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Category: <span>Life in Nova Scotia</span>
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Very Valley Gift Ideas

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia
Very Valley Christmas Gift Ideas

Have you been visiting the many Christmas craft markets in the Annapolis Valley this year? (If not, here’s a comprehensive list of the 2024 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets or the 2024 South Shore Holiday Markets


Even if you can’t get to a market, you can still find some incredible handmade gifts that I think of as “Very Valley” gifts. Here are some of my favourites:

  1. Give the gift of peaceful serenity with the gift of a New Scotland Candle Co candle, made in Kentville.
  2. A custom illustration from Little Bluenose Illustrations would make a very personal gift, but artist Alice Lefebvre also offers whimsical prints of various Annapolis Valley scenes.
  3. Take a drive to Hall’s Harbour to visit Spiral Studio and select from beautiful pottery in earthy tones.
  4. As a woodworker myself, I appreciate the care and attention that goes into the cutting boards, charcuterie boards, and other wood crafts from Annapolis Valley Woodworks.
  5. Annapolis Valley Luffa uses luffa, a naturally formed fibre, to make sustainable body sponges, dish scrubbers, and more.

Consumables make really excellent gifts! Here are my favourite food and drink products from the Valley.

  1. Visit Sable Shortbread in Windsor for the most incredible melt-in-your-mouth shortbread.
  2. Sissibo Coffee in Bear River offers ethically sourced beans and roast them with precision and care. North Mountain Coffee in Berwick offers high-quality coffee in small batches on restored antique roasters that are between 80 and 100 years old. All coffees are expertly developed with traditional European roasting techniques, and both are small, family-owned and run businesses beloved by locals.
  3. The hot dilly cuke jelly is my favourite from Tangled Garden outside Wolfville, but they have plenty of other jams and jellies to choose from.
  4. I’m partial to the Apple Pie Moonshine produced by Still Fired Distillery outside Annapolis Royal. Have you tried their moonshine, vodkas or gins yet?
  5. If you’re near Lequille picking up moonshine, hit up the nearby Lequille Country Store for the best beef jerky in the province. (For real. People drive from Halifax just to get their jerky fix.)
  6. The Annapolis Valley has a dozen wineries, and nearly as many craft breweries. Pick up something delicious to drink, or a cool t-shirt or ball cap for a cool brewery makes a great gift.
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2023 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia
2023 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets

It’s time!

The holiday season is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit than by visiting Christmas craft markets in the Annapolis Valley. These markets offer a unique opportunity to shop for one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts while supporting local artisans and businesses. From tiny events in small schools to large, multi-day events, you’ll find handmade decorations, delectable treats, and incredible artisan craftsmanship at these shows.

Christmas In The Country
Saturday, November 4, 2023
1582 Black Rock Road, Waterville

Christmas on the Sissiboo Craft Market
Saturday, November 4, 2023
4079 Evangeline Trail Weymouth NS, Weymouth

New Minas Christmas Craft Show
Saturday, November 4, 2023
9489 Commercial St, New Minas

Berwick School Craft Fair
Saturday, November 4, 2023
220 Veterans Drive, Berwick

Kingston Lions Hall
November 4 and 5, 2023, 10-4
1482 Veterans Ln, Kingston

The Mom Market
Sunday, November 5, 2023
Berwick & District Volunteer Fire Department
296 Commercial St, Berwick

Annapolis Royal Winter Farmers Market
Every Saturday from November 13 to December 18, 2023
Annapolis Royal Fire Hall, 170 St. Anthony Street, Annapolis Royal

Christmas at the Vineyard
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Beaver Creek Vineyard, 496 Carleton Road, Lawrencetown

New Minas Christmas Craft Show
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Louis Millet Community Complex, 9489 Commercial St, New Minas

Crafty Craft Fair
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Lunn’s Mill, 515 Carleton Rd, Lawrencetown Village

Clarence Country Market Christmas Market
Sunday, November 12, 2023
3337 Clarence Road, Clarence

