Nova Scotia Welcomes Travelers To Canada In 2022 With A Tree Walk Opening, Historic Accommodations, And More

Located in eastern Canada and almost completely surrounded by the ocean, Nova Scotia is home to over 150 lighthouses, breathtaking National and Provincial Parks, and an abundance of fisheries that provide world class seafood. Now that the U.S./Canada borders are open to travel, visitors can find new accommodations and a bustling culinary scene, as well as year-round outdoor adventure in the fishing villages and parks that line the coast, from the South Shore to Cape Breton Island and beyond.

Scheduled to open in late 2022, the Ingonish Tree Walk at Cape Smokey Provincial Park, located along the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island, will soar 30 meters above the ground as North America's first and only tree walk. Travelers will find breathtaking views of the Cape Breton Highlands and Atlantic Ocean from the eight-person Cape Smokey Gondola, which opened in September 2021 and lifts visitors 320 meters to the top in four minutes. More upcoming developments for Cape Smokey include a brewery, restaurant, and accommodations.

In October 2021, a 14,000-square-foot Viewing Deck opened at the iconic Peggy's Cove for safe viewing of its world-famous lighthouse. The viewing deck is set into the rock to not overshadow the landscape while the rail guard is constructed with a steel knit pattern to resemble fish net. The fishing village of Peggy's Cove on the South Shore of Nova Scotia is known for its picturesque houses, wave-washed boulders, and active fishing community, while its lighthouse is one of the most photographed in the province.

Ten new oceanside yurts have been constructed in Guysborough on the eastern peninsula of Cheduabucto Bay, allowing guests to glamp in a vineyard. The Authentic Seacoast: Yurts in the Vineyard offer yurt accommodations that are fully furnished with BBQs, a private firepit and hot tub, and a skylight for stargazing. Guests can visit Authentic Seacoast's state-of-the-art distillery and brewery next door, rent bicycles or kayaks, or unwind in the seaside sauna.

White Point Beach Resort on the South Shore has long been one of the most popular vacation destinations in the province. New additions to their long list of amenities are the Lakeside Glomes. These intimate, inviting, private and romantic Glomes will be open year-round for guests to enjoy a unique and new experience with all the comforts of the resort. Created for couples, these will be ultimate grown-up getaway with personal hot tubs on each private deck.

The Senator is a historic 1895 Queen Anne building, located in the heart of Liverpool. It has been carefully renovated to preserve its traditional features while adding modern comforts. Each of the five luxury suites has a one-of-a-kind decor. Enjoy wood floors, spacious rooms, antique furnishings, stained glass windows, stylish lighting fixtures, and charming features like a 'turret' space.

Experience the unique flavours of Halifax's urban neighbourhoods on an all-inclusive walking food & drink tour by Curated Food Tours. Choose from tours such as The Best of Quinpool Road, the Halifax Pizza Crawl or the Downtown Halifax Seafood Tour. You will eat well, enjoy some beverages, have fun, and learn lots of cool stuff along the way.

About Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism (ACAT):

This project has been made possible through funding provided by the Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism (ACAT). ACAT is a nine-member pan-Atlantic initiative comprising the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the four Atlantic Canada Tourism Industry Associations, and the four Provincial Departments responsible for tourism.

For more information on the four provinces, visit these websites or follow on social media:

New Brunswick Web: http://www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca Instagram: @DestinationNB Twitter: @DestinationNB Facebook: @DestinationNB

Nova Scotia Web: http://www.novascotia.com Instagram: @VisitNovaScotia Twitter: @VisitNovaScotia Facebook: @NovaScotia

Newfoundland and Labrador Web: http://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com Instagram: @newfoundlandlabrador Twitter: @NLtweets Facebook: @NewfoundlandLabradorTourism

Prince Edward Island Web: http://www.tourismpei.com Instagram: @tourismpei Twitter: @tourismpei Facebook: @tourismpei

Oh Canada! U.S. Dollars Go Far When the Whole Country Is On Sale

Ontario has more than 60 maple syrup-producing farms, and most offer family-friendly experiences.(Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

International family travel can be a tricky business. On the one hand, there's so much world out there to see. On the other: terror alerts, the expense of trying to feed and entertain the whole family, and long travel times. All of which can make it very easy to talk yourself out of a trip.

