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Your Ultimate Guide for a Day Trip to Bowen Island from UBC

Hey UBC students!  Looking for a fun, budget-friendly day trip without the hassle of a car? Bowen Island is your perfect escape. From stunning nature trails to delicious eats, this charming island has it all. Here’s your friendly guide to making the most out of a day trip to Bowen Island. Let’s dive in!

Getting There: Easy and Budget-Friendly

UBC to Bowen Island:

  1. Catch the #014 Hastings (or any UBC bus) to downtown Vancouver.
  2. Transfer to the #257 Horseshoe Bay Express bus.
  3. Take a BC Ferry to Snug Cove on Bowen Island.

A round-trip ferry ticket costs about $12, making it easy on your wallet. The ferry ride is a scenic 20 minutes—just enough time to get excited about your adventure! 

Food:

Goldie’s Donuts & Bakery 

6693 Nelson Ave Unit 101, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2B2

If you want a quick dessert before your ferry to Bowen Island, consider buying some donuts from Goldie’s Donuts & Bakery. Their donuts are simply delicious! 

The Snug Cafe 

445 Bowen Island Trunk Rd, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Snug Cafe near the Snug Cove ferry terminal. Even if it was a bit rainy when we visited, the cozy atmosphere and delicious food lifted our spirits. Must-try dishes include the Snug Breakfast! We also ordered Snug Egg, BBQ Chicken Panini, and a Grilled Cheese Sandwich. Trust us, you won’t regret it! 

Branch on Bowen 

400 Bowen Island Trunk Rd, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0

For a mix of ice cream and tacos, head to Branch on Bowen. They serve Earnest Ice Cream and handmade tacos. Pro tip: Try the cookies & cream and butter pecan ice cream. They are to die for! 

Nature Adventure: 

Crippen Regional Park 

Location: 430 Bowen Island Trunk Road #2, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0

You must explore Crippen Regional Park. It’s filled with beautiful forests, peaceful lakes, and lots of wildlife. Perfect for hiking, picnics, and bird-spotting. Plus, it’s free—perfect for our college budgets! 

Killarney Lake 

This lake is part of Crippen Regional park. A short 2.5 km walk from Snug Cove will bring you to Killarney Lake, complete with picnic tables and stunning views. It’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy nature.

Dorman Point 

Location: 370 Robinson Road, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G1

As part of Crippen Regional Park, this quick 1.5 km trail hike leads to Dorman Point. The trail offers a short, steep climb to an ocean viewpoint. It’s a beautiful hike through serene nature, featuring old, big trees that add to the enchanting atmosphere.

Tunstall Bay 

Location: 1666 Tunstall Boulevard, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2

Accessible by bus from Snug Cove, Tunstall Bay Beach is a peaceful retreat. Known for its clear waters and beautiful sunsets, it’s a special spot for soaking during the summer.

Shopping:

Artisan Square

Location: Artisan Square, Bowen Island, BC  V0N 1G2

Artisan Square is a small community that offers a range of shopping options, including clothing, boutique, hand-made chocolates, fresh flowers and many more. The artisan Square is accessible via bus and walking. We highly recommend trying the delicious chocolates from Cocoa West Chocolatier, especially the Poblano hot chocolate that has a spicy kick from Poblano pepper.

Bowen Island Marina 

Location: 400 Bowen Island Trunk Rd, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0

Wander around Bowen Island Marina, where you’ll find multiple cafes, ice cream shops, and opportunities for sea kayaking. It’s a lovely spot to relax and soak in the island vibes.

Art & Culture 

Public Library and Heart Gallery 

Location: 430 Bowen Island Trunk Rd, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G1

Explore the local art scene by visiting the public library and Heart Gallery. The gallery showcases amazing works by local artists and sells unique crafts and gifts. And yes, entry is free, making it a great budget-friendly activity. 

Wrapping Up: 

Bowen Island is an absolute gem. Whether you’re into hiking, art, or just chilling with friends, there’s something for everyone. To wrap up your day, don’t miss the stunning sunset from the ferry on your way back. So, gather your squad and set out for a transit accessible day trip!

9 Finals Tips For Exam Season at UBC

Compiled by Karen Chen

It is that time of the year again. Stress levels are rising sky-high in UBC libraries, and there seems to be an atmosphere of doom and gloom all around. No need to despair! Our AMS executives have put together a finals advice package, with everything related to organization, study tips, and self-care guides. We wish you the best of luck this finals season!

