New England Cruise Part 3: Nova Scotia
11:05 PM
Hey everyone!
To those of you in the US or are American citizens, that was one heck of an election this year, huh? I had the TV on all evening to keep up with the count. The jokes and stuff we were all making for the past year aren’t funny anymore, now that it’s reality. To be honest, it still does not feel real that this all happened. It's been joked about so much, that now it seems like we are still part of a joke. A really long joke that needs to be finished. I don't remember it being quite like this 8 years ago when Obama was first elected. And to those of you who aren’t in or from the US, I’m curious to know your reactions and responses! If you are from the US, please lemme know as well what you think about the election this year!
As you all know, I am from Seattle and I go to the University of Washington. On Wednesday, there were protests going on all day in response to the elections the night before. Because Trump won. Seattle was one of the many cities all over the country that had these peaceful protests going on. The 2016 elections has been all anyone could talk about for a long time now. Our professors even let us leave class without repercussions to join the protesting and the solidarity event. I’m not really political, nor do I keep up with that stuff on the daily. However, I do consider myself a feminist. And obviously because of the elections we are all feeling some pretty strong emotions. It’s actually quite extraordinary because not only am I seeing this all happen, but also I’m actually living it. Experiencing it. A part of it. History in the making.
Please share your thoughts down below! I’ve been scrolling through Twitter, Instagram, and news sites like crazy reading other people’s reactions. I really would love to hear what you think!
Aside from all that craziness, I am here today sharing with you all more about my trip to New England. Yes, it was a couple months ago now. Shut up. I know you’re judging me and calling me crazy to still be talking about it. But, it was a really great trip, and I had never been to the East Coast before. So, I want to talk more about it. Keep on reading if you are interested! If not, then just check out some other posts I’ve done instead and stop your complaining.
(I don’t actually know if you’re complaining or not, I just figured might as well factor in that response haha)
After the couple days spent in Quebec, our first real stop on the cruise was in Nova Scotia. We first had an entire day spent at sea, where we basically sat around enjoying some cocktails (I like to think that there's no such thing as "time" when you’re traveling and on vacation, so who cares if we’re having drinks at 10 am?) and watching shows. As per most cruises, the crew members would put on demonstrations such as how to create these awesome Towel Animals that they leave in our rooms in the evening, or the fruit carving that made gorgeous art, as well as this cupcake decorating. They would ask for some audience members to join in and try it out. It was really entertaining to watch people struggle while trying to emulate these obvious experts.
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| It is incredible how these chefs have knife skills like that. I would probably have sliced off my finger. |
Our first port stop in Nova Scotia was in Cape Breton, which is where the Fortress of Louisbourg is located. My family and I decided to join an excursion to go to the Fortress. To be honest, prior to this trip I had no idea there was this place. I know next to nothing about Canadian history, and I don’t even know half the landmarks or stuff there either. I only ever go to Vancouver (and nearby cities), or Victoria in Vancouver Island. But the fortress was actually a really incredible place. They had these actors who pretended to be from the 18th (or was it 19th? I can’t remember) century, while telling us the history of the place.
This one lady dressed in the many layers of clothing from back then, bonnet and apron and all, served us a traditional hot chocolate made in the old fashioned way as well. Apparently, back then they viewed hot chocolate as medicinal, and people drank it every morning to help ward off colds and diseases. To me, that just seems like a poorly veiled excuse to drink something delicious in the mornings, but I’ll take it. I would totally use that explanation to indulge in some liquid chocolatey goodness every morning, but I don’t want to get fat. Or have acne.
I think there was a farm or something because there were a lot of animals waddling around. I couldn't resist taking photos of these ducks. There was also a chicken and a rooster walking about as well. As someone from the city/suburbs, seeing farm animals is always really exciting! Though, if you asked me to care for them I would definitely shake my head and walk away.
