Montréal's wishing you'd come play ... why wait?

Canada: Montréal, Quebec (July 2008, part II)

...but seriously, who goes to  Montréal and sleeps in a tent? hahaha.

Ahh morning :) the time of day when the sun first illuminates the sky and you remember that summers heat is simultaneous with the appearance of this glowing star. You also remember what 'hot' really feels like as your tent (and all its contents) heat up under the lack of protection of the direct rays. Wow.

While you experience this 'heat', the family of 2 adults and 17 children (exaggerated, okay not 17...but sure sounded it lol), next door must have forgotten that sleeping in a tent isn't at all soundproof. After seemingly endless hours of shouting demands "no!" "No!" "NOOOoo", they finally unzip their nylon pegged house and release all 17 of their screaming little people into the park. Ay yi yi!!

No time for a test of patience today my friends, slap on that smile, we're off to explore Montréal. :) Up, ready and out of there. A short 30 minute drive (or less), weaving in and out of 2-4 lanes of fast paced traffic, we then take our exit to city centre. A blur of people, buildings, traffic lights, cars, pavement, signs, flowers...that eventually flowed into a comprehensible and beautiful scenic tour of  Montréal: East, West, North and South (or rather, Old, New and all places within the grid). 

Streets lined with row houses (mostly brick) with happily painted front doors and trusting fire scapes. Pretty flower boxes amongst the lush tree canopy.

People walking dogs, jogging and peddling their bikes along sidewalks, sidewalks that never seem to meet any hills, only slight inclines. There were Churches, office buildings, stores and so many people.

Finally, a parking spot and what luck, we found one right on Ste Catherines Street...this is THE street in Montréal "anything you want". Without hesitation, we were game to leave the views of our moving vehicle and explore this City on foot. By 'explore', I mean walk down Ste Catherine’s Street, all 11.5 km's of it, to see what we could see. It was endless :)

Shop, eat, drink, sightsee...this street had everything we'd need (and everything we didn't know we needed haha).

Within the first few minutes the temperature started to rise. Not only from the sun's heat, as we had lucked into a 43 degree Celsius day (great for roaming crowded, paved streets lol), but there were sex shops, signage, patios and clubs interlaced very tastefully amongst stores, Churches, people and restaurants. 

There were people strolling the streets wearing leather outfits, go-go boots 

and donning hair of many shades and styles. Churches (so many extraordinary Churches) and other buildings of historical significance were the backdrop scenes of these same sidewalks. They were shared with folks wearing suits, dresses, tourist garb and just plain everyday clothes. None of this seemed unusual, nor did it justify a reason to shy away, to stare or to judge. The combination of it all was consistent, in abundance and comfortable, such a natural fit for this City. 

Montréal was very different from my upbringing and all things in my current world.  It was beautiful. I had just entered the gateway to a Cultural Haven. We walked a little further only to learn that on this particular Saturday there were extra events to partake in.

Ste Catherine's was hosting a 2.0 km (no vehicle access) sidewalk sale, off on a little side street (Crescent Street) would be the excitement of a Corona Beer Festival and along the way would be many, many street performers, parades and artistic displays to entertain the droves of passer-bys. 

Here's a short video clip of an incredible drum band performing on Ste Catherine's.

We spent the entire day outside observing, living and shifting our way through the crowds. We stopped to eat at the Hard Rock Cafe (which I believe it sadly closed back in 2009), we had caricature pictures drawn street side and we shopped. Then we sat outside near the fountains of the Place des-Arts, rather enjoying the heat of this summer day. The people were friendly, the smells were (mostly) delicious and the sounds were captivating.

On this very day, I fell in Love with Montréal!!!

  

And that was that.

Night had fallen.  We made our way back to our parked car and navigated ourselves out of town to Hudson.  Once there our campsite beckoned us to have a seat, light a campfire and stare into the starry sky while we recalled the adventures of the day.  Weekends never really do last long enough and my time with Sister would be over when we awoke the next day.

The drive back was quiet and rainy, very fitting of the bleakness within the car.  It wasn't all somber. Silently I kept thinking that it takes less than a day's worth of unshared driving to return.;) And since I knew the second we drove pass the Welcome sign when we arrived Friday, this wouldn't be the first and only time I'd come here to play.  Plus, we really had just spent some great quality time with Sister, short as it was.

Next time I think we plan to visit Montréal for more than a day?!   We need to sightsee, live next door to Ste Catherine's for a night or two, experience the night life, visit the Old, the New and the Underground and step into explore these places of historical significance, such sound architectural masterpieces. We need to talk to more people, happen upon other festivals and markets and enjoy thoroughly Canada's adult playground.

