Tuesday, Oct 3,
Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada (8am.4pm)
As we approached we could see large stockpiles of
metallurgical coal, most likely for making coke and steel...
and then what is said to be the world’s largest
violin as we docked. Today was somewhat similar to yesterday as shopping was the
highlight with purveyors inside a large building selling their knitwear, crafts,
goods… that which was not of interest. We did our part by purchasing a bottle of
water. I think you reach a certain age where the purchase of another’s craft is
not needed in one’s home. Our memories are enough to remind us of wonderful
days.
We walked the little town of Sydney and again fell upon
an old church taking collections and donations but no longer in much use_ St. George Anglican Church.
So far nothing in the way of foliage, and local residence
stated that the warmth had delayed the color change. I’m sure we will see the
color soon. Another 4 miles walked and the appearance was as if we could have been in any small town in America.
Wednesday, Oct 4,
Halifax Nova Scotia, Canada (8am.4pm)
Fascinating to experience the ship's capabilities, the
side thrusters that allow the docking of the ship and without any aid of a tug
boat. The ship is brought parallel to the dock and upon departure, again a push
sideways away from the deck.
Today, we were anchored and parallel to the industrial
section. Halifax, announced as a world
class Canadian city, shop, surf and pub crawling, all in one day, wow … and we
rallied hard to decide what to do in this beautiful 64 F day, but the decision
was made: return to the ship’s library and find another book, go back to our
deck and read. Besides, our… well… my legs needed a rest.
We had internet and texts from our family indicating hurricane
Phillip was heading our way, but when we checked Ventusky, fortunately it
appeared we would be south of it.
The entire time in Nova Scotia, the skies were bright and
clear and the air so fresh. Tomorrow we would be back in the good ole United
States of America.
Much todo about… March of 2020, a federal ban on most
cruise ships entering Canada effectively killed Halifax’s cruise season and
undoubtedly took a great toll on the entire economy of Nova Scotia. Only since 2022, last
year, the ships returned. We cannot imagine how these small town economies survive
without the tourism.