We took a tour of the area, going through a house that belonged to some important general or whatnot (I honestly didn’t pay much attention to it because I was more fascinated by how everything looked than the actual information). After Europeans settled here, they had brought along with them the poor and homeless, giving them the option of joining the army in exchange for food and shelter and a very minimal payment. We got to go through the army barracks, and a small chapel as well. It was all really fascinating. Seeing how the buildings were still standing in mostly original condition, kept the same all these years.
At one point, this lady who was acting as someone in the army even demonstrated to us how they fired guns back then. The whole time she kept telling us of how soldiers would accidentally shoot their fingers because it was very easy to accidentally trigger something. I've never really been big on guns, but I have to admit, it was really riveting seeing it all in action.
The fortress was a good 45 minute bus ride away from the port, and we had to scramble to get back in time to board back onto the ship. The whole time I was actually sort of panicking to be honest. I’ve always heard stories about people missing the time to board back on, and being stuck on shore in some random place. That’s why every time I take excursions I like to return super early to prevent anything. But this time, the excursion happened to last until right before we were leaving the port.
We did the same stuff as usual on the ship. Ate, drank, read, watched shows, etc. The shows each night were pretty good. Comedies, musical performances, dance. I love watching the shows when I’m on cruises because the atmosphere is so incredible. With the boat softly rocking as we head to the next port, the pounding upbeat music, the flashing lights, it’s definitely different than watching shows elsewhere. Plus, in shows such as the comedy skits and such, they generally like to reference the cruise itself, such as the incredibly small size of the bathroom, the annoying overhead announcement thing, drunks, and the sort. It's definitely very entertaining, and we always try to make time to see the shows.
The following day the stop was at Halifax, which is also in Nova Scotia. You might recognize the outfit I wore as the one from the Fashion Mia review I did a while ago. That's where I took those photos. Secrets revealed haha. If you haven't read that post yet, go check it out! Anyways, Halifax was pretty nice. The city did remind me a lot of Victoria in Vancouver Island.
The excursion we went on for this stop was actually a Harbor Duck tour. The ones where you go on this bus that converts to a boat, and you go into the water. We have those back in Seattle as well, but it was my first time riding one in Halifax. It was really fun getting to see the city in this way. We didn't make any stops, but driving around in this colorful and ridiculous looking vehicle was definitely pretty fun. It made quite a splash when we entered the water. It was definitely a lot of fun, and was reminiscent of an amusement park ride because of the whole bus-boat thing. Have you ever been on one of these tours before?
After the tour, we had some time afterwards to wander around. We decided not to venture too far off because you know, my fear of getting stuck and not boarding the ship on time. There were some shops at the port, so we spent some time walking through and seeing the stuff people were selling. There were more touristy stuff, but also a bunch of food places too. There was a sign that told us of these lobster rolls, but after walking around a few times we couldn't seem to find the place anywhere. It wasn't that big of a disappointment though because we already have been eating a ton on the cruise, and how much can you eat? My stomach isn't literally bottomless. Unless it comes to desserts.
We didn't get the best glimpse of Nova Scotia because both of the port days ended up being kinda gloomy and grey out, with us barely making it back on board before it started raining. But, it was definitely a great experience seeing the fortress, and touring the cities. I definitely loved how there were actors dressed as if from the time period. I really like it when places have that. It gives it this more authentic feel, though how authentic can it be if you're standing there taking photos with an iPhone?
I really love going on cruises because everything you need is in one place, and you don't have to worry about having to get anywhere. It's a resort on a ship that takes you to places to explore and experience. But the one thing I don't like is how you mainly get to go to the coastal areas of the port stops. You barely get inland. That's not much of a taste of the city. It's like sampling bits of every entree and never really getting a full meal. Yeah you get to taste a whole bunch of different things, but you can't exactly get another bite of the previous one. I can definitely see myself returning to get a better feel of the city, and really exploring it. Comment down below how you make the most of and get the best taste of a new place when you are only there for a short visit! I would love to hear your tips!