Make a concrete study plan, with days indicating what chapters or modules you are planning to cover every day. Have the self-discipline to stick to it, whether that is by finding a study buddy or switching up your study place. Do not plan anything too review-heavy for the last day before the exam, let your brain have adequate rest! Once you have a solid system in place, success will follow : )

Karen Chen, 2022-23 AMS Work Learn Social Media Coordinator

I love to have a vision board (usually Notion) to write down line by line what I have to revise & complete for each subject. I have a separate section called my ‘To-Do List’ where I move these lines to indicate my workload for the day. Obviously, you cannot always plan absolutely everything, but make sure to complete the top 3 things on that list and you’re good to go.

Stephanie Liu, 2022-23 AMS Associate Vice-President, Funds

Communicating with my professors or TAs bout any course-related stress often helped me to succeed during the final project season. Either asking questions or advice on how to best complete specific assignments. Usually, our instructors are very understanding and accommodating, and ready to help us. Also, my friends and classmates really inspire me to study more as everyone is so hardworking. Creating study groups can turn from a nerve-wracking to super chill quality time.

Anna Shubina, 2022-23 AMS Work Learn Social Media Coordinator

The hardest part is getting started! I like to make a study plan so it is easier to stick to, then instead of finishing a chapter/module, I begin a bit of the next one so that when I pick up again it is more incentivizing to keep going! Also cutting down on other obligations (social gatherings, going out, etc.) during the period of studying can help motivate you to stay focused!

Erin Co, 2022-23 AMS Vice President, External Affairs

Do not be afraid to take time for yourself, it is important to take breaks between your studying, even when you feel the need to keep going! Taking the time to recharge can reset your brain, which will help with your productivity levels. Find what works best for you to decompress, whether it is going for a walk, sharing a meal with a friend, or catching up on some Netflix.

Viola Chao, 2022-23 AMS Equity & Inclusion Lead

When creating your study plans, be realistic in setting your goals. Try to not measure productivity by the amount of work you completed, but rather if you have done what you can with the energy you have available. You know yourself best to determine when to push or take a break! Also, remember that the stress is temporary. Lastly, whether in finals season or not, bite the bullet and start with your most difficult task of the day.

Anisha Sandhu, 2023 Interim AMS Vice-President, Academic & University Affairs

Start small and segment what you need to study into smaller chunks so it feels less intimidating. Make sure to give yourself time to take breaks and do what you enjoy as well so you do not burn out! Also, do not be afraid to ask your professor and TA for help when you are unsure of something, they are here to support your learning! Finally, always remember to take care of yourself.

Naton Ting, 2022-23 AMS Clubs Administrator

I cannot stress the importance of SNACKS (I have been eating a lot of oranges + eggs) and doing small things to improve your mood! It is easy to get bogged down by hours of studying so take care of yourself, and make sure you are fueling yourself! Also on the topic of snacks, I would recommend leaving your house at least once a day for at least 15 minutes even if it is just to refill your snacks at Walmart. There is light at the end of the tunnel! Stay positive and good luck!

Priscilla Ng, 2022-23 AMS Associate Vice-President, External Affairs

We tend to procrastinate because we are searching for that feeling of instant gratification that a long-term study plan does not offer until after the work is done. A remedy for this is making your study process more enjoyable. For myself, I spend a lot of time creating a study environment that I love being in. I like to have a lot of trinkets on my desk and usually listen to music and study with friends. Multi-tasking tends to be a less conventional study tip, but adding extra stimuli to my study process has helped me become more creative and productive. Instead of being hard on yourself for procrastinating or not sticking to your plan, use that time to think about adjustments you could make to the actual process of studying itself.

Tomila Sahbaei, 2022-23 AMS Associate Vice-President, Academic Affairs
Where to celebrate Lunar New Year in Vancouver

by Alicia Wang and Cassandra Zhang

Lunar New Year is coming up and we are all excited for it! If you don’t have ideas on where to go to celebrate, below is a list that may help you by providing some available options! Happy Lunar New Year!

January 18: Lunar New Year at Vancouver Public Library

The celebration includes a traditional tea ceremony, Chinese music, and a special visit from a Fortune Teller and Feng Shui Master.  

Cost: Free

Location: Vancouver Public Library Central Branch – Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level – 350 West Georgia Street, Vancouver

Date and Time: 6:00PM-8:30PM on January 18

Link: https://vpl.bibliocommons.com/events/6393cb33a111382f008e8214

January 21-22: Lunar New Year at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Enjoy the live performances by City Opera, lion dances, tea ceremonies, and I-Ching readings, and more. 

