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SPONSORED REPORT Created by the Canada Wide Media advertising department in partnership with NANAIMO HOSPITALITY ASSOCIATION It All Starts in Nanaimo W ith so much to see and do in and around Nanaimo, an Island staycation can take the stress out of trip planning and help save some money on long- distance travel expenses. Read on for some great ideas on how to have the ultimate getaway in Nanaimo. Plenty of flavour You can't visit Nanaimo without indulging in its world-famous sweet treat. Follow the Nanaimo Bar Trail to any combination of over 35 varieties. Choose from classic, specialty, vegan, ice-cream and even cotton candy Nanaimo bar renditions! Suppose you want a satisfying meal to level out the sugar high, Nanaimo offers plenty of fantastic restaurant options. Take a charming foot ferry to The Dinghy Dock Pub (open Friday to Sunday) and admire striking views of Mount Benson while you dine. For beer enthusiasts, Nanaimo boasts plenty of craft beverages to quench your thirst. The ins on the best of the outdoors There's an incredible selection of outdoor wonders to explore in the Nanaimo region. Some local favourites include the tidal lagoon at Pipers Park, sandstone rock formations at Malaspina Galleries, and hiking to Ammonite Falls. Another option to experience nature is to go on a whale-watching tour. Passengers often witness orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life, such as seals and sea lions! The waters around Nanaimo are also excellent for fishing and crabbing. Local guides know where to find the big ones. If kayaking is more your style, the protected waters of the area's lakes and harbours are full of secret coves and inlets to explore. Take a trip on your trip (opening May Long Weekend) Just minutes from downtown Nanaimo's Maffeo Sutton Park and opening May Long weekend, Saysutshun is an excellent idea for your staycation itinerary. Take a short boat ride—a ferry runs seasonally from Maffeo Sutton Park to the island—and enjoy the perfect day trip, or spend the night and camp on a beautiful oceanside site. The island offers walking trails, an interpretive centre, a café, and more! Consider booking a walking tour to learn more about the island's important connections to the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Meaningful gifts galore If you're looking for a souvenir, downtown Nanaimo's Old City Quarter features plenty of quaint and unique shops to find amazing one-of-a-kind gifts in a charming historic setting. For another special shopping experience, consider driving the Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Trail loop. It's a great option to take in beautiful sights while visiting farms and supporting local artists by purchasing their creations. When it comes to the ultimate staycation, Nanaimo offers plenty to experience—all in a beautiful and pristine natural setting. Start planning your Nanaimo getaway at tourismnanaimo.com/StartHere Plan your trip or memorable staycation with great eats, snap-worthy adventures, or some locally inspired retail therapy in beautiful Nanaimo PHOTO: NANAIMO BARS BY JORDAN GEISBRECHT-RS, KAYAKING-IN-HARBOUR BY MIKE ANDERSON @TourismNanaimo @tourismnanaimo #itallstartshere