FitnessCuratedOutdoors Nov 28 2024, 5:32 pm Winter enthusiasts, rejoice! Vancouver Island’s beloved Mount Washington Alpine Resort is kicking off its season earlier than usual, marking its earliest opening in eight years. Thanks to a hefty November snowfall — boosted by a bomb cyclone that drenched much of BC’s coast but delivered flurries to the mountain — the resort boasts an impressive 258-centimetre snow base.
Two major BC cities are at risk of disappearing due to rising tides
Nov 27 2024, 10:21 pm Hannamariah/Shutterstock | Frank Fell Media/Shutterstock Rising sea levels are putting Canada’s coastal communities at increasing risk, and two major cities in British Columbia are among the most vulnerable. According to NASA, if the current sea level rise trend continues, the Pacific Northwest will likely see increased coastal erosion and high tide flooding, with impacts varying widely by location.
Huge Santa Claus parade will impact traffic in Victoria this Saturday
EventsNewsChristmasPeopleCurated Nov 27 2024, 6:19 pm Santa parades down the street (Pamela Au/Shutterstock) Victoria’s downtown will transform into a festive wonderland this Saturday, November 30 as the 42nd Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus Parade takes over the streets. While the holiday spirit will be in full swing, drivers should prepare for road closures and significant traffic disruptions.
Brentwood Bay’s Blue’s Bayou Cafe to close after 26 years
FoodFood NewsRestaurant Closings Nov 27 2024, 6:07 pm Blue's Bayou Cafe/Facebook Brentwood Bay is saying goodbye to another local icon as Blue’s Bayou Cafe prepares to close its doors on December 21, marking the end of a nearly 26-year run. Known for its vibrant Cajun Creole dishes like jambalaya and gumbo, the waterfront restaurant has been a community favourite since opening in the late ‘90s. The cafe’s lease at the marina runs until December 31, but December 21 will be its final day of service.
Locals' top tips for a road trip from Victoria to Courtenay
Nov 26 2024, 6:56 pm A woman walking on the coast near Courtenay and Comox on Vancouver Island (StaceyL/Shutterstock) If you’re cruising up Vancouver Island and Courtenay is your final stop, the VictoriaBC subreddit has handed over a goldmine of suggestions to make your trip seriously unforgettable. Think hidden gems, pit stops, and snacks that could totally steal the spotlight from the scenic drive.
6 Victoria restaurants that closed their doors this fall
This past fall was particularly tough for the Victoria hospitality industry, with many renowned and storied restaurants and venues closing. We love celebrating new restaurant openings, but we recognize the challenges of the industry. Skyrocketing rents, inflation, and the end of COVID-19 relief have pushed many to close their doors. Here are six closures you may have missed. Sushi Jiro Cook Street Village is losing a neighbourhood favourite as Sushi Jiro prepares to close its doors for good.
Victoria penthouse has unbelievable views of Olympic Mountains
Here it is — the lap of Victoria luxury: a $4.5 million penthouse perched at Shoal Point with panoramic views of downtown Victoria, the Olympic Mountains, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This sprawling 4,000-square-foot slice of heaven at 21 Dallas Road is the kind of place that makes you wonder if you’ve strolled into a five-star hotel. Sunlight pours in through gigantic Palladian windows soaking you in natural light every day (even if it’s a bit gloomy out).
Orphaned bear cubs on the loose after mother hit by car in Sooke
Three bear cubs are roaming the Sooke area after their mother was fatally struck by a car near West Coast Road just over a week ago. The incident has sparked concern among wildlife organizations and the BC Conservation Officer Service as they work to track down and rescue the orphaned cubs. The cubs initially sought refuge high in a tree beside the Sooke Basin. According to Wild Wise, a Sooke-based wildlife group, the tree was a frequent retreat for the mother bear and her cubs.
6 awesome things to do in Victoria this week: November 25 to 29
Victoria’s got a packed lineup of comedy, concerts, holiday markets, and EDM shows this week. Sure, you could go for a hike or take a cold dip, but why not dive into these awesome events, too? And hey, after a TikTok just called us out for lacking events, we’ve got six fantastic options to prove them wrong! Corb Lund Solo Acoustic Show Catch Corb Lund in a rare solo acoustic performance with two opportunities to experience his authentic sound — an early show and a late show.
