This morning we went into Ucluelet and wandered around the harbour. We didn’t realise we were opposite to Port Alberni, where we saw the steam train. We had coffee in the sunshine and talked to a couple from Vancouver.

Next we called in at the tourist information office to buy our day pass for the Pacific Rim Park. Vince was busy chatting when I got in there to the officer and it turns out he is the Indian chief of the whole tribe in this area Ucluelet First Nation, Wilson Jack TYEE HA-WILTH (hereditary chief). There are 2 Chiefs below him but he is the top man. Vince shook his hand and said he was very pleased to meet him. He gave Vince his card and gave us a reduction on our fee. He is a lovely man about 40 years old and reminded us of the Tongans we know. I wish I’d taken his photo.

We then headed to the botanical garden at Tofina. It was a bit outdated but enjoyable. It had labels of trees and plants which were there in the rain forest and the odd artwork and cultural pieces dotted around. We were able to walk on boardwalks around the trees and into the estuary. 

   Further along the peninsula we found a beach on the east side (not the surf side) and watched the sea and surrounding hillside over to an island. It was so peaceful. We stayed there for ages watching the birds,eagles and fish jumping out of the water catching flies. 

 Lastly we called at a long surf beach and I had my first paddle in the Pacific Ocean.  

   The water was warm I thought. We walked for ages along the long beach. Suddenly we heard an eagle and a smaller bird fighting over a treetop perch. Look at the photos we got! I’m very proud of mine. Vince took the eagle as it flew off the tree. 

         Today has been warm and sunny and I’ve really enjoyed it xxxx