Road Scholar : Home
On the Road: New England and the Canadian Maritimes

Program Number: 19585RJ
Start and End Dates:
9/11/2013 - 9/25/2013; 9/25/2013 - 10/9/2013;
Duration: 14 nights
Location: Portland, Maine
Price starting at: $3,599.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: On the Road
Meals: 34; 14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 7 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

On this cross-border adventure, discover the bustling cities, serene harbors and beautiful wild spaces of Maine and the Canadian Maritimes. From world-class museums to quintessential seascapes to Acadian and Celtic culture, learn why this corner of the world is like no other, all while enjoying unique accommodations and local delicacies such as lobster and mussels.




Highlights

• Examine the world's highest tides with naturalists on the Bay of Fundy.
• Delve into the historic beginnings of the cities of Portland, Saint John, Charlottetown and Halifax.
• Take in the awesome vistas of Acadia National Park on Maine's rocky coast and the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.



Activity Particulars

Climbing a few flights of stairs, standing for up to one hour, walking on paved and unpaved surfaces up to two miles over the course of the day.




Date Specific Information

9-11-2013, 9-25-2013

Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Portland, Maine, 2 nights; coach Bucksport, 1 night; coach to St. Andrews, New Brunswick, 1 night, coach to Hopewell Rocks, 1 night, coach to Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, 2 nights; coach to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, 2 nights; coach to Halifax, 2 nights; coach to Saint John, New Brunswick, 1 night; coach to Bar Harbor, Maine, 2 nights; coach to Portland, departure.



Coordinated by Road Scholar.




Portland (Maine)

Harboring more than a quarter of Maine’s total population, this town on Casco Bay seamlessly blends cityscape and seascape. Historic architecture meets contemporary culture in this bustling hub of southeast Maine.



Bucksport

Located at the head of Penobscot Bay, Bucksport is known for its scenic waterfront area, as well as its depiction in the 1960s television program, Dark Shadows. Since its founding in 1763, the town has enjoyed a colorful history that has included revolutionary war battles, presidential visits, and a historic curse by an alleged local witch.



St. Andrews

St. Andrews is a small town located in the southwest corner of New Brunswick on Passamaquoddy Bay, an inlet of the Bay of Fundy. It was founded in 1783 by United Empire Loyalists, Americans still faithful to the English crown after the United States won independence. Much of the elegant original architecture of St. Andrews survives to be admired.



Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy is famed for having the world’s most extreme tides, rising up to 55 feet between low tide and high. The bay is located between the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. New Brunswick is home to Fundy National Park, a protected wilderness where the conifer-dominated Caledonia Highlands roll down to meet the bay.



Halifax

Nova Scotia’s capital is a modern port city with 18th-century elegance. Once the prime fortress in British North America, this vibrant destination on Canada's east coast offers architectural and cultural reminders of Halifax’s early European days, and also boasts a gorgeous harbor, quaint jazz clubs, live theater and abundant fresh seafood.



Charlottetown

Charlottetown, the historic capital city of Prince Edward Island, was the site of the 1864 discussions to unite the country by delegates from Upper and Lower Canada. Visitors may re-live the “Charlottetown Conference” in local museums and on historic Grand George Street, as well as enjoy the colorful boardwalk and harbor on Peake’s Wharf.



Cape Breton

An island off the coast of Nova Scotia, Cape Breton is known for its majestic Highlands region — an extension of the Appalachian Mountains — and distinct blend of British, Irish, Acadian, Scottish and Mi’kmaq cultures. The island was once home to Alexander Graham Bell, whose experiments in hydrofoil technology enabled the first hydroplane flight for the British Empire.



St. John

The largest city in New Brunswick is also the first incorporated city in Canada. Situated along the north shore of the Bay of Fundy and at the mouth of the Saint John River, the city is the site of a unique phenomenon known as the Reversing Falls, where at high tide each day the flow of the Saint John River is reversed for several hours.



