Day 13: Woodstock to Montreal

With 7 hours of driving ahead of us and only one stop on the list for the day we hit the road at 9 am. About 20 minutes north of Woodstock, Vicky noticed a sign with a covered bridge symbol so we decided

to check it out. We drove into Heartland, NB on the longest covered bridge in the world (1282 ft). We considered checking out the Covered Bridge Chip factory but it was a little early for chips. Back on the road we saw a sign advertising the 'World French Fry Capital' and it turns out 1/3 of the world's fries come from the McCain Factory in Florenceville-Bristol. Our only planned stop was for a zip-line at Grand Falls but it was closed for repairs, took a couple photos and back on the road. Shortly after crossing into Quebec, we saw an exit sign that had us laughing, Saint-Louis-du-Ha!Ha!, seemed like a strange name so of course we took the exit to check it out. Turns out its a parish municipality and 'haha' is an archaic French word for an unexpected obstacle or abruptly ending path but after a couple hours of staring at farmland and driving through construction zones it seemed pretty hilarious.
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Day 12: Saint John to Woodstock

Up early this morning to witness the Reversing Falls. We read that it was best to try to go three times to see the rapids at high,

low and slack tide. At high tide the Bay of Fundy flows up into the Saint John River, the rapids were visibly flowing upriver when we arrived and in places the water appeared almost still.  After breakfast we went back to see the more turbulent rapids as the water went back out to the bay. Mid morning we headed to St. Martins to visit the natural sea caves and drive the Fundy Trail Parkway. The caves were accessed by a narrow creek
crossing and watching people try to get across was pretty entertaining in it's own right. Gary even had to rescue one Croc, then the other from a woman who decided to cross at a slightly deeper point. We drove back through Saint John to catch the rapids at low tide then headed up through Fredericton to Woodstock for the night.

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Day 11: Bay of Fundy

Enjoyed a delicious breakfast buffet to start the day. This morning we spent 1.5 hours exploring the Citadel, visiting the many rooms within and below its walls. We walked the dark narrow

passages between bunkers and enjoyed the military museum with displays from the 17th century to present. Drove north to Joggins Fossil Cliffs where we traveled back 300,000,000 years to when horsetails were 10 m tall. We took a 30 min tour and were shown a variety of different fossils, then spent some time looking on our own. There were examples everywhere because
they continuously fall from the eroding cliffs. The area is also the site of a former coal mine so we were able to see intact coal seams which was very cool. We continued driving along the Bay of Fundy to Saint John. Made a quick stop at Hopewell Rocks to see what the area looks like at high tide and paused for photos at an old covered bridge.
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Day 10: Cape Breton to Halifax

Up early to check out St. Peter's Canal then on the road to Lunenberg, our farthest destination on the South Shore. We drove the coast back

to Peggy's Cove enjoying many scenic coastline stops. The setting of the Cove was beautiful, set out on a granite point with bedrock out crops and low coastal vegetation encompassing the town. A stop at the Swiss Flight 111 memorial was very cool to see how they used local granite to build the site. On to Halifax where we walked the harbour area and tried to visit the Citadel (which was closed). Checked into the BW Chocolate Lake, they have a Chocolate lab ambassador and we have a very nice king room overlooking the lake for the evening.

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Day 09: Cape Breton North to South

Woke up to partial cloudy with a hint of blue sky trying to break through. Down to the wharf to see the Lobster catch offload and on the road. Today's tour was courtesy of our host, Elizabeth who gave us a few hints about what to see. First stop was MacIntosh Brook,
a quick stroll through a deciduous forest to a small waterfall where we made use of our best mosquito evading maneuvers while capturing a few shots. Then to Beulach Ban Falls which we may have missed had they not been recommended by our host, Elizabeth at Popular BnB. We crossed many bridges throughout the day and Vicky was very excited to spot two large moose in a creek/wetland area.  We stopped for some pictures, as did several other cars. Next stop was White Point Island, a beautiful rocky point covered in low growing plants which reminded us of alpine hiking back home.
On to Baddeck, the home of Alexander Graham Bell, here we toured the museum during which we asked each other 'what didn't he study, invent or think of'. We passed several small scenic villages throughout the day and one of our last stops was Louisbourg, We didn't get to tour the Fortress but stopped at the lighthouse for a few more pictures. Several more small picturesque villages as we made our way to St Peter's for the night.
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Day 08: PEI to Cape Breton, NS