Montréal truly is a City that doesn't sleep, I'm sure we can find a few pals who'd like to join us for a weekend roadtrip in the future? (>>>fast forward to 2011). Let's rebook our next adventure shall we?

Weekly Survey Question: when booking your vacation, you...? Ready to book?  33% of you will call your Travel Agent, while 46% of you will take the time to search online first, determine what you want and then call your Travel Agent and  only 21% will search, plan and book your entire vacation online yourself.  Regardless of your method, I hope that you've added Montréal to your list of must see City's.

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc. in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of this blog page). No sign up necessary, just a simple click :) A little shy?! Why not EMAIL me?

~Holiday Heidi
(be sure to check out Your Adventure Map (at the top of this page) so you can read all previous adventure posts leading up to this one).

Maiden Memories of Montréal

Canada: Montréal, Quebec (July 2008, part I) 

Early in 2008, my Sister moved to a town just outside of Montréal. When family members decide that it’s time to leave the nest and explore new places, one can only hope that their adventure is within driving distance (or that there’s an airport nearby). Montréal is a convenient distance away (some ten hours or less by automobile), so even before her departure we were discussing the details of my arrival. … ROAD TRIP haha. I had heard of this sleepless cultural haven and would finally get my very own glimpse. 

First impressions: charming, traditional, modern, friendly, hospitable, open minded, cultural, exciting and quaint. I'm trying to think of things that this city isn't...(but I've got nothing). A window to history, an adult playground, the most romantic blend of old and new, even the streets politely whisper as you pass by ... en Français of course. It's exactly the kind of place that will open your eyes, keep you interested and content, leave you wanting more, yet fulfilled at the same time. Bienvenue a Montréal. 

This trip wasn't really about Montréal...well it was, but not really. It was more for spending time in Sister's company and maybe getting to see a few sights in between. I was excited about all of it. Since this was our summer season, or as we like to refer to it, our "camping season", choice of accommodations was easy. For enjoyment, cost savings and maximum quality time, we had decided to spend the weekend in a tent at Choisy Campground (conveniently located near Sister's place and Montréal city-centre), in Hudson...perfect. 

Bon Voyage! Early Friday, as the sun smacked down its July heat, our friend Doug and I departed, bound for Quebec in thankfully an air-conditioned ride. For the first few hours I drove, that's about all I'm good for. Well okay, I guess the first few hours of driving, and then I’m great at: vehicle temperature control, suggesting mandatory washroom breaks, endless chatting, chronic radio station searching, updating the digital photo library of the entire journey and maybe some map reading if it's required. Just as we entered into "Construction Country", also known as 'the Quebec highway', Doug took the wheel for the remaining 5-6 hours (thank you, thank you). 

Once you enter the province of Quebec, you’ll instantly observe certain things. Like for example, the majority of the highway is not twined, the speed limit is 90 km / hour and reduces rather often to 60 km / hour due to construction zones (which there are many, no matter the time of year) and all the road signs are in French, which is of no surprise since this is the official language. 

There are forested areas with so many trees they blur as you pass. The same blur that periodically pauses for you to catch glimpses of the lakes, rivers, small towns and wildlife it screens. On a clear day you might be lucky enough to follow (off in the distance) the beautiful mountain range (Appalachian Mountains I believe). 

Farmland upon farmland, you won’t have a far distance to travel before you see a silo, another silo and another. To remind you that you're passing by farm country, open fields will appear on your left and your right, you may get stuck behind a farm tractor moving along about 15 km / hour unable to pass because the highway lacks passing lanes and when the conditions are right, you may end up gagging over the wafting fresh scent of manure.  My only advice:  plug your nose and cautiously speed up :) and know that this too shall pass! haha.

L H Lafontaine Tunnel

Most people within Quebec can speak French and English (thankfully bilingual).  I always try to speak the official language of where I'm visiting, out of respect for their culture but I'm certain nothing could be funnier for them than listening to me try :)  Doug and I had stopped for petro just outside of Montréal (just before passing through the tunnel) and decided that we'd order take-out before hitting the road again.  I'm not sure who's French was worse (oh dear lol), and if it hadn't been for the ability to point at the menu who knows what we'd have left there with to eat. 