It's been a crazy, yet quick quarter so far at UW. Fall quarter is already more than half done. Soon I will be cramming for finals. Looking back on this vacation makes me really wish summer was here agin. Or at the least the holidays. Only 2 more weeks til the Gilmore Girls revival is here! Which so happens to be Thanksgiving weekend. And after that it's only a couple short weeks until the holidays. It's so close I can almost taste it. Are you guys excited for the Gilmore Girls revival? I am definitely looking forward to it!
I will be posting more about the rest of the cruise later on! Still got a few more places to reminisce on and rant about. I hope you guys are enjoying reading these posts.
One last thing, if you are near any of the major cities with protests going on, please keep safe! You never know when these peaceful protest will turn violent. I am really glad that people are speaking up and trying to fight for what they want though. Democracy isn't democracy if the people's voices aren't being heard or accounted for.
Lemme know down in the comments down below if you would ever drink hot chocolate in the mornings! Do you believe any of these "myths" about certain foods having medicinal properites?
Thank you all for stopping by! I hope you all enjoyed reading, and I wish you all a fantastic weekend!
Til next time,
~A
76 comments
Love it! Thanks for sharing.
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I love the details. Very beautiful.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
DeleteSuch interesting and funny cruise!
ReplyDeleteYou visited a very beautiful and original places, great photos! :)
xxx
S
http://s-fashion-avenue.blogspot.it
Thank you Silvia! I really loved taking photos on this trip as well because the view everywhere was so gorgeous
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Hadasah Love | www.styletolove.com
Thank you Hadasah!
DeleteThe elections in America are always so exciting and meaningful for you Americans! For Italians it's quite different and in fact very few now still believe in politics. I still can't believe Trump won! So crazy!
ReplyDeleteAnyway, it seems you had so much fun during the cruise! So many beautiful places and yes, I would drink hot chocolate every morning, to start the day in a very good way! ^-^
xoxo
I think it's because our whole country was based on this type of political system. It's definitely something that I wasn't really into before, but this year in particular I have become more invested. It definitely is an event every time elections happen.
DeleteHaha I would totally drink hot chocolate every morning! It sounds like the best way to start the day with a sweet drink haha dessert for breakfast is a good idea
Thanks Roberta!
Interesting pictures! I've had never a cruise but I think it's a great thing! :)
ReplyDeleteXX,
www.ChristinaKey.com
♥
It's really fun to go on cruises! I love how you get to explore many places at once. Even if it's only a brief bit of it, it's still exciting! Thank you Christina
DeleteSeriously adorable!! Great styling! Lovely pictures!
ReplyDeleteHappy weekend!
much love, Len ❤️
http://www.lenparent.com
Thank you Len! I hope you have a great weekend too
DeleteYou look amazing, great photos
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely day:)
New Giveaway on my blog, good luck :)
www.abdelkhalekleblog.com
Thank you!! I'm so glad to hear you like them! :))
DeleteDon't even get me started on the election! I still can't believe what happened.
ReplyDeleteLooks like you had a great trip! I've never been on a cruise before but from what you e said I think I'd like too.
I'm soooo excited for the Gilmore Girls reunion as you would've seen from my post last week hahah hurry up No ember 25!
I seriously feel like this isn't reality right now. It just doesn't seem right and doesn't feel real. I can't believe this is what happened! I AM SOOOO EXCITED for the Gilmore Girls special, I haven't talked bout anything else other than that hahaha Thanks Chelsey!
DeleteLooks like you had an absolutely wonderful time, my lovely! You look so happy and radiant in these photos. :) <3 Nova Scotia looks so fab and cosy! And those little towel animals are just so cute... :) Also, don't even get me started on the elections, haha! I try to keep my Twitter politics-free but it was difficult... I couldn't believe the result, and I'm not even in the US! The whole world was (and still is) pretty shocked, I think. The best we can do right now is move forward, difficult as that might be... My heart goes out to all the families in America who fear for their lives, safety and rights. :( <3 We had a similar situation here after Brexit (ugh!), and it hasn't really calmed down since. <3 xoxo
ReplyDeleteKay
http://www.shoesandglitter.com/
Aww thank you! I didn't even realize it haha but yeah looking back it was definitely a ton of fun and I was really happy as you said :) Nova Scotia definitely has a cozy vibe to it, it could be because of the weather?
