Spruce Lake Backpackers Lodge

Spruce Lake Backpackers Lodge, outside of Gold Bridge BC in the Chilcotin Mountains.

"Accessible by foot, bike, horse back or float plane, Spruce Lake Park Backpackers Lodge is set in the beautiful Chilcotin Mountains. "Chilcotin" is a Native American name meaning "People of the Blue Water" and during your stay, you can explore the glacier fed lakes and streams as the First Nations, early explorers, pioneers and gold miners did.

Based from a historic lodge cabin or a walk-about tent cabin, you can take fully guided or self-guided tours and watch for bears, eagles, mountain goats, or fish, boat or canoe, see 50 million year-old fossils or admire a spectacular array of wild flowers.

Chilcotin Holidays is able to provide guides for horse back trips, arrange boat, canoe or fishing gear rentals as well as meals at Spruce Lake Park Backpackers Lodge. For more information, you can call 250-238-2274 or email adventures@chilcotinholidays.com."

Hostel of the Week December 6th to 13th 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Ocean Island Backpacker's Inn and Suites, Victoria BC

Ocean Island Backpackers, downtown, Victoria BC

"Ocean Island Backpacker's Inn and Suites is close to Chinatown, clubs, theatres, museums, restaurants, the inner harbour and so much more! We have lots of affordable daily, weekly and monthly accommodations in all shapes and sizes to suit any budget, from 6 bed dorms and mini-private rooms to spacious hotel-style rooms with private bathrooms. Nightly prices range from $19 - $28 for dorm rooms; $28 - $85 for private room.

Our inhouse licensed Cafe Lounge is open daily serving Thai and Indian curries, as well as burgers, paninis and fresh salads at ridiculously cheap prices. We also offer free wireless and cheap internet access, 24 hour staffing, large communal kitchen and dining area, parking and bike and bag storage.

Recently our 1891 heritage building has undergone a facelift and we're in the process of upgrading our communal kitchen and bathrooms making us fresher and better than ever! If you're in Victoria be sure to check us out!"

Hostel of the Week, November 30th to December 6th 2009
Submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Caribou Hostel, Golden BC

Caribou Hostel, Golden BC

Caribou Hostel is a family-run business in the Blaeberry Valley, 13 km NW of Golden. The six-bed hostel has a full kitchen, dining area, lounge area, bathroom, dorm room, and a barbeque on the patio. The private apartment has of a full kitchen, living room with futon, bathroom, bedroom with queen-sized bed, and a private balcony with barbeque. The hostel and private apartment are ideal for exclusive group or family rentals. The Moberly Pub, a favourite among locals and travellers, is just a four-minute walk through the backyard. Caribou Hostel provides a friendly and relaxed retreat in a quiet mountain setting.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, located 13 km from the town of Golden, is a 25-minute drive from the hostel, and Roger’s Pass is a 45-minute drive. Golden is centrally located with easy access to Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, Jasper, and Glacier National Parks.

Hostel of the Week, November 24th to November 29th 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Angus Adventures: Learning Through Exploration!

Angus Adventures: Learning Through Exploration!

All adventures and backpackers will have an interest in this couple. Julie and Colin Angus are bold adventures, having explored and documented their travels in waterways and on land all over the world including Canada. They are presently preparing for presentations in Ottawa, Waterloo, Toronto, and Kingston. They have authored several books including the recent, "Rowed Trip: from Scotland to Syria By Oar", have produced films, have a great blog, website, and Facebook page, and do motivational public-speaking presentation among other things. They are raved about by fellow bloggers and reputable news programs alike and with good reason. Check out the links and you'll understand why.

Colin completed the first human-powered circumnavigation of the planet (43,000 km, 720 days) in 2006. Before that he led the first descent of the Yenisey River and of one of the first of the Amazon River. He is the author of four books and has produced documentaries on many of his journeys. Outside magazine named him one of the top 25 bold visionaries with world changing dreams and National Geographic Adventure awarded him Adventurer of the Year in 2007.

Julie is the first and only woman to row across the Atlantic Ocean from mainland to mainland - 10,000 km in 5 months. She has authored two books, produced two documentaries, and written for an array of magazines and newspapers. Julie has a graduate degree in molecular biology and spent five years developing treatments for medical disorders before fully focusing on adventure and exploration. She received the National Geographic Adventurer of the Year award alongside Colin and the McMaster ARCH award.

