Josh Wicks

the.vagrant.optimist

"Like most of the others, I was a seeker, a mover, a malcontent, and at times a stupid hell-raiser. I was never idle long enough to do much thinking, but I felt somehow that my instincts were right. I shared a vagrant optimism that some of us were making real progress, that we had taken an honest road, and that the best of us would inevitably make it over the top. At the same time, I shared a dark suspicion that the life we were leading was a lost cause, that we were all actors, kidding ourselves along on a senseless odyssey. It was the tension between these two poles- a restless idealism on one hand and a sense of impending doom on the other- that kept me going. " I read those words from Hunter S. Thompson when I was in high school and I instantly knew what I wanted to do. I took my savings from 3 summers of work and embarked on a journey around North America with three friends in a 1979 Dodge Glendale Motorhome. We were on the road for 4 months before I came home, lost my Mom to cancer, and could think of nothing more than getting out there again- but for longer and farther than before. I'm 38 now. The world has changed a lot in the twenty years I've been exploring it. I aim to share some of my favorite experiences about it here and to connect with those fellow seekers out there.

Josh Wicks's Lists

  • Vancouver Island Road Trip

    Vancouver Island is an ideal place for a road trip. For those seeking an authentic Canadian travel experience on the west coast, here's a list of places to stop and things to do from the bottom of Vancouver Island to the top.
  • Ultimate Artists' Retreats in British Columbia

    Calling all artists! If you're looking for the best, most awe-inspiring artist residencies to put in the work with zero distractions, here are the Top 5 in BC.
  • Freedom Camping on Vancouver Island

    The only thing more adventurous and satisfying than road trip camping is freedom camping! When you find that special place to boondock or pitch your tent for free- it's a special moment. Here are some of the tried, tested, and true freedom camping locations on Vancouver Island.
  • Beach Escapes from Santiago, Chile

    "Dondé esta la playa?" Santiago, Chile can be a hot stressful place sometimes. Fortunately, there are beaches calling from the nearby coast. Check out this list of easy beach escapes to cool off and recharge.
  • Bali Beaches for Beginner Surfers ( 6 spots to learn )

    Everybody's gotta learn somewhere. Bali is a great place to learn to surf. It attracts surfers of all levels from all over the world, but don't be intimidated, be stoked. There are waves with your name on them in these surf spots for beginner surfers.
  • Best Beaches in Vancouver, BC

    One of the best things about Vancouver BC is its selection of spacious beaches to enjoy with friends. You'll find what you're looking for at any one of these beaches; Sunsets, BBQ's, live events, interesting edibles, peace and quiet, and sometimes everything at the same time!
  • Thrift Stores in Victoria, BC

    Attention Thrift Shoppers. If you're new in Victoria, BC and you're looking for the best thrift shops to find those used treasures, then let this be your quintessential list. Of course, you never know what you'll find at any time, in any thrift shop, but some are more known for certain items. Have a look at each Victoria thrift shop on this list for more details. Happy hunting friends!
  • Best Pubs and Bars in London, Ontario

    When in London, Ontario, if you're up for it, go out for a pub-crawl on the famous Richmond Row where you'll find some of the best bars in the city. There are also some notable mentions listed here which are located in other parts of the city. All of these bars and pubs in London, Ontario have great food, drinks and atmosphere.
  • Latin American Food: Top 10 in Victoria, BC

    Taco lovers, empanada enthusiasts, and ceviche connoisseurs unite! The selection of Latin American restaurants in Victoria, BC will blow your sombreros off.
  • Travel Bucket List

    Yes, this is my geographic Bucket List! Some of these places are on the list because they align with my interests, while other places are on the list because I've felt a calling to go there and figure out why. #seekerchallenge
  • Fresh, Fun and Local Farmers Markets in Victoria, BC

    If you're new to Victoria or happen to be visiting for a week, don't miss your chance to visit these 7 Local Farmers Markets for some satisfying eats, artisanal goods, and more!
  • Blackberry picking spots in Victoria, BC

    Vancouver Island is abundant with wild blackberry bushes. If you're around Victoria from August to mid September, you can find your share of blackberries and get in on the good picking at these choice locations!
  • Best Sushi restaurants in Victoria, BC

    Satisfy your sushi craving with this list of top choices from Victoria locals.
  • Best Pizza Places in Victoria, BC

    When you're in the mood for pizza, let this list be your guide for the best pizza in the city, chosen by the locals.
  • 11 Ice-breaker stories about places I've been

    One of the coolest things about being a Seeker Ambassador is participating in the weekly #seekerchallenge that gets me tripping back in my memory (and in my photos) of the many places and experiences I've been a part of on this awesome planet. This one in particular is a fun one!
  • Best Playgrounds in Victoria, BC

    Of all the awesome attractions that Victoria has to offer, who would've thought that this capital city has such an incredible selection of playgrounds. It almost makes me want to have more kids!
  • Mother Nature's Finest Work

    This week's #seekerchallenge celebrates the most naturally beautiful places on earth.
  • Local, Independent Bookstores in Victoria, BC

    Independent bookstores abound in Victoria. New, used, rare, or specialty books - whatever you're looking for, you are sure to find it at one of these local bookstores.
  • Fun places to explore in Santiago, Chile for free (or nearly free).

    Santiago is a big city that can be a little overwhelming if you're not familiar with all of its unique neighborhoods and, markets, and museums. To make your time in this metropolis more effective and enjoyable, here is a list of the best places to get your fill of Chilean culture, history, and beautiful views for free (or nearly free).
  • Places inspired by fellow Seekers

    This is an ever-growing list of places that I save while exploring the lists made by fellow Seekers.

Josh Wicks's Articles