Cost: various prices, see link below

Location: Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden — 578 Carrall Street, Vancouver

Date and Time: 11:00AM-6:00PM on January 21 and 22

Link:  https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/lunar-new-year-at-dr-sun-yat-sen-classical-chinese-garden-tickets-499112989387

January 22: Vancouver Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade and Fair

The 2.5-hour parade will feature dancing, marching bands, martial arts performances, and lion dances. Afterwards, there will also be a fair (2:00PM-4:00PM).

Cost: free

Location: Parade starts at Millennium Gate (intersection of Pender Street and Taylor Street; click here for parade map). Fair is at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

Date and Time: January 22, 11AM (parade start), 2:00PM-4:00PM (fair)

January 21 – February 20: Borrow Lunar New Year books from the UBC Education Library

Cost: Free

Location: UBC Education Library

Date: January 21 – February 20

January 25: Lion Dance at the Nest

The AMS Kung-Fu club is helping the AMS to celebrate the Lunar New Year by performing a Lion Dance at the Nest! The lion will dance around the shops in the Nest — feel free to watch!

Cost: Free

Location: The lower level and first floor of Nest

Time: January 25th, 12:30PM—1:30PM

Link: https://www.ams.ubc.ca/event/lunar-new-year-lion-dance/ 

在温哥华去哪里庆祝春节？

春节就要到啦！我们都激动不已。如果在温哥华的你还没有选好过年去哪里玩，下面的清单提供了一些可选的地方，也许能帮到你。新年快乐！

UBC农历新年书展

农历新年书籍展示 

费用：免费

地点：UBC Education Library

时间：1月21日至2月20日

UBC Nest新年舞狮

UBC功夫俱乐部将在Nest表演舞狮与大家一起庆祝新年！狮子会从Nest的商铺路过，一起去参与互动吧！

费用：免费

地点：Nest的负一楼和一楼

时间：1月25日12:30-13:30

链接：https://www.ams.ubc.ca/event/lunar-new-year-lion-dance/ 

公共图书馆的新年活动

庆祝活动包括体验传统茶道，欣赏中国风音乐，以及算命先生和风水师的特别访问。 

费用：免费

地点：Vancouver Public Library Central Branch – Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level – 350 West Georgia Street, Vancouver

时间：1月18日晚6点至8点半

在中山公园庆祝新年

游客可以欣赏到City Opera的现场表演、舞狮、茶艺表演、易经诵读等。

费用：价格有差异，见以下链接

地点：Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden — 578 Carrall Street, Vancouver

时间：1月21日和22日，上午11点至下午6点

链接：https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/lunar-new-year-at-dr-sun-yat-sen-classical-chinese-garden-tickets-499112989387 

温哥华华埠春节庆祝活动和巡游

第48届温哥华华埠春节庆祝活动。将提供家庭活动、现场娱乐和更多活动。

费用：免费

地点：唐人街的多处不同地点

时间：上午11点（巡游开始），下午2点至4点（集市），下午6点（晚宴开始)

14 Fun Things to Do Around UBC and Vancouver During the Holiday Season

by Karen Chen; Chinese translation by Alicia Wang

Are you going to be on campus or in Vancouver around the holidays? Still trying to figure out what to do? No worries, we have a list compiled for you to keep your days busy and fulfilling – while not breaking the bank!  

1. Ice skating

Ice skating is a classic winter activity, and there are many options around the Vancouver area for you!

2. Go shopping for Christmas sales around Metro Vancouver

Never a bad idea to get started early on Christmas gifts! Some major malls are:

  • Pacific Centre (downtown Vancouver)
  • Metrotown (Burnaby)
  • Guildford Town Centre (Surrey)
  • Tsawwassen Mills (Tsawwassen)
  • Richmond Centre (Richmond)

3. Go for a swim at the UBC Aquatic Center, then warm up in the hot tub or sauna! This is free for UBC students – check their drop-in schedule to book your spot!

4. Vancouver Christmas Market

A traditional Christmas market! Check out the merry-go-round, live performances and singers, photo backdrops, and various cultural foods! This attraction is open from November 12th until December 24th, and have sales and discounts on their ticket prices on certain days of the week 

5. Stanley Park Bright Nights

This pretty attraction includes attractions such as the antique fire truck, giant red reindeer, and sparkling tunnel of lights in the plaza. They also have food vendors and live performances. It will be on display from December 1st until January 1st and is entry by donation – with all the proceeds going to BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund. Open from 4-10PM daily!