Major BC Ferries routes at risk of cancellation tonight due to strong winds | News
As strong winds whip across the coast, travellers heading to and from Vancouver Island should be prepared for potential disruptions to BC Ferries sailings this Friday evening. The transportation service has issued a warning that several routes, specifically between Victoria, Vancouver, and Nanaimo, may face cancellations due to the weather.
Brace yourselves! Wind warnings escalated for parts of Vancouver Island | News
Environment and Climate Change Canada has put out wind warnings for certain parts of Vancouver Island, meaning things are about to get pretty wild. Earlier this week, we had those wild, hurricane-like winds from the bomb cyclone. Luckily, this storm’s not quite as intense. On Thursday, the warnings started rolling out for West Vancouver Island. Expect gusts between 90 and 100 km/h to really pick up in the afternoon and last into the evening.
6 awesome events in Victoria this weekend: November 22 to 24
Call it a hunch, but Victoria is gearing up for the holiday season, and this is evident more than ever with the events happening this weekend. Get into the festive spirit with a variety of holiday markets and events happening around Victoria — from handcrafted goods at local artisan markets. But don’t worry, there’s also live hip-hop and rock music, plus game shows. Check out six awesome events in Victoria this weekend.
How much money you actually need to live solo in Victoria
Budgeting isn’t exactly thrilling, but unless you’ve got a money tree growing in your backyard, it’s a fact of life — especially in Victoria. With its laid-back West Coast vibes, lush landscapes, and oceanfront beauty, it’s no surprise that Victoria draws people from all over. But living in paradise comes with a price tag. If you’re curious (or terrified) about what it costs to live solo in Victoria, here are the numbers from Numbeo.
Victoria sushi spot will close its doors for good this month | Dished
FoodFood NewsRestaurant Closings Cook Street Village is losing a neighbourhood favourite as Sushi Jiro prepares to close its doors for good. The beloved spot, known for its eclectic mix of Japanese, Korean, and Asian fusion dishes, has announced that its last day of service will be November 27.
$2M house in Greater Victoria looks like its straight from the Shire
Tucked into the lush embrace of its forest surroundings, this $2 million home in Metchosin (about 30 minutes from downtown Victoria) looks like something straight out of Middle-earth — and it’s got Sauron’s eye for detail. With a living roof brimming with greenery and whimsical gardens, this woodland sanctuary is as functional as it is magical-looking.
$13.8M Saanich estate has stunning views of Salt Spring Island
This $13.8 million North Saanich waterfront estate at 848 Lands End is a modern West Coast dream home. Built in 2024, it sprawls across 1.02 acres of low-bank oceanfront, offering jaw-dropping views of Salt Spring Island, and has some seriously stunning architecture throughout the home. The 7,000-square-foot main house has all the space and style anyone could want, with four bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and two primary suites that open onto private balconies overlooking the water.
Watch the bomb cyclone live from three Vancouver Island locations
As the bomb cyclone wreaks havoc across Vancouver Island, the region is experiencing some of the strongest winds of the season, with gusts reaching up to 170 km/h in some areas. Heavy rainfall, powerful winds, and widespread highway closures have led to travel advisories, urging residents to stay off the roads. To keep track of this intense storm (while staying safe inside), you can watch livestreams of the action from locations like Tofino’s Cox Bay and Long Beach, as well as Victoria’s Ross Bay.
Hurricane-like winds close Vancouver Island highways as bomb cyclone hits | News
The bomb cyclone affecting Vancouver Island has caused widespread highway closures due to extreme weather, including heavy rainfall and powerful winds. The bomb cyclone has brought some of the strongest winds of the season to Vancouver Island.
Stunning $12.5 million Saanichton estate has its own golf course
For a cool $12.5 million, this Saanichton estate at 3275 Campion Road on Vancouver Island doesn’t just overlook the ocean; it commands it. Spanning more than eight lush acres, this property captures the full panorama of the Pacific and surrounding mountains, with a residence that sprawls over 9,000 square feet of space.
