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Category: <span>Moving to Nova Scotia</span>
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Oceanfront vs. Lakefront Living

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

Having grown up in landlocked Alberta, I was very excited to buy waterfront property in Nova Scotia. I dreamt of oceanfront, but my wife, who had grown up in Nova Scotia, was adamant that we buy property on a lake instead. It was important to her that our kids and her extended family be able to enjoy swimming, paddling, and jumping off a dock into water that wasn’t freezing cold.

Choosing between oceanfront or lakefront comes with distinct differences that impact lifestyle, maintenance, costs, and even long-term property value. Before making your decision, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each to ensure your waterfront dream aligns with your needs and expectations.

Things to Consider About Oceanfront Living

  • If you’re drawn to the ocean, expect expansive views, salty air, and access to activities like deep-sea fishing, surfing, and sailing, possibly right from your backyard, if the access is right.
  • Living by the ocean means dealing with coastal storms, hurricanes, and saltwater corrosion. Homes need to be built or retrofitted to withstand high winds, flooding, and erosion, which can increase insurance and maintenance costs.
  • Speaking of erosion, it’s important to assess the property you’re considering buying for erosion risk, and mitigation options. I’ve seen shoreline homes where the storm surges slap the second-story windows.
  • Oceanfront is typically cooler in the summer, with less snow in the winter.
  • The salty air can be harsh on homes, causing accelerated wear and tear on siding, roofing, and metal fixtures. Regular upkeep, including anti-corrosion treatments, repainting, and stormproofing, is necessary.
  • Many oceanfront areas have a strong tourism presence, meaning busier summers and quieter winters. Some regions have highly developed infrastructure, while others may have limited access to services depending on their remoteness.

Things to Consider About Lakefront Living

  • Lakes offer calmer waters, making them ideal for canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing. They are typically safer for families and casual swimmers, though larger lakes may still experience rough conditions during storms.
  • Prices vary significantly based on location, size, and lake accessibility. While some premier lakeside properties can rival oceanfront costs, many inland lake homes are more affordable and offer better long-term affordability.
  • Many lake communities foster a tight-knit, local feel with year-round residents, especially in smaller inland lakes. This is usually a good thing, though it can sometimes be stifling.
  • While lakes can experience storms, they usually lack the same extreme weather impact as oceanfront homes. However, water levels may fluctuate, and seasonal changes (like freezing in the winter) can affect usage and property upkeep. Overland flooding could be a concern.
  • Maintenance is generally lower than oceanfront living, but homes still require attention to docks, and potential flooding risks from heavy rain. If the lake freezes, winterizing your dock is essential.
  • Lakeside communities are often more residential, with year-round accessibility. However, some remote lake areas may have limited road access, requiring extra planning for long-term living. Most lakes are on private roads, and if you’re the only year-round resident, you’ll be responsible for the cost or work of plowing the road yourself.

Deciding between an oceanfront and a lakefront property ultimately depends on your lifestyle preferences, budget, and willingness to manage the unique challenges of each. If you crave the vast, dynamic energy of the ocean and don’t mind the extra upkeep, Atlantic oceanfront living may be for you. Do you prefer a peaceful, freshwater retreat with fewer extreme weather concerns? A lakefront home might be the perfect choice.

If the property you’re considering doesn’t have an existing home on it but you want to someday build one, be sure to talk to the Planning office in the municipality. They can tell you what planning rules apply and can tell you the minimum setback on a watercourse.

Either way, owning waterfront property is a rewarding investment that offers unparalleled natural beauty and recreational opportunities. For more specific questions to ask when buying waterfront property, check out my free Waterfront Property Buyers Guide.

 

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What’s it Like Living in Agricultural Areas in Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia,Moving to Nova Scotia,South Shore
Apple farm

When considering a move to Nova Scotia, many people are drawn to the charm of our agricultural areas. Rolling pastures, fresh ocean breezes, and a strong sense of community are just a few of the draws. But life in an agricultural setting comes with unique realities that might surprise newcomers. As a Realtor specializing in Nova Scotia properties, I want to share a balanced perspective on what to expect when living in a rural area.

Access to Farm-Fresh Produce
Living in Nova Scotia’s agricultural regions means you’ll enjoy access to some of the freshest produce around. Local roadside produce stallss pop up throughout the growing season, offering everything from strawberries and blueberries to fresh corn and squash. Farmers’ markets are social hubs where you can stock up on seasonal vegetables, homemade jams, and even locally raised meat. Even big-box grocery stores benefit from nearby agriculture, often stocking fresh, local fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. This means you’re never far from quality ingredients to create wholesome meals.

A Gardening Paradise
If you’ve ever dreamed of growing your own food, agricultural areas are ideal. The fertile soil and temperate climate make it easy to cultivate a productive garden. Whether you’re planting herbs, vegetables, or flowers, your green thumb will thrive here. While the Annapolis Valley is the most popular agricultural area in Nova Scotia, there are plenty of hobby farmers in other regions. Check out my post on Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia.

Breathtaking Scenery
There’s no denying the natural beauty of Nova Scotia’s agricultural areas. Wide-open fields, vibrant sunsets, and picturesque farms make for a serene, postcard-perfect environment. The slower pace of life here can be a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of urban living.

The Challenges: Smells, Sounds, and Slow Roads

Farm Smells
Let’s address the elephant—or perhaps the cow—in the room: farm smells. Depending on where you live, you may catch whiffs of manure when the wind shifts. This is a natural part of agricultural life and one that most residents quickly get used to, but it can be a surprise for those unfamiliar with rural living.

Tractors and Logging Trucks
Agricultural areas often mean sharing the road with slow-moving tractors and logging trucks. While it might test your patience during your morning commute (if you still have one), it’s a good reminder of the vital industries that keep Nova Scotia thriving.