6. VanDusen Festival of Lights

VanDusen Festival of Lights features a stunning display of lights where you can go with friends, family, or any loved ones to enjoy the magical moments of winter! Enjoy Dancing Lights, the Rose Garden, tasty treats, and the gorgeous light shows all around!

Open from November 25th until December 24th, 4-10PM daily! Tickets can be found on their website.

7. PNE Winter Fair

PNE Winter Fair features concerts, skating, and many yummy food vendors combined with shopping experiences and light displays! Get all your wonderful winter experiences in one place.

It will be happening December 14-23, 4:30-10:30PM daily, and ticket prices can be found on their website. Check out their group rates if you are in a group of 10 or more!

8. Langley Christmas Glow

Langley Christmas Glow features a magical Christmas experience with a walk-through of giant ornaments, cascading lights, and lovely festive trees! There is also a playground open to everyone where you can meet various Christmas characters, explore food trucks, visit Santa, and ride on the Glow Comotive!

Open from November 23rd until December 31st, various times depending on weekdays and weekends. Tickets can be purchased through their websites, and ticket prices vary.

9. Lights at Lafarge

Lights at Lafarge is an attraction in Coquitlam featuring live performances, food vendors, and family crafts scattered around the beautifully decorated lake!

This attraction is on from November 26th to the end of January from 5-8PM daily, and their specific event schedule can be found on their website. This event is free!

10. Capilano Canyon Lights

Capilano Canyon Lights is a winter wonderland where you can explore nature from beautifully bedazzled bridges. Located in Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, come to breathe in the fresh air while enjoying the many photo opportunities including the light tunnel, and seven suspended bridges!

This attraction is open from November 19th to January 22nd, 11AM-9pm every day (closed December 25th)! Ticket prices vary and can be found on their website.

11. Winter in Steveston Village

Winter in Steveston Village transforms the iconic shopping center into a winter wonderland! Come browse through the variety of stores while enjoying the lights and holiday music. This attraction in Richmond will be decorated from December 1-31.

12. Lights of Hope At St. Paul’s Hospital

Lights of Hope At St. Paul’s Hospital is an annual fundraising campaign where you can enjoy the pretty light displays and the beloved holiday tradition. Launch day this year was November 17th, and the lights will stay on until the beginning of January.

These lights are a free attraction, but you can donate to Lights of Hope, Sponsor a Star, or get a Hope at Home Star to help out the hospital and long-term care programs. Check out their website for full details.

13. Things to do at home

Last but not least, you can:

  • Bake some cookies
  • Put on a Christmas movie
  • Enjoy some hot chocolate

Enjoy some festive times at home with loved ones! Tis the season, after all.

14. Notable mentions of other events around Vancouver and UBC

  • The AMS UBC and AMS Nest account often features events and campaigns held by us as well as by other clubs and student organizations around campus! Check out our stories for the latest updates.
  • The UBC Student Life account, true to its name, publishes relatable student content as well as features various events and socials happening around campus! You can follow them and check out their stories to stay updated with the latest events happening that week on campus.
  • If you are into the party scene, check out AMS Events for holiday parties as well as other banger events throughout the whole year!

Conclusion

We hope this post gave you some more ideas of what to do around UBC and the greater Vancouver area this winter season – happy holidays! 

假期在UBC和温哥华周边值得尝试的14件事！ 

你打算在校园或在温哥华度过假期吗？还在苦恼该做什么吗？不用担心，我们为你准备了一份清单，让你的日子可以安排得忙碌而充实–同时又不至于破费!  

1. 溜冰是

项经典的冬季活动，而且在温哥华附近有许多选择。 

  • 如果你在校园里住，Doug Mitchell体育馆提供免费滑冰，需要考虑的花销只有滑冰鞋和头盔的租金，十分划算！ 
    • Tip: 你可以在他们的日程表上看到公共滑冰的时间并提前预约。夜间滑冰真的很不错，也是我个人最喜欢的爱好之一!
  • 在市中心著名的Robson Square
  • North Vancouver的The Shipyards（12月初开放）也有免费的滑冰活动。

2. 去Metro Vancouver进行圣诞购物

提前开始为你们的亲朋好友购买圣诞礼物或许是个不错的主意～些主要的商场有：

  • 市中心的Pacific Centre
  • Metrotown (Burnaby)
  • Guildford Town Centre (Surrey)
  • Tsawwassen Mills (Tsawwassen)
  • 和Richmond Centre