Holiday Express Market
Friday, November 17, 2023
325 Main Street, Kentville

Acadia Christmas Craft Expo
November 17, 18, 19, 2023
550 Main Street, Wolfville

Kentville Lions Holiday Market
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Kentville Lions Club, 78 River St, Kentville

14 Wing Greenwood Craft & Vendor Sale
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Greenwood Community Centre, Build 110, Church Street, Greenwood

Bridgetown Legion Christmas Craft Sale
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Bridgetown Legion, 20 Jeffery Street, Bridgetown

Somerset School Christmas Craft Fair
November 18 and 19, 2023
Somerset & District Elementary School, 4339 Brooklyn Street, Berwick

Dandelion Lane Holiday Photos & Crafts Market
Sunday, November 19, 2023
4035 Hwy 201, Bridgetown

Brickton Community Hall Holiday Craft Fair
Sunday, November 19, 2023, 12-3
12062 Nova Scotia Trunk 1, Lawrencetown

Kingston Legion Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, November 25, 2023, 9-4
1472 Veterans Ln, Kingston

Girl Guides Craft and Vendor Sale
Saturday, November 25, 2023
South Berwick Community Hall, 4518 Highway 1, South Berwick

Berwick Lions Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, November 25, 2023
250 Veterans Drive, Berwick

North Mountain Market 2023 Holiday Market
Saturday, November 25, 2023
3201 Long Point Road, Berwick

Landmark East School Craft Fair
Saturday, November 25, 2023, 10am to 2pm
Kentville Fire Hall

Lawrencetown Breakfast with Santa & Craft Fair
Saturday, November 25, 2023
Lawrencetown Consolidated School, 7 Middle Road, Lawrencetown

Avon Community Farmers’ Market Holiday Market
Sunday, November 26, 2023
West Hants Sports Complex, Windsor

Macdonald Museum Christmas Craft Market
December 1 and December 2, 2023
21 School St, Middleton

Cambridge Community Craft Sale
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9:30am to 2pm
5961 Highway 1, Cambridge

Greenwich Fire Hall Christmas Craft and Vendor Sale
Saturday, December 2, 9am-3pm
9798 Highway #1, Wolfville

Annapolis Valley Farmers and Traders Holiday Market
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9am to 2pm
Community Hub, Annapolis Royal

Olde Fashioned Christmas Craft Sale
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9am to 3pm
Annapolis Legion, 66 Victoria Street, Annapolis Royal

Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9am to 3pm
Annapolis Royal Fire Hall, 5 Saint Anthony Street, Annapolis Royal

Festival Craft and Gift Fair
Saturday, December 2, 2023
New Ross Consolidated School, 4689 NS-12, New Ross

Christmas Country Craft Fair
Saturday, December 2, 2023
New Ross Legion Hall, 64 Forties Road, New Ross

Inglisville Christmas Craft Market
Sunday, December 3, 2023
1407 Inglisville Road, Lawrencetown

Ross Farm Museum Craft & Gift Market
Sunday, December 3, 2023
New Ross Farm, 4568 Highway 12, New Ross

West Brooklyn Community Hall Christmas Artisan Show & Sale
Sunday, December 3, 2023 from 11am – 4pm
410 West Brooklyn Mountain Road, Wolfville

Berwick Station Market
Sunday, December 3, 2023, 9am to 1pm
104 Front Street, Berwick

Bridgetown Regional Community School Craft Fair
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 9am to 3pm
25 Cromwell Court, Bridgetown

Deep Brook Waldec Lions Club
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 2pm to 4pm
Deep Brook Lions Hall
948 Highway 1, Deep Brook

Merry Christmas Craft Show
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 10am to 3pm
Coldbrook Lions Hall, 1416 South Bishop Road, Coldbrook

Christmas Craft Fair
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 9am to 1pm
Scot’s Bay Community Hall, 5796 Highway 358, Canning

Harbourville Christmas Market
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 10am to 2pm
Harbourville United Church, 3201 Long Point Road, Harbourville

