Backyard Bog Blog

For travellers docking in the historic town of Loreto, Baja California Sur, the call of the desert is loud. But if you’re looking for something more heart-pounding than a casual stroll, the trek through Tabor Canyon (Cañón Tabor) is a must. We recently tackled this canyon on December 16, 2025, as a shore excursion from Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam. If you are a cruise passenger looking for a self-guided or guided "off-the-beaten-path" adventure, here is everything you need to know about this rugged Baja gem. The Terrain: Arid Beauty & Hidden Oases The landscape of Tabor Canyon is a striking contrast of colors. Imagine towering purplish and orange boulders stacked against a backdrop of arid grasses, wildflowers and crawling wild fig trees. As you climb higher, the canyon reveals its secrets: hidden pools of water tucked between the rocks, offering a cool reflection of the Baja sun. It is breathtakingly beautiful, but don't let the scenery distract you—this trail d...

Local’s Guide: Exploring the Heart of Mt. Tolmie in Victoria, BC Welcome to the neighborhood! Whether you are here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, our three adjacent vacation rentals in the Welch Homes and Hospitality Horner Park portfolio are in the Mt. Tolmie area of Saanich East and put you exactly where you want to be. Whether you’re staying at our Mid-Century Modern Apartment or the Family Oasis, here is everything you need to know about our properties and our favourite corner of the world. Couple's Oasis @ Horner Park : Perfect for guests seeking a spacious, stylish homebase while exploring Victoria. Sleeps 5. Family Oasis @ Horner Park : Resort amenities for groups wishing to spread out and reconnect during a summer getaway. Sleeps 12. Family Cottage @ Horner Park: Charming, bungalow ideal for families. Sleeps 8. Garden Cottage & Bunkie : Offers a unique, cozy experience of indoor and outdoor living amongst a large vegetable garden with chickens. Sleeps 4. M...

At Welch Homes and Hospitality , we believe that the line between a "vacation rental" and a "home" should be invisible. Since we began our hosting journey in 2014, our philosophy has remained the same: great hospitality is an extension of how you live your own life. Whether we are preparing the Family Cottage for a new arrival or refreshing our own living room at Family Oasis , the goal is to create a sanctuary that feels both curated and deeply personal. Here are our "not-so-secret" ingredients for crafting warm, inviting spaces—whether you’re hosting the world or simply coming home to yourself. The Soul of the Space: High-Low & Global-Local We don’t believe in "showroom" decorating. To us, a room only has a soul when it tells a story. Our signature style is a blend of Canadian craftsmanship and global discovery. Reused & Vintage: We love the character of upcycled furniture and vintage finds sourced right here in Canada. A weathered ...

In December 2025, I cruised from San Diego, CA down the Mexican Riviera and the Sea of Cortez . This 12 day itinerary featured Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo , Mazatlán , Loreto , Pichilingue (La Paz) and Cabo San Lucas as the ports of call. I was looking to do self-guided activities that offered adventure, value and a break from the typical cruise shore excursions. To prepare for the first port of call, Puerto Vallarta, I read some travel blogs and talked to friends who have traveled to Puerto Vallarta, before trying the hike between Boca de Tomatlan and Playa Las Ánimas . This hike was attractive for its scenic offerings of jungle and coastal views full of fishing boats and pelicans. Overall, the duration of the hike, beaches along the way and access by public transportation made this option attractive for my time frame. My partner and I disembarked at the Puerto Vallarta Cruise Port at 8:30am with an all aboard time to be back on the ship at 4:30pm. Our plan was to take the public...

Escape the Cold! Your Fully Furnished Retreat Awaits in Mild Victoria, BC Tired of shoveling snow, bundling up for months on end, and don't feel like traveling to the United States this winter? Imagine trading your winter woes for the mild, enchanting charm of Victoria, British Columbia. Known for its stunning coastal views, year-round green gardens, and vibrant cultural scene, Victoria offers the perfect escape for the savvy "snowbird." We have three ideal home bases to choose from for your extended stay: our bright  Mid-Century Modern Apartment @ Horner Park , the cozy Garden Cottage @ Horner Park , or the serene Couple's Oasis @ Horner Park . Watch our video for a snowbird's eye view of our properties. Our three available adjacent properties are nestled in a peaceful, residential neighborhood in the municipality of Saanich. You'll be within easy walking distance of Shelbourne Plaza ( Fairway Market , BC Liquor Store , Heart Pharmacy , Cobs Bread ,  Bulk Bar...