You won't regret checking them out.

Feature of the week, November 16th to 22nd, 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

The Powder Highway Ultimate Ski Bum Blow Your Mind Contest

The Powder Highway Ultimate Ski Bum Blow Your Mind Contest!

Ski Bums and nonskiers alike will find this video HILARIOUS!!!! Its worth taking three minutes and thirty eight seconds to watch if you love a well-done video and a good laugh. If you are a Ski Bum, you will definitely consider entering the contest.

About the contest (as found in www.powderhighway.com):

"One lucky Ski Bum will win a 3 Month Journey along the Powder Highway [a large area of mountainous British Columbia with a great many ski areas and ski operations including Alpine Ski Resorts, Backcountry Skiing, Heli-Skiing, Nordic Skiing, and Snow-cat Skiing areas]. The winner will also get Free Lift Tickets at all of the Resorts, 15 days of Heli and Cat Skiing, Accommodation and Transportation provided. This place has long been a haven for Ski Bums from around the world. We're sharing that adventure through the experiences of one person - the Ultimate Ski Bum. No agenda, no job, just snow, mountains and a road that links it all together.

Create your own entry video (90 seconds max) that explains why you should be chosen to be the Ultimate Ski Bum. Entry submission details are below. Entries MUST have a YouTube link to your Video Entry to be eligible."

Check out the video for more details and a good laugh.

Feature of the Week November 10th to 15th 2009
Submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Fernie Job Fair 2009

Fernie Job Expo 2009

Fernie BC is the home to The Raging Elk Adventure Lodge, organizers of the Fernie Job Expo event.

The Fernie Job Expo will be held on November 12th from 10am to 3pm, across from the Raging Elk at the Fernie Community Centre, for all job seekers.

Contact the Raging Elk for more information at 1-(250)-423-6811 or email bookings@ragingelk.com. There are seasonal jobs available in many fields including hospitality, tourism, retail, industrial and construction.

Start earning money before the snow flies!!

submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada
www.backpackers.ca

iBackpackCanada blog

iBackpackCanada: A Backpackers Travel Guide

Corbin, the author of the blog, iBackpackCanada.com, is a 20-something guy from the 'flatlands of Canada' (Saskatchewan). Corbin's family has a huge farm just North of Regina, which has cattle, a few horses, and thousands of acres of land.

After finishing high school, Corbin planned to take a year off before diving into university, which he refers to as "The Best Trap Ever". Corbin sold his Ford Ranger truck, most of his possessions, and took off for a year of Round the World Travel. Of course, he loved every minute of it, and upon arrival back home, he realized he couldn’t stop.

When Corbin got back from his travels abroad however, and after travelling around Canada for a couple of months, it occurred to him how little info there is regarding Canada for backpackers. Corbin agrees with us that the infrastructure for budget travel in Canada is there--Corbin decided however that for some reason people either have been keeping this a secret or are just too cold to bother telling people about it.

Corbin has decided to reveal these secrets of budget travel in Canada in his blog, iBackpackCanada.com.

Enjoy his blog, and if you like, email him at webmaster@ibackpackcanada.com

Feature of the Week October 29th to November 1st 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

GO Backpackers, Edmonton Alberta

GO Backpackers, Edmonton Alberta

GO Backpackers has gone through a lot of recent changes. The hostel has a full kitchen with a cozy dining room as well as many different common areas which include a TV room and a library/games room that you can kick back and relax in!

There are internet terminals available in the lobby and free WIFI is also available in the common areas. Coin operated laundry is up and running, though the hostel provides all bedding and towels, so there is no need to bring your own. There is also hair dryers in all of the female dorms and private rooms.

The Jekyll and Hyde pub downstairs is a good way to start off an evening of fun! Every Friday, the owners get up on stage and play live music, which is a real treat. Come by and check it out!

GO Backpackers is in the heart of downtown and within walking distance of the Legislature, the Edmonton Art Gallery, City Hall, the Royal Alberta Museum and the Shaw Conference Centre as well as a variety of restaurants. Additionally, the hostel is conveniently located near the LRT (lower rail transit) which gives quick access to places such as the Commonwealth Stadium, Rexall Place and the University of Alberta.

"Come by and stay awhile at GO Backpackers! Looking forward to hosting you!"

