Eating out with Friends and Family at the Flying Apron in Summerville
Eating out with Friends and Family at the Flying Apron in Summerville
We are eating out around the Valley and surrounding area to share with you some great places to try, including the Flying Apron Inn and Cookery in Summerville, NS. All opinions are our own. This is not a sponsored post.
The Flying Apron Inn & Cookery has been on my eating out list for quite some time! We had eaten there a few times under the previous ownership, but had never made the trip to try what everyone was raving about!
We can honestly say that The Flying Apron is worth the trek from the Valley for a wonderful atmosphere and even better food!
Menu
We went to the Flying Apron on a weekday at lunch and there were so many wonderful, locally-sourced meals to choose from. There was something for everyone!
Everything was absolutely delicious, and just wants to make us go back to try other dishes.
Make sure you leave room for dessert! There are so many to choose from!
Dining on the Ocean Floor
One of the experiences that the Flying Apron is famous for is the Dining on the Ocean Floor.
This is an incredible outdoors experience, but you must book early as the experiences sell out quickly!
Cookery School
Besides a meal, you can also take a cooking class from the Flying Apron. There are many different topics, and a room at the back dedicated to the classes.
A list of upcoming classes can be found online.
Atmosphere
There is a wonderful atmosphere at the Flying Apron that is not only to be enjoyed by guests who are staying over, but diners as well!
Our sons particularly enjoyed having something to do like play the piano or read a book, while waiting for the food to come. The adults appreciated this as well!
Hours and Location
The Flying Apron is open year round, so make sure you go a lot to try the food that is in season at the time!
It is located past Windsor, towards the Noel Shore. Make sure you check the map before you go. I went by “memory” and ended up on the wrong road! It turned out to be the very scenic way to get there!
We highly recommend taking a drive to the Flying Apron and supporting another wonderful local business who supports local!
St. Stephen to St. Martins: Along the Fundy Shore of New Brunswick
St. Stephen to St. Martins: Along the Fundy Shore of New Brunswick
The Fundy Shore of New Brunswick is a great place to explore, and all the best places along there seem to be named for the Saints! From St. Stephen to St. Andrews, St. George and St. Martins – some great places to explore!
When we were staying on Deer Island off the Fundy shore, we took a few day trips to the mainland to do some exploring. Here are some sights to check out.
St. Stephen
St. Stephen is the town that borders Calais, Maine, and has a border crossing into the United States.
The Chocolate Museum
Located in what used to be the original Ganong candy factory, The Chocolate Museum offers an interactive way to learn about candy making in St. Stephen – a tradition that has lasted over a century.
As you go through the museum, make sure you take a guided tour! Each step of the way there are different chocolates to sample! You won’t want to miss out!
After the tour, you can go back around the museum at your own pace, and potentially have the chance to watch one of the employees hand dipping chocolate!
There are a ton of interactive displays for young children, and of course, the tour ends with more chocolate samples!
Even though Daniel had been here earlier in the year as part of his Canada Wise Science Fair tour, he couldn’t wait to go back again. Maybe it was for the chocolate.
This was definitely a trip highlight.
Make sure you stop in the chocolate store before you leave!
Hours, location and admission fees are here for the Chocolate Museum
St. Andrew’s By the Sea
This is a stunning seaside town, most famous for the Algonquin Resort in the centre of town. Even if you are not staying here, it’s worth a visit to this place.
St. Andrews Creative Playground
This playground, located downtown on Carleton Street, is a paradise for kids! It’s one of the biggest playgrounds we’ve ever seen, and there is so much for all ages to keep busy.
There are picnic tables and some shade. It’s a great place to stop and recharge.
Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium
Although we didn’t go on this trip, Daniel went to this aquarium with the national science fair.
There was a touch tank with different coloured lobsters, seals and lots of really interesting fish, he says.