If only there was a place with worldly charm that was close enough to get to easily, felt safe, and didn't cost you an arm and a leg. There is. Canada — thanks to a strong U.S. dollar and a falling Canadian loonie — is on sale. One Canadian dollar is about 70 U.S. cents. Book a flight or just hop in the car and head for the border to take in one of these five truly Canadian experiences for less. We guarantee you'll be singing the country's praises all the way to the bank.

Sweet deal in Ontario

Get to: Toronto, Ontario

Why: There's something about that northern air that makes Canadian maple syrup the best there is.

Why now: A warmer winter means that production will be underway sooner than usual, and could result in a record-setting production year. Good-natured Canadians will be more than happy to share the bounty.

The deal: Ontario has more than 60 maple syrup-producing farms, which means you can have your pick of where you go. Most offer family-friendly experiences where you cannot only watch it be made, but also have a treat or two while you do so. Tour prices at most farms come in at about $7.50 USD per person. Time your visit for April 2 or 3 and the price will even better: Free! The second annual Maple Weekend will offer everything from pancake breakfasts and horse-drawn sleigh rides to production tours and demos.

Lazy days in Quebec

Get to: Montebello, Quebec

Why: Montreal and Quebec City tend to steal most of the French province's tourists, but if what you're after is a charming weekend getaway with the kids during which you're hoping your biggest concern will be how many times you'll indulge in the decadent foie gras poutine during your stay, this is your spot. The gorgeous Fairmont Chateau Montebello fills up quickly. For good reason: On any given day, guests in yoga pants, slippers and robes reading books and playing board games make up the majority of loungers around the six-sided, 80-foot-tall fireplace in the hotel's main hall.

Why now: In the winter, outdoor enthusiasts will love the snowshoeing, dogsled rides and curling lesson options, as well as the outdoor skating rink. In the summer, fishing, bear watching, horseback riding and hiking will keep kids excited and engaged.

The deal: The hotel is intimate and popular. Book now to lock in summer dates and you'll be rewarded. The July Family Month promotion offers rooms from $206 USD ($279 CDN) per night including daily buffet breakfast and your choice of a family fun activity. (Choices include a family pass to the phenomenal Parc Omega — a nearby wildlife park where animals roam free and eat right from your car window.)

Drumheller is home to the world's largest dinosaur, an 86-foot-tall Tyrannosaurus rex whose mouth acts as a lookout point over the town. (Photo: ronniechua, Getty Images)

Prehistoric monsters in Alberta

Get to: Drumheller, Alberta

Why: What Roswell is to aliens, Drumheller is to dinosaurs. Year-round, the town celebrates the prehistoric animals that once roamed these badlands. From the world-famous Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology (filled with incredible artifacts and interactive models) to the world's largest dinosaur (an 86-foot-tall Tyrannosaurus rex whose mouth acts as a lookout point over the town), you'll be able to satisfy any dinosaur fan.

Why now: New dinosaur discoveries are being found in the area all the time and your family can participate in archeological digs that vary according to age. Don't feel like getting dirty? "Hellboy" — a Regaliceratops skull found by a member of the public in 2005 — is now on display inside the paleontology museum.

The deal: The town's Ramada Inn offers comfortable rooms, free buttered popcorn, and a giant pool and waterslide. Its Royal Tyrell Museum Package starts at $110 USD ($150 CDN) and includes a skip-the-line museum family admission pass for two adults and up to six kids.

Prince Edward Island, the real island home of the fictional Anne of Green Gables, is a popular spot for fans from around the world. (Photo: Elenathewise, Getty Images/iStockphoto)

All about Anne in PEI

Get to: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (PEI)

Why: The real island home of the fictional redheaded Anne of Green Gables is a popular spot for fans from around the world. There's plenty of Green Gables lore to see here — from namesake chocolates to the house that author Lucy Maud Montgomery based her stories around — but it's not the only reason to come. A wealth of festivals that celebrate music and art, theatrical productions that impress, and seafood suppers that require loose-waisted pants all make Prince Edward Island the perfect Canadian getaway.

