Hey, it’s nice to meet you! I’m Sam, the all-around hat-wearer here at Explore the Map.
I’m based in Kelowna and love discovering cool hidden gems, scouting fun hikes, and sharing awesome getaways in the Okanagan and beyond. Having grown up in the Okanagan, I’ve learned a thing or two about the area.
I absolutely love sharing adventures and empowering you to get out and explore. Whether you’re brand new to outdoors and travel or have been exploring your entire life, you’re welcome here.
I’m proud to have worked as an #ExploreKelowna Creator with Tourism Kelowna in 2024/25 and have collaborated with other awesome tourism boards like Destination BC, Shuswap Tourism, Kamloops Tourism, and more.
My content isn’t just about pretty places (although there’s a lot of that!), it’s about giving you the tools, tips, and inspiration to plan your own unforgettable adventures.
So stick around—whether you’re looking for the best hiking trails, road trip itineraries, or the coziest cabins, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get out there and explore the map together!
Why I Love Exploring Locally in the Okanagan & BC
I’ve been lucky enough to see some really amazing places, but there’s something special about exploring locally that just hits differently. You don’t have to go far to find adventure—sometimes the best spots are right in your own backyard.
As much as I love traveling internationally, let’s be real—most of us can’t just hop on a plane whenever we feel like it. That’s why I’m here to help you appreciate what’s right here in the Okanagan and BC. People from all over the world come here for vacation, so why not take the time to really soak in what we’ve got? There’s so much beauty in our own backyard and it’s time we truly appreciate it!
Whether it’s discovering a cool hiking trail, finding a quiet lakeside spot, or stumbling upon a charming little café in town, local travel opens your eyes to the beauty that’s often overlooked in our day-to-day lives. It’s a chance to slow down, appreciate what’s around you, and explore with fresh eyes.
Plus, local adventures are easier to plan, often more budget-friendly, and a great way to support your community! What’s not to love about that?
Where I’ve Traveled
That said, I do love to travel internationally whenever I get the chance and I’m always excited to share those experiences with you! Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to explore some amazing places like Ireland, England, Spain, Greece, Italy, and France. Each destination is so unique and getting to experience new cultures and landscapes is always so fun.
Even though I spend most of my time adventuring locally, international trips help me see things from a different perspective and give me new ideas that I bring back home.
So, while I’m all about local travel, you’ll occasionally see some international stories pop up to inspire your next big adventure!