Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, is one of those cruise ports that instantly makes you slow down and soak it all in. Compact, walkable, and full of character, it’s an ideal stop on an Atlantic Canada cruise and an easy place to explore without feeling rushed.

Our day in Charlottetown began at Founders’ Food Hall & Market, a great first stop for getting a taste of PEI’s local food scene. From there, we walked to St. Dunstan’s Basilica, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Its twin spires dominate the skyline, and stepping inside offers a quiet moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and history that make this church such a focal point of Charlottetown.

We continued to Beaconsfield Historic House, a beautifully preserved reminder of the city’s Victorian past, before enjoying a leisurely walk along the Charlottetown Boardwalk. With harbour views, sea air, and that relaxed island pace, this part of the city really captures the charm that Prince Edward Island is known for.

No visit to Charlottetown would be complete without sampling the local food. We stopped at John Brown Richmond Street Grille for classic lobster rolls, then wrapped up the day with a visit to Cows Ice Cream at Peakes Quay - a PEI favourite and a must-visit spot!

Whether you’re visiting Charlottetown as part of an Atlantic Canada cruise itinerary or planning a Prince Edward Island getaway, this small capital city delivers big on history, flavour, and coastal charm - all within easy walking distance of the port.

On Friday, February 6th, 2026, the annual Vernon Winter Carnival Balloon Glow lit up the night sky — and truly outdid itself this year. A long-standing favourite for locals and visitors alike, this iconic event brought the community together in a way we’ve never seen before.

From the moment the gates opened, it was clear this was the busiest Balloon Glow Vernon has ever hosted. The energy was electric as families, friends, and carnival-goers filled the grounds, bundled up and ready to soak in every moment.

The evening featured mesmerizing fire dancers, adding warmth and drama to the crisp winter air, while food trucks lined the space with the irresistible smell of comfort food and sweet treats. A mini market showcased local vendors, giving attendees a chance to shop small and support our amazing community creators.

And of course — the true stars of the night — the hot air balloons. As they illuminated one by one, glowing against the dark winter sky, the crowd fell into awe. The combination of music, lights, laughter, and towering balloons created a truly magical atmosphere that reminded everyone why the Vernon Winter Carnival is so special.

This year’s Balloon Glow wasn’t just an event — it was an unforgettable experience, a celebration of winter, community, and the joy of coming together. If you’ve never attended, this is definitely one to add to your bucket list for next year.

Hike Haliburton Winter Festival

The Dahl Forest

Winter Bloggers Hiking Snowshoeing

On a crisp winter day, the story behind the Hike Haliburton Winter Festival is brought to life through a meaningful journey into The Dahl Forest, one of Haliburton’s most treasured natural spaces. Originally, this landscape was shaped by decades of careful conservation, tree planting, and stewardship by the Dahl family. In fact, over 500 acres were lovingly preserved, ensuring that nature always came before profit.

In 2009, a powerful decision was shared with the community when the family announced their intention to donate the forest to the Haliburton Highlands Land Trust. Notably, the land was protected under the federal Ecological Gifts Program, and its future was secured for generations to come. As a result, the forest is now enjoyed by hikers, winter explorers, and snowshoeing enthusiasts who value conservation.

Meanwhile, this video highlights how winter hiking during the festival connects people to the land’s deeper story. Through thoughtful stewardship, the forest has been kept wild, accessible, and inspiring. Additionally, bloggers and outdoor creators continue to share its beauty, ensuring the message of preservation reaches far beyond Haliburton.

Ultimately, the spirit of winter hiking is celebrated, while a legacy of love for the land is honored. Therefore, if you enjoy winter adventures, meaningful history, and scenic trails, you won’t want to miss this experience.

? Watch video and discover why the Dahl Forest is at the heart of the Hike Haliburton Winter Festival.

There’s something truly magical about approaching Sydney, Nova Scotia by sea, and experiencing it from the deck of Holland America’s Volendam was a trip to remember. The port offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty, maritime history, and warm local hospitality.

As we sailed into Sydney, the coastline of Cape Breton Island unfolded in all its rugged glory - dramatic cliffs, picturesque harbours, and colourful homes that tell a story of generations past. From the gentle sway of the ship to the panoramic Atlantic views, every moment was picture-perfect.

Sydney is not just a port stop - it’s a gateway to Cape Breton Island’s iconic Cabot Trail, Celtic culture, and local flavours. Cruising into this part of Atlantic Canada provides a front-row seat to its natural beauty and charming communities.