We arrived at Sister's residence shortly before dark. Near midnight, we were at the campground setting up our tent in front of the car's headlights. What an adventure this day had been. Not long after the sleeping bags were taken out of the trunk and tossed in, all eyes were closed and twitching as the state of dreaming rapidly swept over the three of us. It had been decided that tomorrow we'd venture back to Montréal ...no plan except to drive, park and explore. Bon nuit.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 
When we wake up in that cozy little tent of ours, I promise we'll go to Montréal's City Centre, just not today (remember each post can only be a 7 minute read, a little vicarious mini-vacation). I don't know about you, but I'm very excited to experience this romantic, historic, exotic, interesting City.

Part II is one only week away: Montréal's wishing you'd come play ... why wait?  I think visiting a place that chimes character and boasts diversity is just the get-away we need. Hope your bags are packed (oh, and wear good shoes, we'll be exploring Montréal on foot).

Weekly Survey Question:  what do you enjoy most about travelling?
Although we all enjoy planning, booking and counting down to our next adventure, 80% have said that getting there and doing is your number one favourite thing about travel.  Mine too :)

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc.  in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of this blog page).  No sign up necessary, just a simple click :) A little shy?!  Why not EMAIL me?

~Holiday Heidi
(be sure to check out Your Adventure Map (at the top of this page) so you can read all previous adventure posts leading up to this one)  **And if you wish to drive through Montréal's L H Lafontaine Tunnel (photo shared above), you can follow this link I found on YouTube to experience it yourself Montreal Tunnel)

NL...you know I'll be back!

Newfoundland, also known as "The Rock"
(NL - part IV)

As you drive along Newfoundland's coastline you'll become aware of the many small, wonderful communities that exist.  You'll also smile a time or two as you read the road signs that tell you your location.  Just to share a few:  Bar Haven, Bay Bulls, Cape Onion, Dildo, East Tickles, Muddy Hole, Sunnyside etc. (link to:  Community Names of Newfoundland).  Oh how many times did I giggle over some of the names (totally not out of disrespect, I just couldn't help myself).

Do you ever ponder where times goes?!  If so, I can assure you that it escapes far faster when you're having the time of your life!  For my final day in Newfoundland (can you believe it, already it's the last day?!), seven of us ladies loaded into the van and made off for Twillingate, Iceberg Capital of the World. We stopped for statues of giant lobsters, museums, gift shops, delicious places to eat and to rehydrate. 

We even ventured to the lighthouse at Crow Head, Long Point Lighthouse is its name.  It sits beautifully 300 meters above sea level, offering one of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean and rocky coastline of Newfoundland.  For all the things you were most likely to see from here, today wasn't the day.  There were no sightings of whales, icebergs or seals unfortunately.  We did see some fishing boats and tested our fear of heights at the cliff's edge as the rugged breeze whipped at our hair and our outer layer of clothes. 

Our road trip continued along a twisty, hilly and narrow route. It curved this way and that, gaining elevation every kilometre we drove.  As we started to descend and make our way closer to the water, it was here, along the hillside that my pre-trip notions of what Newfoundland would look like were validated.  An entire town built completely within the rocky landscape.  A place where the ocean promised to meet those who lived there as soon as they opened their front door or pushed back the curtains to peek out.  Looking down at the water you could see fishing boat after fishing boat, all just waiting for a new day to start so they could head out to see what treasures the Atlantic would bestow them with.  Absolutely beautiful.

Our days adventure took us from this ocean-side haven, back up the hill to the Durrell Museum.  The day had gotten ahead of us and by the time we'd arrived there, it had closed up for the day (too bad).  I was able to peer into the windows and did get to see the enormous polar bear that greets visitors upon entering the facility.  Apparently he came in on a chunk of iceberg and terrorized the town for a few days before becoming this massive monument. Should've seen the claws on his gigantic paws, yikes.  From here we began our voyage back, stopping for a few more spectacular photo ops along the route, arriving home just before the sun went into hiding.

When deciding how we'd spend the last evening together, something relaxing and close to home sounded fabulous.  A small group of us gathered in the back garden bringing, chairs, guitars, lighting the bonfire and a list of very cultural and historically significant songs for us to sing. Combined with the energy and excitement of the 7 year old girl who got to stay up late to join us, this was an excellent way to capture the conclusion of my amazing first trip to the Rock.  As we sat under the starry Newfoundland skies, happy to be in each others company, there was no reason to think the night would ever end.

"You're kidding"?!? It couldn't be 3 a.m.?! "Oh No"... A few things happened at this moment of realization.  I jumped in the shower and scrambled to gather everything, while Stephanie packed my bags.  There was only an hour left before we had to be on the road to make it to the airport on time and we were absent a driver.  How had time escaped us?  A few phone calls (followed by a few no answers) and there was a strong feeling I wouldn't be making it home this morning.  

