An international student never forgets the day they say goodbye to their loved ones, leave their home, and step into a new country. For me, that day was August 28, 2024—a day forever etched in my memory.
Carrying my entire life in two 32 kg suitcases and a 12 kg backpack, I landed in Vancouver early that morning. It was a moment filled with emotion, especially when I called my parents upon arrival. Hearing their voices brought both comfort and a pang of homesickness. My uncle picked me up from the airport, and I spent the day in Chilliwack. My first taste of Canada? Tim Hortons’ Vanilla Coffee and farm-fresh corn—juicy, sweet, and unforgettable.
On the morning of August 29, it was time to say goodbye to my aunt. My uncle was driving me to UNBC, and the journey ahead was more than just a road trip. It was the gateway to a new chapter of my life.
The Drive: A Passage Through BC’s Natural Splendor
The drive from Vancouver to Prince George felt like an odyssey—a serene, soul-stirring passage through the untamed beauty of British Columbia. As we left Vancouver, the hum of the city gave way to the tranquil expanse of open country roads.
The warm glow of sunrise illuminated the journey ahead. Towering trees stretched endlessly toward the sky, their earthy scent of pine and cedar filling the air. Clouds floated lazily above, and every view felt like a new discovery. Tunnels dotted the route, offering fleeting moments of mystery and excitement.
As the hours passed and we ventured further from Vancouver, the road began to wind around hills, revealing glimpses of the Fraser River. Its calm, reflective surface mirrored the untouched blue sky above—a reminder of the timelessness of this land.
Through Small Towns and Sweeping Landscapes
We passed through charming small towns like Hope, Cache Creek, and Kamloops, each with its own unique charm. The landscape shifted constantly, from sweeping valleys adorned with wildflowers to rugged, snow-capped mountains rising majestically in the distance.
The sheer scale of the scenery was awe-inspiring, reminding me of how cinematic everything feels in a new land. The beauty of British Columbia was a constant companion, even as I battled jet lag.
Uncle and I shared stories about Canada and UNBC. He had completed his post-graduation at UNBC and was excited to see me starting my journey there. At 50 Miles, we stopped for Tim Hortons coffee and hashbrowns—because, as I learned, no Canadian road trip is complete without it.
Reflections on the Road
The drive wasn’t just about covering miles; it was an experience of contrasts. The unfamiliar roads, vast nature, and anticipation of what lay ahead created a blend of excitement and introspection. As we got closer to Prince George, the weight of this new beginning grew stronger. I wasn’t just visiting anymore—I was becoming part of this place, ready to embrace the rhythm of a new life.
The sky shifted to hues of orange and pink as we approached Quesnel. Cattle fields and grassy hilltops rolled by, and a peaceful calm settled over me. This journey had already begun to teach me patience and perspective, and I was both eager and nervous to see how the rest of this adventure would unfold.
Arrival in Prince George
After nearly seven hours on the road, I had drifted into a light sleep, only to be woken by my uncle’s voice. “Look outside,” he said. I rubbed my eyes and saw it—Mr. PG, the iconic statue, welcoming us to the city.
Prince George seemed small and unassuming, nestled in the grandeur of British Columbia’s natural beauty. There was a quiet simplicity to the city that felt just right. As I stepped out of the car, I felt a sense of peace.
This small city felt like the perfect place to start a new chapter—a place rooted in nature’s serenity, where I could grow, learn, and make the most of this transformative journey.
Final Thoughts
The drive from Vancouver to Prince George wasn’t just a physical journey; it was a passage into a new life. With every passing kilometer, I felt the mix of hope, nervousness, and excitement that comes with beginning anew. And as I stood in Prince George for the first time, I knew this was where my story would unfold.
