It’s May long weekend, which means the unofficial start to summer.
At Northern Lights RV Park, there’s been a definite boost to people’s moods as travel season gets underway.
“You can just see it – they’re walking around, the smiles are on their faces, they’re cruising with their dogs, they’re talking to people,” says owner Annette Jalbert. “It’s such an amazing thing to see again. It feels like it’s been a long time.”
And with travel restrictions lifted, this weekend is expected to be the busiest in years.
“Yesterday, three sets of couples were with us – five years they’ve been planning this trip, and of course they got delayed for two years because of COVID,” says Jalbert. “So they’re excited. They’re read to go and we’re ready to take them.”
Down south, the Vancouver International Airport is expecting upwards of 50,000 passengers over the long weekend. BC Ferries is expecting over 300,000.
In the Peace Region, the forecast is showing sun all weekend long, and travelers are ready to hit the road. But if you do, police say remember to be cautious.
“There will be Mounties and municipal police officers throughout the province out all weekend, out all hours of the night trying to stop people, making sure people are driving safe,” says Sgt. Chris Manseau, a spokesperson for the RCMP.
ICBC says on average, 480 British Columbians are injured and three are killed in car accidents over May long weekend. So Mounties urge travellers to slow down, plan ahead, and have a designated driver.
For anyone going camping, they also urge you to make sure all your vehicles, trailers, and boats are well maintained.
“Make sure all your lights are working if you’re going to be driving at night. Make sure your wheels are properly greased up and have proper tires on everything,” says Sgt. Manseau. “Take that extra couple of hours, make sure everything is safe, and then go out and have yourself a great and safe long weekend.”
With files from CTV Vancouver.
