1. Just because you’re on a road trip, doesn’t mean you should spend all your time in the car!
Nova Scotia is bigger than it looks on the map, so don’t try to do it all in a few days or you’ll do nothing but drive down major highways, looking at the trees. Plan for a few “down days” on your trip or book more than one night at a few of the places you plan to stay…give yourself the time for leisurely mornings or local sightseeing.
2. Do your research.
Even if you don’t like to book your B&B in advance, be sure to visit their website, read their reviews or even give them a call and ask a few specific questions. Every B&B experience will be different – from the style of the rooms, to the involvement and friendliness of the innkeeper – be realistic about your expectations. Do you want a family style breakfast, individual tables for two or would you prefer to avoid other guests as much as possible? Are you looking for complete peace and isolation or are you willing to sacrifice a little quiet for the convenience of walking to restaurants, shops and entertainment? Know what is important to you and then find the B&B that suits you best.
3. Eat like a local!
It’s hard to find bad seafood in Nova Scotia. Even the smallest Mom & Pop family restaurants will serve excellent fish and chips or pan-fried haddock. Plan to sample the lobster rolls and seafood chowder everywhere you go and be sure to watch for my local favourites when it’s time for dessert – sticky toffee pudding and strawberry-rhubarb pie!
4. Get off the main highways…but not too far off.
If at any point your paved road turns into a dirt road…Stop…Turn around… and head back towards civilization. Trust me, no matter what your GPS is telling you – dirt roads do not a pleasant roadtrip make. If you do get lost though, don’t worry. Nova Scotians are some of the friendliest people around, so just stop for directions and they’ll be happy to help.
5. Arrive early at your destination.
Small towns in Nova Scotia are like small towns everywhere else. Museums, stores and attractions are often family owned or run by volunteers, so they may keep shorter hours than places in big urban areas (even in the busiest tourist season and especially during the shoulder season!). Plan to arrive by the early afternoon to avoid disappointment.
6. Be adventurous and follow any handmade sign that catches your eye.
Around every corner you’ll find an artisan with a shop in their potting shed or a farmer with a veggie stand at the end of their drive. Hand-written, hand-painted or hand-carved - chances are good you won’t be disappointed with the treasures you find.
7. Be specific with your questions at the VIC’s .
The provincial information centres can be very helpful if you need directions, but the staff is not allowed to give opinions. The more specific you are with your questions, the more useful their information will be. Don’t ask “what’s a good place to eat?” Instead, tell them exactly what kind of dining experience you’re looking for – homemade, romantic, fancy or fast!
8. Make your activity reservations at least 24 hours ahead to avoid disappointment.
Plan ahead. Don’t count on being able to reserve an outdoor adventure at the last minute, because sometimes the person who answers the phone is the same one who leads the sea kayaking class, and cell reception may not be all that great on the open seas.
9. Go to a ceileidh…any ceileidh!
Nova Scotia is known for its music and every town has a pub, church hall or gazebo in the park with regularly scheduled entertainment. These performances are often not well advertised and can be hard to find, so be sure to ask your innkeeper!
10. Be aware of festivals and events and their impact on crowds and room availability.
Every small town in Nova Scotia has their own special weekend (or weeklong) festival, fair or celebration, every one of which is worth a visit. If you’re one of the many travellers who prefer to fly by the seat of their pants, be prepared to find that every room in town has been booked for months or that the main road into town is closed for two hours for the evening parade.
Coming Soon!… Mom and I head to the Seaport Farmer’s Market in Halifax and we visit with Andrea Boulding , owner of At The Turrett B&B, in Annapolis Royal.
Have any questions for Andrea or any suggestions you’d like to share with us? We’d really like your input, so please comment below to share your questions, tips and advice.
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