Around 4 a.m. our phone rang.  It was Tracey. She had gone home after our Twillingate tour this evening and had gone to bed.  She was absolutely sober and within minutes her car pulled into the yard, she was there to rescue us.  OMG.  I think I boarded the plane before I even realized what was happening ... wasn't I just at the campfire? Did I just say good-bye to the Girls? (thank you Girlies ... for everything)

The results from the Weekly Survey Question:  ever missed your flight?

25% of you have actually missed a flight.  I wonder how many of you from the remaining 75% have been close to missing one?  Sometimes, no matter how fast you run, it's just not fast enough eh? 

On this day, I was content and relieved to find my butt in a seat on the plane. I introduced myself to Ken from Toronto and drooled my way across the Gulf of St Lawrence while staring at the back of my eyelids.  I needed home for rest (that song was definitely written for moments like these). 

It was on this return trip that I questioned if I was really cut out for this travel thing. For the second time, within my first three consecutive trips to anywhere, my heart was broken.  I kept meeting these fabulous people and then saying "Thanks for a great time ... I'll see you when I see you" ... but then would leave wondering when or if that would ever be?!  :(  ... I find that part still sucks (here, there and everywhere), there are so many people I want to see and hang out with often, not just again. 

I've been fortunate enough to have visited this small town in Central Newfoundland almost annually since that first trip.  Summertime visits seem to be the most common, but I've been there during the winter and once in the fall.  I try to keep bringing first time visitors with me so that more and more of my friends can experience this incredible place, meet these amazing people (my extended family ... this entire town) and earn themselves the title of 'Honorary Newfie'.

I need to take some time to share the condensed versions of those other visits with you and tell you about East Coast Blend on the Rock 2010 (a weekend in St. John's, Newfoundland).  Thanks for coming to Newfoundland (if you've never been, are you now inspired?) ... As far as adventures go, we're very close to returning to the Caribbean (might as well get your sunscreen, travel mug and bathing suit ready).

I'd love to hear about your trip to Newfoundland (your screech-in too).  And if you're from there, maybe you have a favourite town or place that everyone should come see while they're visiting!?  Nobody knows the best kept secrets for travellers, than those from there!

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc. in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of the blog page).  No sign up necessary, just a simple click :)  A little shy?!  Why not send me an email instead: holidayheidi@hotmail.ca

~ Holiday Heidi

Newfoundland Rocks

Newfoundland, also known as "The Rock"
(NL - part III)

For all of you 'visiting' Newfoundland for the first time just now, please make sure you attend the "Screech-In" ceremony posted previously.  There's no better welcome than an entire town cheering you on as you down a shot of screech rum and pucker your lips to kiss a cod fish. Click this link to watch it on Youtube, then come back to the Blog for the rest of the NL adventure:  <<Newfoundland Screech-In Ceremony>>

Seems Newfoundland hosts a number of  festivals and events all over the Island. There's the Salmon Festival, 'Trails, Tales and Tunes', Frosty Festival, Mussel Bed Soiree, Festival of Flight, an Iceberg Festival etc etc (of course with countless festivals and events being held in NL's capital, St John's).  I had landed here in the month of August to experience their annual Soiree event. Let's just say that if you're lucky enough to plan your vacation around one of these "home coming" events, you are in for a treat!!

Immediately following the house party (thanks to Tanya & Darrell for hosting and for so many of you coming out to join in, what fun memories), the crowd took their four newest honorary Newfies to a street dance. HA!  How incredible!  I’m sure not many can say that their Screech-In ceremony was followed by a street dance?! Woohoo...what a time!!  At some point I recall, long after the music stopped at the concrete venue, someone suggesting that we head home to get some sleep.

I was only here on a six day holiday and the list of things to do was extensive:  sightsee, reunite, explore, meet & greet. Honestly, not every waking moment was spent out on the bridge drinking, eating and singing (although there seemed to be loads of time for that too).  Oh excuse me, "the bridge" in case you're wondering, is the Newfoundland term for a deck or a patio.  We did have one more beautiful day of doing just that.  From the bridge later that same day, a crowd of us set off to attend the outdoor concert.  Streetheart took the stage first, followed by a rockin' performance by the Stampeders. How perfect! 

The concert lasted until after 11 p.m. but the party wouldn't end there. Don't worry, you had no trouble to figure out where to go ... "The Pub" "The Pub" everyone singing out the same, "The Pub".  Since it was definitely the local wateringhole, The Pub was ready and waiting for us. By the time we arrived, its frame was bulging from the crowd inside and guaranteed, you couldn't find a livelier, happier or more packed place in town.

