Hiking and tiramisu: All Points West host Jason D'Souza shares his Vancouver Island go-tos

From stories about a giant Pacific Octopus living in Sidney to Campbell River council adopting a bylaw banning consumption of illicit substances in public places, Jason D'Souza has already experienced the wide variety of news and current events issues that make up CBC Radio's weekday afternoon drive show, All Points West, in the few short weeks he's been the host.

Designed to be a place that engages people across the Island in smart conversation, stories to think about and music worth listening to, All Points West brings an eclectic mix to listeners every Monday to Friday.

Now that Jason has settled in, we asked him to take a few minutes out from a busy workday to tell us a bit more about himself.                                                                       

Besides access to nature, what are you most enjoying about being back on Vancouver Island?

Reconnecting with all the communities here, discovering new or unexplored parts of the Island, and the coffee scene. Pound for pound, we have the best roasters in the country here. 

Biking or hiking: You love them both but which do you like more?

As much as I enjoy biking, hiking will always take the cake! The ability to escape the city completely with just a short drive is a magical thing.

You've conquered the Juan de Fuca Trail, a grueling three-day hike. What's next?

Long have there been whispers of doing the North Coast Trail amongst my hiking friends... but that might take a bit more time adjusting to Island hikes! Cape Scott is at the top of my list right now.

Where can people spot you most often in Victoria? 

Dallas Road... consistently mistaking the kites for exotic bird sightings.

What's a dessert you'll splurge on for a "cheat day?" 

I don't know who invented Tiramisu – but I would like to shake that person's hand for creating the greatest dessert in human history. 

What's your favourite binge worthy series? 

I've watched Community more times than I can count and I'm loving my friend Johanna Wagstaffe's new series Planet Wonder.

What do you enjoy the most about hosting All Points West?

The balance between being able to delve deep into the important stories of the day while also connecting with change-makers across our region is such a highlight. And I think we have a lot of fun throughout it all as well.

Tune into All Points West to hear more from Jason on CBC Listen!