Gas Prices Are Almost Acceptable In Southwestern Ontario

With all the discussion of rising gas prices I thought it was time to share where they stand in SW Ontario. Just like in the USA, Canadian prices vary from area-to-area and province–to-province. These pictures I took today (30 May) relate present rates in London. (Local Shell and Petro Canada were at 1.049). Considering that a year ago, the per litre price was approximately 89.9 per litre, they are not too bad right now.

The Canadian dollar is also on the rise – the first time at this level in well over 3-decades. Although that does not make it as economical as it used to be for a cross border visit into Canada, we Canadian snowbirds are ecstatic to see our expenses will not be through the roof this winter. Many of us RVers are purchasing a supply of US cash to stretch expenses for travels from October to March. Who knows when the trend could switch directions one more time. For convenience I have added the formula to convert Cdn$ prices to US$.

Exchange rates are sitting between $.92- $.93 cents per dollar (and rising) due to the strong Canadian dollar. When converting with credit cards and/or at ATM’s, charges may be a penny or two different.

The formula to convert
“Cdn$ X 3.78 (ltr in US gal) X 2-digit rate of exchange = US$”.

Sample prices as of end of May...

87 Octane unleaded ranges from $103.5 to $1.04.5;
89 Octane unleaded ranges from $109.5 to $1.10.5;
91 Octane unleaded ranges from $114.5 to $1.15.5.
Diesel a Fly J in London $ 83.7 ($2.94 US$)
Propane at Fly J in London $ 59.9 ($2.10 US$)

Conversion Example
$1.035 X 3.78 = $3.91 Cdn$ X $.93 = $3.63 US$
$1.035 X 3.78 = $3.91 Cdn$ X $.92 = $3.60 US$

Happy travels Peggi

A Memorable Stop - With Access To Both Sides Of The Border

Not very often can one destination be easily accessable from both the USA as well as Canada. (Travelling by land there is still not need for a Passport until 1 Jun 2009). When this special place is a one-of-a-kind picturesque site that benefits everyone, it makes for a definite must-see.

I am talking about Niagara Falls, Ontario and Niagara Falls, New York. You can see the Falls from either side of the border but the Vista from Canada is more spectacular because you can see the Three massive waterfalls make up the panarama.

‘Canadian Horseshoe Falls’ is the largest but the ‘American Falls’ and the ‘Bridal Veil Falls’ compliment the picture. Niagara Falls is 17 miles from Buffalo and 75 miles from Toronto.


This feast for the eyes is nothing short of awesome. From the colourful expansive gardens and parklands, to strolling the many pathways, to feeling the force of the Falls – both from above and from below the surface and even over the Falls, to experiencing the ‘Roar of the Falls’ on the Maid of the Mist boat tour, to climbing the tower, to enjoying numerous rides and attactions and so much more. Everywhere the panaramic view is absolutely mesmerizing.

After the latest ‘Ice Age’, the glaciers receded forming the Great Lakes which carved a path through the Niagara Escarpment en route to the Atlantic. The Impressive, world’s most powerful and very wide Niagara Falls resulted from this transformation. Over 6 million cubic feet of water fall every minute. This hypnotic natural wonder has been a valuable source of hydroelectric power for both Ontario and New York and a challenge for environment preservation since the early 1800’s.


Falls Fact: Did you know the flow of water over the American Falls was stopped completely during the summer of 1969? (Great photos too).


The official site for Niagara Falls, Canada has over 100 more incredible photos plus Tourism and attractions.


Read Additional history on this incredible place.

Have You Been To Canada’s Wonderland Recently?

Canada’s Wonderland is located a few miles northwest of Toronto. This World-class theme park is a perfect place for the entire family to spend a day or two. Well over 200 attractions plus an excess of more than 65 exhilarating thrilling one-of-a-kind high-speed rides appeal to kids of all ages.

The ‘Longest Wooden Coaster’ or the ‘Minebuster’, or the ‘Inverted Coaster-Top Gun’ and the ‘Flying Coaster – Tomb Raider’ are only a few coaster rides that stand out. Other attractions such as the 360 degree ‘Cliffhanger’, the 230 free fall ‘Drop Zone’ or the 120’ hang time on ‘Psyclone and the ‘Splash Works’ water park add to the adventure.

