The Spectacle Of The Tall Ships Is Nothing Short Of Awesome

July 2007, the Tall Ships Challenge will again be ‘happening’ in Nova Scotia – 30 ships from six-countries will be competing. From July 13th to July 16th the Ships will be on display at the Halifax waterfront. From 16th to 23rd, visitors at the ports of Cape Breton and the South Shore can witness this outstanding show. More ports will be added in time.

Tickets (daily or weekend passes) are available to tour each ship and to meet the crew while the ship is in port. The main purpose to the show is to bring historical traditions to life and art of racing.

The Race provides practice for sail training programs. Crew members range in age between 13 and 25 but they are guided by professional captains and crewmembers – the main purpose is to help to re-introduce the past into the present world.

Brief history reveals that the ‘Tall Ship Challenge’ began in 2001 on the Great Lakes with 30 vessels from 6 countries. By 2002 over 60 vessels competed from the Pacific Coast to North America. It again occurred in 2003; in 2004 10-countries competed and in 2005 the Ships returned to the Pacific Coast. John and I saw the 2002 Event in Halifax and it was nothing less than awesome.

For more details click here

For a selection of pictures of ship in full sale click here

Decadent Sugar Pie Topped Off Our Meal At The Sugar Shack

A visit to Quebec City is not complete without a tour of a Sugar Bush that includes a typical Quebecois meal.

Several years ago the highlight of an RV Rally to this impressive location was a visit to the ‘Sugar Shack’. What an awesome experience. Learning about traditions, heritage, plus how the maple sap was collected and processed according to methods handed down from Native Peoples to the European settlers was very informative.



Our traditional French meal served family style at long tables featured a selection of pea soup, boiled potatoes, baked beans, maple-ham, meat pies, sausages, eggs and crepes. Toe-tapping, thigh-slapping French Canadian music complimented the party ambiance. The ultimate finale to our meal was a decadent slice of melt in your mouth ‘Sugar Pie’.




The sweet taste of maple toffee poured hot onto snow to cool added a special indulgence. Depending on the season, sleigh rides may be offered, Normal sugaring-off season is from March 1st to May 1st, although some Sugar Shacks are open year round.





Pictures are from the Quebec region site




On your next visit to Quebec add this event to the top of your ‘must-do’ list. Click here and to learn more.

Where is Lloydminster located?

Lloydminster is a Canadian city with the unusual geographic distinction. It straddles a provincial border. Lloydminster is not a pair of twin cities on opposite sides of a border that share the same name, instead it is incorporated as a single city under the same municipal administration.

Lloydminster, Alberta OR Lloydminster, Saskatchewan

image by Arnaud Leroy, 31 March 2006Source: Lloydminster town hall

The provincial border runs north to south following 50th Avenue (Meridian Avenue) in the direct centre of Lloydminster. Those living east of 50th Ave are in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan and those with addresses west of 50th Ave live in Lloydminster, Alberta.

These Unique boundries also encompass two Time Zones. To simplify things Central Time of Alberta is used however individual rules such as ‘no smoking’ in restaurants apply to the province where the establishment is actually located. Read the full story here

Regina, the capitol of Saskatchewan is home to more trees than citizens.

This city offers major attractions, parklands, colourful heritage, outstanding shopping, fine dining plus theatre, set in peaceful serene surroundings.

However Regina’s main claim to fame is Canada’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) training centre . The RCMP have called Regina home since the late 1800’s. One evening each week during July to mid August, this prestige police force performs a special 'Sunset Ceremony' – renowned as one of Canada’s top 20 attractions.

RCMP pictures were taken by me, Peggi, during a 'Musical Ride' performance we watched in southwestern Ontario

The RCMP's prestigious Centennial Museum is open for tours - their new $30 million RCMP Heritage Centre will also be open when completed during summer 2007.

Click here for Regina Tourism and here for RCMP Sunset Ceremony

Camp In An Incredible Mountain Village Just Minutes From Banff, Alberta

Is a western adventure in the cards in the near future? Do not miss a stop at Canmore, Alberta. This pictographic mountain village is located minutes from Banff and only 1.5 hours from Calgary – just off the Trans-Canada highway.

Although Canmore began as a coal mining town, this Alpine style village emerged as a world renowned stopping spot after hosting the Nordic events for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. Only then did it evolve into a world-class, four-season destination complete with quality accommodations and eateries; including a ‘Big Rig’ campground.

Visitors to Canmore continually comment on the quality and the friendliness of this remarkable retreat. No matter which direction you look, breathtaking scenery simply personifies the term of a true mountain village. What a perfect place to roost while you explore and discover the sites and sounds of the Canadian Rockies.

Click here for details of the full-service Spring Creek RV Campground

Click here for general Canmore info

Click here for amazing images of this unique Mountain Village

Ride a Ferry to PEI and Return By Bridge to New Brunswick.

Prince Edward Island may be Canada’s smallest province, but it is huge on hospitality. This ‘Gentle Island’ is proud of their long bridge, immense greenery cradled by waves of the Gulf of St Lawrence. Extensive red rock sandstone cliffs enhance a rolling landscape that’s outlined with miles of sandy beaches.

