MarcB IT will be going offline in September for a well-deserved rest from the ever-evolving world of IT. Last year, our travels took us to the Battlefield of Antietam and deep into Northern Maine. This year, we’re heading north again — this time to the remote island of Newfoundland, Canada.
It’ll be my second trip to northeastern Canada in 20 years. Back in September 2006, I explored Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. The scenery and hiking were unforgettable, and I’m expecting Newfoundland to be just as breathtaking.
Our base will be the Murray Premises Hotel in St. John’s, the capital city on the island’s eastern edge. While Gros Morne National Park is a crown jewel on the west coast, its distance — over six hours away — makes staying local more practical. Fortunately, the eastern region offers no shortage of natural beauty.
We’ve booked three outdoor adventures:
- A kayaking tour just north of St. John’s Harbour
- A whale-watching excursion to (hopefully) see humpbacks breaching as they begin their migration
- A road trip to Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve to witness thousands of seabirds nesting along the cliffs
What makes St. John’s especially appealing is the mix of vibrant city life and untouched nature. George Street is known for its lively pubs and music scene, and Quidi Vidi Brewery — Newfoundland’s largest craft brewery — is just a short hop from the city in a historic fishing village. Iceberg Lager is on the menu, and I fully intend to sample it!
As for wildlife, Newfoundland is home to moose, caribou, and seabirds galore. While we’ll likely see fewer large mammals on the eastern side, nature has a way of surprising you.
I still remember hiking in Cape Breton years ago and realizing I’d taken the wrong trail. When I turned around, a black bear and her three cubs were blocking the path about 15 yards away. I walked calmly forward, putting as much distance between us as quickly (and quietly) as I could!
That sense of adventure is calling again. I booked this trip nearly a year ago, and it’s hard to believe it’s almost here. In less than two months, it’s northward bound again — to the wild, wonderful shores of Newfoundland.