However a selection of milder thrills and relaxing rides also await – in a word there is something for everyone from the ‘Carousel’ to ‘Train Rides’ and ‘Swan Lake’

Two award winning shows, the return of a Nickelodeon superstar, dazzling dives and gymnastics shows further enhance your visit. Canada's Wonderland is the place for fabulous live entertainment plus great dining, shopping and more

Because one day is not enough to see everything, Wonderland offers Season Passes that range from $59-$79 plus one to two day ticket options are also available from $26.00-$64.00

Many campgrounds are in the area – a few are listed below.

Yogi Bear’s Jelly stone Park is the closest and they even have ‘Yurts’ – spacious canvas shelters as well as 150 sites.

Leisure Time RV Park offers Wonderland Packages plus many park amenities.

Milton Heights Campground is another great park – closest park to train access to the city.

Canada’s ‘DART’ (Disaster Assistance Response Team) Is Always Ready!

While putting together a 'Canada Hotspot' power point seminar for the RV School in Kelowna University 22 –24 June and during updates to my RV Travel To Canada E-book (sold at the RV Bookstore.com), I accidentally came across an outstanding, comprehensive and informative website featuring over 400 non-commercial pages highlighting Canada Info. One particular story featuring Canada’s ‘DART’ (Disater Assistance Response Team) caught my eye.

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Their Mission Capabilities Stretch Worldwide
An excerpt of the complete story about ‘DART’ that is featured on the informative Canada Info website is below).


The Team is comprised of about 200 CF personnel ready to deploy quickly to conduct emergency relief operations for up to 40 days, the DART can either enhance emergency relief efforts or bridge the gap until members of the international community arrive to provide long-term help. The DART is designed to deploy only to permissive environments — that is, locations where it will not encounter any organized resistance or threat.



For international missions, the DART can be activated by a request from either an individual country or from the United Nations (UN). Regardless of the source of the request, the final decision to deploy the DART rests with the Canadian government, based on advice from Foreign Affairs Canada, the Department of National Defence, and the Canadian International Development Agency. In a UN operation, the DART is required to co-ordinate its work with the UN-appointed humanitarian co-ordinator. The DART also co-operates with international agencies on site to achieve the maximum positive impact.



The DART serves four critical needs in emergencies, namely:
primary medical care;
production of safe drinking water;
a limited specialist engineer capability; and
a command and control structure that allows for effective communications between the DART, the host nation, and the other agencies involved in the relief effort, including international organizations, non-governmental organizations and UN aid agencies.
To read the entire story about the amazing DART go to

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Webmaster Craig Marlatt shares info such as the highlight above - just because he loves Canada. Absolutely anything from songs to symbols to history to so much more is featured on Craig Marlatt.com

Happy Travels. Peggi and John

Historic Hill Awaits At The End Of The Long Ferry Ride To The 'Rock' .

Whether you take the short Ferry ride to Newfoundland or the long one, your will find numerous sites and camping spots are not far away .

In the 60’s and 70’s, my husband John frequently sailed through the Narrows into St John’s Harbour while serving with the Canadian Navy. The vistas of the Narrows from the top of Signal Hill were absolutely awesome and this tourist stop added life to many of John’s memories. While there, we toured the historic Citadel and strolled all parts of the 'Hill'. On that beautiful sunny day each panoramic view was more picturesque than the last. Because of its strategic placement overlooking the harbour, fortifications were active as early as the mid 1600s.

The “Lookout” witnessed many wars and vicious battles over the years. Following the 1762 Battle of Signal Hill between the French and the English, British commander Lt. Colonel William Amherst renamed it “Signal Hill” because of the flag signaling that took place on that summit.

During Signal Hill's first construction period in the late 1700s, it was designated as the Citadel for St. John's. The present Cabot Tower, was first proposed in 1896 and opened officially in 1900 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee and the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage of discovery. This location was the last signal station - in Canada. Today it is one of the province's best known landmarks.

Read more of the story of the colourful history of the Hill – Parks Canada adds more details.

Here too a picture is worth a 1000 words. See my slideshow Gallery of Signal Hill.

The Grand Codroy Wildlife Taxidermy Park Is One Of A Kind.