It was here, at The Pub after the concert (back in 2007), that I met Guy Maye.  A  tall, dark haired fellow in his mid fifties, dancing & singing up a storm at the head of the dance floor (which was packed). He was a Karaoke specialist and the entertainment. He'd play whatever anyone wanted to hear or sing and if no one came to sing, then he would...what an amazing voice.  My favourite memory (and one that was recreated every visit to NL at the pub) was singing, arm-in-arm with everyone on the dance floor, along with Guy, to the song 'Strawberry Wine'.  He played it for us every night we were there. What a memory. 

I think the pub kicked us out at 5 a.m. ... oh dear!

"Up, up!! Get up"!  You don't want to miss the day out in the bay. The weather was cloudy and a bit windy, so when the crew said we'd be delayed because of the winds, I took their word for it. Many things in Newfoundland are subject to weather cooperation.  Wind, even more than rain & snow, can stop you from getting places, have Plans "A" "B" and "C" ready (just in case). Mother Nature decided to cooperate though and shortly after 11 a.m. we made our way to the boat launch.

Here I was sitting in a boat getting ready to explore the Atlantic Ocean. Life is good ... and experience is everything.  I grew up out in the country amongst farmland, thus boating in the Ocean hadn't been such a common thing for me.  Whereas, my friends here in NL likely started boating before they could even crawl as an infant and as such, had no fear jumping into their boats on this slightly windy day to venture out into the wide open blue. (The wind creates waves).

Compared to the landscape, the boats were small but they were comfortable, safe and allowed you to feel 'at one' with the sea.  Life jacket, rain suit and camera ready, I was psyched for this adventure (even though I suffered waves of anxiety once I got in the boat ... sorry for the pun).  As we began to leave land, I realized my vivid imagination had created yet another delusion. 

For some reason I had thought Newfoundland's coastline would be where land-meets-water and that its edges would be solid rock.  After this rocky edge, there wouldn't be any more land, it'd stop right there and only deep blue sea from there on out (isn't this why they call it the "Rock"?). However, the further we boated away from the wharf, I learned this concept couldn't be further from the truth.  Island after island lined the bays and coves within this saltwater paradise. Some of them rock, some sand, some treed.  There were so many cabins, cottages and homes ... mostly owned by people from Newfoundland who had chosen to build, visit and even stay out on these islands.

In total, our convoy was five vessels strong all filled with delighted passengers, who continued to smile, laugh and gaze as we skipped our way across the choppy water.  Round a corner, veer to the right and there it was...the cabin off in the distance nestled in a cove, surrounded by trees, rocks and water.  This is where we'd be spending our day.  At this moment, I was witnessing Heaven on Earth.

The day was filled with exploring, hiking, eating, napping, finding sea treasures and creating wonderful memories.  Oh yes, and swimming, though I did not.  The water is frigid, gives me shivers just thinking about how cold it was (imagine jumping into a bathtub half full of ice cubes!! "___", umm yes, that's exactly what I said haha).  I still have no idea how they didn't develop hypothermia!  The moral of the story of course is that the only limit to the possibilities out in the bay, is your imagination.

For hours and hours you could just sit on the front porch and stare out into the ocean ... totally off on some other planet as your worries continued to be washed away by the blue current. That's exactly what I was doing when someone yelled "WHALE" ... instantly my heart started to race, my eyes started to scan the open waters and before I knew what I was doing, my camera was in my hand and I was running to get to the furthest rock point near the water.  I needed a closer look. I had to see him! ... Darn it.  Gone.

Not too long after, while a few of us were at the rock's edge chatting just before heading back to pack it up for the day, we were visited by the whale again.  He was a long way off shore still, out there feeding.   Minke's aren't large in comparison but I was astonished to see him surface time and time again.  The distance, height of his spray and how long he’d stay down before reappearing.  And the sound ... I won't ever forget the sound of him exhaling as he met the air.  (This video is really shaky (I was way too excited) and I had to eliminate the volume...in my excitement, I might have said some things not worth repeating aloud. My apologies for both. Still want to see him? ... just click here: Holiday Heidi sees her first WHALE). 

The water had calmed.  The sun had started to set.  As we made our way back, I just sat in silence (smile on my face) wondering how I could ever thank these people for sharing and introducing me to all this.  What a place Newfoundland is, the landscape - its people...it so ROCKS!! 

