Sunday, June 16, 2013

Looking for whales today

June 16 - Fathers Day - I wish I could show him this.

The sun has broken through in St John's and it's going to be a good day to head out and see some sights.
I think my Dad would've loved to see all this. My Mom too for that matter. Perhaps they have...

We phoned to book our whale watching tour today. We were planning on going tomorrow, but our tour operator very matter of factly suggested we book today while we have the sunlight. So, change of plans. We were going to head out and see Cape Spear, Signal Hill and Petty Harbour today. We may still have time to see some of it later. 
That's the beauty of this trip. We've left room to change things up if we need to.



I'm writing this from a rocking chair, looking out my window overlooking the harbour. Although, I don't quite say harbour the way the locals say it. I could get used to this. I realize from the picture, I've developed a buddha belly. Better get out there and walk some more.

We're enjoying the B&B experience as well. Met some very interesting people at breakfast.
One was the head of the Writers Union in Canada, while the other an oil and gas engineer from Scotland. Loved soaking up their travel experiences and discussing world events from their perspective. I believe it's important to get out of our "bubble" from time to time and listen to what others have to say. 

Well, we're back from a very full day of whales, puffins and a historical site. Followed by a wonderful supper in the Under Belly of the Yellow Belly Pub and Eatery. The Pub has a main floor where most of the clients dine. However, there is a set of stairs that leads to a lovely candle lit area with stone walls and a timber roof. We sampled their local brew, I had stout while Arlene had the red. Mine was smooth but full bodied. The order of the day was Fish and Chips. Big portion and flavourful. There certainly is a difference in eating seafood that is fresh.

Here's a small sample of what we saw and experienced today.















Gun used to ward off U-boats in WWII



This lighthouse was built in 1836.



Petty Harbour


Petty Harbour


As mentioned, it was a very full day. Sitting on the rocks at Cape Spear, we tried to imagine what the early explorers went through to get here. No GPS, no NAVI system. Just following the stars until they found something. It's quite a sight.

Tomorrow, it's time to explore a little more of downtown St John's, hopefully get to Signal Hill and then off to Gander for a night. Our hostess informed us that the only good thing about Gander is having it in your rear view mirror...she's such a character!





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