Golf courses are second to none plus a never-ending selection of adventurous activities such as birding, biking, hiking, boating and deep-sea fishing ensures that your first visit may not be your last.

Take a leisurly walking tour of downtown Charlottetown to learn about Canada’s Birthplace; touch base with Anne of Green Gables; or enjoy an endless supply of tasty seafood - especially PEI Muscles.


Quality private campgrounds and 11 Provincial Parks are situated throughout the Island. However because the Maritime Provinces are popular caravan destinations, reservations are recommended.

To add to the adventure, drivers only pay a fee when they leave the Island – so the majority of RVers choose the relaxed 1.5 hour ferry cruise to PEI and return to the mainland via the 13 km (9-mile) one-of a kind bridge that ends in New Brunswick. The ferry departs from Cariboo, Nova Scotia. Is this your year to add this tiny gem to your travels?

Full details are available here

Visit Boissevain, Manitoba and ‘Talk’ to the Giant ‘ Tommy the Turtle’

Recently I highlighted the impressive International Peace Gardens on the border of Manitoba and North Dakota as a ‘must-see’ stop. However the picturesque garden town of Boissevain nestles a few km north – its definitely another ‘don’t miss’ destination.

Besides being greeted by a 28 foot, 10,000 lb ‘talking’ Turtle in front of the Tourist Centre, this quaint community is famous for 20 historical Murals (tours are available), plus it is also a bird watching, golfing, hunting and fishing utopia. The Chokecherry Junction Model Railroad display is another popular stopping spot.

Settling into the Boissevain Campground with its drive-thru sites (electric only) or at the nearby Turtle Mountain Provincial Park (no services) provide a perfect kick-off point to tour a variety of additional area high points and/or to participate in local festivals.

Boissevain has so much to offer – click here for full details.

Qu’appelle Valley in Saskatchewan is indeed a ‘Valley of Legend'

Just 20 minutes north of the Trans-Canada Highway near Regina; the flat lands of Saskatchewan Prairies transform into fertile steep-sided valleys. Indian legends, glaciers and fur traders all have a place in the ancient history surrounding this beautiful lush 160-mile chain of lakes. Many cross Canada 'east-west' travellers will miss this bit of paradise.

Hills, valleys, beaches, forests and rivers have become a popular playground for many nearby Regina residents. Water sports and activities abound in both summer and winter – its also one of the best hang-gliding locales between Ontario and the Rockies.

The nearby town of Fort Qu'Appelle nestles between two provincial parks – shops, beaches, and amenities keep its 2000 inhabitants busy. Each September, different Native American Bands gather to enjoy fellowship and discuss trading and hunting business. Read more here - and here (pictures too)

Fort Qu'Appelle Campground is a short 5-minute walk to downtown, and to the Echo Ridge Golf Course. Campsites range from $20.(no service) $25.(15-Amp) $30. (30-Amp). Additional local RV Park Details click here

The Royal Nova Scotia Military Tattoo In Halifax Is A Show Not To Be Missed.

Each July 1st on Canada Day in Halifax, Nova Scotia, International Military Forces join with their Civilian counterparts to introduce another fantastic extravaganza.



Since 1979, men and women of Canada’s three services and visiting forces from around the world, plus civilians, have presented an ever-changing magical display designed to entertain the entire family. An excess of 2000 participants choreograph dance, drama, gymnastics, military displays and much more for over 60,000 people during its week long run at the Halifax Metro Centre.


Performers from Australia, Belgium, Bermuda, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Kenya, Korea, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States of America join forces to produce a ‘one-of-a-kind’ indoor show that is referred to as Canada’s Best Kept Secret. Measha Brueggergosman is this year’s future performer.


For info (and pictures) on the show go here. For ticket prices (group rates available) call (902) 451-1221 Monday to Friday, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm, Atlantic time or go here

Bucars U Offers 'Drive Thru De-Winterizing Service' To Assist A 'City Food Drive'.

Bucars RV Centre in Calgary, Alberta is Canada’s largest full-service western RV dealer. Through their new ‘Bucars U’ they strive to educate RVers by presenting a series of seminars and workshops each month. Topic for April 14th, explains how to De-winterize RV’s.

The following weekend on the 21st April, RVers can bring their RV to the dealership to receive a ‘$20.00 Drive-thru De-winterizing Service’ as long as they include a donation of 4-non-perishable items for the Calgary Food Bank. Bucars U wanted to help RVers as well as give back to the community.

Bucars U has launched a new approach to RV training that is absolutely FREE plus it is open to everyone! Each month a different seminar topic is promoted. To sign up for one or more seminars, see the registration form at the bottom of the Bucars U info page. Why not bring a friend with you? Click here for more details.

Why Not Combine A Safe RVing Course With The Joys Of A Caravan?

Each spring Explore Canada Caravans based in Ontario Canada adds a learning twist to the wonders of travelling in a caravan. Owners Dan and Roberta teach the basics of Safe RVing through a complex series of seminars, presentations, demonstrations and videos plus during the 6-day excursion, attendees also learn the joys of caravan life. This full service event also includes three stops in southeast Ontario, many meals, all camping costs, breakdown assistance and so much more. May 11th-16 there is still time to sign up.