3. 在UBC的Aquatic Center游泳， 然后在热水池或桑拿房里暖和暖和！这些对于UBC的学生是免费的，记得查看他们的活动时间表来预定你的位置！

4. 温哥华圣诞市场Vancouver Christmas Market

去看看旋转木马、live表演、照片背景布和各种文化的食物吧！这个景点在11月12日到12月24日期间开放。票价在一周的某些时候会有折扣。 

5. 斯坦利公园Bright Nights

这个漂亮的景点能看到古董消防车、巨大的红色驯鹿和广场上明亮的灯光隧道等。他们也有食品小铺和live表演。 

景点将在12月1日至1月1日期间展出，捐款即可进入观展–所有收入都将用于BC省专业消防员的烧伤基金。开放时间为每天下午4:00 – 10:00!  

6. VanDusen灯光节的特色

VanDusen灯光节的特色是令人惊叹的灯光效果，你可以和朋友、家人或任何亲人一起去享受这冬日里的奇妙时刻! 欣赏Dancing Lights、玫瑰园、美味的食物，以及四周华丽的灯光表演！ 

开放时间为11月25日至12月24日，每天下午4:00 – 10:00! 可以在他们的网站上购票。 

7. PNE冬季集市的

PNE冬季集市的特色是音乐会、滑冰和许多提供美味食品的小铺，以及购物体验和灯光表演! 在一个地点收获所有精彩的冬日体验。 

它将于12月14日至23日举行，每天4:30至10:30，票价可以在网站上找到。如果你想以10人及以上的团体参加，可以查看团体价格! 

8. Langley Christmas Glow

Langley Christmas Glow提供一个神奇的圣诞体验。你将一次观赏过巨大的装饰品，层层叠叠的灯光，和可爱的圣诞树！还有一个对所有人开放的游乐场，在那里你可以见到各种圣诞人物，探索流动餐车，拜访圣诞老人，并乘坐Glow Comotive！ 

开放时间为11月23日至12月31日，工作日和周末会有不同的时间。可以通过他们的网站购票，票价有差异。 

9. Lafarge的灯光

  1. Lafarge的灯光景点位于Coquitlam，有live表演、食品小铺和家庭工艺品散布在装饰精美的湖泊周围！ 

这个景点从11月26日到1月底、每天下午5:00 – 8:00开放。他们的具体活动安排可以在其网站上找到。这个活动是免费的! 

10. Capilano Canyon Lights

Capilano Canyon Lights是一个冬季奇境，你可以在壮丽的桥梁上探索大自然。该景点位于卡皮拉诺吊桥公园，可以来呼吸一下新鲜空气，同时还有许多拍照的机会，包括灯光隧道和七座吊桥！ 

这个景点的开放时间为11月19日至1月22日，每天上午11:00-晚上9:00（圣诞节当天不开放）! 票价不同，可以在网站上查询。 

11. Steveston Village的冬天

Steveston village的冬天将标志性的购物中心变成了一个冬季仙境! 在欣赏灯光和节日音乐的同时，还可以来浏览各种商店。这个景点位于Richmond，将从12月01日至31日进行装饰。 

12. 圣保罗医院的Lights of Hope

圣保罗医院的Lights of Hope是一项年度筹款活动，在这里您可以欣赏到漂亮的灯光展示和深受喜爱的节日传统。今年将在11月17日启动，灯光会持续到1月初。 

这些灯光是免费观赏的景点，但你可以向Lights of Hope捐款，赞助一颗星，或获得一颗 “希望之家 “星，以帮助医院和长期护理项目。请查看他们的网站以了解完整的细节。 

13. 最后的最后，你可以烤一些饼干，放一部圣诞电影，享受一些热巧克力，在家里和亲人一起享受一些节日的时光！这是最重要的。毕竟，正是享受这些的季节～ 

14. 值得一提的是，关于温哥华和UBC附近的其他活动，

  • AMS UBC和AMS Nest的Instagram账号经常分享我们以及校园内其他俱乐部和学生组织举办的活动！ 
  • UBC Student Life账号，正如它的名字一样，发布与学生相关的内容，以及介绍校园内发生的各种活动！你可以关注他们并通过他们的博文了解校园内发生的最新活动。 
  • 如果你喜欢party，请查看AMS Events账号了解节日派对以及全年的其他活动。

我们希望这篇文章能给你更多在UBC和温哥华周边游玩的选择，让你的假期生活更加丰富多彩。节日快乐!