By the time we were closer to town, it was pitch black.  No trouble seeing the other boats out on the water though, we were amongst those who'd entered the boat parade. Strings of lights, banners, horns, flags ...we were just a little under decorated. Funny. Not into missing events, Stephanie & I (et al.) went home, unloaded the gear, changed our clothes and made it back to the waterfront before the fireworks had started.  Mussels for sale by the bowl full, bands waiting on  stage for the fireworks to start & finish, surrounded by a town full of fabulous new friends ... how was I going to say good-bye?  Only one full day remained.  I wasn't ready to think about it.

I did say I wasn't ready to think about it yet (sorry).  The next installment entitled "NL...you know I'll be back!" will be posted within a week.  I hope you're loving Newfoundland?! 

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc. in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of the blog page).  No sign up necessary, just a simple click :)  A little shy?!  Why not send me an email instead: holidayheidi@hotmail.ca.

Sadly, Guy Maye passed away September of 2010. 

My heartfelt condolences to his family and to the entire town for their loss.  Wish we'd had time for a full conversation. Regardless, I'd like to recognize him for my many fond memories on that dance floor.  I'm sure nights at The Pub haven't been the same since. 

~ Holiday Heidi

I'se an Honorary Newfie :)

Newfoundland, also known as "The Rock"

(NL - part II) 

Welcome to Newfoundland. :) Never been here before?   Perfect.   This party is just for you.  It's known as a Screech-In ceremony.  It is held to welcome those visiting the Island (which is very commonly referred to as the 'Rock') for the first time.  It's been in existence for years.  Likely if I Google searched it, the history of this cultural ceremony would be told by many, over and over.  But I want to tell you about my memorable first time.

The same night as the town's annual festival street dance, we'd been invited to one of the girls houses (from the group I'd met in Dominican).  Once there it didn't take a genius to figure out that something was up.  Four chairs lined the front lawn.  In front of those there were four rain suits complete with sou'westers, tote boxes, song sheets etc.  Something fishy was going on (pardon the pun lol).  In amongst my introductions, I became aware of 3 others who weren't from Newfoundland originally...it was all starting to come together.

My best friend had planned a Screech-In for me (of course she did). She'd added all those visiting for their first time to the list of participants.  She conspired with the girls so a party could be held elsewhere (to lessen my suspicion and curiosity).  And she had asked for and pleaded participation from all those in attendance originally from NL (all were eager to assist and partake) and those who had previously become honorary. 

Then the people came.  And then more…and even MORE.  I think that someone counted 60 people on the "bridge" (which is the term for 'the deck' in Newfoundland), the front lawn, in the driveway, standing street-side.  Incredible.   And just as the sun decided to exit via the horizon, there was a shout-out:  "can I have your attention please" that followed with a list of four names "could you please make your way to the chairs please" ... mine was first on the list. 

A Screech-In is part of the very culture of Newfoundland. And because of that, I decided I couldn't tell you what it's like better than I could show you.

This collection of pics and videos (now posted http://www.youtube.com/) are of myself and my friends during our first visits to the Rock. For anyone who has received the distinction of "honorary Newfoundlander", this is a tribute to you. And hopefully it'll bring a smile to the faces of those from the Rock who have coordinated, participated or witnessed a similar ceremony. You can throw some party!! :)

My apologies.  While providing the editorial for this little ditty, I may have referred to "Whiskey"  ... when in actuality, Screech is Newfoundland Rum. 

I have many funny memories from my night of distinction. I couldn't get the Screech out of the little bottle.  You can sort of tell that’s what happened in the video here. I'd started first, and after the other 3 had finished theirs, I was still at it (near ran out of air trying).  And I wasn't sure of the need for knowing this until this very night, but cod fish have teeth!!  HAHA.  Yes they do. During my second smooch with Mr. Gills (first one was the ceremony kissy kissy...the 2nd, because someone needed to see it again),  his teeth grasp hold of my upper lip, not enough for stitches, but it left a little scar there for a few months after my return.  What a keepsake!

They said later that it seemed the whole town had stopped by to witness the Screech-In.  I believe it!  This town was filled with amazing, genuine people who loved to celebrate (thank you little town in Central) and I'm certain I met them all.  I cherish those memories, as have my friends who've earned their distinction thereafter my first visit.  I can't wait to get back in your arms!  Thank you Stephanie (et al.) ... honestly don't think I can express how grand that first visit was. Maybe my many returns say enough ;)

Before I could go on with the post I promised last time entitled: Newfoundland Rocks, I had to share the Screech-In Ceremony first.  So for next time I'll write about my first encounter with a whale, the windy day in the little boats out in the bay, a visit to Twillingate and the plans for our future reunions. 