More information about the Aquarium here
Swimming at Katy’s Cove
We went to cool off at Katy’s Cove on Acadia Road near the Algonquin Resort. There is a sandy area and a dock. The water was warmer than the ocean because it is in a lagoon-type area.
The park is undergoing some renovations, so the playgrounds are off limits.
It’s a free, semi-warm place to swim, so why not?
More information about Katy’s Cove here.
Minister’s Island
Minutes away from St. Andrews is Minister’s Island – a place that can only be visited during low tide.
From the late 19th and early 20th century the island was the summer estate of Sir William Van Horne, the president and driving force behind the Canadian Pacific Railway.
On the island, you can tour around the summer home and other outbuildings, or enjoy the many walking trails.
Because Daniel had already toured the home during his Canada Wide Science Fair trip, we decided to just go explore the island.
There are 2 ways to explore Minister’s Island
- Drive across the beach at low tide, and take your car onto the island. It’s actually bigger than you think, so if you have any mobility issues, this is the way for you!
2. If you are no planning on going into any of the buildings, and you walk across the beach to the island, then, it is only $5 each. This is what we opted to do.
The trip across the beach is 0.7km and took about 15 minutes.
However, you can also drive across the beach and leave your car just before the ticket booth, and continue walking the rest of the way. Pick up a map, and pick a route and start exploring.
All the trails are really well sign posted, and coordinate well to the map (so make sure you pick one up). We opted to walk to the point by the main house, loop around, and then cut back through the centre of the island for a total of 4km and 1hour 10 minute walk.
There were great views, we learned from the information panels in front of the buildings, and were able to take the dog with us!
Learn more about Minister’s Island and all it has to offer.
St. Croix
On the main road between St. Stephen and St. Andrews you will see a sign for the National Historic site, St. Croix.
I remembered studying this settlement in junior high school, so we took the 15 minutes to stop on the side of the road to have a look.
In June of 1604, French nobleman-courtier Pierre Dugua, Sieur de Mons and his expedition established a settlement on St. Croix Island. In the milder months, they built houses, a storehouse, kitchen and chapel, and formed strong Aboriginal trade alliances.
In the territory they called “l’Acadie,”—the first attempt at year-round colonization by the French—they faced a bitter winter and set the foundation for an enduring French presence in North America.
The settlement here did not last and they next moved to Port Royal near Annapolis Royal.
From the historic site, you can see the island, and as you walk along the graveled path, there is a series of information boards telling you the story of the settlement.
Definitely worth a stop! It’s free!
Learn more about St. Croix National Historic Site
St. George
Besides being the gateway to Deer Island – where you catch the ferry, St. George is famous for its gorge.
St. George Gorge at First Falls is located in the centre of St. George, encompassed by Brunswick Street, South Street and the Mill Road. Fresh water from Magaguadavic River falls 21 metres into a gorge that empties into a tidal basin. The west bank is occupied by an electricity generating plant. There is a dam at the top of the falls.
We explored the top up by dam (across from the Independent where we loaded up on groceries to take with us to Deer Island).
There is a set of metal steps you can walk down, and even a viewing window where you might catch a glimpse of the the fish!
St. George is a pretty town, too! So, if you are going through, consider stopping by to see the power of mother nature!
Learn more about St. George and the gorge here.
St. Martins
The Fundy Shore is full of great discoveries, and St. Martins is no exception.
On our way home from Deer Island, we took a slight detour and pit stop to the small village of St. Martins, on Route 111 between Saint John and the Fundy National Park (although there is no road connecting the 2 places).
Again, this is a place you must explore at low tide, or the 2 hours before and afterwards. We were there right at low tide, and with the tide starting to turn, it had already started cutting off some of the pathways!
St. Martins is famous for its sandstone natural sea caves.
If you have ever been to Blomidon or Paddy’s Island/Medford Beach sand stacks on the Annapolis Valley side, the geology is very much the same. However, it is still just as fascinating to visit!