Just come and enjoy - Why not give Dan a call- there is still time? Details here or Call (613) 489-2132

The Tunnels Of Moose Jaw Come To Life With Actor Guided Tours

What do Al Capone, prohibition, gambling, prostitution, speakeasy’s, rum running, Chinese immigrants, Canadian head tax, crooked police force and much more have in common? - the folklore surrounding Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan’s extensive tunnels.


During two humorous and informative tours, actor guides provide a picturesque peak into life as it was during the troubled, yet free and easy times of the 1920’s and '30s.

Neither tour should be missed.

John and I explored this wonder about 10-years ago, but history has uncovered more folklore. We can not wait to repeat these tours this coming summer. Definitely a 'Must-see' attraction.

Details here (Banners are from this site) Pricing listed here

Canada’s RV Owners Lifestyle Seminar School will take place from June 22-24, 2007.

Many RVers are familiar with the informative RV Life on Wheels Educational Conferences that are held in five different areas across the USA each year. However only a few RVers are aware that Canada also hosts a similar type of course at the Okanagan University/College in Kelowna BC.


The RV Owners Lifestyle Seminar School is a 3-day immersion course consisting of approximately 50 seminars covering a wide range of topics plus 4 days of dry camping on the college campus. All of only $150.00 per person (Cdn tax included).




Peggi teaching one of her many seminars at this informative school.


This learning event is one not to be missed – registration cut off date is May 31st. Full details listed here or call 250-862-5457 (ask for Al Cohoe)

Mystery spot baffles visitors

Don't miss Magnetic Hill on your next visit to Canada's Maritimes.

New Brunswick is affectionately referred to as the ‘Picture Province’ – it definitely lives up to its name. It is also home to the 'Reversing Falls', the ability to 'Walk on the Ocean Floor' – and to my favourite; 'Magnetic Hill' .

I couldn’t believe the feeling the day I stopped our car at the bottom of the hill, put it in neutral and coasted to the top. Our visit was in the Fall during quiet time – so I was able to repeat this adventure over and over again. It was 'awesome'. The Magnetic Hill Theme Park adds to your adventure

To watch a video of this phenomenon in action go here.

For location info and to learn more about the wonders of NB click here. (Picture is from this site)

Area Campgrounds can be found here. Rates range from $18.00 (unserviced) to $30.00 (full-service). It is wise to always call for reservations at these popular parks.

NOVA SCOTIA’S PROVINCIAL PARKS

THE SOLITUDE AND WONDER OF NOVA SCOTIA’S PROVINCIAL PARKS

Now that April has arrived, park staff are ready to record reservations in Nova Scotia’s hypnotic Provincial Parks. These 20 pristine utopias scattered throughout the province primarily offer Basic campsites ($14.95) to Semi-Service camping (flush toilets and showers - $19.22) to Two-way Hook-ups at Cape Chignecto Provincial Park ($28.22)

Stopovers can range from 1-14 days – most parks also offer Day Use facilities for a small fee.

Images from a selection on the Nova Scotia Provincial Park website.

For more info and dates that each park is open, please log onto http://www.parks.gov.ns.ca/, or call 1-888-544-3434 for a reservations – open 9 AM-11 PM (AT). Summer is a great time to experience the Nova Scotia Nature’s Resorts at their finest.

Tips for Easy Border Crossings

A UNEVENTFUL BORDER CROSSING ADDS TO YOUR ADVENTURE

Freely crossing the border north and south simplify the routes we RVers wish to follow. Most agents do what they can to make crossings fast and pleasant. The following few ideas will help ensure a smooth crossing.

▪ If there is no RV/bus lane it may be faster or easier to go through the car lanes. HOWEVER if your mirrors are located at the side and not at the front of your RV, your unit could be too wide for the car lanes. A better move is to look for a bus lane or as a last resort to take the slower moving truck lanes.

▪ Always take off your sunglasses so the agent can see your eyes.

▪ Even if your RV is your ‘home’, at the border it is ONLY a vehicle.

▪ Searches only happen occasionally, but if your unit is searched you will be expected to repack it – just like a suitcase as the airport.

▪ Answer the questions asked. A reply to “Do you have any cigarettes?” should not be “I do not smoke.” But also NEVER provide more info than you are asked for.

▪ Have proof of where you call home, especially if your driver’s license and vehicle tags each list different states or provinces.

▪ Do NOT relay to an agent that you are a FULLTIME RVer. Officials feel that if you have no ‘home’ you may have no reason to return to your home country.

▪ Reference to food that you can take across the border - due to new diseases that surface from time to time, the rules of what food – especially meat – that you can have on board differs from day to day. As a result it’s wise to travel north OR south across the border with minimal food in your refrigerator and cupboards.

▪ Citrus fruit is never allowed, but pet food may also be confiscated if it is not in the original bag/container. We simply plan for our first stop at a nearby grocery store.

▪ Practice the Golden Rule Respect and go with the flow.

Peggi McDonald is the author of RV Travel to Canada E-Book and webhost of RVLiving.net - see RV Bookstore for details.