The picturesque community of Grand Codroy is less than an hour from Port aux Basque ferry crossing. The Grand Codroy RV and Tent Camping Park (709-955-2520) is a perfect stop to and/or from the ferry. The sites at this park were so spacious and each was set among beautiful landscaping dotted with trees overlooking the peaceful Grand Codroy River and the vast surrounding spectacular valley.

Park owner, Alice Keeping, encouraged us to drive the scenic picturesque highway 406/407 Loop and to be sure we didn’t miss the one-of-a-kind exceptional Grand Codroy Wildlife Park Museum and Petting Zoo. (709 955 2555 - $7.00). It is the largest Wildlife display of it's type in eastern Canada.

Follow the signs and be prepared for an outstanding experience that is so real it will amaze you. In July 2000 Rod Fudge opened his outstanding true-to-life display of taxidermy animals to the public. Over the years he had accumulated over 300 birds and animals mounted in creative settings – all displays were as a result of natural death – none as a result of hunting. His pride and joy is a huge 1500-pound moose in a forest was outstanding. It looked like the one that was standing directly in front of us on the Trans-Canada highway (TCH).

Natural habitant displays featured a caribou, a mother bear with two tiny cubs (the cubs were hit by a car), several wolves, a variety of cats, plus additional rare animals that lived and died in the wild. Another location featured beavers building a dam with huge fish swimming below. Numerous water animals, many fish along with an enormous selection of birds grace additional presentations. Each ‘collective display’ was more magnificent than the previous.He also has an ever-expanding petting zoo of farm animal babies and their moms. The antics of these ‘young’ live animals bring a smile to your day.

Since a picture is worth a thousand words. Take a look at my RVLiving.net/Gallery pictures of this outstanding place. Best to view as a slideshow.

Our Ferry Ride was Part Of The Adventure.

What a perfect way to experience 5-6 hours of travel. No driving – just sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. Recently John and I spent a fantastic 6-weeks in Newfoundland. What a wonderful experience! Because we have dogs - they must stay in the vehicle or in on board kennels - so we chose the shorter 5-6 hour trip to Port Aux Basque (west Newfoundland) rather than the longer route to St John’s.

The following is an excerpt of my RV Travel to Canada e-book – for sale at the http://www.rvbookstore.com/

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NEWFOUNDLAND (NFLD) TOURISM INFO – 1- 800-563-6353 – www.gov.nf.ca/tourism

Marine Atlantic Ferry Terminal – 1-800-341-7981 (Press O for assistance).

*** There is 500 miles (812 km) of Island highway between the two Ferry docking points that leave from North Sydney, NS – Sailing times, departures times, length of sail vary.
*** Rates depend on the length of your unit, vehicles and passengers costs are separate. RV rates begin with vehicles over 20’. Reservations are highly recommended. No restrictions on length of RV.


1. To Port Aux Basques (5.5 to 6.5 hours) – Rates differ – passengers extra.


NOTE: John and I travelled the short route to and from the Island during the summer of 2005. We have a 38-foot motorhome with car plus two-passengers. COST to travel separate was $295.00 (NO Tax) – on return we stayed connected - $317.00. Rates may change for 2006
This may seem high but if you associate it as a tank of gas/fuel for a 6.5-hour trip it becomes reasonable.


2. To Argentia (14 hours) – Rates again differ – passengers extra.


3. Pets must travel in your vehicle. Our Vet prescribed tranquilizers.


4. Kennels are available.
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Features of the ship

See my many pictures of our outstanding trip here

Enjoy your getaway to the incredible one-of-kind Island (The Rock) in Eastern Canada, We did! Travel safe Peggi

Canadian Pay Phones Rates Rise – First Increase In 26 Years

With the popularity of cell phones, it seems pay phone companies are loosing money. And since occasionally there are times when a pay phone is a necessity and a valuable asset, it is not a good idea to eliminate these phones. Even if not many of us use this way to connect any longer.




Since 1981, the price of a local call from a pay phone in Canada has remained at .25 cents. However as of June 1, 2007, the CRTC is finally allowing phone companies to boost their rates to 50 cents per local call throughout the country.