Holiday Lights Night Market
Thursday, December 14, 2023, 5:30pm to 8:30pm
300 Commercial Street, Berwick

Craft Sale
Sunday, December 19, 2023
Lawrencetown Fire Hall, Lawrencetown

The Annapolis Valley is a treasure trove of holiday cheer and unique, handcrafted gifts waiting to be discovered. As you explore the charming Christmas craft markets listed above, you’ll not only find special presents for your friends and family but also support local artisans and businesses. Embrace the holiday spirit and make this festive season memorable by visiting these delightful markets in the Annapolis Valley. Happy shopping, and Merry Christmas!

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How to Make Friends in Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Life in Nova Scotia,Moving to Nova Scotia

Making friends in a new community can be difficult. And while Nova Scotians are notoriously friendly, that doesn’t always translate into locals inviting you to “be friends.”

Here are some tips to help you make friends in Nova Scotia (spoiler alert, it’s going to take a lot of effort!).

  • When you meet new people, be open and approachable. Smile, make eye contact, and take the initiative to start conversations with people you meet.
  • Friendships are built through time spent together. Exchange contact information with people you think you might want to spend more time with.
  • Invite them to attend other events with you, invite them to events you’re hosting (parties, dinners, backyard fires), or make plans to meet up for a hike, a beer, etc.
  • Don’t be afraid to hear no a few times before giving up, sometimes people need a few invites before they finally accept something.

Where to meet people

Attend Community Events: Nova Scotia hosts various community events, festivals, and gatherings, like fundraising suppers. Participating in these activities is a great way to meet people who share your interests.

Join Clubs or Groups: Look for local clubs, sports teams, hobby groups, or community organizations that align with your interests. These provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.

Volunteer: Volunteering is an excellent way to meet people while contributing to the community. There are many non-profit organizations in Nova Scotia that welcome volunteers.

Attend Classes or Workshops: Enroll in classes, workshops, or courses, whether for hobbies, fitness, or personal development. This is a great way to meet people with similar interests. Do you live in the Valley? Check out my other website, Move to the Annapolis Valley, for information on what’s happening in various Valley communities. 

Use Social Media: Join local Nova Scotia-based social media groups or platforms to connect with people in your area. You can find events and activities to attend.

Attend Local Meetups: Look for meetup groups or online platforms like Meetup.com to find gatherings of people who share your interests.

Get Involved in Local Sports: Nova Scotia has a strong sports culture, and participating in local sports leagues or events can help you bond with others.

Building meaningful friendships takes time, so be patient. It took us two years of living in Nova Scotia and meeting new people before we built up a solid friend group. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!

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Apple Season in the Annapolis Valley

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia
Apple trees ready for picking

As the leaves begin to don their vibrant autumn colors, there’s a magical transformation that takes place in the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia. Apple season in the Annapolis Valley kicks off in early September with the Bridgetown Ciderfest, the apple orchards come alive this month, filling the air with the sweet scent of ripe fruit and beckoning visitors to experience the joys of apple season. The trees have turned from branches loaded with blossoms and wooden crates waiting…

Birchleigh Farms - Apple season in the Annapolis Valley

Birchleigh Farms - Apple Trees in BlossomBirchleigh Farms - Apple Trees in Blossom…to heavily laden trees with the most delicious varieties of apples.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley

The Annapolis Valley, often referred to as the “Valley,” is a picturesque region nestled between two mountain ranges, the North Mountain and the South Mountain. Located in the western part of Nova Scotia, this fertile valley is a haven for agriculture, and apple orchards play a pivotal role in its agricultural heritage.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley typically spans from late summer to early autumn, making it a perfect time to visit. One of the most captivating aspects of this season is the incredible variety of apples you’ll find here. From the crisp and sweet Honeycrisp to the tart and tangy Cortland, there’s an apple to suit every palate. The Annapolis Valley boasts numerous apple orchards and farms, each offering its unique charm and apple-related experiences. My two favourites are Noggins Corner Farm Market, a beloved destination. Noggins Corner offers not only a vast array of apple varieties but also a corn maze, petting zoo, and other family-friendly activities.