When you arrive at St. Martins, drive into town, and take the road beside the covered bridge. (There is only one road. You can’t get lost). Then, go around the point and the beach and sea caves will be in front of you.
Walk along the cobbled beach towards the sea caves. You can’t miss them.
There is a stream between you and the sea caves. If you hug the cliffs, there is a stone bridge you can use to cross.
Then, just take your time exploring! There are a few caves to explore, including one around the point, which is a bit trickier to reach, but not for folk who have grown up walking on cobble beaches and seaweed!
According to Google, most people spend 15 minutes to 1 hour exploring the sea caves. We averaged somewhere in the middle.
There are lots of places to eat in the village or at the beach, including one that is famous for its chowder.
The sea caves are free to explore, so take a few minutes to go off the beaten path to discover them!
Learn more about the St. Martins Sea Caves here.
Hopewell Rocks
Although not connected by road along the Fundy shore itself to the other towns mentioned in this blog post, Hopewell rocks is another great place to stop in New Brunswick!
Not far from the Nova Scotia border, you can witness the power of mother nature and experience the Bay of Fundy tide’s power!
Before you Go: Best tips
There is so much to do along the Bay of Fundy side of New Brunswick. Even though the geology and tides are what we experience on the Nova Scotia side of the water, it’s still a great place to check out, and has some wonderful towns with fun places to explore!
- Check the tide schedule – the vast majority of activities depend up on the tide!
- Stop at the covered bridges – New Brunswick is famous for them, so make sure you at least get one photo!
- Take your time! The villages and towns along the coast have a lot to offer!
Faucet Fountain in Port Williams
Faucet Fountain in Port Williams
There is a new piece of art in Port Williams that everyone needs to go and check out! It is a fountain made from 113 faucets!
Kevin Wood created and built this fountain on his property from pipes and faucets he had collected over the years.
The story is remarkable. Check it out in the Advertiser.
You can really spend a long time there, being cooled by the gentle spray, and examining every tap at every angle!
Also on Site
Kevin Wood also has a collection of blacksmith tools on site in one of the barns that you can wander in an look at.
He is working towards having a museum on site.
In front of the barns, are old-fashioned wheelbarrows full of vegetables for sale.
Location
The faucet fountain is located on Highway 358 in Port Williams, as you are driving towards Canning. It is right after what the locals call “Chase Corner”.
Watch for the big red barns and the vegetables in the front.
There is a brick path between the black smith barn and the larger barn. Follow that and the fountain is at the back of the building.
Take a drive to Port Williams to discover this amazing piece of art and don’t forget to get your fall veggies!
Deer Island and Campobello Island New Brunswick
Exploring Deer Island and Campobello Island, New Brunswick with your family and dog
When making our summer vacation plans this year, we tried to find a place we had yet to explore. Knowing how much our family travels and loves road trips, it was hard to come up with an idea, until I remembered reading about Deer Island and Campobello Island, New Brunswick!
Deer Island and Campobello Island are part of a chain of islands off the Fundy coast of New Brunswick, situated next to Grand Manan. We visited Grand Manan several years ago (pre-blog), and loved the area, so wanted to go back and explore these new islands.
When doing research for our trip, it was very difficult to find information that was up-to date, or any information at all! I hope this blog post will be a resource for you!
How to Get To Deer Island
There is a ferry that leaves from Letete, NB, on the mainland every half hour starting from 6:30am to 10:30pm (subject to change).
This ferry takes about 15 cars, so depending on the traffic, you might have to wait for the ferry. It takes 20 minutes to cross to Deer Island.
This ferry is free.
About Deer Island
One day, while out in the Bay of Fundy, Glooscap saw a pack of three wolves chasing a deer and a moose into the water. He wanted to make the places they were in special, so he froze their chase in time. He turned the animals into islands. Today, you can still see the Deer and Moose side by side, and three Wolves in pursuit not far off shore.
You can easily tell why it is called Deer Island. There are deer EVERYWHERE! We counted over 20 sightings in our few days there.