Bar Harbor

When you think of the rocky Maine coast, you’re probably picturing something quite like Bar Harbor, the famed retreat on Mount Desert Island. The town shares the island with Acadia National Park, the first Eastern national park, created thanks in part to the donations of land and money by the Rockefellers and other elites who once “summered” there.
Accommodations
A stylish mix of well-located, charming hotels and character inns.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Jim Millinger
Jim Millinger is a Maine native, has a Ph.D. in Chinese history and has taught for more than 30 years in four American universities and college programs. He has taught maritime history, marine policy and literature of the sea. Jim has an expertise on Portland and Portland Harbor, and has been a docent at the Portland Harbor Museum. He holds a master mariner's license and has skippered vessels along the entire Maine coast. He recently authored a history of Chebeague Island.
 
Jim Stone
Jim Stone, a retired academic, is passionate about Castine's remarkably preserved historical district and the region's role in the events of the Penobscot Expedition of 1779, the War of 1812, and the subsequent aftermath in the Canadian and American Maritimes. Jim has served as president of the Castine Historical Society and the Penobscot Historical Society.
 
Boyde Beck
Boyde Beck is a curator with the Prince Edward Island Museum and Heritage Foundation. He also has a regular history column on MainStreet, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s afternoon radio show on the Island, and is a sessional lecturer at the University of Prince Edward Island.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Holiday Inn by the Bay
  Portland, Maine 2 nights
   Fort Knox Park Inn
  Bucksport, Maine 1 night
   St. Andrews Motor Inn
  St. Andrews, New Brunswick 1 night
   Hopewell Rocks Motel & Country Inn
  Hopewell Cape, Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick 1 night
   The Hotel on Pownal
  Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island 2 nights
   Gisele's Inn
  Baddeck, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia 2 nights
   Delta Barrington or Delta Halifax
  Halifax, Nova Scotia 2 nights
   Delta Brunswick
  St. John, New Brunswick 1 night
   Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center
  Bar Harbor, Maine 2 nights
 Holiday Inn by the Bay
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: Situated across from the Portland Museum of Art and within walking distance of the Old Port, working waterfront and Arts District, the Inn by the Bay is a family-owned hotel that strives to deliver the highest level of service and hospitality in a contemporary setting.
  Contact info: 88 Spring Street
Portland, ME 04101 USA
phone: 207-775-2311
web: www.innbythebay.com
  Room amenities: 239 rooms, air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, cable television, direct-dial telephone, coffee maker, iron & ironing board, room service, in-room safe, microwave, refrigerator, private bathroom with bathtub and hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Restaurant and lounge; gift shop, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, complimentary computers/printer with internet access, laundry service, self-service laundry, indoor swimming pool & sauna, fitness center, complimentary shuttle from/to airport, Amtrak train and bus stations. Call 207 775 2311 upon arrival to request pick-up. Long-term parking for the duration of the program: $30.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Check in time: 3:00 PM

 Fort Knox Park Inn
Type: Motel
  Description: Situated at the mouth of the Penobscot River, the Fort Knox Park Inn offers superb views of Fort Knox State Park and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Fort Knox from every room. A paved riverfront walkway extends along the riverfront, marked with bronze plaques that describe Bucksport’s paper-making and ship-building history. The hotel’s location provides easy access to our visit of Castine, Maine.
  Contact info: 64 Main Street
Bucksport, ME 04116 USA
phone: 207-469-3113
web: www.fortknoxparkinn.com
  Room amenities: 40 rooms with river view; heat and air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, cable satellite television, direct-dial telephone, alarm clock, tea and coffee making facility, private bathroom with bathtub and hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Wi-Fi Internet access.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 St. Andrews Motor Inn
Type: Motel
  Description: The St. Andrews Motor Inn is a small property located on the main street of this lovely town. While the facility itself is very basic, the motel boasts an enviable waterfront location, and every room has a very large private balcony overlooking the Bay of Fundy. Road Scholar group meals will be served at its sister property, the Kennedy Inn, located 350 yards down Water Street. Please note on your health and safety questionnaire if you prefer a ground floor room.
  Contact info: 111 Water Street
Saint Andrews-by-the Sea, New Brunswick,  E5B 1A3 Canada
phone: 506-529-4571
web: www.standrewsmotorinn.com
  Room amenities: 25 rooms with waterfront balcony or terrace, air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, cable / satellite television, alarm clock, iron and ironing board, mini-fridge and microwave, private bathroom with bathtub, shower and hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, indoor swimming pool, smoke-free building.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Hopewell Rocks Motel & Country Inn
Type: Motel
  Description: The Hopewell Rocks Motel is a clean and simple, family-run property that overlooks the Bay of Fundy. Its close proximity to the Hopewell Rocks site provides the possibility of exploring the area both upon arrival in the late afternoon and again in the morning, ensuring a complete experience of the extreme differences in tide levels on the Bay of Fundy.
  Contact info: 4135 Route 114
Hopewell Cape, New Brunswick,  E4H 3J4 Canada
phone: 506-734-2975
web: www.hopewellrocksmotel.com
  Room amenities: 39 rooms with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi Internet access, cable television, alarm clock, radio, tea & coffee making facility, private bathroom with bathtub and shower.
  Facility amenities: Restaurant (dinner only), breakfast room, Wi-Fi Internet access, iron and ironing board, gift shop and swimming pool.
  Smoking allowed: No