DeleteI'm trying to keep positive about everything but it is so hard to! It's difficult to escape it all and not think about it. I feel like in the next couple years, politically, everything will be pretty tense for our country and yours and just in general around the world. Like you said, I also pray for those who have it the worst and hopefully things will sort out soon. Thank you Kay!
Looks amazing! Cruises are wonderful.
ReplyDeleteAmy Ann
Straight A Style
Thank you Amy! Cruises are definitely a ton of fun!
DeleteLooks amazing! I would love to go on a cruise!
ReplyDeleteGemma x
www.jacquardflower.uk
Thanks Gemma! It was a lot of fun and I highly recommend it!
DeleteHi dear :) what a nice trip! I really want to visit this lovely place one day. Beautiful photos ! xx
ReplyDeleteaishettina.blogspot.it
Thank you! You really should! There was so much to see and I bet you would like it :)
DeleteI can understand what you mean about cruises being brilliant for taking out the hassle, but not so great if you want to go much deeper into a city to explore. Nevertheless, this has been a great read and I actually really love the look of the stormy, grey skies shown towards the end (and of course the chocolate cupcake haha!) :)
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It's difficult to have to arrange transportation and schedule everything to fit in a vacation, so I love how cruises do all that for you. Plus it's so relaxing to cruise. But I definitely would love to explore a city deeper, though cruises are a good way to get a brief overview of a place just to know a bit of how its like. Thank you Gabrielle! I'm glad you like it
DeleteI do think that cruises are very convenient for all-inclusive hassle free traveling but I agree that they are really not the best if you want to really get to know a place. I think they can be a good jumping point for getting a general idea of a certain region and following up with a more in-depth trip to one of the places visited though. I also think the hassle-free nature makes it a great trip for families or with friends, but I do question the environmental impact that these boats have.
ReplyDeleteRae | Love from Berlin
It's almost like a taste of a bunch of places, to entice you to return for a longer visit. I like how you said it's a good jumping point, because it definitely is. I wouldn't have thought to visit Cape Breton and the Fortress if it weren't for the cruise! Ohh the environmental impact, I didn't even think of that. That's a really good point. It definitely leaves a big carbon footprint. Thank you for stopping by and your lovely comment Rae!
DeleteWhat stunning places you visited... thanks a lot for sharing :)
ReplyDeleteAnd now it's true: He won... I can't believe it, really.
xoxo
www.bellezzefelici.blogspot.com
Thank you Elena! And I know, it's something I really cannot believe and I don't want to admit this is reality. It's crazy how things turned out.
Deletethese pictures are so fun! looks like such a great adventure!
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Thank you! It was a bunch of fun and definitely an adventure
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Thank you Eleine!
DeleteThis looks like so much fun!!
ReplyDeleteX Merel
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It was a lot of fun :) Thanks Merel!
DeleteThe cruise seems like so much fun! I think we can all just hope for the best about the election. I hope he sticks to everything he said in his acceptance speech. I can't wait for Gilmore Girls to start ��
ReplyDeleteXo
http://style-hue.com
I hope that things don't get worse because of this disaster of an election. I'm really trying to think positively. On the bright side, the cruise was really great and that's something that brightens my mood despite all this. Vacations in general are a great distraction.
DeleteGilmore Girls is SO soon!!
This was such a great post! Nova Scotia looks absolutely GORGEOUS, and I loved seeing your photos of Seattle since I'm from there! As far as the election goes, it is hard to really believe it is real. I've gone through a lot of emotions about it and at this point am just resigned to the fact this is happening. I hope the takeaway to this election cycle is that we all need to try a bit harder to understand one another and connect with one another. That's the only way we are going to be able to continue to grow as a country.
