© the other press ¢ Features The Gulf Islands at a Glance Heidi Hoff OP Contributor Off the coast of British Columbia lies a crown of eleven precious jewels known as The Gulf Islands. They are a well-kept secret, still untouched by big business and commercial tourism. It is wrong to exploit them, but everyone raves about their beauty and urges others to come and see. Ferry travel among the Islands is a picturesque journey, and stopping at any one island for a visit is an experience you'll never forget. Here is a quick rundown of what you can see and do at each one: Saltspring Island—This island gets its name from the fourteen saltwater springs found at the north end of the island. It is the most populated of all the Gulf Islands, with just over 9,000 inhabitants. Ganges, the “downtown” of Saltspring, is host to many shops featuring local artists’ works. Unspoiled beaches frame this quiet island and spectacular sunsets end each lazy day. Pender Island—Separated into North Pender and South Pender by a one- lane bridge, this quiet island is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. There are seven parks featuring hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, with Pacific Marine Heritage Park and Beaumont Provincial Park being the most well known. There is also a unique Frisbee-throwing park, world-renowned for its contests. Denman and Hornby Islands—These brother-and-sister islands are in close proximity, connected by a short boat ride. They are home to the high- est number of artists per capita in Canada, with pottery being the most pop- ular art form. If the Gulf Islands are jewels, then Hornby is a diamond with its soft sand beaches and stunning scenery. Galiano Island—One of the most visited of the Gulf Islands, Galiano has the reputation for the best bed and breakfasts and restaurants. If you'd rather camp, Montague Harbour Provincial Park has two campgrounds to choose from. Gabriola Island—Gabriola or “Petroglyph Island” is known for the cen- turies-old Indian stone carvings that are scattered about the island. Golfers will find a 9-hole golf course with scenery unlike anywhere else in the world. Saturna Island—One of the smallest and least populated of the Gulf Islands, Saturna is more suited to a one-day visit. Cycling, kayaking, hiking, and fishing are some of the activities to enjoy there. Mayne Island—With an area of 13 square kilometers, this tiny island boasts some of the best apple orchards around, and is famous for its variety of King apples. Cycling is the best method of transportation; the island’s nine hundred residents make little use of their cars. Quadra and Cortes Islands—With a population comprised mostly of First Nations people, Quadra Island is filled with the history and spirit of its inhabitants. The Kwagiulth Museum and Cultural Centre is worth a stop. As with all the other Gulf Islands, artisans make up much of the population. Oyster farming is one of the main occupations on Cortes Island. Filled with lakes and picturesque sites for camping, this island is varied in its ter- rain and is worth exploring. A good book to pick up before you visit is British Columbia’ Gulf Islands: Afoot and Afloat by Marge Mueller and Ted Mueller. It’s available at Chapters and Amazon . Page 20 e http://www.-otherpress.ca September 10, 2003 Financial Aid Fall 2003 Information Sessions To be held at the New Westminster campus 700 Royal Avenue Wed September 17 5-8pm Room 2804 Wed October 1 5:30-7:30pm Room 1606 Mon October 29 3-5pm Room 2201 Wed November 19 5-8pm Room 2804 Mon December 1 3-5pm Room 1606 Free to all information session participants: A copy of Murray Baker's book The Debt Free Graduate HOW TO SURVIVE COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY WITHOUT GOING BROKE We offer information and options to help college students balance the budgets. Budgeting is spending in a way that gets the things you reall need and want without ruining your finances. You can learn about Financial Aid options ranging from loans to bursaries and scholarships, and all stops in between. Change to Douglas College Smoking Policy In consideration of others, smoking is only permitted outside in the following locations: New Westminster Campus Level O 0600 (away from Systems) Level II West Concourse (Cafeteria) Level 1¥V 10 metres from Theatre Foyer entrance David Lam Campus South East Ramp In accordance with Workers Compensation Board and Douglas College Standards of Conduct, A 10,02.01/02, Douglas College Restricted Smoking Policy A 05.05.01 (under revision). A message from Facilities Services. Is \ Douglas College