I also love Dempsey Corner Orchards, outside Berwick. Known for their heirloom apple varieties, Dempsey Corner Orchards offers an authentic orchard experience. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at their on-site café.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley
Dempsey’s Corner Orchard – Berwick

Closer to my home, Spurr Brothers Farm is an incredible farm market and hard cidery where you can enjoy a cider on tap or by bottle, listen to live music, and take photos in their pumpkin or sunflower patches.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley Spurr Brothers
Spurr Brothers – Middleton

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley is a time of abundant beauty, delicious flavors, and cherished traditions. If you’re thinking of moving to the Annapolis Valley and growing your own apple trees, be sure to reach out, I’d be happy to help you find the perfect property.

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Nova Scotia’s Regional Differences

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Buying in Nova Scotia,Life in Nova Scotia,Moving to Nova Scotia,South Shore
Atlantic coast

Nova Scotia may be Canada’s second smallest province but a lot of people misunderstand how diverse Nova Scotia’s regional differences really are. The famous ‘East Coast Lifestyle’ is not a uniform culture from one side of our little province to the other. Here are a few of the most notable regional differences in some popular areas I serve.

Halifax

I can’t count how many clients have asked me, “What city should I move to?” My answer is always the same–there’s only one! Halifax is Nova Scotia’s only city. There are plenty of towns and communities, but Halifax is the only city. It’s home to a beautiful and bustling waterfront, excellent restaurants and nightlife, and many head offices and government offices. If you want the excitement of a city with lots happening every night of the week, Halifax should be your destination.

Annapolis Valley

The Annapolis Valley is known for its fertile farmland, scenic landscapes, and long growing season, so it’s very popular with farmers and gardeners. The Valley tends to have an interesting mix of wealth (mainly around Wolfville and Annapolis Royal), university youth (Wolfville again), and more average areas.

Each community really has its own feel. To help people understand the differences, my wife and I have developed MovetotheAnnapolisValley.ca, a website devoted to helping potential residents learn what it’s like living in the various communities in the Valley. 

South Shore

Nova Scotia’s South Shore is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming fishing villages, historic lighthouses, and stunning beaches. While there are some small agricultural operations and plenty of Christmas tree farms, the soil and weather conditions aren’t as conducive to growing, which might be important to you if you’re dreaming of a large garden.

The South Shore has a strong history of seafaring and fishing heritage, and you’ll find those influences in the people who reside there. There can be some resistance to newcomers on the South Shore, though many people are trying to improve the welcoming nature of the community. If easy access to spectacular public beaches is important to you, you can’t go wrong on the South Shore.

The French Shore

The French Shore is deeply rooted in Acadian history and culture. Acadians are the descendants of French colonists who settled in the region in the 17th century. The French Shore is dotted with picturesque fishing villages that exude a quaint and authentic maritime charm but might feel very remote and cut off from civilization if you’re used to more populated areas.

Though Nova Scotia’s French-speaking population is dispersed throughout the province and 10% of Nova Scotians speak French, most of them live in a concentrated area. Acadians make up the majority of the population in the municipalities of Clare and Argyle on the French shore. 

While you can certainly get by living on the French Shore without speaking French fluently, it’s difficult. Most of the people you’ll meet will prefer to converse in French, while chatting at the grocery store, attending a community supper, in your workplace, etc. If this isn’t a fit for your family, you may feel quite isolated by the language barrier.

Eastern Shore

The Eastern Shore is culturally most similar to the South Shore, with some notable differences. There are fewer wealthy enclaves of retirees and less tourism. Without towns like Chester, Lunenburg, or Mahone Bay to draw in tourists or wealthy retirees from the city or other provinces, there are fewer amenities such as restaurants, theatres, and shops. There are a large number of bedroom communities, where residents commute into the city to work, play, and shop, and head home to sleep and relax. There are some beautiful walking trails and beaches on the Eastern Shore.