For those who prefer to use a credit card or other "non-cash" method of payment; the charge could be as high as $1.00. Rates may be higher in rural areas. In the past, these customers generally paid rates that are below the phone company costs.



Read more

The Hole in Percé Rock Is Large Enough To Sail A Boat Through.

One of our most memorable stops was at Percé Rock, on the Gaspe Peninsula in Quebec. We were travelling from Quebec City on route 132. There is so much to see on that absolutely spectacular drive along the assure blue St Lawrence Seaway, but as soon as we turned inland onto Highway 198 en route to Gaspé, the terrain became extremely hilly with more than a few very steep inclines.

It was possible to continue on the coast road through the Forillon National Park but we chose to drive the inland route just before Gros Morne towards the town of Gaspé.

As we descended our final incline into Percé at the eastern end of the peninsula, the vista was almost inspirational. An enormous rock with a giant hole in it jutted towards the gulf. At high tide it’s possible to sail a large boat through this hole, and yet tourists could explore the crevices and residual sea life on foot, at low tide.

The Gaspe Peninsula (Gaspesie), is located on the eastern tip of the province of Quebec, north of New Brunswick – a short 340 km (211 miles) drive from Quebec City.

We took a Zodiak boat tour to Bonaventure Island to see the 30,000 ‘pairs’ of Gannet birds that all arrive on the same day in the spring and leave on the same day in the fall. Other birds such as puffins, cormorants and more use the island as a protected breeding ground. On route we chased and saw whales up front and personal, plus we strolled on the secluded island trails.

This was nothing short of a perfect stop. Percé offers a wide selection of additional attractions, shops, local artists, restaurants and more to keep everyone occupied. There are several campgrounds in the area too. This spot is up there with our most enjoyable getaways. Travel safe, Peggi

Read the full story of our trip here

More info and pictures here and here

Canada Bonnechere Cave In Eganville Is ‘One-Of-A-Kind’

Unusual sites pop up where many of us least expect them. Several years ago while visiting friends in picturesque Eganville, Ontario, (1.5 hour from Ottawa and from Algonquin Park) we were introduced to the Bonnechere Caves. Although I was stationed in Eganville with Canada’s RCAF (Royal Canadian Air Force) in the early 60’s; I had no idea such a gem was waiting underground.

Geologists verified that this Cave was at the bottom of a tropical sea some 500 million years ago. Stalactites, (icicle shapes hanging from the ceiling) shimmer under carefully placed electric lights - numerous fossils from eons ago, long before Dinosaurs, are entombed and preserved in the walls.

Although the Cave discovery dates back to the mid 1800’s when a surveyor followed water that disappeared into the riverbank. In 1953, retired World War II flying ace Tom Woodward tied a rope around a tree and followed the river into the dark unknown sink hole.

Before long he found a way to pump the water out and install lighting so he could open the ‘below-ground wonder’ to the public. Each fall the water level is again allowed to return to normal – mainly to keep the public out during the cold, snow covered winter. Cave temperatures remain constant, slightly above freezing, despite the sub zero or hot humid outside temps.

Chris Hinsperger became the new owner in the mid 60’s.

Theory relays the Cave was formed by melting glaciers 10,000 years ago. Several parts of the cave are really narrow, so it may not be the best place for the claustrophobic – stairs lead in and out of the cave – good walking shoes are suggested to navigate the scenic trails outside as well as inside the Cave.

Bats too live in the damp darkness – but during summer days they sleep and hide from busy passageways – they don’t like the smell of people.

By mid September to spring the bats slowly return for hibernation. When the Cave closed on a recent Thanksgiving Monday the staff counted 350 bats – it is expected a thousand call the Cave home mid winter.

Read More
Other caves in Canada

The Launch Of Canada’s First Long Weekend Is A Sure Sign Summer Is Here.

The last Monday on or before each 24th of May, is a civic holiday in Canada – the Victoria Day holiday honours the birthdays of both Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II. As far back as 1854, such a holiday in May was celebrated, but the actual date has changed over the years – in 1952 a static date was set in Canada.

