I decided that this year I deserved a new apartment to rent. I have worked very hard in my new career choice, my CGA schooling has been off to a good start and overall things are excellent with no signs of slowing down. I thought maybe this year I would get a kitten to keep me company and find a nice little place closer to down town. Boy was I wrong! After surfing the web on numerous rental sites including Craigslist, Used Victoria and even the Times Colonist's own househunters.ca, I was astonished to see the going rate for apartments and suites. Have I been living in a hole for the last year ... we'll maybe, but that's besides the point ... Since the last time (I searched for a new place to live) I have noticed that the prices are through the roof! When was it ever reasonable to charge 800 - 975 dollars per month for a bachelor pad?? Every place I have viewed that is even close to my budget has the lovely words "cozy, perfect for one person" and by far my favorite "no pets." I am sure that the term 'cozy' means "too small to call it comfortable" and 'perfect for one person' probably means "no storage." Ah so this is what I have to succumb to ... being a single female, single income, no children. I am un-able to purchase a house for obvious reasons (don't even get me started) and I am being filtered through the rental market based on generic terms that fit well in ad space. This is getting increasingly difficult and terribly frustrating. It seems that if you aren't in the unfortunate category of needing housing and aren't in the category of having ridiculous amounts of money (to pay per month on 500 square feet) then you have entered a vicious limbo. An area where we are all fighting over a one bedroom basement suite that may negotiate a cat, may charge extra for parking, and limits the amount of times you can do your laundry. Just when I thought things were looking up ...

—Deanna

Survival: A Traveler’s Guide for Malahat Commuters

Being a frequent participant in the challenge which is the Malahat drive, I have ventured to outline a short guild to help ensure your safe arrival.

A casual traveler may be wise to note the most advantageous times to attempt the stalwart crossing. Mornings, shortly past nine when most folks travelling for work have already arrived at their designated destinations. Afternoon, midway between one and two o’clock, at this time the traveler’s lunch has abated his/her hunger, but has not yet sent them into the after-meal dream state. Unfortunately, you worker bees must brave the onslaught of hurried, harried, fellow drivers, I wish you well.

Upon approaching Goldstream Park, from either side, one must exercise extreme caution, for as in their Misty Mountain counterparts in Mordor, every manner of sly beast and witless creature—cleverly disguised as new drivers, tourists, or looky-loos—are poised to accost you at every turn. Be warned, be wary, and always be prepared to apply the appropriate tactics of avoidance.

Towards the peak of the crossing, where many a weary traveler has been known to pull over, often right across your path, to stretch and gather their wits, do not be tempted to admire the view….those large formations facing water ward may well have been travelers who dared to look.

If you are held up for hours due to another traveler’ misfortune fear not brave commuter.

ALWAYS carry these items in your vehicle. A snack, a warm blanket, a good book, a flashlight (to read by), all necessary medications you may need for a day, a large bottle of water, and toilet tissue.

Although male commuters have the advantage of being equipped for emergency bathroom breaks, however inconvenient, this is sadly not so with female commuters. However, a passable solution is available in the form of a shallow 4”x 6” Tupperware container with a tight fitting cover; you have the blanket for privacy.

May all your journeys be smooth and trouble free, but if that be not the case fellow traveler, you, will be prepared.

—Leanne