Travel to Nova Scotia: Canada's New England

If you\'re on a budget, tired of crowded beaches and packed
hotels, love seafood, and have a 19th-century mindset, then Nova
Scotia is for you.

Think New England, and vivid images come to mind: of lighthouses
and fishing boats, charming coastal towns, lobster and crab,
Victorian homes and rich history. It has always been an
intriguing region, steeped in truth and in fiction by the novels
of Stephen King. If you like New England, you\'ll love Nova
Scotia, Canada\'s second smallest province.

Find Nova Scotia on a map in the North Atlantic, east of the
state of Maine and \vacation hotspot\ won\'t be the first thing
that comes to mind. But don\'t let Nova Scotia\'s northern
location fool. Summertime is comfortable and winters are milder
and less snowy than in many northern states. Situated just two
hours from New York City or Boston, Nova Scotia feels a world
away...as if you\'ve stepped back in time. Largely underdeveloped
and rich in natural beauty, history and culture, this hidden has
a lot to offer: pristine beaches, resort, spas, B&Bs and country
inns, rustic lodges, world-class golf and whale watching.

Just picture England, Ireland or Scotland 100 years ago, and you
get a idea of what Nova Scotia is like. Almost an island, it is
best known for its picturesque coastline, sleepy fishing
villages and friendly people. The province\'s gem is Cape Breton
Island, an area deeply steeped in Scottish heritage. The
island\'s breathtaking Cape Breton Highlands National Parkand the
Bras d\'Or Lake (pronounced \bra door\) are popular with Canadian
and foreign travelers alike.

Not only is Nova Scotia a prime tourist destination, but cheap
real estate and a reasonable cost of living make it an
attractive second home. 1-acre oceanfront lots sale for as
little as $15,000, while a three-bedroom home on a few acres can
be had for as little as $60,000. It\'s no wonder that Hollywood
heavyweights such as Jack Nicholson and Demi Moore have snapped
up summer homes here.

Considering its close proximity, not many Americans make it to
Nova Scotia. Of those who do, few are disappointed.

Why not go see for yourself?

RESOURCES If you go, stay at Stern\'s Mansion Victorian Bed &
Breakfast. It\'s charming and conveniently located. See:
www.sternsmansion.com

Nova Scotia\'s Best Private Guide While a well-informed,
open-minded guide can improve your trip by 100 percent, a bad
one can completely ruin it. Mrs. Chiassaon is the kind of person
you need at your side when traveling in Nova Scotia. She is one
of the most competent tour guides in Nova Scotia. She is
familiar with the entire province and offers guided tours
tailored to your individual preferences and tastes. She may be
contacted at: kjchiasson@eastlink.ca