Early departure from Charlottetown en-route to Pleasant Bay, NS on the northeast shore of Cape Breton. A little smokey and the bandit maneuver was required along the way to avoid an additional expense we weren't looking for - thank goodness for the red soil racing stripes we acquired on PEI and a local car wash at the first exit, that's all we'll say to avoid self incrimination. Another scenic drive along the coast, enjoying many great vistas. We arrived just in time to catch Captain Mark's afternoon whale watching tour. Heading out on almost perfectly calm seas, geared up in our Mustang Survival suits, our Tour Guide/Captain received some inside info from a fisherman offshore. Taking advantage of the good seas we took off in the Zodiac and ventured the 15 km to try and get a glimpse of the elusive Fin whale. Although we found many Minke whales our Captain was feeling frustrated that he may have taken us too far trying to find the Fin whale as we were all starting to get cold.
A radio call from base wondering where we were indicated it was time to head back. One last loop and there was the spot we had been looking for for the last 30 minutes. Captain raced the Zodiac 300m farther offshore and we got the Fin whale sighting we were hoping for. Dinner at the Rusty Anchor where Gary enjoyed another lobster feast and we both indulged in the homemade desserts. Checked in to the Poplar B&B for a good nights rest.

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Day 07: PEI Central to East Coast

Today we toured according to recommendations of our hotel host, Reg.  Our first stop was Victoria-by-the -sea, a scenic coastal stop that is home to the largest elm tree on the island (at least it was in 2010). Next we headed north to Cavendish, the home of Anne of Green Gables, neither of us have read the book or seen the show but figured it was worth a stop and a mention. Continuing on the Points East Coastal Drive we enjoyed lunch at Rick's Fish and Chips in St. Peter's Bay, then headed to the East Point lighthouse where the winds were ripping and Gary took some cool timelapse shots. We continued along the coast till mid afternoon then headed back to Charlottetown to take in some history.

We took a quick tour of Province House where the  Charlottetown Conference was held in 1864 then visited St. Dunstan's Basilica. We actually sat down for dinner at Water Prince Corner Shop, a small but very popular seafood restaurant where reservations are a must. Gary enjoyed the Water Prince Platter stacked with a 1/2 lobster, scallops and mussels then we headed to Cows for a dish of ice cream to finish the day.

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Day 06: Moncton to Charlottetown

Up early this morning to head to Hopewell Rocks for low tide. Walked along the beach and explored the Flower pot rocks which have been sculpted by the highest tides in the world. We were almost done when it started to rain. Vicky managed to get good and muddy going around the rocks and needed a good shoe/pant rinse with the hose back at the top. By the time we got in the car we were good and wet. With the heat cranked to dry things out, we made our way to PEI crossing Confederation Bridge around noon.

We spent the afternoon driving the North Cape Coastal route, lots of red soil fields, cliff banks and sand. Stopped at a few lighthouses and got up close to the windmills at the northern tip. Checked in to the Tailor Shop Historic Hotel in Charlottetown for the night which puts us in a good position for travel on foot tomorrow.
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Day 05: Gaspé to Moncton

The hotel was across from the tallest light house in Canada so that was the first photo of the day. We enjoyed breakfast in the sun overlooking the ocean then hit the road. Arrived Percé Rock mid morning and drove to the point that seemed the most logical for the walking path down to the rock. We were correct except for the fact that they had removed the stairs to the beach due to erosion and safety. It was the shortest way to get to where we wanted to go so we grabbed the cameras, climbed around the fence and made our way to the beach. We walked the shore to get some great pics then climbed the hill on the other side to get back to the car. Drove the coast with a few more stops till we hit New Brunswick then took the freeway to Moncton where we spent the night.
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Day 04: Quebec City to Gaspé

