Halifax tour

[DynamicDuo]

We returned recently from a 10 day cruise on the Sea Princess. Our departure date was 10/4/05. Our trip started off beautifully, in Quebec City (do plan to spend a few days there, if you can). The weather was georgeous, but the leaves were barely starting to turn. We had high hopes for the rest of the tour BUT THEN THE BAD WEATHER SET IN!

 

One highlight of our trip was a rainy day "Tour by Taxi" which we had booked prior to departure. Bob McClintock took us to every nook and cranny, allowed us time for stops at our choosing, and even found a wonderful place for lunch in Lunenburg (the best fish & chips, ever!). The day 's weather ranged from drizzle to downpour, but we did not feel deprived. Bob was very informative and knowledgable about the area and the city. We started the tour with a brief overview of the city and then headed for Peggy's Cove (hoping to stay ahead of the tour buses). We drove through Prospect Bay, Mahone Bay (must go back there!), Lunenburg (another go back to town), and many other scenic areas. After a late luinch, we headed back to Halifax, where Bob proceeded to point out more history and some upscale neighborhoods.

 

Despite the weather, we felt very safe in Bob's Mercedes. He is an excellent, responsible driver; never felt like we needed to "assist" him by pressing our feet to the floor! We HIGHLY RECOMMEND Bob. His rates are less than half of the cost of ship tours (with two couples); you won't be disappointed. Contact him at toursbytaxi.com .

 

Incidently, the weather was so bad that we were late getting into Boston and were unable to tender into Newport, at all. Despite missing some ports, we had a wonderful time. Rule #1 - Don't let the weather stop you from enjoying your trip. "Go with the flow" - you will at least preview places you would consider returning to and probably eliminate others.

 

Halifax is definitely on our return to list. SInce we were in port on a Sunday, most stores were closed. The other couple touring with us were not big shoppers either, so that didn't phase us. (Incidently, we connected with the other couple on Cruise Critic's Roll Call board; a lasting friendship is definitely brewing!). By the way, there were some "tourist" stores open, especially in Peggy's Cove (more of a tourist trap - we preferred Mahone Bay & Lunenburg.)

 

Definitely plan a full day in Halifax and the surrounding areas. Check out Bob's website, too; you'll be glad you did.

[Host Caroline]

I agree re Quebec City and visit often.. Unfortunatey the later you head to Canada New England in hopes of seeing foliage the more chance you have of inclement weather as well. Isn't Halifax wonderful? Next time hope you have better weather so you can enjoy an outdoor lunch at one of hte many good seafood places along the harbor!