Why now: Canadians know to book cottages in PEI early to beat the summer rush. Waiting to reserve accommodations won't net you a better deal, and it might mean you won't find a spot.

The deal: The Island's The Vacation the Kids Took Over packages offer a variety of three-night packages at various cottages and resorts for stays between June 18 and Sept. 1. One example: A three-night stay in a two-bedroom chalet at the four-star Fairways Cottages for $580 USD ($789 CDN), plus taxes. The deal includes a four-day, unlimited entrance pass to the best area family attractions and beaches for a family of four.

Wildlife and road trips in British Columbia

Get to: Blue River, British Columbia

Why: British Columbia is a thing of beauty. From the cosmopolitan charm of Vancouver to the sky-high old-growth forests of Vancouver Island, and beyond to the warm waters of Osoyoos, a road trip offers breathtaking views of mountain, ocean and sky.

Why now: Spring brings new life to the province. When you aren't marveling at the size of trees wider than your car or at the gourmet offerings of chefs who rely on Pacific Ocean bounty, you'll be wondering about the animals that call the West Coast home. Spend time in Clearwater; Alpine Meadow Resort offers incredible views and comfortable log cabin accommodations off the beaten path.

The deal: The River Safari company in nearby Blue River will offer your family the experience of a lifetime. Book the Super Safari package for tours on land and water of Grizzly Bear Valley. Kids will have fun playing lookout as your eagle-eyed guide points out the local bears who call the temperate rainforest home. Packages are $110 USD ($150 CDN) for a 2.5-hour tour. Stay for lunch — the forest-to-table meals in the restaurant are to die for.

Heather Greenwood Davis, SmarterTravel.com

READ THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Oh Canada! U.S. dollars go far when the whole country is on sale

Top 10 Historical Homes From Literature

History and literary buffs alike will rejoice as VirtualTourist members uncover the list of the "Top 10 Historical Homes From Literature."

Anne Frank House, Amsterdam, Netherlands During the Holocaust, Anne Frank and her family and friends lived in the attic of Prinsengracht 263, now commonly called the Anne Frank House.  Anne’s father, Otto, also conducted his spice business from this building. The doorway to the attic was hidden behind a moveable bookcase, constructed especially for this purpose. The men and women who worked in Otto’s business knew of the hiding place and they supplied the eight people with food and news of the outside world.  During her two years in hiding, Anne detailed her struggle in the international bestseller The Diary of Anne Frank. On 4, August 1944, the hiding place was betrayed. The people in hiding were deported to various concentration camps and only Otto Frank survived. After his release from the Nazi concentration camp at Auschwitz, Mr. Frank was presented with his daughter’s diary. He said it revealed a person he did not know; her thoughts and words were not those of the young girl he had known.  Today, the rooms of the Anne Frank House still evoke powerful emotions. Quotations from Anne’s diary, historical documents, photo enlargements, film clips, and origin al ephemera that belonged to those in hiding bring to life the events that took place here. Anne’s original diary and other notebooks can also be seen in the museum. Tip by von.otter, photo by Kajser-MK

Birthplace of Dracula, Sighisoara, Romania It is generally accepted that Bram Stoker’s famous character Dracula was based on the historical figure Vlad Tepes, also called Vlad Dracula and Vlad the Impaler, whose hometown is Sighisoara, Romania.  As ruler, Vlad earned the title “Impaler” due to his propensity to punish his victims by impaling them on stakes and displaying them publicly as a warning to any would be transgressors against his strict moral code.  He is credited with eliminating 40,000 to 100,000 Europeans this way between 1456 and 1462.  But he is also revered as a hero by Romanians for fending off the Turks who were invading his country. For those travelers interested, you can visit Casa Vlad Dracula which now houses the Museum of Medieval Arms on the first floor and a restaurant downstairs serving such delicacies as Tepes Steak covered in blood (tomato sauce) which you can wash down with Dracula blood to the accompaniment of human screams and creepy organ sounds by way of background music.  Should you have the urge to roam the town at night dressed as Dracula, there are souvenir shops where you can purchase the necessary cape and other gear.   Tip by wabat, photo by iwys