After driving around the upper city last night, we had a good idea of where we wanted to go. We parked at Chateau Frontenac and walked up toward the wall and wandered the streets.
We walked along the boardwalk in front of the Chateau to the Governor's Garden then hoped in the car and drove down to lower Quebec with a stop at Saint-Michel de Sillery for a few photos. Around noon we left Quebec City on our 8 hour drive to Gaspe. Although we've never driven across the prairies, I expect that the scenery would be similar, lots of agricultural land and some low rolling hills. Gary used his skills from the go cart track again until we hit the coast. We made a few stops along the way, following a scenic driving tour we downloaded from http://www.quebecmusts.com/. Stopped for sunset photos and were joined by two very excited Bernese Mountain Dogs who were happy to have visitors. Arrived at Motel to Haute Phare around 9:30, checked in and sorted out the tidal details for the trip to Percé Rock.

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Day 02-03: Wedding Weekend

It was a whirlwind weekend of activities. Perfectly fitting for the wedding couple.... :)  We enjoyed the Bride's Barbeque and bonfire with s'mores by the lake Friday evening and had Saturday to explore Tremblant with a beautiful ceremony by the lake in the afternoon. The weather didn't want to cooperate so the guests filed two by two down to the lake shore holding umbrellas. It was just a drizzle, enough to make the day especially memorable. Finished Saturday off with a great dinner and dance early into the morning to celebrate the day.

  Sunday we headed out to explore the village. Went to the Creperie for breakfast, then up to the Luge track where the men and kids signed up for 3 runs. The ladies enjoyed the sun and got some great photos as the guys went cruising by. After the luge the guys were inspired to hit the go cart track, 12 laps and a couple spin outs later we were on our way to Quebec City. All that racing (cominbed with a later departure) inspired Gary to see what the 300 could do. We arrived in Quebec City around 9 and decided to check out Old Quebec at night.
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Day 01: Montreal to Mont Tremblant

Arrived late (or early) and picked up the rental car - Chrysler 300 with all the bells an whistles. Just what we need to begin our Atlantic Tour. Up at 7 am for breakfast with D&M which was a bit rough with the time change. After a couple cups of coffee we were all ready to hit the road, D&M headed up to Mont Tremblant and we had a bit of shopping and a lunch stop to make so headed downtown. It was Grand Prix weekend and traffic was a little backed up. We caught a glimpse of what looked like an F1 car parked on a blocked side street so we decided to check it out.  There were several Mercedes vehicles parked along the street and a Mercedes F1 tire change challenge sponsored by Blackberry where a pit crew taught teams how to change tires. After a quick stroll we headed to Schwartz's for smoked meat sandwiches (had to do take-out because the line was long even at 2 pm). It was a serious stack of meat on a single slice of bread with a little mustard - delicious!

Back in the car we were off to Tremblant which was an epic 4 hour journey after an earlier accident caused quite a back up. We arrived at Quintessence, easily the nicest hotel we've ever stayed in. We had a large suite with fireplace, claw-foot tub and balcony over looking the lake. Amazing setting for the upcoming wedding.

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Phoenix Day 03: Spring Training

Started the day with a little shopping. G was the chauffeur and Dan stayed back to harvest grapefruit, only 4 boxes so far. Girls did not have too much luck but we managed to find some great camo shorts for Chief. Back for a quick bite to eat and off to the ball game, Oakland A's vs. Cleveland Indians. Amazing first row seats in front of 3rd base where we got intimate with only one line drive. :) The third base coach was entertaining to watch and inside commentary by Don cleared up some bock and steeling questions. (Thanks for the great tickets).  A little hot by the 5th inning so we had to depart our seats for some shade and of course enjoy ballpark franks and ice cream to round out the experience. Finished off the day with a very cool engagement video from M and A and then out for an amazing dinner at Mastro's Ocean Club. Great finish to an exciting, action packed 3 days.