Deer Island has been inhabited since 1770. It is exactly half-way between the Equator and North Pole. Deer Island’s population – 1,000 souls.
What to Do on Deer Island
Deer Island is paradise for those who love outdoor activities like kayaking, beach combing, bird watching and fishing.
Collect Sea Glass
We spent a lot of time collecting sea glass. Because there aren’t laden with people, the beaches are full of sea glass! No matter where you go on the coastline, you are bound to find some!
Go Hiking at Chocolate Cove
There is one official hiking trail on the island. In my research, I read about some others, but only this one is officially marked. Not even the tourist information centre knew of other trails, other than ATV trails that are unmarked through the woods.
Located on Chocolate Cove, the Clark Gregory Nature Preserve has a 2km hike through the woods, with great views (if not foggy!) that took us 40 minutes to walk.
The trail is well maintained and marked. The path is hilly with roots, so unsuitable for strollers, and small children may find it difficult.
Visit the Old Sow Whirpool
The “Old Sow” is the largest whirlpool in the western hemisphere, the second largest in the world – second only to the Maelstrom Whirlpool of Norway.
Old Sow is reported to be most active about 3 hours before high tide. This activity continues for about two hours.
To view it, head to Deer Island Point Road, near the Campobello ferry terminal, in the campground. It’s at the tip. You can’t miss it!
Go Whale Watching
There are many places off Campobello Island to go whale watching, but we found just one off Deer Island, and we are glad we did, because it was fantastic!
Captain Riddles Sea Going Adventures picks up whale watchers from both Campobello and Deer Islands.
We were hesitant about going whale watching because we have gone a few times off Brier Island in Digby, and these waterways are all connected, but we are so glad we did!
The boat was small, low to the ocean, and our captain knew just where to take us!
We saw minke whales, porpoises and lots of seals! They came very close to the boat, too!
The cost was $40 per person (STC) and we were on the water for 2-3 hours. If you don’t see whales, you don’t have to pay!
One of the best parts was that we were allowed to bring our dog!
It only took a few minutes before we spotted whales out in the ocean! It was a great day at sea, and we highly recommend Captain Riddles!
Amenities
On Deer Island, there are two convenience stores with the most basic of groceries. There are no gas stations.
Before you board the ferry to Deer Island, stop at one of the major towns on the mainland and load up on your groceries.
We stopped at St. George as you have to go through this town to get the ferry to Deer Island.
There is one restaurant and one take-out on Deer Island (STC).
More information on amenities here
Accommodations
On Deer Island, there are a few inns, a campground, and a couple of Air B&Bs.
We stayed in Lambertville at the Hathway Cottage. It is about 3 minutes from the ferry terminal to the main land.
This is a basic cottage, but the best part was that there was a hot tub 50 feet from the Bay of Fundy!
We spent hours sitting in the fog, looking out at the Bay watching seals and deer. It was heavenly!
Check Deer Island accommodations here
Campobello Island
Campobello Island is more well known, and a tourist destination for Americans especially as Franklin D. Roosevelt had summer home here, and there is a bridge connecting the island to Lubec, Maine.
How to Get to Campobello Island
There is a ferry connecting Deer Island to Campobello Island. This ferry takes approximately 30 minutes and runs every hour on the half (STC)
Deer Island-Campobello Island Ferry Schedule here
The cost was approximately $32 for a family of 4 and the car to go one way.
What to do on Campobello Island
Campobello Island is most famous for the Roosevelt Campobello International Park.
Here, you can tour the Roosevelt’s summer home and drive, bike or walk the many carriage lanes on the island.
Tour Roosevelt’s Summer Home and Have Tea with Eleanor
If you arrive right when the Visitor Information Centre opens (10am), you can stand in line to receive FREE tickets for the Tea with Eleanor program.
We’ll share the stories of Eleanor Roosevelt, with complimentary tea and homemade cookies.