Hostel of the Week, October 12th to 18th 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

The Hostel Chef blog

The Hostel Chef blog

Noah Witenoff (a.k.a The Hostel Chef) is a 31 year old food stylist, living in Montreal, Canada. He became interested in food after travelling around Australia. It was in youth hostels that his passion for fast delicious food was ignited and since then, his life has been all about food. This blog is designed to be a guide for backpackers staying in hostels around the world and can also be useful for people interested in fast easy recipes at home. Each entry starts with a blurb from his actual journal from 9 years ago and links to useful tips and recipes.

Hope you enjoy!

Feature of the Week, October 6th to 11th, 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

The Black Rooster Roadhouse and Hostel

The Black Rooster Roadhouse and Hostel

"Black Rooster Roadhouse is a traveler's paradise: comfortable lodging at an affordable price.

We are minutes walk from downtown, college, hospital, golf and swimming. Our high standard accommodation and uniquely designed building is sure to please.

Besides dorm beds at $25.00 per night, we also host hotel style rooms, family rooms, and furnished apartments.

All guests have access to free Wi-Fi and computer access, in-room phones and TV, availability to kitchen including complementary coffee and tea, and access to the ping-pong table, patio and BBQ. We are a smoke-free building.

Come stay with us!"

Hostel of the Week Sept. 28th to Oct. 4th, 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Backpackers Hostels Canada Photos Page

Backpackers Hostels Canada photos page

Check out our photos page for a great sense of the variety of hostels in Canada through photos. We are continually building on the photos page so check back again in the future. Each week we add a new hostel montage to the list from another Canadian hostel!

submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Beez Kneez Bakpakers, Whitehorse Yukon

Beez Kneez Bakpakers

"Beez Kneez is an affordable and relaxed hostelling experience. We offer much comfort and lots of laughs. Don't bee surprised if you stay a few extra days ... and make some lifelong friends!

We are close to shopping, all the great Whitehorse attractions, adventures and night life. Rates for dorm beds are $30.00 + GST. We also have private rooms available at great prices as well.

Visit us in Whitehorse. Come as a Stranger. Stay as a friend!"

Hostel of the Week, September 14th to 20th, 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Don Gould's Polar Bear B and B

Don Gould's Polar Bear B and B

"Welcome to our quiet, clean and non smoking accommodation. We invite independent travelers, backpackers, families, and travel groups. Explore beautiful Churchill on our free to use bicycles! We also provide free Wireless Internet access.

We are looking forward to meeting a lot of people from all over the world!"

Hostel of the Week September 8th to 13th 2009
Submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Mo's at Five Islands, Nova Scotia

Mo's at Five Islands

"A hostel, art gallery, used bookstore, community center and a café with a wood-fired pizza oven, Mo's is a place with an identity issue.

Mo’s is set in the small rural community of Five Islands on the shore of the Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia. The Bay of Fundy is home of the highest tides in the world, rising up to 50 feet in some areas The area is calmly beautiful and offers hiking trails, waterfalls, crystals, fossils, rare stones, blueberry fields and abundant wildlife. Check out www.notsincemoses.com and www.fiveislandsretreat.com for information and pictures of the islands.

Mo’s is a historic general store refurbished now a place for the community to gather. Mo’s will host live music, art openings, open mics, yoga, softball games, workshops and discussion groups.

Five Islands Provincial Park is just down the road from Mo’s. The park has hiking trails and beautiful scenery overlooking the Five Islands. Sunsets are stunning. Ask about hiking the beach at low tide. Nearby Parrsboro offers local theatre, paragliding lessons, tai chi, a geology museum, music, sea kayaking in Advocate harbour and more.

Driving from Truro you must make a stop at the Masstown market to stock up on supplies.

We look forward to meeting you!"

Hostel of the Week, August 30th to September 5th 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Ocean Island Backpackers, Victoria BC

Ocean Island Backpackers

Ocean Island is located in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia and provides a wide variety of accommodation to travelers with a variety of needs and budgets at our two heritage properties. Our Backpackers Inn (built in 1893) is located in the downtown core and offers everything from budget dorm rooms and mini-private rooms to hotel-style rooms. Our second location, Ocean Island Suites (built in 1907) in quiet nearby James Bay offers deluxe apartment suites and vacation rentals. Both properties are within walking distance to restaurants, Chinatown, clubs, theaters, museums and the inner harbour.

