Long after we've returned

We've been home for nearly a month now, and I've had some time to ruminate on our trip. It's particulary salient today, as the area between Kelowna and Kamloops where we were is up in flames. We noticed all the dead (pine beetle) trees along the way, and I guess we all know that eventually, these rusty-red forests are going to have to burn.

The one thing I learned about taking a golf trip to multiple courses in an area with a plethora of choices is this: Save one day for the golf course that you didn't know about, didn't choose or under-estimated. We booked five courses for the five days we could play before we left. But over and over again, people told us we should have played Talking Rock. It was close by and we could have done it, if we hadn't already booked our days full. Next time, we'll leave a free day to take in that course that's highly recommended by locals.

And the one thing I learned about the Kelowna area is that it is worthy of a wine trip alone. I can't imagine going up there and not golfing (there are at least five other courses besides Talking Rock that we didn't get to play but looked great), but next time, I'm going to leave a lot more time for wine tasting and vineyard visits.

And finally, I need to emphasize that the Canadians we met on this trip - at the bars, on the courses, at the airports, around town - were among the friendliest group of people I've ever been around. They don't just greet you in a friendly way and scurry about their business. They really love engaging in conversation and helping you get to know their region.

With that, I'll leave Kamloops, BC, behind us for now. If you ever decide to go up there, be sure to tell me how you find it.