The results from the Weekly Survey Question:  ever been to Newfoundland?

35% Yes and have been Screeched-in

12% Yes but no ceremony

41% No, unfortunately not yet

12% What the ?!?# is a “Screech-In”

So I’m guessing that you who went to the Rock but didn’t get Screeched-In (12% of you), was because you didn’t know what it was?  And for those of you who answered that you had no idea what the ceremony was at the time of this survey, I hope you do now.  You know, it doesn’t matter what part you visit when you go to Newfoundland (you really should go), you’ll be embraced by warm hospitality, history, culture and sights that’ll take you years to complete seeing.

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc. in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of the blog page).  No sign up necessary, just a simple click :)  A little shy?!  Why not send me an email instead: holidayheidi@hotmail.ca.    

~Holiday Heidi
The Story of Newfoundland Screech

"Hi, you home? Okay, I'm coming to Newfoundland to visit you"

Newfoundland, also known as "The Rock"
(NL - part I) 

Growing up it always seemed to be a far off place. I'm sure you have like places too?  Not far, just too far.  Gosh, it's not like it's at the end of the earth or even the other side of the Country.  This Province was just a little more east than where we were, a place surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, but it was still the East Coast of Canada.  Maybe it was because you just couldn’t jump in your car and just drive there?  It took planning, as it's only accessible by plane or ferry crossing.  Regardless, the older I got, the more I wanted/needed to visit there. 

Truthfully, I likely would've (eventually) made my way to this beautiful destination ... maybe in 5, 10 or 15 more years.  A good friend of mine (a past roommate) was from there, I was always intrigued by his stories of 'home'.  Plus, I had just gotten back from that incredible Dominican trip where I had made friends with some wonderful Newfie girls.  With invites, exchanging of contact information and the promise of keeping in touch, the possibility of a ‘someday visit' was fast turning into a very likely probability. 

Everyone does this right?  Keeps in touch and a few months later shows up on the doorstep? Haha.  I reckon that’s probably very rare, and not even presumably to be the case this time.  I had hoped that I'd get a chance to see them again.   We were fast friends and I would have enjoyed their company for much more time, in the Dominican, here at home or elsewhere. I just knew that if I ever made it over to visit this place they called 'home' they were on my contact list and my door was certainly open should they ever venture this way.  

Shortly after our return from the DR was the introduction of a powerful social networking medium, an application that would allow friends who lived near or far to keep in touch.  With a little convincing, my NL pal Stephanie signed on.  The posts, sharing of pictures and daily communication only strengthened our friendship.  Phone chats with Stephanie (and the other two girls:  Tracey & Tanya) almost always ended with "you gotta come 'home' this summer"..."come in August".  I wanted to go and the more I thought about it, I honestly couldn't answer the question "why not"?

I don't remember the day or the month, and nope, not even the exact price, but I remember the excited feeling when I happened upon that seat sale to Newfoundland via http://www.aircanada.com/.  I instantly picked up the phone and dialed.  The wait wasn't long, I heard "Hello" …

"Hi, you home?" (Me)

"Yes, I just answered J" (She)

"Haha.  No, I mean in August" (Me)

"OMG, OMG, you can't be serious ?? ... YESSS I’m home!!!" (She)

"Well okay.  I’m coming to Newfoundland to visit you" (Me). 

And then a whole lot of Whoo-hoos and Tee-heeing.  A quick phone call to my travel agent (Cousin Quinn) to book that flight and then the planning of my inaugural trip to NL began.  

Itinerary's are always in pencil with Stephanie and I, that's what we continue to agree on...just an outline of the moments in between the arrival and departure, always subject to change. I had picked the dates strongly recommended by the girls, it was their town's festival week (much like a 'homecoming' really).  There'd be tons of food and music, good times spent with good family & friends.  Having never been there, I had no expectations, just happy to see and do whatever they thought of, while being mindful of the budget of course.  And with that, Miss Stephanie created the most incredible agenda.

Before departure, Stephanie shared a couple of details.  We'd be attending the big stadium concert, there was a street dance that we shouldn't miss, some cousins and friends were coming home for the weekend from various places and we'd try to get out in the boat if the weather was nice.  All those things sounded lovely. 


Since this was my first time in Newfoundland, Stephanie was busy trying to coordinate two longtime customs.  The itinerary would definitely include a supper where Jiggs dinner would be served.  For anyone not having experienced this, a Jiggs dinner is a boiled salt meat dish with all the vegetable fixings: boiled cabbage, carrots, potatoes, greens and split pea pudding (my personal fav), accompanied by pickled beets and doughboys - DELICIOUS.  