Maison Victor Hugo, Paris, France In 1832, Victor Hugo, author of Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, rented an apartment inParis for 16 years, which is now a museum with exhibits on his life. Entrance to the apartment is free, with a small charge to see the exhibitions on the first floor.  On the second floor, where he lived, you will find some of his personal collections of art and manuscripts, and interestingly, the apartme nt is now laid out to allow guests the opportunity to experience his whole life.  VirtualTourist members say it’s well worth a stop and for most visitors probably the only time you will be able to step foot in an apartment in the Place des Vosges section of Paris. Tip and photo by nemorino

Juliet’s House, Verona, Italy Perhaps one of the most famous literary characters is Shakespeare’s Juliet fromRomeo and Juliet.  Although she is most likely a fictional character, that hasn’t stopped her from having a house and a balcony in Verona. It is believed that this house belonged to a 14th century Veronese family which just might have been one of the families Shakespeare had in mind when he wrote the famous tale in 1594. VirtualTourist members say that for couples traveling, that one person should pay the small fee to stand on the balcony while the other takes a picture of them from the courtyard.  Tip and photo by nemorino

Karen Blixen Home, Kenya Karen Blixen was famous for her novel Out of Africawhich was a tale of her adventures in her beloved Kenya. She led a tumultuous life, but one that made for a very good story. Fortune brought her to Kenya, but her love for Kenya is what made her stay and call it home for as long as she did.  It was the autobiography of the life and times of Karen Blixen, an unwitting foreign transplant brought in to Kenya by her husband to help him run a coffee plantation. Blixen was eventually left on her own and abandoned by her husband to manage the plantation and during her time in Kenya she managed to win the affections and respect of the people.  The home is now a small museum.  VirtualTourist members say that it’s worth reading the book before visiting so you can imagine what took places there. Tip by Tallchick80, photo byenjoytravelling

Down House, Downe, Kent, England The home for many years to noted scientist Charles Darwin, the Down House in Downe, Kent, is where Darwin developed his theories of evolution and wroteOrigin of Species. The home itself is a beautiful building and houses a museum.  Downstairs, you will find all the rooms restored to the way they were when Darwin lived there and VirtualTourist members say the billiard room, where he used to clear his mind by playing billiards with his butler, is particularly interesting. Outside, you will find gardens, a greenhouse and a plot of land where Darwin would conduct experiments.  You can also take a stroll along Darwin’s “thinking path” where he used to go and meditate on his theories. Tip and photo by planxty

Hans Christian Anderson Birthplace, Odense, Denmark It was in the small town of Odense that the great fairy tales writer Hans Christian Anderson was born.  His family moved two years after his birth to what is now known as Andersen's Childhood Home. Though he had not lived in the first house long, it is that place that has become part of a museum devoted to him. The museum contains many original and copies of Andersen's books, sketches, paper cutouts, and collages.  VirtualTourist members say you may well wonder when trying the door why the house is locked.  Yet, looking through the window, you will see people and various artefacts inside. There is no information on the door how to get in and yet everybody seems to know where to find the entrance. So just follow the others and they will show you the way. Tip by evaanaa

Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, New York State Washington Irving, America's first internationally famous author and writer of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip Van Winkle, wanted a romantic home along the river where he could relax and write. His choice wasSunnyside in New York. Located right along the Hudson River, this bright little house was just what he had imagined. With wonderful views over the river from many of the rooms in the house and the veranda area as peaceful a place as you could find, it’s no wonder he was able to feel inspired here. VirtualTourist members say to take a walk around the grounds, then take a guided tour through the house to see where this great writer found his inspiration. Tip and photo by Herkbert

Hearst Castle, San Simeon, California Eccentric multimillionaire and legendary Newspaper Mogul William Randolph Hearst built this extravagant mansion, known as Hearst Castle, on a beautiful plot of land along the Big Sur Coast. The main structure, called Casa Grande, has over 60,000 square feet and features a huge medieval dining room, a pool designed after Roman baths, and a main sitting room full of European artwork. Guests were welcome at all times and they could stay at one of the three guest houses or take advantage of the Casa Grande's 56 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, and 19 sitting rooms, but there was no room service.  And all guests were expected to take dinner with Mr. Hearst and the other guests in the main dining room. While staying at the house, visitors were welcome to use the Neptune Pool, a huge swimming pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean and framed with actual Greek ruins that Hearst imported from Europe, or they could enjoy the huge collection of animals at the world's largest private zoo.  Constructed between 1919 and 1947, it has been designated a National Historic Landmark and the Hearst Corporation donated it to the state of California who turned it into a State Park.  Tip by richiecdisc and Ewingjr98 photo bydabs

