Nicknamed ‘sea parrots’ or ‘sea clowns’ for their cute appearance, the Atlantic puffins are some of the most loved seabirds. Although they are the smallest puffin species, they are actually tough birds.
The Atlantic puffin, cuteness overloaded
Canada
A bird’s eye view of 1000 islands
The 1000 islands, a North American archipelago, lie along the border between the state of New York (USA) and Ontario (Canada), stretching for about 80 km along Saint Lawrence River. With a rich history, unique culture, and also with endless shorelines of picturesque islands, this area is a sightseer’s paradise, and a popular place for an authentic vacation. They are also famous for their magnificent summer homes. From Boldt Castle to House of Seven Gables, wealthy people have built retreats here since early 1870’s.
Autumnal postcards: Fire to the sky
“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” – Albert Camus
Why Newfoundland was nicknamed the Seabird Capital of North America
With a great promise to see wildlife and a pleasant experience, I was really enjoying the start of the cruise and the surrounding scenery, listening the crew member’s jokes on the upper deck, under a balmy sun. A colourful mix of local humour, stories and songs captured everyone’s attention, including myself. That was when I heard the local joke about the Newfoundland roads, but that’s another story.
I didn’t really notice when the blue sky turned dull grey, and when the calm waters became choppy. I suddenly found myself swinging from a side to another, unable to get a steady grip on my camera.
Getting so edgy, I decided it was time to go downstairs, but will I be able to walk down to the lower deck, or even grab the rails? They seem so far from my sit.. Should I stay, or should I try going downstairs? This was the moment I started to doubt if this cruise was for me..
10+ reasons why you should visit Newfoundland at least once in your lifetime
The island of Newfoundland and the mainland of Labrador form together the easternmost province of Canada. Known as a place with a deep and ancient history, but also as one with the most spectacular rugged coastlines, Newfoundland has long beckoned us. All I wanted was to drive along the rocky coastline, with nothing but the ocean on one side and colorful houses on the other.
We did not plan much for this trip. I was thinking of going back to Alberta, and doing some hiking that we didn’t have time for on our visit there several years ago. Instead, the decision to go to Newfoundland came up shortly, the 10th, and the last Canadian province we still had to visit (and with three more territories on my bucket list).
Newfoundland really has it all, from incredible scenery, cute little colourful towns, to famous recipes and rich history. Not to mentions scenic drives, wildlife, museums, and fantastic hiking trails. Here are just a few reasons why you should visit Newfoundland at least once in your life, but remember that depending on the time of the year you want to go, the province can unfold its wonders differently.
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Continue readingA winter curiosity: Pancake Ice
Living near a body of water is a blessing; whether in summer or winter, a lake or a river can provide so much fun.
I’m so glad we live in a country with four seasons, despite the fact that winter lingers a little too long sometimes, enjoying the beautiful days being outside, observing the nature and the surroundings.
Out and about in Ottawa
Originally a trading and lumbering community, Ottawa was named the capital of the Province of Canada in late 1857. The location of the capital city changed six times in the first 26 years of Canada’s history, but Queen Victoria chose Ottawa, as political rivalries quarreled between the various cities.
Creatures of the Sea @ Winterlude
February is the month when winter festivals and various events take place across Canada, as the skies are mostly sunny and all outdoor activities are in full swing. February is the middle of the winter, the time when family and friends gather together to rediscover the joys of winter activities. And so, Winterlude was created in 1979, to celebrate Canada’s unique northern culture and climate, right in the country’s capital, Ottawa.
Winter wonders: frost flowers
Winter is here again, and the only way to enjoy it is to embrace it! What a better way than exploring the surrounding countryside, where every unexpected corner can offer many surprises; this time the rare and stunning frost flowers.
1000 Places and Memories 