 The Hotel on Pownal
Type: Boutique Hotel
  Description: The Hotel on Pownal is a modern boutique hotel, centrally located in the heart of downtown Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, on historic Pownal Street, within walking distance of shopping, theater, dining and the beautiful Charlottetown waterfront and boardwalk.
  Contact info: 146 Pownal St
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island,  C1A 3W6 Canada
phone: 902-892-1217
web: www.thehotelonpownal.com
  Room amenities: 45 rooms with air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, cable, flat screen television, i-pod docking station alarm clock, iron and ironing board, private bathroom with bathtub, shower and hairdryer. Please note on your health and safety questionnaire if you prefer a ground floor room.
  Facility amenities: Wi-Fi Internet access, concierge desk, business center services, guest computer, self-service laundromat, daily newspapers, complimentary self-serve tea and coffee.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Gisele's Inn
Type: Inn
  Description: Gisele’s Inn is a family-owned and operated inn situated on the shores of Bras d’Or Lakes, known for it’s charm, warmth and hospitality.
  Contact info: 387 Shore Road
Baddeck, Nova Scotia,  B0E 1B0 Canada
phone: 902-295-2849
web: www.giseles.com
  Room amenities: 78 rooms all with garden view and air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, cable television, direct-dial telephone, alarm clock, radio, tea and coffee making facility, iron and ironing board, private bathroom with bathtub and hairdryer. All rooms are non-smoking.
  Facility amenities: Dining room with wine cellar, coin-operated laundry, whirlpool, sauna.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Delta Barrington or Delta Halifax
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: The Delta Barrington and the Delta Halifax are situated across the street from each other on Barrington Street, in the heart of downtown Halifax. Both hotels are connected to a multitude of restaurants and services via an indoor pedestrian walkway, as well as being only a short outside walk of one block to the exuberant Halifax waterfront. Specific program date hotel assignment is not known in advance.
  Contact info: Barrington St
Halifax, Nova Scotia,   Canada
phone: 902-429-7410
web: www.deltahotels.com/en
  Room amenities: All rooms have air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, cable / satellite television, direct-dial telephone, alarm clock, radio, tea and coffee making facility, iron and ironing board, room service, in-room safe, daily newspaper, bathrobe, private bathroom with bathtub and shower, hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Restaurant and bar; Wi-Fi Internet access, foreign currency exchange, concierge desk, business center, swimming pool, fitness center, sauna, spa services.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Delta Brunswick
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: The Delta Brunswick is a modern hotel, located in the heart of downtown St. John’s, within walking distance to many services and restaurants, including an adjacent shopping center.
  Contact info: 39 King Street
Saint John, New Brunswick,  E2L 4W3 Canada
phone: 506-648-1981
web: www.deltahotels.com/en
  Room amenities: Delta rooms have air-conditioning, Free Wi-Fi, Cable television, Movie system, telephone, alarm clock, radio, tea and coffee making facility, iron and ironing board, mini-fridge, microwave, daily newspaper, private bathroom with bathtub and shower, hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Restaurant, Bar and 24 Hour Room Service; Free Wi-Fi Internet access, Concierge, Business center, Dry cleaning service, Laundry service, Indoor swimming pool, Hot tub, Fitness center.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center
Type: Hotel
  Description: The Atlantic Oceanside Hotel is situated on 14 acres of oceanfront property, with wonderful views and access to Frenchman Bay. The hotel is conveniently located less than 1 mile to Acadia National Park’s entrance and the center of the village of Bar Harbor.
  Contact info: 119 Eden Street
Bar Harbor, ME 04609 USA
phone: 207-288-5801
web: www.barharbormainehotel.com
  Room amenities: The newly renovated Atlantic View building has spacious, oceanview rooms with private balconies or patios, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, cable / satellite television, direct-dial telephone, alarm clock, radio, tea and coffee making facility, refrigerator, microwave, iron and ironing board, in-room safe, private bathroom with bathtub, shower and hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, complimentary computers with printer, gift shop, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, fitness center and Jacuzzi.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: Varies. Price varies by program date. Call Dede Daigle at 888-296-0403 for rates and reservations.
  Check out time: 12:00 PM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Day 1: 3-5 p.m. Program Registration. 5:30 p.m. Orientation and Welcome 6:30 p.m. Dinner in the hotel. You will be staying at Holiday Inn by the Bay that night.
  End of Program:
Day 15: 12:30 p.m. Drop off at Portland Int'l Jetport or at the program hotel. You will be staying at Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. A passport is required for ALL travel to/from Canada. A US law known as the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requires those traveling to/from the United States by land & sea to have a passport or other appropriate secure documents (NEXUS card). Passport requirements are subject to change. Visit www.travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html for information.
  Parking availability:
Long-term parking for the duration of the program: $30. Guest pays parking upon arrival at the hotel and keys are left with hotel security.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Portland, Maine
  Nearest airport:  Portland International Jetport
  From End of Program
  Location: Portland, Maine
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Travel Details
 