Green Gables Heritage Place, Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, Canada The “Green Gables” house on Prince Edward Island was originally owned by Lucy Montgomery's grandparents and is a modest home set in a wooded setting. She moved there at any early age and the home and her experiences in the area formed such a strong impression on her that the home became the basis of her well known 1908 novelAnne of Green Gables.  At the home there are guides from the Canadian National Park Service on hand to answer any questions and show you how Lucy and her grandparents lived in the early 20th century.  More interesting than the house, VirtualTourist members says, is the hike along the Haunted Woods and Balsam Hollow which Lucy talks about in her book. The trails, just like the house, have been well preserved.  As you walk along the two trails you can't help but think about how Lucy developed the memories that are now in her book.  Tip and photo by TooTallFinn24 Follow us on Twitter: @TraveloreReport

Maine And Canada Join Together To Host 2014 World Acadian Congress, August 8 – 24, 2014

 For the first time, Maine and Canada will jointly host the World Acadian Congress (Congrès mondial acadien,http://www.cma2014.com/en), which has taken place every five years since 1994. Held previously in Canada and Louisiana, the 2014 Congress now includes the St. John Valley and the city of Madawaska located in Maine’s Aroostook County on the Canadian border. In addition to St. John Valley, the Congress includes New Brunswick and the Temiscouata region of Quebec to form “Acadia of Lands and Forest.”

 

A Celebration of the Acadian Culture

The Acadian World Congress celebrates the Acadian culture that began in the mid-18^th century when French Acadians were expelled from the Canadian provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island for not swearing allegiance to England during the French and Indian War. 

 

Approximately 50,000 visitors are expected to travel to “Acadia of Lands and Forests” for the festivities. The Congress, which runs from August 8^ththrough August 24^th, celebrates unique Acadian culture including food, language, music, and other traditions. The mission of the Congress is to bring together Acadians from across the globe for family reunions, conferences and events.  There are 120 family reunions scheduled for 2014, and residents in Northern Maine have opened their homes to many of these families to host them during the Congress.

 

Activities and Events    

Three major activities taking place on three separate days will frame the Congress events, each of which will showcase one of the three host sub-regions that make up Acadia of the Lands and Forests.

 

Opening ceremonies will be held in northwestern New Brunswick on August 8^th.  The Acadian National Day will be celebrated in Maine on August 15^th in the town of Madawaska, where more than 80 percent of the residents speak French at home.  They are expected to welcome more than 10,000 French Acadians on that day.   Events include an outdoor Mass with an 80-member international choir that will be celebrated by bishops representing the municipalities covered by “Acadia of the Lands and Forests.” Downtown Madawaska will offer street entertainment, art exhibitions, community barbecues and other activities.

 

A highlight of the day is the Tintamarre where thousands of Acadians and their friends dressed in Acadian colors of blue, white, and red assemble in the streets playing pots, pans and other noisemakers.  In the evening, visitors can enjoy the National Acadian Holiday stage event “Acadie fille d’Amerique” at the Multipurpose Centre in Madawaska celebrating more than 400 years of Acadian presence in America with music and song.  The day ends with a dazzling fireworks display. 

 

Maine and the Province of New Brunswick will present the Songwriters Circle Without Borders featuring four talented singer-songwriters on one stage.  Representing Maine are Denny Breau and JoséVachon with Caroline Savoie and Danny Bourreau from New Brunswick. Performances will be held on Sunday August 17^th at 9:00 p.m. Atlantic Time at the Pavillon MultiMEDIA in Edmundston and Monday, August 18^th at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time at the Fox Theater at the University of Maine in Fort Kent.  Admission is free.  The project is supported by Music Musique NB and the Maine Arts Commission.

 

 

For additional information on the 2014 World Acadian Congress visit http://www.cma2014.com/en.  For more information on traveling in Maine, visit www.visitmaine.com.