Or, you can book a paid experience in the afternoon.
The attendants said to get there early because the tickets do go quickly!
We decided not to do this experience, nor did we tour the house because we had the dog. But, we heard many great things about it!
East Quoddy Lighthouse and Hike
At the top tip of the island, you can hike out to the East Quoddy lighthouse at low tide.
This walk is 1km (round trip) and costs $5 per person to walk it.
You can only hike 2 hours before low tide until 2 hours after low tide, so check the tide schedule carefully.
There are 3 sets of steps you must descend/ascend to get there.
We thought we could take the dog, but the last set is like a ladder, almost, and there was no way he could navigate them.
Although there are metal grates over some parts of the rocks below, and the seaweed has been cut away, it is still slippery, and difficult for those not used to walking on a rocky beach with wet stones. Take your time!
Once out there, the views are spectacular, and in the 15 minutes or so that we stood out there, we saw several minke whales, porpoises and seals.
The East Quoddy lighthouse is the second oldest lighthouse in New Brunswick!
More information about the lighthouse and hike
Marine Life Interpretation Centre and Seal Observatory
On a small off road before you get to the Bridge to Maine, is another lighthouse and the Marine Life Interpretation Centre. We didn’t know what to expect so we decided to check it out.
The Marine Life Centre is inside the red shed and has some interesting whale bones and information panels about the whales that are in the area. And, apparently, at high tide, seals can be seen on the beach below.
There is a lovely 5 minute walk on a gravel path around the point where the lighthouse sits.
We spent about 15 minutes in this area.
More about the Marine Life Interpretation Centre
Hike the Trails at the Roosevelt Campobello International Park
There are several trails to choose from, and many of the carriage roads can be biked.
We had thought about bringing our bikes, but instead opted to bring the dog (great choice!) and so decided to check out a few walking trails.
Friar’s Head Trail
The trails are well sign posted along the main road, so we turned off into the picnic area for Friar’s Head. There is a great observation platform (wheelchair accessible) where you can learn about the geology of the area.
You can either begin the trail at the Visitor’s Information Centre or from the viewing platform (like we did).
From the platform, it was a 0.3km hike down hill to the beach.
Because the tides were coming in, we couldn’t get around the bend to see the actual rock formation (and you can’t see it from the top because of the trees on the bank). We were here 2 hours past low tide, so try to go at low tide!
However, we did get a look at a salmon fishery in the bay!
On the way back, we cut through the picnic area (instead of going back up the steeper trail) and made a full loop of 1.1km.
More information about the Friar’s Head Trail
Eagle Hill Bog Trail
Although a hot day, we decided to walk the bog trail, and are really glad we did!
At the trail head you will find self-guided interpretation brochures. As you walk the trail, there are numbered sign that correspond with your brochure. Stop and read the interesting facts as you go through!
At the end of the trail, there is a great look-out spot where you can see the shape of the bog from above, and have a great view of the bay.
This hike was 1.3km and took us 30 minutes to complete. Despite being a bog, there were some shady spots! The vast majority of the trail is accessible except for the last bit to the observation deck.
More information on the Eagle Hill Bog Trail
Accommodations and Amenities
There are more amenities on Campobello Island than on Deer Island, including a small grocery store and a golf course!
We did not stay on Campobello Island, but rather Deer Island. Deer Island, because it is less touristy was cheaper, and after a 6hour+ drive and one ferry, we did not want to have to go further!
A list of Campobello Island accommodations and amenities is here.
Crossing the Bridge to Lubec, Maine
The boys really wanted to say they had been in the United States. With the current political climate, we weren’t sure what it would be like crossing the border. We also had the dog and head read a lot about what paperwork and shots were necessary. Needless to say, we were nervous crossing.
The following was our experience and may not reflect everyone’s experience:
It was so easy crossing the border into Lubec, Maine from Campobello Island!