Our colourful historic buildings are clean, comfortable, secure and offer modern facilities including a licensed cafe & lounge/live music venue, extensive free/cheap internet and tech services, modern fully equipped kitchen, comfortable lounge and dining rooms, inexpensive laundry facilities, parking and secure bike and baggage storage. We also offer sign up for Day Trips to beautiful nature spots and great travel info on our website and from our 24 hour Front Desk staff.

For Reservations call 1-888-888-4180 or book online.

Hostel of the week, August 25th to August 31st
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Auberge L'Apero, Montreal

Auberge L'Apero, Montreal

"Welcome to Auberge L'Apéro, a European-style hostel in North America's most European city, Montreal. Apéro is the French word for aperitif - the beginning of a great meal or in this case - a great vacation.

With only 12 beds, we offer a cozy, personalized atmosphere on two floors of an old 1880s graystone with all the amenities you expect from a hostel, and many that you don't. The rooms are bright with hardwood floors and some interior brick walls that add an air of coziness to the Auberge.

Auberge L'Apéro is not just a regular hostel that happens to be in Montreal, L'Apéro is like Montreal. It reflects the city's vibrant social life and European style. Don't just visit the city, be part of it at Auberge L'Apéro."

Hostel of the Week, August 18th to August 24th, 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Beez Kneez Bakpakers, Whitehorse Yukon

Beez Kneez Bakpakers in beautiful downtown Whitehorse, Yukon!

"Beez Kneez is an affordable and relaxed hostelling experience. We offer much comfort and lots of laughs. Don't bee surprised if you stay a few extra days ... and make some lifelong friends!

We are close to shopping, all the great Whitehorse attractions, adventures and night life. Rates for dorm beds are $30.00 + GST. We also have private rooms available at great prices as well.

Visit us in Whitehorse. Come as a Stranger. Stay as a friend!"

Hostel of the Week, August 11th to 17th 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Alexandrie Montreal

Alexandrie Montreal

"Located in the heart of the city, within walking distance to most tourist attractions. Experience the Plateau, Old Montreal, the Latin Quarter, Chinatown, the Gay Village and more...

The hip restaurants, bars and shops are within walking distance. We're also near the bus station... save on bus pass or taxi! Several grocery stores/markets are in our area. All the amenities are around us.

The friendly staff here know the city very well and will ensure that you get the most of montreal without breaking the bank! and see things that might not be in any guide books!

There's no hidden costs or membership pass so don't worry. Prices include taxes, continental breakfast, bedding, local phone, wireless internet and laundry!

By the way, events like our Saturday dinner, are great ways to meet other travellers."

Hostel of the Week August 2nd to August 9th, 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

The city of Thunder Bay, Ontario

The city of Thunder Bay, at the head of Lake Superior, Northwestern Ontario!

Thunder Bay and its surrounding areas offer something for everyone. For the rural explorer; a wide range of parks, conservation areas, trails and green spaces within the city limits and short distances away. For the urban enthusiast; the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, Magnus Theatre, OLG Casino and Art Galleries.

Plan an evening at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium to hear the sounds of the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra. Stop by Magnus Theatre, the only professional theatre company in Northwestern Ontario and delight in the skilled acting, writing and direction of the region’s best. Enjoy a first class gaming experience at OLG Casino conveniently located in the heart of the City - play roulette, blackjack, hold em’ poker and slots. Take in one of the many eclectic exhibitions at one of three art galleries. Delve into the contemporary work of First Nations artists with a visit to the Thunder Bay Art Gallery. Observe cutting edge installations, paintings and films at Definitely Superior Artist-Run Centre + Gallery. Tour the Lakehead Visual Art Gallery for a glimpse of original works in a variety of mediums created by regional artists. Get active or relax - just be sure to take some time to appreciate the clean air, culture and stunning environment.

The four hostel locations in Thunder Bay--Sibley Hall Residence Hostel and Conference Centre, Lakehead University Residence and Conference Centre, Sleeping Giant Guesthouse, and Thunder Bay International Hostel--are proud to have the beautiful city of Thunder Bay as a sponsor of Backpackers Hostels Canada. Come spend a few days exploring the scenery of Thunder Bay and you'll never forget it!

To plan an unforgettable vacation, visit www.visitthunderbay.com.

