Travel enthusiast Graham McKenzie engages in a lively conversation with Geordie Mott, the visionary owner of Picture Perfect Tours based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Geordie's unique venture seamlessly blends his expertise in photography and art history with the allure of tourism. The heart of their discussion revolves around the enchanting Sable Island, a remote and mystical location situated in the North Atlantic. Geordie vividly describes the island's history, particularly its iconic population of wild horses tracing back to the 1760s. As Geordie unfolds the details of Picture Perfect Tours, viewers are treated to a fascinating glimpse into the immersive and visually stunning experiences offered by the company, making Sable Island an unparalleled destination for photography enthusiasts.  

  Nova Scotia is home to some of the most authentic, exclusive and extraordinary coastal experiences in North America.   The gateway to Atlantic Canada has plenty for you to discover and we would like to share with you some of the latest highlights we are all excited about. And remember…. over 13,000 km of coastline await you in Nova Scotia! To explore where to go and what to do in Nova Scotia, visit NovaScotia.com  

Opening Soon: Moxy Hotel

  The first new-build Moxy hotel in Canada, part of Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio is due to open next month. The stylish and playful 160-room hotel is located at the heart of the downtown area where guests can make memories over handcrafted drinks, small plates and vibrant music and have easy access to several iconic attractions and must-do tours.  

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Icelandair returns to Halifax!

    The return of Icelandair to Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) in May 2024 opens up another exciting way to access the province of Nova Scotia from the UK, with the added bonus of free Iceland stopovers en route for durations of up to seven days.   Icelandair’s new thrice-weekly seasonal service, which will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from May 31 through to October 14, marks the welcome return of the carrier to Halifax – the chief international gateway to the Atlantic Canada region – after a five-year absence.   Flights are already on sale for the service, which will be served by the carrier’s Boeing 737MAX8 aircraft, and the airline was on hand at this year’s World Travel Market in London (November 6-8) to get the message out to the international travel trade.  

Grab your spoon, hit the trail and eat your way around Nova Scotia!

    What better way to taste Nova Scotia than to enjoy a bowl of seafood chowder? We take the finest seafood from our cold, clean waters and pair it with produce from our lush fertile valleys. Our chowders are warm and comforting, much like the character of our people. Every bowl tells the story of who we are and where we’re from!  

Discover Nova Scotia’s Coastal Museums

  With more than 13,000 km of coastline surrounding the province, it’s no surprise Nova Scotia’s rich heritage is heavily influenced by the sea. From stories of the fishing industry to insights into historic shipbuilding and even geology, these five museums are the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Nova Scotia’s coastal history.     Located in the heart of the historic Halifax waterfront, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic features an abundance of exhibits focused on Nova Scotia’s strong connection to the sea. From the popular Titanic exhibit to the displays on the Halifax Explosion, the museum overflows with takes of history.     Be sure to check out the the ongoing exhibit Ta’n me’j Tel-keknuo’ltiek: How Unique We Still Are, which shares experiences of how Mi’kmaq people remain connected to the waters of Mi’kma’ki.   Nova Scotia is home to a rich Acadian culture and Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse is a perfect opportunity to immerse in this vibrant history. Explore the grounds of this immense 17-acre site whilst visiting a variety of historic buildings.     Still inhabited by descendants of the village’s founder, this museum showcases the industrious and joyful spirit of the Acadian people, while celebrating a language and culture that has thrived for more than 250 years.  

