By Emily Wei, Lifestyle Columnist
Good morning, afternoon, or evening to whoever decided to pick up this newspaper today! Before I get into the real point of this column; some of you may remember me from the “Out of the West” columns I have been writing for the past two years about Halifax West High School. Well, I am ecstatic to announce that it turns out my journey with the Parkview News is not quite over yet! From now on, I will be a lifestyle columnist so a big thank you from me to all of you for taking time out of your day to read my columns.
To get right into it; summer is most definitely upon us! It might seem like things are starting to wind down with fall beginning next month but that doesn’t mean we should forget about the next few weeks where we can soak up the last of any summer-y goodness possible! By now I am sure you have seen countless people going on elaborate vacations to Europe, Mexico, and just about anywhere else that makes Nova Scotia just look like a piece of land in the ocean, but our little province actually has quite a bit to offer. If going out of province isn’t really something you take a fancy for right now, Cape Breton is always a great alternative and a lot closer! Don’t let first impressions fool you, this small part of Nova Scotia has so much to offer and although it might not offer up the “big city” feel, it’s still a nice escape from daily life.
Cape Breton is home to countless accommodations such as; motels, lodges, cabins, and hotels. Personally, I found the Glenghorm Beach Resort very peaceful and an added bonus is that it’s within close proximity to the Coastal Restaurant and Pub. Home to multiple food items that have been featured on the Food Network, this restaurant is a must-have event on your trip to Cape Breton! If you’re looking for a little more excitement, the Keltic Lodge Resort has something for almost everyone from relaxing at the spa to diving in the pool to dining while listening to live music! Not to mention that from every cottage in the resort you are provided with a spectacular view of the Middle Head Peninsula which can be a real breathtaker if you’re daring enough to wake up early and watch the sunrise!
Is Cape Breton sounding special yet? Well, have you ever wanted to time travel? If yes, then make sure to stop by the Fortress of Louisbourg! This Fortress from the 1700s will make you feel like you have gone back in time. Complete with servants, farmers, guards and much more, come here to take a walk through history and maybe stop by one of the bakeries to buy some fresh “old” food. If the historical aspect of the Fortress sounds appealing to you then the Alexander Graham Bell Museum should also be right up your alley!
Now of course, the long road trip from Halifax to Cape Breton might not be the most alluring factor, however, there are many things to do and see on your way! The Atlantic Gondola at Cape Smokey will give you an experience that only birds are familiar with. The ten minute ride up a 320 meter tall mountain allows you to see a great view of the Cape Breton Highland National Park, Atlantic Ocean, and Ingonish. Of course, driving along the infamous Cabot Trail is a no-brainer as well. If all else fails on the road trip, curling up in the backseat with a good book is always a safe option!