Phoenix Day 02: Cardio Challenge

Pre-breakfast bird watching where we tried to get up close and personal with the quail. Enjoyed breakfast on the patio with Mark and Amanda and watched Marvin, the neighbour, harvest grapefruit (D&M receive many of their grapefruit from Marvin and he happened to notice they had extra guests so thought he'd get a few more). Off for another hike, not as scenic as yesterday but a bit more of a cardio workout. Mark and Vicky took off in the later half for an up, down and up again challenge and enjoyed a relax in the sun before everyone caught up. A straight decent back to the parking lot and back to the house for a lunch buffet in the sun (30'C today). Girls and Guys night out, Guys to the Red Wings and Coyotes game - Girls for dinner and a movie.
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Phoenix Day 01: Hiking in the Desert

Up early this morning to go for a hike before it got too warm. Enjoyed Marion's muffins and some fresh grapefruit for breakfast then hit the road. Hike option 1 was foiled because of a once a month 'Silent Sunday' where motorized vehicles are not allowed to access up the road to Buena Vista Lookout. We turned around and headed up Mormon Trail to Fat Man Pass which Vicky thought would be better named Dessert Crack (if you can't fit through no dessert for you!). Had a great time taking photos of the desert landscape and wildlife. Back to the house for lunch in the sun then off to the dive shop to look for new masks. A stop at Starbucks for afternoon Frappucinos and a delicious dinner - venison on the BBQ, garlic bread and salad (only one, if you can believe it).

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Day 14: Drying Out

Up at the crack of dawn for another Parrot Reserve expedition. Saw a beautiful sunrise on the way but did not manage to catch a glimpse of the elusive Brac Parrot. Spent the morning thoroughly rinsing all the gear and letting it bake in the sun for the day (we always come back a few pounds heavier due to the moisture retained in our suits so did our best to get them dry). Drove back to NIM Things in the afternoon to pick up some jewelry and took a picture of Polly the parrot. Spent an hour by the pool, caught our last sunset then headed to Brac Reef for the barbeque buffet with the crew from the Brac Scuba Shack.
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Nani (Chandelier) Cave

Find Vicky ('s). Not telling how many???
Interactive Panorama - click and select full screen.

Day 13: Valentine's Variety

Up extra early this morning to catch sunrise on the bluff. We left a little later than hoped but made it in time to catch the sun coming through the clouds. Next a walk on Bight Road in the hopes of catching a glimpse of the Brac Parrot at the edge of the Parrot Preserve. Unfortunately, the only picture of the bird we got is the one on the information board in the parking area but we did enjoy the walk in the forest. We stopped at Nani Cave (aka Chandelier Cave because of the stalactites). Spent an hour exploring, taking photos and making music (we were told to try tapping on the stalactites by one of the band members from last night...so we did). Back to the apartment for a late breakfast then off to 'Radar Reef' for a shore dive. We found the dolphin and stingray statue but did not make it to Atlantis. Saw a green moray eel out on a swim and were super excited as it's something you don't typically see swimming about for any length of time (video to come). Back at the dive shop they said the eel was a resident and we figured that with all the lionfish spearing that happens in the area, he heard us and came looking for a free meal. Late lunch and siesta then night dive back at 'Radar Reef'. Not too much fish action but saw two small rays, a southern stingray, couple lobsters and a small octopus. The octopus was on a small coral head in shallow water and while we were hovering above him a large southern stingray swam between us and the octopus, we think he was as spooked by us as we were by him. Late dinner of cold chicken, ginger coconut ceviche (courtesy of Rox&Phil, our dive guides/neighbours) and crackers n' cheese.
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Day 12: Birthdays and Jerk Chicken

Another two dive day, 'Cemetery Wall' and 'Greenhouse Channels'. Sandy bottom channel took us out to the wall around 90 ft. We had several trailing groupers looking for a free meal, saw a large green moray and small goldentail moray. The second site had more algae growth and tonnes of fish. It was a great shallower dive with many coral fingers to explore.