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  Only a six-hour flight from the UK, Nova Scotia is filled to the brim with stunning natural beauty, diverse cultures, rich heritage, and warm, friendly people.  This Atlantic Canada province is home to three national parks. From helping to share Mi'kmaw heritage to showcasing and carrying out modern day conservation efforts, Nova Scotia’s national parks offer cultural experiences, exciting outdoor adventure and special places to stay. Here is why they are a bucket list-worthy destination:   Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site: Discover the historic waterways, wooded multi-use trails, incredible night sky, and unique camping accommodations at Nova Scotia’s only inland national park. Explore Mi'kmaw petroglyphs and connect with Mi'kmaw culture, experience some of the darkest (and most starry) night skies in North America. You can also explore the park by renting a bicycle or canoe onsite to explore trails and lakes, and spend the night in a yurt, rustic cabin, oTENTik, or tear-drop Ôasis “duplex”, several feet in the air.   Kejimkujik National Park Seaside: Located along the rugged Atlantic coast and a little over one hour from the inland Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, visitors here will be rewarded with incredible coastal views and wide white sand beaches after a 2.8 kilometre (one way) hike on Harbour Rocks Trail. Along the way, check out the viewing platform with views of St. Catherine’s River Beach and keep an eye out for local wildlife and birds. Pick up a Perfect Picnic in nearby Liverpool before hitting the trail and enjoy it later at the beach. Be sure to snap a photo sitting on the iconic Parks Canada red chairs.     Cape Breton Highlands National Park: An undisputed “must do” when visiting Nova Scotia is exploring the Cabot Trail. The trail winds its way through Cape Breton Highlands National Park making it easy to see the whole park. Featuring 26 hiking trails, 12 breathtaking look-offs, 8 campgrounds, and 6 beaches, this national park is the ideal destination for the outdoor enthusiast. Whether you prefer roughing it in the back country, taking in the incredible fall colours on a hike, or picking up a Perfect Picnic to enjoy during a beach day, a visit to Cape Breton Highlands National Park is likely to be a highlight of your trip to Nova Scotia.

