Welcome one and all to the third themed issue of Volume 41: the Go Outside issue! In the following pages, we encourage you to get some new outerwear, get gardening, and generally get outta the house. There might be heat waves and droughts keeping us wishing for perma-AC, but I say save curling up inside for later.
Why should you evade the comfort of four walls and opt for open air? Here are my top reasons for beating the heat by joining it.
Sunscreen smells really good now: When I was a child, I loathed sunscreen. Slathering myself in a greasy lotion, that didn’t even smell good, and that was good for me? I’ll take my red h0t sunburns, thank you very much. Now though, I’m a sunscreen addict, alternating between the banana scents of Sun Bum, and the addicting floral notes of Hawaiian Tropic. Don’t splurge on Marc Jacobs perfume when slapping on some sunscreen does the trick and keeps you protected. With non-greasy formulas, you’ll get your sun protection and a dose of much-needed moisture, too!
BC is bursting with beauty: Stanley Park was voted a top park in the world by Trip Advisor in 2014, and by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts just this year. Even if you don’t want to scope out one of the best parks in the world, there are myriad other options. Go on a hike in Lynn Canyon Park, swim at Jericho Beach, or just pop by one of your local parks for a picnic. Pause to enjoy the scenery that people travel miles to see—and that we are privileged to every day.
You can go to the mall or movies another time: I know, the go-to excursion is to the mall or movies, for some free air conditioning and not-so-free pastimes. Listen, when fall rolls around we’re all going to be whining about the rain and cold. Don’t be one of those people who wastes their summer away listening to the top pop songs while window shopping, or falling asleep watching some blockbuster.
You can save money: Going for a bike ride, swimming in the ocean, or enjoying a long walk costs little to no money. Fun is free, you just have to know where to find it.
You can spend money: Alternatively, you can go on an adventure! Go camping, and appreciate the true outdoors. Go on a trip and see what makes another place special. If you have the money, don’t squirrel it away when you can jet set.
Eating is fun: Have your besties over for a barbecue, shove some delicious food in your face, and drink some beer if you’re of age. The barbecue is a summertime classic for a reason, people.
Don’t be boring: There’s too much to do around Vancouver to not take advantage of it. Vancouver gets a bad rap for being no fun, and I’ll admit to indulging in a night in on the regular. If you’re more of a gal/guy about town though, all you have to do is keep an eye out for the concerts, outdoor movies, flea markets, and parties that make this city great. You can easily find things to do in Vancouver, so go do it.
There you have it, dear readers, a list of reasons to get outside and enjoy BC. Still not sure what to do with your time? Read on for our writers’ best tips and tricks for breathing in fresh air!
Hello gorgeous,
Natalie Serafini