Saw a porcupine fish in the coral all spiked out which was pretty cool, typically they are just cruisin' along (spikes flat on body). Grabbed some of Barry's jerk chicken for dinner then headed over to 'Secluded Sunsets' for a Birthday party with some of the guys we were diving with (father and his newly certified sons from Calgary). Enjoyed cake and music on the beach. Finsished the night off having drinks with the Brac Scuba Shack crew for Martin's (owner) Bday at the Captains table.
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Cayman Brac Skull Cave

Interactive Panorama - click and select full screen.

Day 11: Sunrise Sunset

Up and out for sunrise. Vicky enjoyed a cup of coffee and her Kindle on the balcony while Gary snuck down to the hammock and snapped a few photos from the beach. First dive at 'East Channel' where we took a sandy bottom swim through out to the coral wall around 100 ft. Second dive was at an unnamed site which one of the boys we were diving with suggested 'Lionfish Graveyard' due to the 13 lionfish that met there demise onsite. Highlights for the day were our first crab sighting, a school of baracuda, an anemone, and an overall large variety of fish on the second site. We decided to have lunch out - burgs, fries and a coke at the Captains Table - excellent! Afternoon siesta, a little reading and another beautiful sunset.
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Day 10: Tropical Rain

Got out of bed early to see the sunrise but the weather didn't agree. Rain on and off and two separate power outages left us with PBJs for breakfast (fortunately the coffee was on first thing so Vicky was caffeinated). The skies broke up quickly and we hit the rough seas on schedule. The first dive was at 'Buckaneer' where we saw a cool juvenile Bearded fireworm, loads of shrimp, two different Southern stingrays (both with a trailing jack) and an Eagle ray in the distance. Second dive at 'Stingray Tower' where there were several large Nassau groupers and a juvenile Goldentail eel amongst all the usual suspects. After our dive, we drove over to 'Secluded Sunsets' to drop off the cooler we borrowed, then up to the bakery for fresh dinner buns. Stopped at Skull Cave on the way back, this one had  bats but they were too far above for a good photo. Back to the condo for dinner and sunset. Two more dives tomorrow.
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Day 09: R&R!

A day of reading and relaxation. Thats it nothing more. 

Hope your expectations were not too high. :)

Day 08: Caves and Boobies

This morning we left our neighbours at Secluded Sunsets and headed across the island to Carib Sands. After settling in we decided to head out on a terrestrial adventure. Gary checked out the map, marked some waypoints and we were off. First stop was Bat Cave which was a fairly large cave that unfortunately did not contain any bats (we searched thoroughly). The second was one of the largest caves, Great Cave, which is situated in the bluff at the end of the road on the south coast. After a short tour of the cave I decided to head toward the ocean and cool off in the breeze while G took a few more pictures (actually it was a stronger wind but breeze sounds more inviting). Next we headed to the top of the bluff to the Lighthouse in search of the Brown boobies that nest on the cliff side. We were lucky to come across a couple nests where we spent time with the birds and got some great pictures and video.  The last cave we visited was Peter's Cave (left). Situated in the bluff above Spot Bay, where it still provides shelter during hurricanes.
Enjoyed a sunset on the bluff and then headed back.

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Day 07: Wreck and Relax

Coconut French Toast for breakfast, the slightly heavier bread soaked up the egg mixture well and after adding some butter and syrup it was delicious! Lounged by the pool late morning and after lunch decided we'd dive the wreck - the M/V Keith Tibbetts.
We jumped in at Buckaneer slip and used the Bladefish 5000 DPV to help take us out along the surface to the stern buoy approx. 300 m offshore. From the surface we could see the two gun turrets, we descended the stern line and began exploring the ship. We swam the full length and Gary lead the way as we navigated an inner passage through a small section of the wreck to find the large resident grouper. Saw a few barracuda, loads of garden eels and the largest french angelfish we've ever seen. The boat had many sponges and a surprising variety of fish. We made our way back to shore over the sandy bottom and spotted a Southern stingray feeding on something in the sand. Gary took off towards him and managed to get some great close ups following close behind as he and his opportunistic friend made a break for it. Spent the rest of the afternoon with our neighbours by the pool then had BBQ buffet at the Brac Reef Resort. Moving day tomorrow, we change locations to the other side of the island.

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