bucket list: A list of things one hopes to accomplish in one’s lifetime.
Bucket lists are a game of whack-a-mole. Each and every fortunate time you tick off a dream destination or activity, others will inevitably pop up. For one of the greater truths of travel is that the more you explore, the more you want to discover. Certainly, this has been the case in my decade-long quest to over 100 countries on seven continents in search of the world’s most unique experiences, and even more so in my home and adopted land. Born and raised in South Africa, it took me some time before I could appreciate the scale and distinctness of Canada. The culture, the history, the people, the astonishing natural beauty.
My own bucket list was kick-started by an unfortunate bike accident and the resulting broken kneecap. There is nothing like a brush with mortality to remind you it’s time to start living. I received a $20,000 insurance settlement, quit my job, sold my stuff, and went travelling for a year. The blog I created to keep friends and family updated morphed into newspaper and magazine stories, and a globally syndicated television series. With an unexpected enthusiasm for capturing moments in words, video, and photographs, I dedicated myself to going everywhere in an attempt to do … well, just about everything. And no matter how many moles I hammered, my own bucket list never emptied, especially when I turned my attention closer to home.
Inspired by a newspaper column I wrote for Canada Day, the first edition of The Great Canadian Bucket List took me to every province and territory in search of extraordinary experiences that define the nation. Following its publication and success, I continued my journey by returning to each region in all seasons to seek what I’d missed. Even though this new edition contains dozens of new experiences, there’s plenty of room for many more. That’s par for the course in the world’s second largest and most beautiful country.
Spanning nature, adventure, culture, history, and food, the new edition you hold in your hands (or on your device) has been fully revised and updated. Like the first, it is not intended to be a comprehensive guidebook, although it is accompanied by an extensive companion website. I bet my career that when it comes to travel, inspiration is just as vital, if not more so, than information. I appreciate that knowing costs and the best time of year to visit is important, but I asked myself the question: Why would someone want to tick this experience off their bucket list in the first place? That’s what this book is about: capturing the moments, the feelings, the characters, and the contexts that make you want to learn more, read more, or better yet, follow in my footsteps.
I define a bucket list experience as one that ticks off four very subjective criteria:
This weighty tome is testament to Canada’s rich bucket list bounty. From coast to coast to coast, there is inspiration in these pages for everyone, of all ages and all interests. You will meet characters who breathe life into each experience and into the country itself. There will be boats, bikes, cars, trains, and planes, as well as unique wildlife encounters, vibrant festivals, unusual meals and daring (but always safe) thrills to get your maple heart pumping.
During the course of my research, my own bucket list changed dramatically. Shortly after we got married, my Brazilian wife joined me on the legendary train journey from Vancouver to Toronto. Nine months later, our daughter was born, our first-generation Canadian. Three years later, her brother arrived (this time I credit the romance of the B.C. interior). As the children of immigrants, we hope our kids will always appreciate the incredible wonders and opportunities of their home and native land. That they contribute to the bright future of a country that is dynamic, progressive, and welcoming to all. As for what remains on my own bucket list? “Be an inspiring and loving Dad” feels like the most important tick of all.
Devising a nation’s bucket list is an immense responsibility, and one I do not take lightly. Whether you’re in high school or enjoying your empty nest, a couple chasing adventure or a welcome visitor, join me as we explore each magnificent province and territory. Canada isn’t going anywhere, but each passing year reminds us that we most certainly are.
Robin Esrock
robin@robinesrock.com