On our vacation to Canada’s eastern provinces this past June, we were probably most looking forward to visiting Newfoundland and Labrador. It’s a funny thing, as frequent travellers we usually steer away from the usual must-do attractions, but on this trip we wanted to experience all the clichéd stereotypes this unique province is known for.
We managed to reinforce all of our preconceptions.
Lobster Left, Right, and Centre
Yes, it is perhaps just an excuse to scarf down a whole lot of melted butter, but when you’re from the landlocked prairies, the allure of fresh lobster is powerful.
We definitely ate our fill, including these lobster flavoured potato chips, which we momentarily contemplated dipping in melted butter (But we didn’t! We didn’t!).
Funny Storytellers
Part of our attraction to The Rock is our love of the amazing roster of hilarious storytellers regularly exported to the rest of Canada for our amusement. Rick Mercer, Cathy Jones, Ron James, the entire cast of Codco—the disproportionate number of funny people from this province led us to believe that the entire population spins a good yarn and is good for a belly laugh or two. From store clerks to waiters to those we met along hiking trails, everyone seemed ready to tell a story to a couple “from away.” And the stories were all the better if the teller had a strong Newfoundland accent.
Dale over at the St. John’s Haunted Hike tours certainly did not disappoint. In period costume and with stories galore, his tour had us riveted, chuckling, and disturbed over the close to 2-hour walk through the dark streets.
Screech!
I’m not sure how many Newfoundlanders drink screech on a regular basis, but there are several varieties of this rum to choose from at the liquor store. Although we were not “screeched in” – a ceremony performed on those who “come from away” as a type of christening—we did consume an entire bottle during the course of our eastern tour. We did not, as far as we can recall, kiss any fish while under its influence (also part of the ceremony).
Dreamy Newfoundland and Labrador Landscapes
You’ve seen them, right—the achingly beautiful ads Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism puts out featuring cherub-cheeked children running along pristine coastal landscapes? Those images of rugged terrain under clear blue skies always had me itching to call Kate or Seamus or any of the other reps listed on the final frame apparently eager and standing by to help me organize my visit.
Remarkably, in Newfoundland and Labrador, there’s truth in advertising. The place is stunning at every turn.
Woody Point – Tablelands
Quidi Vidi Harbour
Lobster Cove Head
Signal Hill
Snug Harbour
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Nice post. It’s been a long time since I was in St. John’s and this made me want to go back and see more of Newfoundland. There is something special about its people, including a great sense of humour.
We did not spend nearly enough time there to really enjoy all this spectacular province has to offer. It’s a real gem.
We loved Newfoundland! Here are 2 spots to stop at on your return visit, Quirpon Lighthouse and the little town of Twllingate. Both are beautiful!
Thanks for the recommendations, Barb! We did not spend nearly enough time in Newfoundland to see even a fraction of what we wanted to. Definitely going back.