By Susan Hollis // Photo by Jeffrey Bosdet
There are various ways of walking. There’s the headphones-in/sunglasses-on kind of stroll, and the just-gotta-get-from-A-to-B hustle. Victoria blogger Thomas Guerrero has his own observant ramble, during which he admires, critiques and scouts the capital city.
He explores on foot, with a keen eye on where the city succeeds, where it could improve and the undiscovered and interesting places to be found along its concrete corridors. His interests have led to a lecturing position at UVic, where he talks about urbanism and the pedestrian’s role in the city,
as well as a role on the City’s new transportation advisory committee.
“I think in Victoria we really undersell ourselves, so it’s an opportunity for me to highlight why I think it’s such an amazing city,” says Guerrero, whose blog Sidewalking Victoria explores architecture, food, downtown, neighbourhoods and transportation. “I try to show the city through my eyes — it’s more of an urban place than some people want it to be, and more than some people realize.”
What’s your idea of perfect happiness?
That moment when I am heading off on a trip with my family. Just that first feeling of exploration and freedom.
What’s your greatest fear?
Heights, but it is more complex than that. It’s seeing other people not
being careful next to a height. I really can’t handle it.
What do you admire most in your friends?
I like thinking and talking about ideas, so their intellect.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Selfishness.
Which living person do you most admire?
This changes all the time. The last person I met who put other people ahead of themselves.
What’s your greatest extravagance?
It’s likely my blog, but I could also go with chocolate.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My family.
On what occasion do you lie?
When necessary to spare hurt feelings.
Where are you happiest?
Camping in the summer next to a lake on a hot day.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
My propensity to procrastinate.
Which historical figure do you most identify with?
Is Douglas Adams a historical figure?
If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be?
A house or an apartment building. I love the idea of being able to see so many lives being lived out over time.
What is your most treasured possession?
My mind. My sanity.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Being surrounded by people who care about me.
If you were a book, which one would you be?
Is there an encyclopedia of useless facts? If so, then that!
If you could choose another job, what profession would you want to explore?
Urban design, for sure!
What piece of technology do you wish was never invented?
Pretty much all weapons, but guns are at the top of the list.
What piece of technology do you wish existed?
Self-refilling candy dispenser.
This article is from the May/June 2019 issue of YAM.