In Canada now for 3 and a half weeks, managed to ski (first time in 24 years), and surf within the space of 2 weeks!
Skiing was great, spring skiing on Blackcomb mountain (next to Whistler, which was closed), a little icy in the morning, a ittle slushy in the afternoon, but fun nonetheless! Got the bug again, bought a pair of ski boots, hope to go back next winter.
Surfed in Tofino, Canada's primo surf destination. Surf wasn't great this time of year: small, a little onshore, all beach breaks with so-so banks, and frigid water
11 degrees. But pleasantly surprised that felt pretty toasty kitted up with 5/4 steamer, 5 mm booties, hood and gloves. So much so that went out on the 2nd day without hood or gloves.......................big mistake. Instant ice-cream headache when I got caught inside & had to duck under a few. Hood went back on the next day.
Didn't see any orcas but an old-timer told me that he used to surf in the 60's with orcas in the water frequently, and they were curious but never harmed any of the surfers. He said they used to go out in boardies with footy jumpers!! That's hard-core! Another local told me that they get great waves in winter, & that it "wasn't that cold". Water temp only differs by a few degrees, but snow on the beach, 2-3 degrees apparently you can surf in the morning & go for a ski/snowboard in the afternoon on Vancouver Island, might try it next time

Saw bears too, from the safety of a boat. Everyone told us "they're harmless", but 2 guys have been attacked by bears since we've been here! Google "man attacked in outhouse by bear"; pretty funny, although it wouldn't have been at the time for the poor guy who sustained scratches & was scared "**less"!!

Highly recommend Canada, it's our first trip, paddle-surfing above the 49th parallel was a huge buzz




Kitted up with more rubber than the Michelin Man! Owner of place where we were staying lent me his 12' Hobie. What a beast! Tides are incredible there, had to walk a coupla hundred metres at low tide to get to the water. Frickin' Hobie was so heavy had to stop 3 times & just about dislocated my shoulder!!!
Borrowed a Whopper for last couple of days. got a few fun waves, but no photos, too cold for her to stand on the shore taking photos














Bear butt.

Bears cruise along the rocky shore at low tide, flip the boulders over, & find themselves a nice little feast of fresh crab. This bloke, who was staring at us with his beady eyes (gulp), has a crab between his paws.