I’m High! (Vol. 2) — Victoria Vibes & Side Quests
For Volume 2, we’re switching it up and heading across the water for a proper Victoria wander day.
Yes, the land of stoic brick buildings, student energy, flower baskets, and a surprisingly chaotic amount of cool shit tucked into random corners.
As always, friends floated in and out throughout the day to keep the vibes light and spontaneous. Let’s roll. 🌿
Starting Strong on Dallas Road
Kicked things off right with some fresh ocean air and clear-headed thinking perched above the cliffs on Dallas Road.
It was the perfect place to let the mind wander and catch that early morning clarity. I watched joggers, dogs, and sailboats, allowing the natural soundtrack ease me in. It felt good.
Good start.
Fuel Up — The Ruby
Next: brunch, obviously. The Ruby on Johnson is a No-frills local fave. I grabbed the Salmon Benny and Skinny Hash. There was guaranteed not enough room for a second breakfast after that!
At the booth, the classics playing in the background a little too loud, it felt like the 90s would’ve been like, and just taking it all in—everything felt a little clearer. It was the kind of brunch where every bite tastes a bit better.
Thrift & Taste Mission — Vintage after Death + Ghost Ramen
From there, I drifted into Vintage after Death. (@vintageafterdeath) This spot is a treasure trove of vintage and retro gems. I tried on band tees and debated deeply whether they were actually cool or just cool to me right now.
Verdict? Definitely (with or without the moment). And I did not regret it after, they are so soft and comfortable.
Across the street, Ghost Ramen called. Cozy, tiny, and a total flavour bomb. Pork belly, soft egg, spicy broth — it was exactly what was needed. The kind of meal where you sit back after and just… sigh. Perfect.
Recharge at Beacon Hill Park
Time for a bit of nature hit. Beacon Hill Park never disappoints. Found a shady spot near the bandshell for a classic safety meeting (read: a mental reset and vibe check).
Peacocks wandered around like local celebs, squirrels did their thing, and I zoned out in the grass in the best possible way. It was beautiful! The trees, the flowers, the water features—I even met a few turtles.
Games & Sweets — Quazar’s Arcade + The Alley Bubble Tea
Post-park energy was calling for something lively. Enter Quazar’s Arcade — neon everywhere, retro classics, and zero pressure to actually be good at anything.
Smashed buttons, missed every shot, had an excellent time anyway.
Balanced the chaos with a stop at The Alley for bubble tea. Brown sugar deerioca — smooth, sweet, perfect. Sometimes it’s the small luxuries that tie the day together.
Final Stop — Fiamo Pizza & Wine
To close it out, tucked into Fiamo for obvious reasons. Late-night food, good music, and atmosphere are never dead; a perfect way to end the night. A bowl of crispy Brussels sprouts and a couple slices of za, and just let the whole day marinate. Kind of like the Brussels sprouts, which I’ll pay for tomorrow.. iykyk
The entourage effect of the day’s adventures—vintage scores, park hangs, ocean views—felt very alive and well.
The Wrap Up
Victoria is extremely recommended for wandering with no agenda. It’s chill but sneaky fun. You can stay laid back or chase little luxuries; somehow, it all meshes.
The day could’ve gone a dozen ways — shoutout to Fernwood, Cook Street, and Phillips Brewing for next time — but this version felt right.