 

Are you interested in looking at properties in one of these areas? Give me a call at (902) 349-1022 and let’s chat.

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Nova Scotia Roadside Stands

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Life in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Roadside Stands

Visitors and new residents are often surprised and delighted to discover the proliferation of “honour system” Nova Scotia roadside stands or stalls that dot the rural roads of our province. From fruits and vegetables to jellies, salsas to honey or eggs (gotta love those backyard chickens), from seedlings or cut flowers to perennial bulbs, and from baked sweet treats to craggy loaves of sourdough bread, you’ll find it all roadside.

Now that spring is here, tables and coolers are being dragged to the side of the road, and stall doors flung wide to let in the sunshine. Some Nova Scotia roadside stands are elaborate and have active Facebook pages devoted to highlighting what’s in the stand that week, such as the Cake by the Maples in New Germany.

Nova Scotia Roadside Stands Cake by the Maple

Others are tiny, simple folding tables with a smattering of excess tomato seedlings, surplus vegetables the gardener has grown, or the fruits of their canning efforts.

Nova Scotia Roadside Stands

I’ve seen bushels of tomatoes or apples for sale in utility trailers still attached to tractors, and beat-up coolers or mini fridges full of fresh eggs are common.

Nova Scotia Roadside Stands

Before I moved to Nova Scotia I rarely carried cash, but now there are always small bills in my wallet to ensure I can pick up a gorgeous zucchini or a few gladiolus stems (the glad field I stop at has a roadside stall and an honour system U-Pick field and loaner scissors if you prefer to select your own stems.)

Nova Scotia Roadside Stands

Cash is king – most Nova Scotia roadside stands have a cash box or jar and rely on the goodness of passerbys to leave the cash be, (and for buyers to pay the stated amount). But a few have joined the digital revolution, and accept e-transfers!

What’s the oddest thing you’ve ever seen sold at a Nova Scotia roadside stand? Do you sell anything at the end of your driveway? I’d love to hear about it in the comments. 

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Top 5 Annapolis Valley Garden Centres

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia
Top 5 Garden Centres in the Annapolis Valley

The Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia is known for its fertile farmland, scenic landscapes, and long growing season. For gardening enthusiasts, the area is a veritable paradise (and my favourite garden centre is literally in the community of Paradise).

There are plenty of garden centres to choose from, but I wanted to share my top 5 Annapolis Valley garden centres, each with its unique charm.

  1. Neily’s Greenhouse and Gardens is a quaint greenhouse and market garden located on the old #1 highway halfway between Lawrencetown and Bridgetown in Paradise. They sell a full range of annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, planters, trees, shrubs, fruit trees, berry bushes, and in-season fruits and vegetables. 10139 Hwy #1, Paradise.
  2. Blomidon Nurseries is one of the most popular garden centres in the Annapolis Valley. Located in Wolfville, the nursery has been around for over 50 years and offers a wide variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals. They also have a selection of garden supplies, such as soil, mulch, and fertilizers. Blomidon is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff who are always happy to help you find the perfect plants for your garden. 10060 Hwy 1, Wolfville.
  3. Summerland Nursery is a family-owned and operated garden centre in Wilmot. The nursery specializes in perennials and shrubs and has a beautiful display garden where you can see the plants in their full glory. 14608 1, Nova Scotia Trunk 10, Wilmot.
  4. Glad Gardens is a unique garden centre located in Waterville. The nursery specializes in hostas, daylilies, and other shade-loving plants. Glad Gardens has over 300 varieties of hostas, making it one of the largest collections in Atlantic Canada. The garden centre also offers a variety of other plants, including annuals, perennials, and shrubs. 5108 Hwy 1, Waterville.
  5. The Briar Patch is a charming garden centre in New Minas that specializes in roses. The nursery has over 200 varieties of roses, including antique and hard-to-find varieties. The Briar Patch also offers a selection of other plants, such as perennials, annuals, and shrubs. They also have a knowledgeable staff that can help you with all your gardening needs. 4568 Hwy 1 , Berwick, NS.