7 awesome things to do in Victoria this week: November 18 to 22
Another awesome week of events in Victoria is on tap, and even with a few recent venue closures, the live music scene is still going strong. From intimate jazz performances to high-energy gigs, venues around town are keeping the music alive. Whether you’re looking to watch, get up on stage, or just hit the dance floor, there are plenty of events to keep you entertained. Here are seven awesome events going on in Victoria this week.
Springtide Whale Watching and Eco Tours in Victoria has landed on USA Today‚Äôs short list of North America‚Äôs top ethical whale-watching spots. Ethical whale-watching tours are more than just a chance to see these majestic creatures ‚ÄĒ they‚Äôre part of a vital effort to keep whales from vanishing altogether. From industrial pollution to ocean noise and climate change, humans have pushed several whale species dangerously close to extinction.
9 awesome things to do in Victoria this weekend: November 15 to 17
November in Victoria brings a lively mix of events, from high-energy garage punk shows to cozy evenings with singer-songwriters, festive Christmas markets, and improv comedy that promises laughs for everyone. This weekend, get into the spirit of Victoria’s bustling November with some of the best in music, art, and seasonal celebrations. Here are nine events to fill your weekend. An Evening with Jane Siberry Join renowned singer-songwriter Jane Siberry for a mesmerizing evening of music.
Victoria named most generous for tipping in Canada
Victoria has earned the top spot in Uber Eats’ 2024 Cravings Report, claiming the title of Canada’s most generous city when it comes to tipping. Vancouver Island is undisputedly the most generous Canadian island, with three Vancouver Island cities rounding out the top ten: Campbell River (#4), Nanaimo (#6), and Courtenay (#7).
Beloved Cafe Zanzibar in Brentwood Bay will close at year's end
Cafe Zanzibar, a beloved casual dining spot in Brentwood Bay, is closing its doors on December 31 after 24 years of service. Known for its eclectic international menu, cozy patio seating, and vibrant community atmosphere, Cafe Zanzibar has been a staple in Central Saanich and a go-to for brunch in the community. The closure follows a decision by the property owners to repurpose the site that Cafe Zanzibar has leased for 17 years, according to a statement shared online.
Victoria's Paparazzi nightclub will open a new venue in 2025
Victoria’s Paparazzi nightclub is set to double the excitement with the launch of ENCORE, a brand-new venue opening next door to the club in 2025. Located at 1415 Broad Street in the former Victoria Event Centre — which closed in October— the sister club aims to bring even more life to the city’s nightlife scene, as recently shared on Paparazzi’s social media.
Nanaimo waterfall is even more spectacular after a rainstorm
Ammonite Falls, just a 20-minute drive outside Nanaimo, is a hidden gem that becomes even more impressive after a rainfall. The waterfall, already striking, transforms into a thundering cascade with more volume and power, making it a must-see when the rain hits. The surrounding forest, soaked and vibrant, feels rejuvenated, creating an almost magical atmosphere. The falls are now part of Benson Creek Falls Regional Park, making them much easier to access with improved trails.
Cowichan Trading Company
Victoria is about to lose a piece of its heritage as the Cowichan Trading Company, a family-run shop that has operated since 1947, prepares to close its doors. For locals and tourists, this iconic corner store at Government and Lower Johnson (LoJo) has been the go-to spot for authentic Cowichan sweaters, Indigenous Pacific Northwest art, and handcrafted jewellery.
BC Ferries may cancel sailings today due to strong wind gusts
Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a wind warning that’s set to kick up some serious gusts over Greater Victoria and nearby regions tonight and into Wednesday morning, and it looks like it will impact ferry service. #ServiceNotice [1/2] To ensure the safety of our customers and crew, the following sailings between #DepartureBay and #HorseshoeBay are at risk of being cancelled for today, November 12 as a result of Environment Canada’s severe weather forecast.
6 stereotypes about Vancouver Island that are totally NOT true
Stereotypes can sometimes carry a hint of truth, but there are some common ideas about Vancouver Island that just aren’t accurate. While life on Vancouver Island has some unique quirks, a few common stereotypes seem to miss the mark. Here are some of the most popular misconceptions about life on Vancouver Island that, in reality, don’t quite reflect the truth. It’s all rain Yes, it rains on Vancouver Island, but it doesn’t mean it’s a never-ending downpour.