ReplyDeleteYou're from Seattle?! Oh wow that's so cool! It's rare that I meet other people from Seattle online, most are from the east coast or Europe or something.
DeleteI just don't understand this whole election system. The popular vote just doesn't have any leverage over the whole electoral college thing which is supposed to help but only makes it more difficult for us to feel equally represented. I hope we will progress rather than regress.
Thanks for your insightful comment Kasie!
What an amazing cruise! I love your stunning photos! =)
ReplyDelete- Cielo
Mermaid in Heels
Thank you Cielo!
DeleteSuch an amazing experience you must have had
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Thank you Aly! I'm glad you like it :)
DeleteLooks amazing! xx
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Thank you!
DeleteSuper fun trip, babe! Love all the shots!
ReplyDelete-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Thanks Ashley! It was a really great trip and I loved taking all the photos!
DeleteSeems like you had great cruise, dear, what about election in US - personally I was shocked, actually I think that most of the world was considering what happened on the stock market after announcement of the results... And it was really nice that professors from your university let you leave class to join to the protests! :)
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I'm so glad everyone is so understanding and supportive. Especially since politics can be a sensitive topic. I hope that we will be able to move forward from this in a positive manner. It's crazy how things turned out. And thank you! I had a wonderful vacation :)
DeleteAlthough I'm not happy with the results, I'm happy that this election is finally over! On another note, I really like these pictures! Looks like fun!
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Tamara - LoveofMode.com
I am so glad it's over too! Before, the anticipation was probably way worse. Considering the outcome if it. Thanks Tamara! I'm so glad you like it :)
DeleteThanks for sharing such an awesome travel post! xo
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Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it
DeleteI'm from the Philippines and most of us were actually shocked with the election results. I'm just hoping that everyone will keep their faith and praying that everything will still be alright after all that has happened and will happen. Anyway, this is a great travel diary! :)
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SHAIRA // New post
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It's become such an international event. We are all still reeling from it all. It's been a couple weeks and yet we can't escape this reality. I hope things will be okay as well. Thank you Shaira, I'm glad you like this post :)
DeleteLooks very beautiful x
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amna-tbhidc
Thanks Amna!
DeleteSo happy that you enjoyed your trip in the states! And I will drink hot chocolate any time, any day :) . And you already have an idea of how I felt post-election, haha. But I was very disappointed in the outcome because my country would allow someone whose campaign was based on hate to represent our nation. Also, despite more human beings voting for Hillary Clinton, she still lost. But I do believe that this was one of the worst and most exhausting and most terrifying elections we've had and that there's no better time for us to come together, love each other, and make our voices heard.
ReplyDeletethesixthdisneyprincess.blogspot.com
I really hope things will take a turn for the better. It's so frustrating to hear that she won the popular vote and yet lost despite of that! What kind of system do we have if we can't even use popular vote as the answer? I really cannot believe this is the outcome. We've come so far, and yet not at all. Also, hot chocolate anytime of day is the best thing ever. Warm, sweet, and just so satisfying. thank you Jasmine!
DeleteI'm not American and I too can't believe it about the elections. I'm hoping for the best now.
ReplyDeleteReally lice pictures from your trip. The place looks so lovely.
Have a great rest of the week :)
xo
Sauniya | Find Your Bliss ♡
I really hope that we will have positive change, instead of have things get worse. We've come so far in the past several years I hope things won't reverse. Thank you Sauniya!
DeleteAmazing photos!
ReplyDeletexx
Sarah
Thank you Sarah!
DeleteLooks like you had a lovely time, these are such great pictures! Just followed you on bloglovin and instagram!
ReplyDeleteThanks Harriet! And I really had a great time :)
DeleteHi Chris, thank you very much! I just added the image :)
ReplyDeleteThanks!
ReplyDeleteThank you!
ReplyDeleteThanks Gil! I hope you are having a wonderful weekend as well
ReplyDeleteThank you!
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