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, the Annapolis Valley has everything you need to create the garden of your dreams. And be sure to stop in at a Farmers Market or a Frenchy’s while you’re tooling around the Valley!

Neily’s Greenhouse & Gardens, Paradise


Summerland Nursery, Wilmot
Summerland Nursery, Wilmot

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Community Fundraising Meals in Rural Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Life in Nova Scotia
nova scotia fundraising dinner

Nova Scotia is a province known for its strong sense of community, and one way we express this, especially in rural Nova Scotia, is through community fundraising meals.

Community fundraising meals are events organized by community members and charitable organizations to raise money for a specific cause or organization. These meals are often held in church basements, community halls, or other public spaces, and involve a hot or cold meal, plus sometimes a raffle or auction, and sometimes even entertainment. They might be weekly, monthly, or more infrequently.

These meals are an important part of Nova Scotia’s culture because they provide a way for community members to come together, socialize, and support each other. Meals are attended by people of all ages, and they provide a way for people to connect with each other and build relationships. They’re part of the appeal of Nova Scotia’s slower pace of life.

If you’d like to make friends in your new community, attending a breakfast, lunch, or supper is a great way to start meeting people. Don’t avoid attending a community meal just because you won’t know anyone. Just go! Strike up a conversation with the person you’re standing in line with, or ask to sit at a table where there’s an open spot and join the conversation.

Another great way is to volunteer! These events are organized by volunteers, and they provide a way for you to get involved and accepted into the community quickly.

Community meals are always cash only, and some will require pre-ordering. Some take Take Away and some are eat in.

If you’re keeping a sharp eye out, you’ll see notices for these meals everywhere. They’ll be on the bulletin board at the gas station, the signage at your local church, on websites like Annapolis Valley Events, in your local community newsletter like the Bridgetown Reader, etc.

Bon Appetit!

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Frenchys Road Trip

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia,South Shore
Frenchys Road Trip

Have you taken a Frenchys Road Trip yet? Any serious fan of the used clothing and household goods store has heard that the best locations are in the Valley, and have either done or dreamed of doing the Valley/South Shore loop. If you’re considering a Frenchys Road Trip, here’s what you need to know.

Frenchys or Frenchy’s? There’s a difference.
Edwin Theriault opened the very first Frenchy’s in Meteghan, and his store “inspired” Guy’s Frenchys, which opened its flagship store in Digby in 1972. Today, Guy’s Frenchys stores are larger and better organized, with higher quality modern items. Frenchy’s original stores are less enjoyable a shopping experience for some, but they typically have more vintage and upper-tier designer pieces. In our list of Frenchys locations below, we’ve noted which stores are which, in case you have a preference for which stores you want to stop in on the loop.

Neither store offers returns or exchanges, but most do have change rooms (dedicated thrifters are still holding a grudge about Value Village permanently removing their change rooms during Covid).

All Guy’s Frenchys locations are open weekdays 9 to 9, Saturdays 9 to 5, and Sundays noon to 5, so a Thursday/Friday or Friday/Saturday Frenchys Road Trip is ideal for giving you the most shopping time.

Frenchys Road Trip

New Minas (Frenchy’s)
927 Commercial Street

Coldbrook (Guy’s)
6931 Highway 1

Berwick (Guy’s)
104 Front Street

Wilmot (Guy’s)
14384 Highway 1

Digby (Guy’s)
343 Conway, Highway 303

Meteghan (Frenchy’s)
2-182 Maxwellton Rd, Meteghan Centre

St. Bernard (Guy’s)
4118 No. 1 Highway

Yarmouth (Guy’s)
10558 Highway 3

Yarmouth (Frenchy’s)
1 Glebe Street

Shelburne (Guy’s)
72 King Street

Liverpool (Guy’s)
344 Main Street

Italy Cross (Frenchy’s)
17198 Fishermen’s Memorial Hwy

Bridgewater (Guy’s)
61 North Street

Frenchys Road Trip

Frenchys Shopping Etiquette
While more Frenchys locations are offering racked clothing (much easier to browse!), most stores still have some clothing, shoes, and household goods in bins. To ensure you avoid dirty looks from Frenchys pros, here are a few tips:

  • Pick a spot in front of your chosen bin, then start selecting items and discarding them in an orderly manner.
  • Don’t toss your discards on someone else’s pile.
  • Don’t grab items from an area someone else is clearly working through.
  • If you’re not sure you want it, add it to your basket anyway. You can always change your mind before you check out.
  • Do inspect items carefully for holes or stains.
  • Do offer to swap spots with someone working in the same bin if you’re done in your area.

Are you considering moving to the Annapolis Valley for a slower pace of life? Check out MovetotheAnnapolisValley.ca to learn more about the various small towns and communities in the Valley.

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Nova Scotia’s Slower Pace of Life – What Does That Mean?

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Life in Nova Scotia

Many people move to Nova Scotia to enjoy a slower pace of life. But what does that mean, exactly? People are more relaxed and less rushed in Nova Scotia, for the most part. Which can lead to some culture shock when you’re relying on other people to feel a sense of urgency when it comes to fixing your heat pump, serving you dinner, or other related services.

My wife was born and raised in Nova Scotia, while I was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta. And while we visited the east coast often before moving here permanently a few years ago, there were still quite a few things about life in Nova Scotia that I wasn’t expecting, and they’re directly related to the slower pace of life on the east coast.

The Trades

First, tradespeople are in high demand, but that doesn’t mean tradespeople are working lots of overtime and taking on evening and weekend jobs. While some might burn the candle at both ends, it’s much more common for homeowners to find it difficult to get a tradesperson to return your calls, show up at the appointed time (or at all), send the promised quote, or even remember to send an invoice. Tradespeople in Nova Scotia will be prioritizing time with family or enjoying the beautiful outdoors (that may be why you’re moving here too!), and typically aren’t as driven as they are in larger cities.

Open for business (or not?)

There are many small businesses in Nova Scotia, from little consignment stores to independently owned restaurants, and a lot of them are very flexible in their adherence to their hours of operation.

The business hours shown on Google, Facebook, or their website are often incorrect, and many shops will close for bad weather, family plans, or because walk in customers slowed so they closed up early. Don’t leave picking something up until the last minute, and if you’re going out of your way to visit a small business, you’ll get used to calling first to ensure they’ll actually be open!

Winter weather blues

Speaking of closing, if you have school aged children you’ll want to have backup care arranged in advance of winter. Nova Scotia schools close a good deal for bad weather and poor roads. In fact, we lead the country in weather related closures for schools.

Halifax typically has 4.4 snow days a winter on average, with the rural number being even higher. In comparison, schools in Winnipeg have not had a snow day in 30 years! During bad weather, businesses are also quick to close early, open late once the roads have cleared, or just not open at all for the day.

A different kind of party

Another part of Nova Scotia’s slower pace of life is being more connected to the environment. More beach days, more walks in the woods, more time connecting with friends and loved ones, more time for fishing or gardening (and maybe even raising chickens).

If you’re in a rural area, there’s less opportunity to get dressed up and head out for an expensive night of drinking, dinner, dancing, theatre, etc. People are more likely to throw on their flannel jacket and hang out around someone’s rustic camp or head to a kitchen party with a six pack. Rural residents especially don’t typically have access to costly gyms, pricy salons, high end shopping, ritzy private schools, etc.

Still considering a move to Nova Scotia? I can help. Download my free Guide to Buying a Home in Nova Scotia for Out of Province Buyers, or give me a call at (902) 349-1022.

Let’s connect! If you’re considering buying or selling property in Nova Scotia, I’m happy to chat, with no obligation. If you’d rather call or text, you can reach me at (902) 349-1022.

keith@keithkucharski.com

© 2024 Keith Kucharski, RE/MAX REALTOR®. All rights reserved.