During the first half of this century it was ‘Empire Day’, now it’s officially ‘Victoria Day Long Weekend’. Although many Canadians affectionally nickname it a ‘May Two-Four’ weekend (in honour of the slang for how Canada sells a case of 24 beer) or ‘May Long Weekend’ or ‘May Long’, or ‘May Run’ – in Quebec it is ‘National Patriotes Day’ in representation of the French/English Lower Canada Rebellion of 1837.

No matter what the name – to most Canadians, this weekend signifies the super start to summer and the advance of a fun filled camping season. Even unpredictable spring weather such as rain, fog, hopefully not snow, cannot dampen the enthusiam or interfere with activities. Campgrounds and communities plan a full selection of special events such as chilli cookoffs, BBQ’s, parades, even fireworks in aome locations. Occasionally travellers simply take a day cruise for no other reason but to go.

Traditionally, people celebrate this long weekend as the beginning of summer to plant gardens, or open the cabins or cottages, and especially to enjoy camping adventures plus a bevy of outdoor activities. However to assist in controling rowdiness; alcohol and noise restrictictions are in force at many public and private parks.

Take note, the campgrounds will be full this weekend. No matter where you plan to RV in Canada on Victoria Day long weekend, be sure to make reservations. Have a great weekend.

Read more

'Communities In Bloom Program' Adds A Special Touch to Canadian Neighborhoods.

One of many signs promoting Community of Bloom participants.

Pictures below are from various towns and villages in Canada

As visitors move around Canada they will see many signs/banners in towns, villages and cities promoting ‘Communities in Bloom Participant’. These communities stand above the norm with their many fundraiser events, pretty gardens and overall cleanliness.

The competition began in 1995 when 29 municipalities were honoured at the 1st Awards Dinner on Parliament Hill. Now in its 13th year, more than hundred Canadian communities will enter the various population categories in the Provincial Editions - national judges visit late summer. Twenty Canadian competitors join 500 others in the ‘International Challenge Category’ with communities from the USA, Japan, Ireland plus a few European countries.

This non-profit organization began under the guidance of ‘Britain in Bloom’, ‘Tidy Towns of Ireland’ and ‘Villes et Villages Fleuris de France’. The main purpose is to promote civic pride in municipal, private and corporate sectors, tidy appearance, community involvement, cultural heritage conservation, environment concerns, beautification of the forests; landscape areas, floral displays and increased quality of life within the community.

The entire competition is a community effort as well as a learning curve. Detailed evaluation reports highlight strengths and suggestions for improvement – the exchange info with other communities enhances the quality of life of all competitors.

The 'Communities in Bloom Contest' highlights Canadian summer activities and the 'WinterLights Celebrations' keep the competition mood advancing in the winter.

To view mare facets of the program read more.

A Dip In A Soothing Mineral Hot Spa was An Added 'Plus' At Canyon Hot Springs.

The most perfect end to a long day of driving is a swim in a natural mineral hot spring surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Travelling through the Rocky Mountains, visitors will find numerous parks, natural hot springs, challenging golf courses, and an intriguing history that appeals to everyone.

However when we discovered that Canyon Hot Springs at Revelstoke just off highway #1 also had a campground, we thought we hit the jackpot. The spacious campsites at this extremely scenic hot springs complex was the icing on the cake. Within minutes after checkin, we allowed the warm natural spring water in the 60,000 gallon swimming pool and the 15,000 gallon hot pool to erase all stiffness of our long day. For centuries, First Nation's people used the springs specifically for their healing powers

The hot water is piped 2-miles from the original timber enclosure at the historic CPR townsite (now a ghost town) - established at the turn of the century. The railway employees dug and blasted, a pit at the hot springs and then lined it with heavy timbers. That open air "hot tub" was used by visitors and residents alike for numerous years,

A challenging18-hole Riverside Golf Course, (park office may have discount coupons), many hiking trails accessible for all fitness levels from handicap to rock climbing plus several museums are just a few of the numerous activities that keep everyone busy in these spectacular surroundings. For Camping and contact info - click here

Walking On The Ocean Floor Is A Daily Event In New Brunswick

It’s difficult to comprehend that a mere 6-hours can so dramatically change a picturesque vista such as the one at Hopewell Rocks in Hillsborough, New Brunswick. This ‘Marine Wonder of the World’ is one of those attractions where you must make a repeat visit several hours later.