To Portland Hotel

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Hotel Shuttle
Complimentary van service
phone: 207-775-2311 x0

 

To Portland Hotel

 

From Bus Terminal

 
 

Service:

 

Hotel Shuttle
Complimentary van service
phone: 207-775-2311 x0

 

From Boston North Station

 

From Train Station

 
 

Service:

 

Public Transportation
Amtrak Downeaster
phone: 800-872-7245

 

Travel Time:

 

2.5 hours 
   

www.amtrakdowneaster.com/
 

From Boston South Station or Logan Airport

 

From Bus Terminal

 
 

Service:

 

Public Transportation
Concord Coach Lines
phone: 800-639-3317

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

varies Logan or South Station.
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

2 hours 
   

www.concordcoachlines.com/portland-to-boston.html
 

To Portland Hotel

 

From Train Station

 
 

Service:

 

Hotel Shuttle
Complimentary van service
phone: 207-775-2311 x0

 
Driving Directions
  From I-95 Take I-95 to Exit 44 (formerly Exit 6a). Continue on I-295 to Exit 7, (Franklin Street). Stay on Franklin Street for five (5) lights. Take a right onto Middle Street, travel approximately 1 mile. (Middle Street turns into Spring Street.) Holiday Inn is on the left.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Arrivals and Welcome to Portland, Maine
(Wednesday, September 25)
   
 Afternoon: Arrivals in Portland, Maine. 3 - 5 PM: Hotel check-in and program registration 5:30 - 6:30 PM: Program Orientation Briefing and Introductions.
 Dinner: 6:30 p.m.: Welcome dinner in a private room in the hotel.
 Evening: Get acquainted with your fellow participants,
   
Accommodations: Holiday Inn by the Bay

Day 2: Exploring Portland, Maine
(Thursday, September 26)

Note: Walking and standing on a guided visit, beginning at the hotel, through the Old Port district, with listening devices, for 1.5 hours over a total of approximately one mile, ending at the Salt Exchange for lunch. Return walk to the hotel at leisure.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Begin with a lecture that details the historical connections between New England and the Canadian Maritime provinces. Explore the Old Port on a guided walk.
 Lunch: In a local restaurant. Learn about the Portland restaurant scene and how to be a "locavore".
 Afternoon: Free time to explore Portland independently.
 Dinner: Your choice to explore Portland’s “foodie” scene.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Holiday Inn by the Bay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Historical Connections of New England and the Maritimes
(Friday, September 27)

Note: The total mileage traveled by motorcoach today is 140 miles. Walking and standing on unpaved terrain for one hour at the Maine Maritime Museum.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Depart Portland to view Portland Head Light, then drive up Maine’s scenic coastline, to Bath, renowned for shipbuilding since 1743. More than 5,000 vessels have been launched in the area, which at one time had more than 200 shipbuilding firms. At the Maine Maritime Museum, learn how Bath became the nation's fifth largest seaport by the mid-19th century, producing clipper ships that sailed to ports around the world.
 Lunch: Box lunch at the Maine Maritime Museum.
 Afternoon: Continue to “Downeast Maine”.
 Dinner: In a local restaurant.
 Evening: Enjoy the water views from your balcony or stroll along the river.
   
Accommodations: Fort Knox Park Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: The Settlement of St. Andrews
(Saturday, September 28)

Note: The total mileage traveled by motorcoach today is 175 miles. Cross the border into Canada at Calais, Maine. Time moves ahead one hour to Atlantic time. Standing and walking on paved terrain with some small inclines, up to 1 mile over 1.5 hours on the visit of Castine.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Depart to Castine, one of the oldest communities in North Armerica and listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its 18th century architecture. Begin with a lecture at the Castine Historical Society and then take a step back in time on an exploration of this iconic New England coastal village on a guided walk.
 Lunch: In a cafe near Castine's waterfront.
 Afternoon: Depart Castine and drive to the border in Calais, Maine. Cross the Canadian border and continue to St. Andrews.
 Dinner: Enjoy the hospitality of town residents at a dinner hosted in a community hall.
 Evening: A town historian tells the story of St. Andrews’ settlement by Loyalists from Castine.
   
Accommodations: St. Andrews Motor Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: The Bay of Fundy Tides
(Sunday, September 29)

Note: The total mileage traveled by motorcoach today is 178 miles. Standing and walking on paved paths in Kingsbrae Botanical Gardens.
   
 Breakfast: In a nearby inn.
 Morning: Explore St. Andrews and conclude at Kingsbrae Gardens, one of North America’s premier botanical gardens.
 Lunch: In the Kennedy Inn.
 Afternoon: Head up the coast of New Brunswick to experience the Bay of Fundy’s phenomenal tidal changes at Hopewell Rocks.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Hopewell Rocks Motel & Country Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Prince Edward Island and Anne's Green Gables
(Monday, September 30)

Note: The total mileage traveled by motorcoach today is 120 miles. Descend stairs to sea floor. Walk and stand on packed sand for approximately 1 hour on a guided walk of Hopewell Rocks. Walking on unpaved terrain on self-guided visit of Green Gables. Stairs are unavoidable to access the second floor of the house.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Visit Hopewell Rocks Interpretive Center to learn about the Bay of Fundy Tides, then walk on the ocean floor with a naturalist, around the towering “flower pots”. Depart to Prince Edward Island. (Tides are verified and each program date is confirmed for the ocean floor walk.)
 Lunch: At Cape Jourimain cafeteria. You may wish to climb up the observatory stairs, for an encompassing view of the Bay of Fundy and the Confederation Bridge.
 Afternoon: Cross Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island and visit Green Gables, inspiration for Lucy Maud Montgomery’s famous tale, “Anne of Green Gables”. Continue to Charlottetown.
 Dinner: Your choice to explore local fare.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: The Hotel on Pownal
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: History, Agriculture and Economy of Prince Edward Island
(Tuesday, October 1)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Learn about Prince Edward Island history during a lecture, then take a guided visit through Charlottetown.
 Lunch: Enjoy the products of Prince Edward Island, featuring your choice of fresh mussels, island-raised turkey or fresh vegetarian selection.
 Afternoon: Learn about PEI’s fishing, shell fishing and lobstering traditions from a veteran fisherman. Stroll the picturesque boardwalk in the tiny village of North Rustico. Return to Charlottetown.
 Dinner: Your choice to explore local fare.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: The Hotel on Pownal
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: From PEI to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
(Wednesday, October 2)

Note: The total mileage traveled by motorcoach today is 280 miles. 75-minute ferry crossing. Walking and standing at Heritage Quay Museum, including walking aboard a docked tall ship, for 1 hour.



   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Travel across Prince Edward Island to take the ferry to Cape Breton. Learn the story of the Scottish settlement at Hector Quay and aboard the docked replica of the Ship Hector. The Hector, a three-masted cargo vessel, was the first ship to directly transport passengers from Scotland to Nova Scotia. This historic voyage marked the beginning of a massive wave of immigration that would shape the future of North America and gave Pictou the honor of being called “the birthplace of New Scotland”.
 Lunch: In a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Continue to Baddeck, on the shores of Bras d’Or Lake, on Cape Breton Island.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
 Evening: At leisure to stroll the town.
   
Accommodations: Gisele's Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: The Beauty of the Cabot Trail
(Thursday, October 3)

Note: The Cabot Trail drive is 189 miles, with frequent stops that include short walks and visits.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Today is spent exploring the gorgeous coastal views and tiny villages of Cape Breton’s Cabot Trail.
 Lunch: Box lunch en route.
 Afternoon: Continue along the Cabot Trail.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Gisele's Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Alexander Graham Bell Museum and on to Halifax
(Friday, October 4)

Note: The total mileage traveled by motorcoach today is 218 miles. Walking and standing on self-guided visit at Alexander Graham Bell Historic Site Museum.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Visit the Alexander Graham Bell museum, the largest collection of Bell’s artifacts and inventions. Bell is well remembered for the telephone, but he worked on many different inventions throughout his lifetime. Depart to Halifax.
 Lunch: In a local restaurant en route.
 Afternoon: Continue to Halifax.
 Dinner: Your choice to explore local fare.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Delta Barrington or Delta Halifax
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11: Peggy's Cove and Halifax
(Saturday, October 5)

Note: Walking and standing on unpaved terrain and rock at Peggy’s Cove on a self-guided exploration. Walking and standing for short distances during the visit of Halifax. Walking and standing for 1 hour at the Pier 21 Immigration Museum.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Explore the picturesque, rocky coast of Nova Scotia on an excursion to Peggy’s Cove.
 Lunch: In a local restaurant. This is an opportunity to try a Canadian specialty: Poutine.
 Afternoon: On a guided visit of Halifax, view the graves of those lost on the Titanic, learn the importance of the Citadel in the city’s origins and stroll through the Botanical Gardens. Learn the ties between Halifax and New England. At the Pier 21 Immigration Museum, learn of the city’s importance as the gateway to Canada.
 Dinner: Your choice to explore local fare.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Delta Barrington or Delta Halifax
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12: Nova Scotia's Acadian History
(Sunday, October 6)

Note: The total mileage traveled by motorcoach today is 195 miles. Walking, standing and sitting for up to one hour on a self-guided visit of Grand Pre. Three-hour ferry crossing.



   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Depart Halifax to Grand Pre Historic Site to learn the fate of the Acadians.
 Lunch: In a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Cross the Bay of Fundy on the ferry to St. John, arriving early evening.
 Dinner: On board the ferry.
 Evening: An evening of story-telling provides insights on St. John's history.
   
Accommodations: Delta Brunswick
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: St. John New Brunswick
(Monday, October 7)

Note: Guided visit of St. John. The total mileage traveled by motorcoach today is 173 miles. Cross the border from Canada to the U.S. at Calais, Maine. Move back one hour to Eastern Standard Time.



   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Discover St. John on a guided visit. Depart to the Canadian-USA border.
 Lunch: Lunch included.
 Afternoon: Continue to Bar Harbor.
 Dinner: Your choice to explore local fare.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 14: Acadia National Park
(Tuesday, October 8)

Note: Full-day motorcoach exploration of Acadia National Park with frequent stops and short walks.



   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Discover Acadia National Park on a full-day field-trip.
 Lunch: At the famous Jordan Pond Restaurant, enjoy their renowned hot popovers.
 Afternoon: Continue exploring Acadia National Park.
 Dinner: Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner, featuring Maine Lobster.
 Evening: Farewell wrap up of our program.
   
Accommodations: Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Departures from Portland, Maine
(Wednesday, October 9)

Note: The transfer from Bar Harbor to Portland International Jetport is 170 miles, and takes approximately 4 hours with one rest stop.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Depart to Portland International Jetport, arriving at approximately 12:30. Please do not schedule flights before 2:30 p.m.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


A Field Guide to North Atlantic Wildlife


Author: Noble S. Proctor, Patrick J. Lynch (Illustrator)


Description: A comprehensive pocket guide to commonly encountered marine mammals, seabirds and other marine life of Northeastern North America, from North Carolina to Newfoundland and the Canadian Maritimes.



A Traveller's History of Canada


Author: Robert Bothwell


Description: A readable and admirably concise march through Canadian history from prehistory to today, including a timeline.



Anne of Green Gables


Author: Lucy Maud Montgomery


Description: This Norton critical edition of the immensely popular 1908 novel includes excerpts from Montgomery's journals, letters and juvenilia, as well as commentary from Sir Walter Scott, Lord Byron and Louisa May Alcott.



Burden of Desire


Author: Robert MacNeil


Description: An intricate, suspenseful novel of love and war set against the backdrop of the 1917 explosion that destroyed the north end of Halifax. Written by the noted newsman Robert MacNeil.



Compass Guide Maine


Author: Fodor's


Description: This handsome guide is an excellent overview of Maine, with particular emphasis on history and visitor attractions. With color and archival photographs, it features good maps, some practical travel information and literary excerpts by various writers.



How to Be a Canadian, Even If You Already Are One


Author: Ian Ferguson, Will Ferguson


Description: A tongue-in-cheek portrait of Canadian people and society, written by two native sons. Not entirely (but mostly) in jest, the book is an insightful look at the Canadian national character.



Lonely Planet Nova Scotia, New Brunswick & Prince Edward Island


Author: Karla Zimmerman


Description: This handy, compact guide to Atlantic Canada covers Nova Scotia, New Brunswick & Prince Edward Island in detail, and includes a chapter on Newfoundland and Labrador. With maps, travel information and short essays on culture, attractions and nature.



Maine Map


Author: Rand McNally Maps


Description: This road map (1:600,000) includes city plans, a mileage chart and points of interest.



Moon Handbook Atlantic Canada


Author: Mark Morris


Description: A comprehensive guide to New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Prince Edward Island. With regional maps and detailed descriptions of St. John's and other points of interest, along with an overview of the people, wildlife and history of the region.



My Famous Evening: Nova Scotia Sojourns, Diaries and Preoccupations


Author: Howard Norman


Description: Howard Norman returned to Nova Scotia over a period of 30 years to interview local legends and research the folklore of the area. Norman writes with an impressionistic intimacy to create a portrait of this enchanting place and its people.



Nova Scotia


Author: Tanya Lloyd Kyi


Description: A photographic overview of historic Louisbourg and Port Royale, Cape Breton, Halifax and the remote towns and people in the Canada Series.



Nova Scotia & Prince Edward Island Map


Author: ITMB


Description: This provincial map (1:400,000) includes Prince Edward Island and adjacent New Brunswick.



One Man's Meat


Author: E.B. White


Description: By the author of "Charlotte's Web," a collection of observant and often humorous essays about daily life on a Maine saltwater farm. A wonderful portrait of coastal small-town life, originally published in 1938.



The Lobster Coast: Rebels, Rusticators, and the Struggle for a Forgotten Frontier


Author: Colin Woodard


Description: A fascinating cultural history of coastal Maine as seen through the lobstering industry.



The Maine Reader, The Down East Experience, 1614 to Present


Author: Charles Shain (Editor)


Description: An excellent anthology covering the gamut of the state's culture and history, from early European explorers to the 20th century works of Carolyn Chute, Rachel Carson and John McPhee.



Why I Hate Canadians


Author: Will Ferguson


Description: The tenth anniversary edition of Ferguson's wickedly astute cultural salvo, the collection of humorous essays that launched his career. As you might guess, the title is tongue-in-cheek.



Wild Nova Scotia


Author: Len Wagg (Photographer), Bob Bancroft


Description: A collection of stunning color photographs of Nova Scotia's landscapes and wildlife, from butterflies and blossoms to rocky coastlines, river valleys and mist-shrouded lakes.





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