Canada Archives - Wanderlust Over 70

Quebec City Knows How to Do Winter

Posted on February 19, 2026February 17, 2026 by Roberta Hill

The Largest Winter Carnival in the World (And It Knows It) The carnival itself has been part of Quebec City’s story since 1894, though the modern version took shape in 1955 as a way to brighten the long, dark season and attract visitors brave enough to visit in February. It is, quite frankly, a brilliant act of defiance. If winter insists on staying, Quebec throws it a party. There are ice canoe races across the St. Lawrence — a tradition rooted in how early settlers and Indigenous communities crossed the frozen river. There are night parades with glowing floats. There…

What Makes Eastern Canada So Special

Posted on October 23, 2025October 19, 2025 by Roberta Hill

Eastern Canada doesn’t shout for your attention—it lingers in the salt air, the lighthouses, and the conversations that stretch longer than you expect. From Québec’s heritage villages to the sweeping coastlines of the Maritimes, this region offers intimacy, history, and natural beauty in a way that feels both timeless and deeply personal. Landscapes That Tell Stories Some places overwhelm; Eastern Canada draws you in. Drive the Gaspé Peninsula, where cliffs tumble into the Gulf of St. Lawrence, or walk through Forillon National Park, a landscape that feels like the end of the world. Wander Prince Edward Island’s red-sand beaches—so familiar…

Spend 3 Days on Île d’Orléans: Québec’s Most Beautiful Getaway

Posted on July 4, 2025July 4, 2025 by Roberta Hill

I am surprised and embarrassed to admit that I have never ventured onto Île d’Orléans. I was happy to finally visit and it is everything Louise said it would be. Just Outside Québec City Imagine a place where time passes slowly, not quickly, where vineyard tastings and jam samplings are legitimate itinerary items. Where lilacs flirt with roadside fences, and the river never rushes you. Welcome to Île d’Orléans — Québec’s deliciously charming island, just 15 minutes from Québec City, but a world apart in mood and tempo. It is especially ideal if you’re a senior traveller looking for scenic…

Discovering Digby, Nova Scotia

Posted on May 25, 2025 by Roberta Hill

It was my first time visiting Digby, and I was immediately charmed by its quaint atmosphere. This picturesque town, known for its stunning waterfront and friendly locals, felt like a hidden gem. The streets were quiet, a serene backdrop that allowed us to soak in the beauty of the surroundings. Our visit to Digby was a delightful experience filled with great food and beautiful scenery. I can’t wait to return, perhaps during the peak season, to explore more of this charming town’s offerings. When we inquired about the tourist season, we learned it typically kicks off after Mother’s Day. However, I…

Nova Scotia – Halifax to Yarmouth

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Roberta Hill

My website talks about my 10 favourite countries and the top 10 cities. Two of them are a little cheating because of the vast geographical area of the countries. Yes, I love Canada, but I specifically point out Nova Scotia. It’s just a great province. It’s small, but that doesn’t mean you can do it in a couple of weeks. You need at least three to see all the great stuff there. On our last visit after COVID-19, we purchased a book that shows you what is possible to visit in Nova Scotia. We used it extensively on the last…

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Posted on May 15, 2025May 18, 2025 by Roberta Hill

During our recent visit to Halifax, we ventured into the immigration museum, an experience we hadn’t explored before. We spent over three hours there, and I can confidently say it was well worth our time. As you first walk in, you might wonder if it will be engaging. Still, the museum quickly proves itself with a variety of presentations that are not only informative but also beautifully curated. One aspect that particularly stood out to me was the impressive wall displaying the names of all the ships that brought immigrants into Halifax Harbour. The Empress of Australia was among them,…

Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia: A Visit That Lingers

Posted on May 5, 2025May 5, 2025 by Roberta Hill

This coming weekend, we are off for a week to Nova Scotia. It is one of my favourite places, and we will visit Peggy’s Cove. Last time, we were fortunate to visit during the shoulder fall season, and this time, it will be similar but in the spring. I mention this because it is lobster season. And the best, and I do mean best, Lobster Rolls are at Tom’s Lobster Shack at Peggy’s Cove. There’s a kind of magic to Peggy’s Cove that sneaks up on you. It’s not the flashy, fireworks kind of magic, but something quieter, like the…

Travel in a Time of Tariff Tension: The Price of Politics

Posted on April 14, 2025April 24, 2025 by Roberta Hill

The current political climate in the U.S. has undeniably shifted how many Canadians, including me, think about travel. While this isn’t meant to be a political statement, the rhetoric surrounding Canada as the so-called “51st state” has left a sour taste for many. It’s not just about words—it’s about the underlying tone that has prompted a quiet but growing movement to step back, reconsider, and, in some cases, boycott U.S. products and travel altogether. Visiting the U.S. has been a regular part of our lives for years. Living in Montreal, the proximity to the border makes it easy to head…