Feature of the Week, July 20th to July 27th 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Go Hostel, Edmonton Alberta

Go Hostel, Edmonton Alberta

Go Hostel has persevered and has finally re-opened its doors in Edmonton Alberta in a new location. The hostel can now be found on 10209 - 100th Avenue. The people at Go Hostel are pleased to welcome you to the beautiful city of Edmonton.

Dorm rooms are available with beds between $25.00 and $28.00 per night + tax. Private rooms are also available (single, double or queen) for between $70.00 and $80.00 per night.

Large group bookings are also welcome.

"Join Go Hostel Facebook Group"

Hostel of the week, July 6th 2009 to July 12th 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Pioneer Hostel, Prince Rupert BC

Pioneer Hostel, Prince Rupert BC

Ever dreamed of having your own hostel? Now you can have a turnkey business operating in the beautiful north-coastal rainforest of BC!

The Pioneer Hostel is located in Prince Rupert, a small town with a brand new container port shipping directly to/from China. This town is poised for an influx of new ventures and has explosive real estate potential. As the main Gateway to the magical Queen Charlotte Islands, and Alaska, Prince Rupert receives thousands of travelers making their way north, west, south and east via 3 main ferry systems, and the VIA Rail experience.

Check out our 'For Sale' page for more information.

Hostel of the week, March 23rd to March 30, 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Pacific Spirit Hostel at UBC, Vancouver

Pacific Spirit Hostel at UBC, Vancouver

Available May 15 to August 15, Pacific Spirit Hostel at the University of British Columbia is the best budget accommodation for travelers in Vancouver.A Located at the beautiful UBC campus on Vancouver's west side, surrounded by parks and beaches, the Pacific Spirit Hostel offers opportunities for hiking, cycling and other outdoor activities.

The Pacific Spirit Hostel at UBC offers a unique setting, with easy access to campus amenities, affordable pubs and restaurants, recreational facilities and many attractions such as the Museum of Anthropology, UBC Botanical Gardens, University Golf Club and the UBC Aquatic Centre.

All guest rooms are private singles or twins. They are quiet and clean. Floor lounges are available for our in-house guests to unwind and relax; they are equipped with TVs, microwaves, sinks, fridges and sofas. High speed Internet, laundry facilities and parking are available on site. UBC is easily accessible by public transit. A We have the second largest bus network after downtown Vancouver, offering 17 different bus routes connecting our community and guests to virtually anywhere in the Lower Mainland.

Our private single rooms start at $33 (bed linen included). Reserve your room at Pacific Spirit Hostel online.

Hostel of the week, June 15th to 21st 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Spruce Lake Backpackers Lodge

Spruce Lake Backpackers Lodge

"There is no better way to experience the 5 Star Wilderness of the South Chilcotin Mountains. In the remote wilderness of the South Chilcotin Mountains, tucked away in the southwest corner of British Columbia. Stars sprinkle the vast night sky as far as the eye can see and towering mountain ranges and the surrounding scenery are never ending. Travel ancient game trails, hear the rush of glacial fed rivers, and see a spectacular array of colour across miles of wild flowering meadows. Experience it for yourself!

While our Ranch is easily reached by vehicle, access to the pristine wilderness of our guide territory is by foot, horse or float plane only. Its remoteness helps preserve the outstanding quality of wilderness. Unlike the granite Coast Ranges to the south, our Chilcotin Mountains have rounded tops and broad U-shaped valleys. The glaciated shale terrain makes summitting challenging yet obtainable, no matter what your method of travel."

Hostel of the Week, June 1st to June 7th, 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

2009 Backpacker Hostels Canada maps!

Backpacker Hostels Canada maps!

We've finally got our 2009 maps out thanks to a number of sponsors. The maps are a nice way of locating hostels and their contact information on a nice and shiny yet light-weight paper.

The maps will be found at every hostel in the BHC network while supplies last, especially the map of Canada, listing all BHC hostels in Canada, as the other (regional) maps will be printed in fewer quantity. The 2009 BHC maps include the Map of Canada, and maps of Western Canada, Central Canada, and Eastern Canada (shown below).

Incidentally, the 2009 hostel booklet is also out of publishing. Besides listing all of the hostels in Canada, and their contact information, the booklet contains discount coupons offering two dollars off of one night's stay at over 90 participating hostels. The hostels participating are denoted in the booklet by a little polar bear beside the booklet listing. There is also a space provided beside each listing so that you can get your booklet rubber-stamped at each hostel you stay at.

Feature of the week, May 26th to June 1st 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada