T
he beguiling charm of
Halifax, Nova Scotia, is bound
to lure you in. The historic
city, located on the salty
shores of the Atlantic Ocean
is surrounded by one of the largest
harbors in the world. The threekilometer boardwalk along the
harbor passes tall ships reflective
of a bygone era. Don’t be surprised
if you hear the sound of foot
stomping and fiddle playing in the
distance; a staple of the maritime
culture and Nova Scotia’s long ties
to Scotland. The aroma of a
fisherman’s feast permeates the air
along the boardwalk. Meander past
food kiosks serving up fresh oysters,
lobster on a bun, fish tacos and quite
possibly the best fish and chips you
will ever taste. Halifax’s distinctive
atmosphere is like no other city
in Canada and it boasts the most
pubs per capita.
The superb original Alexander Keith’s
brewery, which dates to the 1820s
is not to be missed. Not only is the
beer divine (especially the original
brand – the India Pale Ale), but also
the year round brewery tour is truly
like stepping back in time. Actors
in period costumes, lively song and
of course an abundance of ale, all
served underground in the original
ironstone building, provide an
authentic experience.
The comfort of the
Homewood Suites by Hilton
other, you will be happy to dine in.
Stories Fine Dining restaurant
is as intimate and historic as it
gets. Located inside the stately
Haliburton House, which was built
in 1809, Stories is the perfect place
for an evening of culinary delight.
Using only the finest of local
ingredients, the food is sublime
in both presentation and taste.
Must-try starters are the panseared, rice-paper-wrapped sea
scallops and the sautéed queen
crab cake. For the main course and
a distinctively yummy experience
try the roast darne of Faroe Island
salmon, and the house boar stresawrapped guinea hen breast. The
magic of the food served at Stories
will leave you wishing you could
come back for more.
The Lord Nelson Hotel makes for
a splendid stay. With its grand
entrance and 1920s-era interior, the
ambiance of the hotel and classic
suites provide a sense of total
relaxation and a reluctance to check
out. Many of the lovely suites offer
a view of Halifax’s Public Gardens,
which are located across the street
from the hotel. The lush Victorian
gardens originated in the 18th
century and are home to hundreds
of flora and fauna, a tranquil pond
and the Victoria Jubilee Fountain.
It’s a perfect haven in the center
of the city.
The term “home away from home”
couldn’t ring more true than when
staying at Halifax’s newest hotel,
the Homewood Suites, by Hilton.
Each modern one- or two-bedroom
suite is designed to evoke the
feeling that it’s your own pad, even
to providing a full kitchen, in case
you feel like whipping up a little
something. If you’re not inclined to
cook for yourself, dinner and drinks
are included for all guests from
Monday to Thursday. The menu for
each day is posted on the fridge, and
the meals are indeed scrumptious.
With views of the harbor on one side
and the historic Citadel Hill on the
18
The Stories dining
experience
Before you leave Halifax, take
something home with you to
remember your visit. Handmade
jewelry can often leave an indelible
impression, evoking memories of
past, present and of the journey
thus far. Sometimes it’s
encapsulated in the way that the
jewelry design speaks to you. The
Strong House does just that, and
with each locally made maritime
piece, you walk away feeling like
you have found a small piece of
enchantment. The fox ring with
gemstone eyes (you can pick your
birthstone) is a one-of-a-kind find.
Designed by Angela Grace with a
love of nature in mind, these little
fox rings will be the envy of many.
The Exquisite Breath of Compassion