Perhaps because it was a small border crossing, and we said we were planning on only staying a few hours, but it was no trouble going across with our passports.
- They did not ask for any paperwork about the dog; no rabies shot proof or health check (I did make sure we had a letter from our vet just in case, to show he was up to date on his shots and had a clean bill of health!)
In fact, the officer gave our dog a bone!
- Between Canada and the US they do not stamp your passports, or at least at this location. In fact, he didn’t even have a stamp. We asked.
He was so friendly, and gave us directions and pointed out a few things along our way!
Across the bridge (a 30 second drive) is the small community of Lubec.
We spent 30 minutes here, walking the tiny main street that was full of shops. We stopped for an ice cream, and the boys went into the cat shelter to play with some kittens.
From there, we went to the main grocery store and loaded up on pop and chocolate bars that we couldn’t get in Canada. We might have spent too much money on candy. I kept the receipt with me.
Driving the Loop
According to the border patrol officer, we were planning to “drive the loop.” That is, we were planning on driving from Lubec, Maine up to the border crossing at Calais, Maine into St. Stephen, New Brunswick.
This drive was only 1hour, and we figured we would spend less money on gas driving, than we would on the $32 fee to go back to Deer Island by ferry. And, gas is cheaper in the US!
This way, we could also load up on groceries in St. Stephen before heading back down to the ferry terminal to go back to Deer Island.
Advice for Traveling to Deer Island and Campobello Island
- Take your passports and drive across into the States!
- Print out a copy of the tide schedule. So many of the walks and activities are dependent upon the tide. Don’t miss out and plan ahead!
- Bring your dog. We spent 5 days full of activities, and didn’t have to worry about the dog. It’s definitely an outdoors place.
- Prepare for a slower pace. There is kayaking, beach combing, walking and many outdoor activities to do on your own schedule. Not everyone is prepared for “having nothing to do”, especially teenagers. There is far less to do on Deer Island than Campobello. So plan accordingly. It would be a great place to sit, read, write, relax – which is easier for adults and some kids than others. Know your traveling style.
- Decide your length of stay. You can explore Deer Island in 1 day and Campobello in 1-2 days. We weren’t sure how much time we needed, and so planned for 5 days, so ended up going to the mainland a few days.
- Be prepared for anything. Before we went, it was extremely difficult to find information on what to do and where to go. We asked a lot of questions and scouted many things out. We have listed them in this blog post in hopes it will help you plan your vacation.
Although, as the crow flies, or the whale swims, Campobello and Deer Island are not far from Digby and the Annapolis Valley, it was still great to explore the Bay of Fundy from “the other side.”
It was a great retreat, a unique experience, and a place we would recommend to others!
Top Travel Tips to Nova Scotia #Sponsored
Top Travel Tips to Nova Scotia #Sponsored
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post with information supplied to me about the best travel tips for Nova Scotia. These types of posts help offset the increasing fees associated with running Valley Family Fun.
Going to Nova Scotia is a brilliant idea but it’s also important to plan. You want to know what’s required to make the most of this beautiful province and all that it has to offer.
Those coming to the province for the first time will want to prepare properly. In this case, it makes sense to go with the following tips as you organize everything and put together a detailed checklist.
These tips will go a long way in making the trip amazing and will also provide a way to enjoy everything that happens in Nova Scotia.
1) Bring a Water Bottle
A water bottle is important for those looking to stay hydrated during their trip to Nova Scotia. It is all about walking around here and having a good water bottle is helpful.
Most people are going to want to walk around and soak in everything Nova Scotia has to offer, which is why the water bottle is essential. It’s something to rely on as soon as the temperature starts to increase during the warmer months. Having the safety of a good bottle isn’t going to hurt and it’ll be easy to carry around at the same time.
2) Pack Baby Wipes
This is one of those tips people don’t think about until they realize it’s just as important as anything else. In essence, the idea is to put together a small set of baby wipes that can be used when it is time to walk around Nova Scotia. You are going to want baby wipes as a way to stay clean especially if there are kids to deal with. You will want to have these in hand as you go to the different restaurants and try everything they have to offer.
