HalifaxHalifax is the provincial capital of
Nova Scotia and also serves as the center of commerce for the whole of
Atlantic Canada. It is sited opposite its twin city of
Dartmouth, across the Bedford Basin, on the second-largest natural harbor in the world (the largest is
Sydney, Australia), and has long been an important maritime center. Halifax Harbour extends for 10 miles (16km) and is home to
North America's oldest yacht club, Northwest Arm. Two toll bridges span the harbor and a passenger ferry connects
Halifax and Dartmouth.
Halifax was founded in 1749 by the British in
an effort to strengthen their presence in the North Atlantic, and the city retains its British military air. Many historic stone and wood buildings have been preserved, particularly in its restored waterfront area that has become a major tourist attraction, offering shopping, nightlife, entertainment and restaurants.
The city also boasts beaches, parks, walking trails and some "living history" experiences like the firing of the noon day gun at the Halifax Citadel and the working locks of the
Shubenacadie Canal.
Getting Around: Central Halifax can be covered on foot, but those who want to explore further afield (and there is plenty to see!) are advised to hire a car. Metro Transit does provide a bus service in the city and to surrounding areas and runs passenger ferries from the terminal at Lower Water Street to Dartmouth. Free transfers are available from the ferry to the buses. Cabs can be hailed in the downtown area, and there are taxi ranks at the main hotels and shopping centers.
Climate: It's position on the coast ensures that Halifax experiences less extremes in its climate compared to inland Nova Scotia. Spring arrives in April, marred by rain and fog, but as summer moves in conditions warm up and balmy ocean breezes blow the damp away. Autumn is a beautiful season, the days warm, nights cool, and the foliage taking on spectacular hues. Winters are cold and wet, with both rain and snow.