The gravitational pull of the sun and moon causes the Bay of Fundy tides to rise and fall an incredible 14 m (48 ft) and higher twice a day – every day! Tides are higher during a full moon. Visitors have a 2-3 hour window before and after low tide when they can literally walk on the ocean floor four stories below. Return at high tide and you will need a kayak to follow the same route.

At Hopewell Rocks the powerful Bay of Fundy tides have literally carved massive columns of rock wearing gnarled evergreens that resemble ‘wigs’. These natural sculptures are nicknamed the "flowerpot rocks" but at high tide they resemble many tiny ‘islands’.

Hopewell Rocks Interpretive Centre helps to unravel the mysteries of the ancient geology and powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy. A shuttle transports visitors from the Centre to a steep stairway leading to the ocean floor - handicap access is also accessible.

It is an awesome experience to walk on the sand amongst these amazing rocky columns, caves, arches and many crevices. Another plus is to watch numerous birds feast on the decadent treasures the ocean waters leave behind. Although there is a low fee to enter the park that is open mid May to mid October, it is an attraction not to be missed.

Read more...

Tulips As Far As The Eye Can See!

A sure sign that spring has sprung in Ottawa, Ontario - Canada’s capital - is the opening of its famous Tulip Festival. From the 4th -21st May over 3-million colourful tulips grace all historic parkways and scenic drives of this picturesque city. The 'Tulip Route' presents an awesome kaleidoscope of colour that attracts visitors from around the world.

Numerous pictures can be be found here

Originally, 100,000 tulip bulbs were a gift from Queen Juliana of the Netherlands as a thank you for providing members of Holland’s exiled royal family a safe haven during 1945.

Canadian troops helped liberate the Netherlands plus the royal family was hosted at Government House in Ottawa while Princess Margriet was born at the Ottawa Civic Hospital. Her room was declared as “Dutch Soil” and the flag of the Netherlands flew on the Parliament’s Peace Tower.

Although this legacy is an important part of Canadian history – it is the unending pictorial beauty of this one-of-a-kind spectacle that draws so many to return year after year. Read more

The Fleetwood RV Plant has closed in Lindsay, Ontario.

Sad news just released - 315 employees from Lindsay, Ontario, a cottage country community situated about an hour north of Toronto, will lose their jobs when the California-based Fleetwood Enterprises Inc closes their plant July 25th.


Since 1972, the Lindsay Plant has been manufacturing Fleetwood brands – Pioneer, Mallard, Terry, Lynx, Prowler and Dakota – at the only manufacturing plant in Canada, mainly to serve the Canadian market. Company vice-president, Lyle Larkin, relayed the Canadian market will now be served by the four U.S. plants.


During the course of Fleetwood’s financial reorganization of their production activity, the plant at Campbellsville Ky. will also close. Paul Eskritt, president of Fleetwood’s RV group stated to CanWest News Service "We had hoped that such a painful course of action could be averted, but we must regain consistent profitability in this very competitive market."


Read more of the story



Fleetwood relayed that closing its Lindsay plant - its only operation in Canada - and one in Campbellsville, Ky., will save costs and fully utilize production capacity at other locations.

See The Belugas Up Front And Personal In Churchill, Manitoba.

Each summer - anytime from mid-June through August - it's Beluga Whale season in Churchill, Manitoba. As the ice breaks up, thousands of these lovable white aquatic ‘giants’ migrate to the warm waters of Churchill to have their young. It is awesome to see these ‘white dolphins’ swim alongside the zodiacs or tour boats close enough to reach out and touch.

Tundra Buggy Adventures, local tours, a visit to the Eskimo Museum and other Churchill attractions add to your getaway. You may spot a polar bear but it will be a bonus, because they don’t appear until September or October

However you can only reach Churchill by train. A selection of tours leave from Winnipeg but RVers can also drive to Thompson. Store your RV either at the town hall or McCreedy Campground, both are secure, and travel overnight from Thompson to Churchill by train. Average fare range from $114.—to $199.00

Many companies offer complete tours to see the Beluga whales, many leave from Winnipeg as well as viarail.ca Call 1-888 842 7245 for individual questions

Click here for another tour option

This destination is simply awsome and would definitley make for a memorable RV Trip