Well, we left early — around 4:00. Driving trips like these (Ontario -> Nova Scotia) seem to work best if you make a day of it, instead of leaving after work or whatever it is you normally do during the day. It’s also nice to be doing the bulk of the driving during daylight hours, because that way you can appreciate the sights along the way — like the otherworldly plains-rock dichotomies east of Montreal, the St. Lawrence river, and the rocky outcroppings (and winding roads) throughout New Brunswick.

Downtown Halifax, though undeniably tourist-ridden, still has its charms. Swashbuckler chique is noticeably en vogue, as evidenced by the piratey souvenirs, pirate boat cruises (involving cannons), etc. Now, if you like looking at boats, you’re certainly in luck — the harbourfront is populated with craft ranging from tugs and water-taxis to multi-million dollar yachts and cruise liners… plus an always changing selection of sailboats. Buskers, too.

From where I’m staying I can see the main shipping yard, and it’s been interesting to watch these massive container-ships load and unload their assorted cargo. Tugboat logistics are also fascinating; it’s neat to see one push around a boat that’s about 100 times its size. They are the nautical equivalent of ants!