Summer 2007

My travel blog is officially back from summer hiatus. I took only one trip of note from this summer -- an extra-long Canada Day weekend to celebrate the wedding of Steve's father in Pictou County, Nova Scotia.

This was a very relaxing trip, and it was great to be there to celebrate Robert and Nicole's wedding. It was also nice to spend time with the entire Meyer-Roy clan. This is something that doesn't happen very often, and is unlikely to happen again soon with Andrea's 2-3 year posting to the Middle East.

We traveled with Porter Airlines the first day it flew from Ottawa to Halifax. This is a great airline that also flies in to Toronto Island (providing convenient access to downtown Toronto). If you get the chance to travel with Porter, be sure to take advantage of it. It is a regional airline for now, but they are planning to expand to other destinations in the near future. The rates are very good -- especially if you can book one week or more in advance.

If you should ever find yourself in Pictou County, here are a few places to check out:

Pictou Lodge - The food and hospitality in the restaurant are fantastic, and the prices are very reasonable. We also went sea kayaking from the lodge. I found the kayaking rates a bit pricey. We went on a crystal-clear day and had several close encounters with the sea lions. Accommodations are also available at the lodge and in cottages on the property.

Grohmann Knives has been making hand-crafted kitchen and hunting knives since 1961. Grohmann Knives are internationally-known, and have won several honors over the years. They employ about 25 people in their downtown Pictou factory. Free factory tours are available, but you should book ahead to avoid disappointment (same day bookings are fine).

Lobster Hatchery - This is a very interesting initiative that's working to increase the number of lobsters in the area while also providing a venue to educate the public. Further nformation can be found on the Northumberland Fisheries Museum web site.

Pictou County Cycle - An excellent bike shop in New Glasgow. Friendly and knowledgeable staff, and great bikes and gear.