New brunch spot opens in Victoria from two familiar faces | Dished
FoodBreakfast & BrunchFood NewsRestaurant Openings A brand-new breakfast spot has just opened today in the familiar Cook Street space that once housed Bear & Joey: The Breakfast Shop. This fresh venture brings together the creative forces behind four beloved local names: Chris Jones of The Ruby and Jones Bar-B-Que, Logan Gray of Discovery Coffee, and Yonni’s Doughnuts. According to Jones, the spot is like a breakfast baby born from The Ruby and Discovery Coffee, but with an extra touch of flair.
Heavy rain closes key trails and sites in Juan de Fuca Park
Juan de Fuca Provincial Park on Vancouver Island’s southwest coast is facing temporary closures due to heavy rain and recent flooding ahead of the Remembrance Day long weekend. BC’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy is advising visitors to check the BC Parks website before setting out, as several key areas remain closed for safety and repair. The closures affect the Juan de Fuca Trail, backcountry campsites, the Sombrio Beach suspension bridge, and the Parkinson Trailhead.
12 things to do in Victoria this Remembrance Day long weekend
One of the most meaningful things you can do this weekend is to honour Remembrance Day on Monday, November 11. While there are plenty of ways to participate below, if you can’t make any event, one simple yet impactful act is to observe two minutes of silence at 11 am, reflecting on the sacrifices of Canada’s veterans — those who make our celebrations and freedoms possible.
Stay awake 24 hours at Vic Theatre and win free movies for a year | Listed
EventsNewsFall EventsCuratedPop Culture The Vic Theatre is hosting a 24-hour Batman movie marathon this weekend, and if you can stay awake for all nine films, you’ll win a year of free movies. That’s almost $2,000 worth of tickets! The marathon kicks off on November 9 with The Batman at 10 am and ends Sunday morning with Batman: Mask of the Phantasm at 8:15 am. In between, there will be giveaways and prizes such as comic books, gift cards, and Batman-themed items.
Dwyane Wade Wade and Gabrielle Union spotted at Victoria restaurant | Curated
There must be something in the atmosphere: three-time NBA champion Dwyane Wade and award-winning actress Gabrielle Union stopped by Shuck Taylor’s oyster bar in Victoria this past weekend. Union, known for her roles in Bring It On and 10 Things I Hate About You, is in town filming an upcoming horror film, Casket Girls. Her connection to Shuck Taylor’s came through her makeup artist, who quickly became a regular, according to owner Jess Taylor.
$6.5M Salt Spring Island estate looks like its straight from Japan
Listed at $6.5 million, BrightWoods Estate feels like a hidden Japanese retreat right on Salt Spring Island, stretching across 7.48 lush acres. Tucked away at 250 Holmes Road, this oceanfront sanctuary is truly one-of-a-kind, with over 6,500 square feet of elevated yet inviting luxury. Just glancing through the photos is a dose of calm. The estate features four spacious bedrooms, each with a walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom.
Victoria's job growth surges as BC employment stays "wobbly"
Victoria’s job scene is on an upswing, with fresh data from BC Check-Up: Work — a yearly rundown from the Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (CPABC) on workforce trends — revealing that 243,200 folks in Greater Victoria were clocking in this past September. That’s a notable bump, up by 6.2% compared to last year. “We’re looking at some of the healthiest job growth across all of BC over the past 12 months,” says Simon Philp, a vice president at CIBC.
Victoria Public Market stand named one of Canada’s best new restaurants | Dished
FoodRestaurants & BarsFood News Hold onto your forks, Victoria, because a little food stand just pulled off a major culinary coup. Café Malabar, the cozy Indian food stall tucked into the Victoria Public Market, has earned a spot on Air Canada’s list of Best New Restaurants in Canada — an impressive feat for any place but almost unheard of for a market stand.
Score! Own a piece of the world’s largest hockey stick from Duncan
In a bittersweet turn of events, Duncan’s world’s largest hockey stick, which famously towered over the Cowichan Community Centre for more than 35 years, has been dismantled, but collectors can now purchase unique collectibles made from its remnants at Maxwell’s Auto Center. Constructed for Expo ’86 in Vancouver, the over 200-foot-long wooden stick and its accompanying puck have captivated visitors and locals alike.
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