You will love having baby wipes in hand at all times!
3) Bring a Quality Smartphone or Camera
With several beautiful sights in the area, you are going to want to take pictures as soon as you can. For some people, this means taking out their smartphone and snapping photos one after another. However, if you want to maximize what Nova Scotia is all about then it may be time to invest in a good camera.
This is going to be a wonderful way to take photos and will allow you to capture everything this province is famous for.
The beauty is impossible to beat and it is one of the main reasons people enjoy spending time in the region.
4) Sunscreen is Important
Sunscreen is a must for those looking to spend time at the park or the beach in Nova Scotia. The average person is going to be making the most of their trip to Nova Scotia and that means going out into the sun. In situations such as these, you have to be smart about what you are doing as no one likes sunburns.
By going with quality sunscreen and/or putting on a hat, you are going to stay safe at all times. This is essential as you hope to soak in the area’s sights.
5) Bring Out the Flip-Flops
Along with good shoes, you also want to make sure high-quality flip-flops are in hand.
The goal is to make walking easy in areas around the coastline. Flip-flops are good and will provide tremendous value as you settle in near the coastline.
Anything short of flip-flops won’t allow you to enjoy Nova Scotia’s attractions to the best of your ability. When the flip-flops are on, you can walk around and simply see different parts of Nova Scotia without having to think about your footwear. It’s all about comfort at the end of the day and it starts here.
Remember, planning is all about mixing things up and creating a proper list, which has to include flip-flops!
6) Find Well-Fitted Shoes for Walking
If you are going to be walking around at parks or near the beaches then it’s time to look at well-fitted shoes. It’s important to have footwear that can keep up with your demands as that is the only way to stay healthy. There is no reason to put additional stress on your feet as you walk on different surfaces around the province.
Having good footwear is essential wherever you go and the same applies here. Keep things simple and make sure you can enjoy everything the region has to offer.
The well-fitted shoes are going to become your best friend as time goes on.
7) Plan Ahead
There are several ways to travel through Nova Scotia and this is why people get confused or end up missing out. It’s not an area that can be explored by walking around and hoping for the best. While it’s possible to do so in some parts of Nova Scotia, other parts require a bit of planning. To make sure you don’t miss out on specific sights, it’s best to plan and create a simple checklist while in the area.
Final Thoughts
Nova Scotia is one of the most beautiful parts of Canada and brings in loads of tourists from around the world. It’s authentic, vibrant sights are gorgeous and provide a way to enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer. Those looking to visit Nova Scotia should look to keep these tips in mind before heading over. With these tips, it’ll become easier to roam around without having to worry about a single thing.
When it comes to traveling, nothing is better than being prepared.
Why You Should Spend Your Gap Year In Canada #sponsored
Why You Should Spend Your Gap Year In Canada
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post to share information with our readers, like why you should spend a gap year in Canada. Sponsored posts like these help to not only bring you great information, but offset any costs associated with the website.
Why You Should Spend Your Gap Year In Canada
Canada is a large country that offers a plethora of unique places for you to explore so you can have a memorable experience. From the Atlantic to the Pacific, and even deep into the Arctic Ocean, the country’s landscape is not only mesmerizing, but it is also unmatched among other countries around the world.
The country has such a large landmass with many areas have yet to be explored, so, if you are looking for the perfect way to spend your gap year, why not consider Canada?
What Is A Gap Year?
Although it is not normal for recent high school graduates in the United States to take a gap year, many other countries around the world embrace this idea, especially Canada.
So, what exactly is a gap year? It is simply the year after a person has graduated from high school. Students can also take a gap year during or after college as well. It is the time in which a student takes a break from school. Many people typically take one gap year, but it is up to each individual to do what is best for them.