You won't understand until you have your very own Jiggs Dinner



The second custom I would partake in would be a "Screech-In" ceremony.   This ceremony would include some singing, dancing, 'repeat after me', the drinking of Screech (Newfoundland Whiskey) and the kissing of a cod fish (etc, etc).  All said and done, if I successfully made it through the ceremony in its entirety, I'd receive a certificate identifying me as an honorary Newfoundlander.

We had a few months for our excitement to build.  Then in August, I boarded the plane for a reunion I won't soon forget.  I learned on that flight that most everyone from Newfoundland tries to get home for this festival.  I sat beside a girl from Toronto (originally from NL) who was ironically going to the same town, who knew my friends, who hadn't been home for a visit in well over 10 years, but who couldn't wait to attend the 'going-ons' of this 5 day celebration.  Natalie and I spent the entire 2 plus hours on that plane laughing and talking like we'd know each other for years and as we flew over "The Rock" I glanced out my window only to realize how little I actually knew of this place.

The ocean had turned into land sometime during the conversations with Natalie.  Being a clear day it was no trouble to see the landscape below: trees, trees, trees, lake, lake, trees, lake, river.  I didn't expect the middle of this Province to be so undeveloped.  I didn't expect to see so many lakes, rivers and streams.  Somehow I thought that being surrounded by the ocean would be enough.  There weren't many roads to see but when we did fly over a little town, you'd see the highway stretch in an east/west or north/south direction, and then more trees.  But these little communities weren't all fishing ones like I had drafted in my head.  :) How very neat.  I had just learned my first of many things on this adventure.

And with a bounce (or two), our pilot had delivered us safely to our destination.  Natalie and I made our way inside where her family waited anxiously for her arrival.  The girls I had met in the DR were all busy today but luckily Stephanie's husband was able to fetch me upon landing.  Funny, as I was set to collect my bags I heard a voice just over my shoulder ... "I've seen your pictures on the internet" BAHAHAHA.  Phew, he found me (and thankfully it was her hubby)!!  Although I hadn't met him until this very second, I knew instantly we were going to become fabulous friends (what a nice, genuine guy...he and my Stephanie make an excellent pair).

I guess the drive to the house was nearly an hour, it hardly seemed five minutes before we were in the driveway.  Five months had already passed since our fateful trip to the Caribbean, I couldn't wait to see her.  We pulled in, the front door opened and I'm not sure if my feet hit the steps on the way to greet her.  What a reunion!  Stephanie and I are of the same personality type, both of us had thought that when we first met (if you can imagine that there are two of us so similar, scary I know) and now to see each other again.  Absolutely Crazy!

The girls came up (so great to see Tanya & Tracey again), family and friends came by, guitars filled any silence, the grill was fired up...I'd say the party had started.  I was surrounded by the friendliest, most outgoing folks.  I believe that Stephanie had taken the time to tell everyone (I mean everyone) that I was coming.  "You gotta come meet my Dominican friend, Heidi!" I'm sure I met the entire town, plus friends of friends, in the six short days I was there (it was bliss).  You do see the confusion though?  Not a lot of people really knew I was from the East Coast of Canada ... I was "Stephanie's Dominican Friend".  Hehehe. Well, it was true!  So many laughs, such good times.

Now that I've brought you to Newfoundland, I'm going to let you hang out at this house party for a bit before rushing through the rest of this vacation.   There's so much to share: the remarkable "Screech-In" ceremony, my first encounter with a whale, the windy day in the little boats out in the bay, a visit to Twillingate and plans for meeting up again.

The next post entitled: Newfoundland Rocks will have all that, and then some.  Plus I'll share the little lessons about pre-departure parties:  no matter what time you leave the campfire, you best make sure you catch your return flight home...

The results from the Weekly Survey Question:  do you keep in touch with the people you meet while on vacation?

67% of you said that you at least try

33% wish that you would

I'm so very glad that efforts were made on both ends to keep in touch after our vacation.  My best friend lives just a few Provinces away in my very own Country, who knew?!  :)  And time and time again when I meet people, I tend to meet the very best kind and quite often share the very best of memories.  It is my hope that I forget not one person I meet and I can only hope that we keep in contact, thus making the possibility of a reunion that much more likely.

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc. in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of the blog page).  No sign up necessary, just a simple click :)  A little shy?!  Why not send me an email instead: holidayheidi@hotmail.ca

~Holiday Heidi