Dear editor,
In early July, two friends and I travelled up-island for a short cycling vacation. We spent three days riding between Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, Powell River and Lund. Our trip was fantastic. We enjoyed gorgeous scenery, great restaurants, cafes, breweries and distilleries, interesting local sights and friendly people.
In fact, it was the remarkable courtesy and respect of local drivers that made our trip so enjoyable. In Victoria, we are accustomed to impatient and aggressive drivers. We are used to people actually veering closer to cyclists when passing, it seems in an attempt to frighten or make a statement that people on bikes are not welcome. My friends and I were actually amazed at the difference on the roads of the Comox Valley and Sunshine Coast. We were passed wide, greeted by smiles and even friendly waves. It was astounding and prompted my friend to comment, “I’m getting a sore wrist from waving thanks to all the courteous drivers!”
There are many very good reasons for us to return for another trip, but the safe riding conditions rank very high on the list.
Shawn McKean
Victoria