One of the primary reasons people choose to take a gap year is because it gives them a chance to find out who they are. Also, taking this time will help a person perform better academically whenever they do decide to enroll in college.
Many people believe that the longer a person is away from an academic environment, the harder it will be for them when they return to school. However, statistics have shown that students who take a break during their studies improve their overall grade point average. Simply put, a break will:
- Help you find a career path you love
- Help you start school mentally refreshed
- Help you stay motivated
- Help you find a new passion or hobby
- Help you learn more about the world you live in
Students who take a gap year will quickly learn that there is a huge world outside of their social and physical boundaries. As society moves closer to being a global community, a gap year can provide the opportunity to interact with different cultures, learn new languages and travel the world. Some students take advantage of this opportunity by volunteering abroad or partaking in environmental volunteering in different countries.
With that said, why should a person choose to take their gap year in Canada?
Canada Is The Ultimate Destination For Travelers
By far, Canada offers more sights and adventure than its neighbors to the south (The United States and Mexico). Whether it is exploring the mountain peaks, or simply letting your journey take you through the streets of Montreal, Canada is the second-largest country on the map with tons of natural and man-made beauty. It should be included on any gap year travel bucket list.
Become A Ski Instructor
If you enjoy the cold weather of winter, Canada is the travel destination for you. However, while you are enjoying the cold and snowy conditions, you can also get trained, get hired and get paid for your services.
In less than two months you can train to become a CSIA Level 1 Ski Instructor in Whistler Blackcomb. Once you are trained, you can get hired and teach adults and children how to ski during the entire season.
Work In The Canadian Rockies
For those who are looking for the best balance of working hard and playing hard, there are always employment opportunities in Canada’s hospitality industry.
In fact, you can almost guarantee employment in one of the hotels in the Canadian Rockies before you even arrive in Canada. This type of job will allow you to enjoy snowboarding and skiing on the days you do not have to punch in at the time clock.
The jobs that are available for most students taking a gap year are entry-level positions such as:
- Housekeeping
- Dishwashing
- Cleaning tables
- Host/Hostess
- Waitstaff
Working during the ski season in the Canadian Rockies is an experience that many wait a lifetime for. Not only will you be able to socialize and meet new people during your gap year, but it will also be a great way to boost your resume when you are ready to attend college or get a job in your chosen career path.
However, keep in mind that you will need to obtain a Canadian Working Holiday Permit before you apply for a job. Since it can take some time getting this type of permit, it is best to begin the permit application process so you will not have to deal with any delays when seeking employment.
Internships
Are you looking for a business-related internship that will give you real-world knowledge of the business world? Look no further than the Intern Group. This is the best way to get ahead in business by creating a powerful business network. The bonus is that you can do this while still enjoying your gap year.
With the internship program that is in Canada, you will not only get plenty of professional development, but you also learn about cultural immersion.
Toronto is one of the international hubs in Canada for human resources, culture, business, and finance. This program is offered in Toronto several times a year.
It is important to keep in mind that not everyone who applies for this program is accepted. However, if you are accepted, you should be prepared to have the business and internship experience of a lifetime.
Gap Year With A Purpose
Maybe you have chosen to volunteer or surround yourself with the arts during your gap year instead of work. There are plenty of volunteering programs to choose from in Canada.
One of these programs is Up With People. This offers a multi-destination gap year for participants who are interested in volunteering, arts, theater or social action.
This company offers students a learning experience that is in-depth and experiential. Once you have completed the program, you will be able to navigate the complexities of the world in both your personal and professional lives.
Programs begin in January and July every year, and they highlight:
- International Travel
- Cultural Immersion
- Academic Credit
- Volunteering Abroad
Gap years have become more common as students are no longer feeling required to continue their educations on someone else’s terms. Students are realizing they can live their lives traveling the world, and these travels will help them to become better students and better global citizens.
Canada is a beautiful country with so much to offer travelers who are ready to embrace their gap year and all the experiences that are waiting for them.