Watch our Tourism Nova Scotia webinar, bringing to you the winners of Race Across the World – Cathie and Tricia, please CLICK HERE.   Cathie and Tricia travelled from Liverpool on the South Shore to the capital of Halifax, where they then made their way to the heart of the Province in Truro, before starting their exit route through the Northumberland Shores reaching Antigonish before passing through Cape Breton Island to depart from North Sydney.  Their exclusive interview shared the wonderful experience they had in our beautiful Province as well as Canada overall.   As mentioned on our webinar, you have the chance to Win a Trip to Halifax Nova Scotia including 4 nights accommodation and return flights from London.   To enter, you just need to complete and pass the Air Canada and Tourism Nova Scotia online training programmes.   The links are: Air Canada Online Training Tourism Nova Scotia Online Training   In addition to our holiday prize, Canadian Affair are also offering a cash incentive for bookings that include Nova Scotia.  Agents can earn up to £150 Love2Shop voucher when you book Nova Scotia with Canadian Affair.  Terms and conditions apply.   About Nova Scotia:  Here’s some useful tips about our Province to share with your customers. The gateway to Atlantic Canada and only a 6 hour flight from the UK, this province is filled to the brim with stunning natural beauty, diverse cultures, rich heritage, and warm, friendly people. Known for its world class experiences, spectacular beaches, and a top-notch locally sourced culinary scene shaped by the sea.   From the Cabot Trail, voted time and time again as one of the world’s most scenic drives, to the Bay of Fundy, recorded to have the highest tides in the world, and included as one of the seven most breathtaking natural wonders of North America.  About the size of Scotland, and home to just under a million people, Nova Scotia is very much a road trip destination. With spectacular seaside and inland driving routes, it’s an easy destination to get around and the journey is very much part of the holiday experience.   Nova Scotia is rich in history and boasts 6 UNESCO designated sites; it is the perfect destination for sailing, whale watching, kayaking and more. Visitors can also go river rafting on the highest tides in the world, glamp under the stars while listening to traditional music, or learn from locals on a guided hike or paddle.   Experiences   Tidal Bore Rafting: If you’re an adventurous person, tidal bore rafting should be firmly placed on your list of things to do in Nova Scotia! Two times a day, the tides in the Bay of Fundy rise and fall (between 3.5 metres (11 feet) and 16 metres (53 feet), depending on the phase of the moon). When this massive influx of water pours into the Shubenacadie River, the two waters collide to create rapids, waves, and a whole lot of swells. Add to the fun: go mud-sliding after your rafting trip! https://www.novascotia.com/things-to-do/outdoor-activities-tours/tidal-bore-rafting?f=gkYF5W8Aoi   Hike in National Parks: The Cabot Trail cuts through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, which is home to 26 hiking trails. The most popular is the Skyline Trail, and it’s popular for good reason! At the end of the loop, you’re rewarded with vast views out to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and many people encounter wildlife such as deer or moose on this trail. Nova Scotia’s other national park is Kejimkujik National Park& National Historic Site which is home to some great hikes as well. If you have the time and the ability, you can embark on one of the backcountry trails (4 days long), or if you’re looking for a day hike, there are plenty of those as well, ranging in length from 200 metres to 5 kilometres (3 miles). https://www.novascotia.com/things-to-do/outdoor-activities-tours/hiking?f=t8Ki7WybDN   Stargazing: Nova Scotia is home to Acadian Skies and Mi’kmaq Lands, the first designated dark sky destination in North America. Experience the night sky with your guide on a night hike or bike tour. For those who enjoy looking up at the night sky and admiring the stars, The Deep Sky Eye Observatory is the perfect place to do it. Sit back with a warm blanket in an anti-gravity chair and let them guide you through to the universe. Learn to navigate the night sky using points of reference such as Polaris and the constellations and see live views of the night sky’s celestial wonders through their outdoor telescope.   Another great place for stargazing is Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site - the park was designated as a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in 2010, which restricts the use of artificial light in most of the park. The result is a stargazer’s paradise, with clear nights offering unparalleled views of the moon, constellations and planets.  An even better way to stargaze is to set up camp at one of the many campsites throughout the park, including serviced sites with electricity and others that are lit only by the stars! https://www.novascotia.com/trip-ideas/stories/where-see-stars-within-acadian-skies-mikmaq-lands     Starlight Culinary Escape: A wilderness escape at the world’s first starlight hotel which is the Trout Point Lodge. Located within UNESCO Southwest Nova Scotia Biosphere Reserve in Yarmouth. Experience Includes: Overnight accommodation, Guided forest walk (Explore the edge of the Tusket River on forested paths and boardwalks to your private stargazing deck), Expert-led stargazing where you’d listen to stories shared by an astronomy expert whilst you can enjoy Nova Scotian sparkling wine. https://www.novascotia.com/packages/findapackage/starlight-culinary-escape/205591   Horse riding at Cliffs of Fundy Geopark: Fascinating Mi’kmaw legends, the highest tides in the world, and the oldest dinosaur fossils in Canada are just the beginning in this geological wonderland. Nova Scotia’s 6th UNESCO designation, Cliffs of Fundy Global Geopark has added a new experience to its many offerings: a Horseback Tidal Floor & Fossils Tour.   Telling the story of the coming together of the supercontinent Pangea 300 million years ago and its ripping apart 100 million years later, the Geopark follows the stunning Bay of Fundy shoreline with many  attractions to explore such as hiking trails, provincial parks, community museums, lighthouses, beaches and kayaking tours.   The new Horseback Tidal Floor & Fossils Tour is one-of-a-kind experience where you tour the ocean-floor by horseback, trotting along the world-famous Bay of Fundy to a fossil site where you’ll see the low tides revealing 300-million-year-old dinosaur fossils.  Along the way you’ll observe a variety of tidal creatures such as clams, crabs and shore birds galore. https://www.novascotia.com/see-do/attractions/cliffs-of-fundy-unesco-global-geopark/7748     Kayaking: From the dramatic cliffs, arches and towering pinnacles of northern Cape Breton and Cape Chignecto to the sheltered waterways and isolated white sand beaches of Prospect and Tangier, for many, this coast is best seen from the water. History buffs will enjoy paddling along historic waterfronts, while cultural enthusiasts will love chatting with local fishermen or traversing the waterways of the Mi’kmaq. https://www.novascotia.com/things-to-do/outdoor-activities-tours/kayak-canoe?f=xwakY9SLfH   Visit Georges Island National Historic Site: The newest addition to Nova Scotia’s National Historic Sites family, Georges Island is located in the heart of Halifax harbour, the place the Mi’kmaq called Kjipuktuk or “The Great Harbour.” Georges Island is one of five National Historic Sites in Halifax which are known collectively as the Halifax Defence Complex including: Halifax Citadel, Fort McNab, Prince of Wales Tower and York Redoubt.   Accessible by shuttle boat or kayaking packages discover how this small island and its fortifications played a large role as a prison, as an internment camp for Acadians, in the development of Nova Scotia and in the overall defence of Canada. Visitors can take in a guided tour of the historic tunnels, enjoy the scenic views from a new perspective and immerse yourself in the rich history of Halifax! https://www.novascotia.com/see-do/attractions/georges-island-national-historic-site/7900

