Byline to sunshine: The Runner’s summer suggestions

At long last, the most wonderful time of the year is here.

That sounds like the start of a holiday jingle, but it’s actually about summer.

It’s the perfect season to get outside, visit different spots, and try new foods — and The Runner staff are no different. From beach trips and icy drinks to time with the family, The Runner team’s ideal summer days all look different.

Here are some warm weather-coded recommendations based on how we like to spend our time away from the screens, deadlines, and cameras. The following answers have been summarized for clarity.

Editor in Chief Sukhmani Sandhu 

While I’d love to start my summer days with the sunrise, I’m not much of a morning person. For the next few months, my days will start by frolicking at farmers markets with an iced oat matcha.

As The Runner’s number one — and only — farm girl, farmers markets are my happy place. They’re perfect for picking up knick-knacks and the go-to-spot for the best sandwich ingredients.

Managing Editor Suneet Gill

I can be particular about a lot of things, but coffee and tea certainly aren’t one of them, and this summer will be no different.

From chugging a quick pick-me-up before a hike or grabbing something to savour while catching up with friends, I love visiting different independent cafés and local chains. My go-to drinks are an iced caramel latte or macchiato with extra caramel and a London fog on cooler days (sweet tooth: certified).

Associate Editor Cypher Neri

My summer wardrobe staple is a cap, but not just any old thing will do. This hat has to shield my face and eyes from the beaming sun. 

My eyes are sensitive to sunlight, so an added layer of protection, aside from my photochromic prescription glasses, is a must.

News Reporter Kristina Gardner

Outdoor time in the summer leaves one choice — my family’s cabin at Cultus Lake.

I’ve gone every summer since I was a baby and will continue to. My favourite memories are on the lake — swimming, boating, paddleboarding — and visiting the local ice-cream shop with my cousins.

Cultus Lake is the perfect summer spot and my home away from home.

Community Reporter Mariia Potiatynyk

Summer afternoons go underutilized, but not for me.

Nothing’s better than exploring Vancouver’s summer markets with a friend after making my favourite fruit smoothie. There are many local artisans selling cute jewelry, crochet items, and other handmade goods.

Exploring artisan markets helps me relax, recharge, and find inspiration for my work and personal projects.

Staff Writer Amber Kaur Moti

Summertime is no good if you don’t have a soundtrack to go with it.

My perfect summer evening is a sunset drive, windows down, with a good playlist turned up. I can’t choose just one song for summer, but Tame Impala’s “Currents,” “Let It Happen,” and “Eventually” make my playlist because they’re perfect for sunset views in the city.

Arts Editor Sofiya Lobkova

With so many food hubs in the city, I’m not the type to visit the same place consistently, but Cactus Club’s hot chicken and pickles and refreshing eats from Steve’s Poké Bar make the list.

For local hearty spots to visit with friends, Nuba’s Mediterranean menu with its big flavours is worth the money.

Photo Editor Diego Minor Martínez

Some of my favourite summer memories are with friends: watching fireworks, hiking, and just spending the day walking in downtown Vancouver.

But my perfect summer day is a day I can be alone. I buy an iced coffee and hot dog, and head to Second Beach to listen to music and swim until sunset. Vancouver sunsets are amazing in the summer, but they’re even better when you’re in the water.

Production Artist Sarah Nelson

If I had to use three words to describe my perfect summer day, it would be: beach, sunset, and sangrias. And that’s all you really need.

Web Manager Jing-Syuan Chang

Sunsets are a summer essential, and English Bay is my go-to spot. The vibe is immaculate — beach-goers relaxing and soaking up the sun.

My favourite part is golden hour, when you can see the pink light reflecting off the ocean’s surface. It makes the entire city feel magical.

Operations Manager Devaki Mathivanan

Summer is about family for me. My perfect day involves getting soaked by my kids’ water guns and family trips to visit B.C.’s wondrous nature, lakes, and waterfalls.