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New Brunswick: From the Forest to the Sea!

The province of New Brunswick, Canada is as varied as the heritage of those inhabiting it. The interior and western portion of the province is mostly forest; indeed a full 75% of the province is made up of forested land. The southern coast, along the Bay of Fundy, has dramatic cliffs that overlook some of the world's most severe current patterns. The east coast, along the Northumberland Strait, is more docile and warmer than the dramatic areas around the Bay of Fundy. This diversity of geography makes New Brunswick a haven for anyone considering a Canadian vacation. A day's itinerary can include sea kayaking, wind surfing, parasailing, fishing, hiking, beach combing, whale-watching, or visiting one of the many historical sites in the region.

The largest town in the province is Saint John. The city began as a collection of Loyalist settlements. Today those settlements are still alive, represented in the various neighborhoods of Saint John. For insight into the natural history of the area, visit the New Brunswick Museum. This facility has three floors of displays, exhibiting items pertaining to the area's natural history and relationship with the sea. Kids will particularly enjoy the Hall of Whales, and the three level Tidal Tube, in which water rises and falls, mimicking the nearby Bay of Fundy.

For some excellent shopping and people watching, head to the Saint John City Market. This huge series of shops encompasses a full city block, and is a great place to sample local baked goods, cheeses, meats, fish, poultry, and produce. The area has a large selection of antiques, and home spun crafts are a popular find.

Saint John is a great jumping off point for the rest of the Fundy Coast. The extreme high tides have formed some phenomenal caves, crevices, and cliffs. Yachts, fishing boats, and tankers bob up and down on the tide, then sit on the dry ocean floor when the tide rolls out. A popular day trip is to hop on a boat and head to Grand Manan, in the Fundy Isles, for a day of whale-watching. Humpback whales make the trip back from the Caribbean and enter the Bay, giving those wanting to watch a wonderful display of aerial prowess. Also seen are finbacks, minkes, and North Atlantic right whales.

The beaches along the Bay of Fundy attract swimmers that are heartier than the norm. The "invigorating" water is primarily for adventurous souls. One beach in particular, Cape Enrage, is a great place to explore the tidal pools at low tide. Rappelling and sea kayaking are also popular activities.

The legendary tides are a part of everyday life in New Brunswick. Over 100 billion tons of water move through the channel twice a day, swirling and rising to levels that would engulf a four story building. One of the best places to experience the tides is at Fundy National Park. Here, at low tide, visitors can hike over the Hopewell Rocks, looking for marine treasures. Hikers will enjoy the more than two dozen trails that meander through the 206-square km park. Sailboats, canoes, and kayaks can be rented for use on Bennet Lake.

In contrast with the Bay of Fundy, the Acadian Coast is notable for its warm waters, soft tides, and excellent summer sun bathing opportunities. In particular, Parlee Beach, just outside of Cap-Pele, is a humming mecca of sandcastles, volleyball games, and beach combers.

A great jumping off point for the Acadian coast is the humming little town of Moncton. The city has been hailed for the harmony that exists between the Anglophones and Francophones that combine to make up most of the city's 65,000 residents. Nestled on the Petitcodiac River, Moncton's Main Street is a rejuvenated section with historical lighting and sidewalks, and is a great spot for people watching at its finest. Artifacts from the city's history can be seen at the Moncton Museum. There are exhibits from the Mi'kmaqs through WWII. If you are a particularly big breakfast enthusiast, be sure to visit the Moncton Market on a Saturday morning. This is not really a farmer's market, as all the food is ready to eat. The array of delicacies is astounding with line after line of breakfast, lunch, or brunch choices.

A vacation in New Brunswick is a trip through the heart of Canada's Great Outdoors. The forests empty into lowlands which flow into the sea. Tides jostle kayakers on the southern coast; sun worshipers enjoy a dip in the waters off of the east coast, warmed by the Gulf Stream. Traffic signs warn of moose crossings. Small picturesque fishing villages dot the coastline, gallant throwbacks to a less hurried age. If being outside and enjoying the sunshine, a scenic rocky coastline, or thriving urban communities firmly rooted in their history appeals to you, then set your compass for New Brunswick.