  Nova Scotia is home to some of the most authentic, exclusive and extraordinary coastal experiences in North America.   The gateway to Atlantic Canada has plenty for you to discover this fall and we would like to share with you some of the latest highlights we are all excited about.   We look forward to fully enjoying this upcoming season. And remember…. over 13,000 km of coastline await you in Nova Scotia! To explore where to go and what to do in Nova Scotia, visit NovaScotia.com  

The Celtic Colours International Festival: A unique celebration of Cape Breton Island’s living traditional culture: 6 – 14 October 2023

    Since its introduction in 1997, Celtic Colours has grown to become one of Canada’s premiere musical events and a cultural highlight in Nova Scotia showcasing the musical culture of Cape Breton to tens of thousands of visitors from more than two dozen countries.   At one of the many concerts, you’ll find some of the world’s finest musicians sharing the stage with Cape Breton’s best musicians, singers, dancers, and story-tellers in venues that range from community halls and churches to modern schools and theatres.  

Discover hundreds of events & activities taking place in communities around Cape Breton!

 

October Adventures in Nova Scotia

    October is a special time of the year in Nova Scotia. From the colourful changing leaves to the bountiful harvests, it's the perfect time to get out and explore as sweater weather sets in.   Here are our top recommendations for things to see & do!      

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Calling History Lovers

  If you love history, why not plan a visit to Georges Island National Historic Site in the heart of the Halifax Harbour during your next Nova Scotia trip. Take a guided tour of the tunnels, and be sure to order a Perfect Picnic to enjoy during your visit. Have you ever explored the island?   The site is open 5 days/week until Sept. 4 (Labour Day) and then returns to weekends only until October 8th (final day to visit for this season).    

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Exclusive webinar with the winners of Race Across the World – Cathie and Tricia. We will hear first hand on their experience on the show and particularly their time in Nova Scotia. By registering you can also find out how you could be in with a chance to win a 4 night stay in Halifax with return flights for two from London.

  Michelle Bourgeoise talks to Graham Mckenzie about the diverse, authetic and vibrant nature of the City.   [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHqFDnUx4bY[/embed]

  Whether you’re an adventurer, a relaxer, or a get-up-and-goer, there are endless things to do as you explore Nova Scotia’s 8,200 miles of coastline. While it might be Canada’s second smallest province, it packs a punch with brilliant water adventures - only a 6 ½ hour flight from the UK! Perfect for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, surfing, sailing and much more, these are some of our favourite activities:   Tidal Bore Rafting: Feel the rush of riding waves that can be up to 4 metres (13 feet) high in a Zodiac boat as the power of the world’s highest tides in the Bay of Fundy turn the Shubenacadie River into a water roller coaster only found in Nova Scotia. Expert guides take you cascading down rapids as the incoming ocean reverses the flow of the river. This fun-filled voyage isn’t complete without mud sliding, too!   Kayaking: From the dramatic cliffs, arches and towering pinnacles of Northern Cape Breton and Cape Chignecto to the sheltered waterways and isolated white sand beaches of Prospect and Tangier, for many, this coast is best seen from the water. History buffs will enjoy paddling along historic waterfronts, while cultural enthusiasts will love chatting with local fishermen or traversing the waterways of the Mi’kmaq.   Whale watching: Summer and fall are the best times to go whale watching in Nova Scotia. Find yourself aboard a whale watching tour with lively commentary and local tales as you watch for any of the 12 species of whales, including the rare North American right whale - that visit the province each year. This activity is best done in Cape Breton and the Bay of Fundy.   Surfing: Nova Scotia is known for cold water surfing, but we also encourage you to try it in the summer when waters are a bit warmer! Don't worry if you've never tried it before, check out a surfing lesson or rent the equipment if you can't bring your own.  Check out two popular surf spots at Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park which offers up world-class surf conditions and Martinique Beach Provincial Park, complete with a 5km crescent white sand beach. Stay in the area for a beachside getaway among the sand dunes of Lawrencetown Beach! Enjoy surfing, cycling, and beach exploring, then return to your private suite to relax in the hot tub and cozy up beside the fireplace at 3 Moonlight Beach Suites.   Learn to sail on Halifax Harbour: J Farwell Sailing Tours have added a 50’ bali 4.8 Catamaran to their fleet, known as “The Reverie”. Passengers have the opportunity to be part of the hands-on sailing experience which includes gybing, tacking, taking a turn at the helm, raising sails, winching in the sails, and learning about the basics of sailing.