Plan
Become an honorary islander.
We want you to feel right at home when you visit the Southern Gulf Islands, and feeling at home means joining us in an effort to preserve this precious gift.
As islanders, we naturally adapt to a behaviour that’s more island-like. We share limited space and resources, we try and take only what we need, we find ways to give back more than we take. Some call it regenerative practices, but to islanders new and old – and vacationing islanders alike – this evolved way of acting becomes second nature. Welcome to the island family.
Walking the Walk
Regardless of what time of year you choose to explore the islands, the actions you take can make a positive (and meaningful) impact.
Fire isn’t always “fire”
The warm, sunny island climate can be pretty spectacular. And the complementary island breeze can be just as delightful. But together, they can spell danger in the form of a quick-spreading fire – and when you’re on an island, evacuation isn’t easy. Thinking and behaving like an islander means using common sense at all times.
Know that each of our islands manages its own fire regulations, so best to find out what burning is allowed and when before you light. Better safe than sorry speech goes here…
Water is also a gift
Here, our water supply is limited, and in summer droughts, access to water becomes a true concern.
AS ISLANDERS, IT’S ON ALL OF US TO ADAPT ACCORDINGLY BY:
- Taking fewer (and shorter) showers
- Limiting our running water
- Running our dishwashers as little as possible.
Small sacrifices like these can make a world of difference out here.
The dirt on waste
Unlike busy, populated cities, there are very limited garbage collection services on the islands – and all the waste here must be shipped elsewhere.
BEHAVING LIKE AN ISLANDER MEANS BEING GARBAGE-CONSCIOUS BY:
- Keeping waste to a minimum
- Reducing your plastic waste with reusable containers whenever possible
- Consider packing out all your garbage and recycling with you – hey, it’s the islander thing to do.
Set your watch to island time
Being an honorary islander means embracing a slower pace of life. Knowing that the rural environment and the isolated nature of the islands creates real constraints for restaurants and shops (in meeting city-type expectations, for instance), you’ll heroically manage expectations like a true islander – you’re on island time, after all.
BLUE SKY COMMUTES
Climate friendly transportation is all the rage on the island, especially for those longer distance outings.
JOURNEYING LIKE AN ISLANDER MEANS GETTING TO YOUR DESTINATION BY THE FOLLOWING MEANS:
- Carpool
- Shuttle
- Local transit
- Human powered forms of transportation (bicycles, kayaks, scooters, skateboards)
Ride freely
We love cyclists! There really isn’t a better way to discover these islands than on your trusted two wheels. But as you saddle up, be aware that the roads here might be different than what you’re used to. A little something to be mindful of as you explore the shores like a true islander.
Get your steps in
Nothing beats an island stroll. But it’s important to know that many areas around here are free of sidewalks. Here’s a few reminders so you can walk the walk like a true islander. And remember, safer always beats sorrier.
- Choose walking routes wisely
- Make yourself big and visible
- Walk on the left side of the road (against traffic)
- Pay attention to cars, tractors, too
Moderate the pace
Remember, you’re on island time. This means that taking it slow and enjoying a leisurely drive will definitely be your speed (your cup of tea, even).
- Touring with an EV is your most viable (and enviro-friendly) option
- Find plenty of charging stations where you can plug in and charge up
Being water-aware is always where it’s at
The ocean is integral to the island experience. There’s nothing more delightful than watching otters play on the shoreline, or, if you’re really lucky, an orca breaching. As islanders, we take our responsibility as ocean stewards very, very seriously. And that’s especially true when we’re out on the water, adhering to nature’s muse and maritime rules.
LOCALIZING THE LIFESTYLE
Behaving like an islander means participating in a culture that supports all-things local. It’s the fashionable and tasty thing to do.
Regionalizing the palate
It’s no secret, islanders love to eat well. And the very food that islanders are passionate about comes from local grocery stores and markets, stocked year-round by local residents. Eating well starts by supporting local – establishments that play a pivotal role in our communities. Eating like a local is about being aware that food serves a much greater purpose than being deliciously plated. Supporting local providers never hurts – nor does having a little cash handy when visiting roadside farm stands.
Restauranting like a resident
The restaurant scene on the islands is thriving, with many of our local chefs at the top of their game. Most of these culinary greats source food that is grown, raised, or caught right here on the island – with ingredients created and picked by local food producers. Thinking like an islander means you’ll be savouring like an islander – while helping sustain the delicious ways of the island.
Creativity. By the island-full
Purchasing a rare gift isn’t all that rare – when you shop like an islander.
Especially given the number of creative souls that call the islands home. With so many artists, makers, and creators shaping the island narrative, it makes strolling through markets, retail stores, and art studios as vibrant and unique as the creativity on display. Enjoy.
BEWARE OF NICE. IT’S CONTAGIOUS!
Nice people make the outdoors nicer. Around here, it’s a bit of a credo, because by and large, islanders are incredibly nice people. So when you think and act like an islander, you’re helping elevate the nice. And we can’t thank you enough for that.
Parks are for the people!
These islands occupy small spaces. That means the way we act can easily affect others. Thinking like an islander means being kind and considerate of those around us and doing what we can to make sure everyone has a good time.
THAT MAY MEAN:
- Turning down your music
- Keeping your pet on a leash
- Picking up your garbage (or even someone else’s)
- Covering up your birthday suit (when necessary)
Keep it wild
Island beliefs suggest that islanders treat all neighbours with consideration and respect. This includes the non-human species (from trees to animals) with whom we share space. The best way to learn about wildlife and to behave like an islander is through quiet observation. This is especially true in critical habitats like shorelines, wetlands, and intertidal areas. When in doubt, shhhh is your best bet.
Let nature take its course
We think these islands are perfect as is. That’s why islanders (and honorary islanders like yourself) always take care not to disturb natural and cultural objects – but rather, to enjoy them and leave them as they are. That way, others can enjoy them after us, too.
Being islander-like means having the know-how to abstain from:
- Making dens
- Digging trenches
- Foraging through an owner’s garden
- Hunting or fishing without your legal papers
We salute you for being an islander at heart – and for helping to build an ecosystem where both nature and people can thrive and flourish.
Know before you go
They say knowledge is power. We say knowledge also goes a long way into making your island stay the most powerful experience it can possibly be – not only for you, but for the island itself. We love that you’re visiting this special place, and to reflect this, we’ve created a bit of a cheat sheet to make your vacation the most memorable and sustainable ever. Enjoy!