Seasonal Noise
From the hum of tractors during harvest season to the occasional early-morning logging operation, living in a farming community can come with its share of noise. These sounds, however, are often seasonal and become part of the rhythm of rural life. You might even invest in a few hens and a rooster yourself. Here are some tips on raising chickens in Nova Scotia.

For many, the benefits of living in Nova Scotia’s agricultural areas far outweigh the drawbacks. The sense of community, access to fresh, local food, and connection to nature create a fulfilling lifestyle that’s hard to find elsewhere. If you’re considering moving to one of these areas, it’s essential to visit in different seasons and speak with locals. If you can’t visit in person and are buying from out-of-province, ask your Realtor about the agricultural impacts on the community you’re considering buying in (and check out my Guide to Buying a Home in Nova Scotia). Understanding the realities of rural living will help you decide if this lifestyle aligns with your goals and expectations.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy farmhouse, acreage for your dream garden, or a serene retreat from city life, Nova Scotia’s agricultural regions offer opportunities to live closer to the land.

Thinking of making a move? Let’s find your perfect slice of Nova Scotia countryside. You can reach me at (902) 349-1022 or email keith@keithkucharski.com.

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I Regret Moving to Nova Scotia (Part 2)

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

Moving to Nova Scotia might seem like a dream come true, especially if you think you’ve had it with city living. After all, we have some of the most stunning coastal landscapes and charming small towns, and your dollar goes a lot further in Nova Scotia when you’re buying a home. However, my post “I regret moving to Nova Scotia,” is the most visited page on this website, so it’s clear that for some, the reality of a move to Nova Scotia isn’t lining up with their expectations.

In this post, I Regret Moving to Nova Scotia, Part 2, I’ll explore the potential downsides of moving to Nova Scotia, helping you make a well-informed decision about your next big move.

In my first post, I noted that rural living can be more isolating than people realize. You might not think you eat out or go to concerts all that often, but when the only restaurant is 40 minutes away, you can’t get a pizza delivered to your lovely country home, and none of the bands you enjoy bother to make a stop in Halifax, you might find that more depressing than you think. It’s also more expensive to live in Nova Scotia than people realize. The low house prices (compared to most places in Ontario at least) can trick people into thinking the cost of living overall is less expensive in Nova Scotia. It’s not! That’s what I’ll delve into in the rest of this post.

Property Taxes

Property taxes in Nova Scotia can be much higher than people expect. For instance, homeowners in Creston, British Columbia sold their house for $500,000, and had been paying $0.82 per $100 in assessed value. That was an annual bill of $4,099 in BC. Their new home in Annapolis Royal came with a tax rate of $1.70 per $100 in assessed value. So even though the Annapolis Royal home was worth less than half of their home in Creston, the tax bill was nearly identical. This website shows the municipal tax rate for all of Nova Scotia’s municipalities. Note that some municipalities may have additional fire tax rates, sewer rates, or other fees levied on top of the tax rate listed. As a REALTOR®, I encourage my buyers to reach out to the municipality for the house they’re interested in to find out the exact total tax rate that will be applied to that home. Asking for the tax bill for the previous owners is not effective in Nova Scotia because of the Capped Assessment Program (CAP).

The amount ‘capped’ is based on the Nova Scotia Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is set by Statistics Canada. Homes owned by residents of Nova Scotia are typically eligible for the CAP, which assists homeowners in staying in their homes longer with lower property taxes, even if the assessed value of the home rises significantly. This means that when a home is sold, the CAP resets. Your property tax bill will be higher than the previous owner’s bill. Then, as a new Nova Scotian resident, you’ll be eligible for protection under the CAP going forward.

Income Tax Rates

Nova Scotia’s income tax rates are some of the highest in Canada. Many newcomers are shocked to discover in March or April that they owe far more on their taxes than they were expecting. That’s typically because you file a return based on the province or territory you live in on December 31. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) (and Revenu Québec, if applicable), uses this information to calculate your and your spouse’s or common-law partner’s (if applicable) provincial taxes and credits. So if you lived in Ontario most of the year, your employer would have withheld your payroll taxes based on Ontario amounts. But if you move to Nova Scotia before the end of the year, even if it’s just days before the new year, you’ll owe Nova Scotia rates on the entire year’s income–and your previous employer would not have withheld enough tax.

Check out this income tax calculator to see the difference in your tax home pay after taxes for each province.

Home Heating and Electricity

It’s difficult to compare heating and electricity costs as it’s so varied depending on whether you had natural gas, hydro, or something else before you moved to Nova Scotia. Many older homes in Nova Scotia still use expensive oil heat (I know people who spend $1,000 a month in the winter on oil). Even if you’ve installed an energy-efficient heat pump, if you’re in an older, poorly insulated home, your heating bill could still be astronomical. You can request heating bills for a home you’re considering making an offer on, which can be worth it when looking at an older home.

Should you Move to Nova Scotia?

I hope I haven’t frightened you off the idea of moving to Nova Scotia entirely–our move here has been incredibly rewarding, and the majority of the clients I’ve helped purchase homes for from out of province are also very happy they moved here. A lot of them moved for the slower pace of life, and it’s difficult to put a price on that. It’s important that the REALTOR® you work with has a solid understanding of the area you’re thinking of buying in, and can give you advice on how to make your move painlessly. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me to discuss why you’re considering moving here and how I can help, or download my free Guide to Buying a Home in Nova Scotia for Out of Province Buyers.

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Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia,Moving to Nova Scotia,South Shore
Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia

As a REALTOR® who specializes in the South Shore and Annapolis Valley area, arguably two of the prettiest places in the province, I’m often asked which area is better for someone wanting to buy land and build a hobby farm. The answer – it depends!

The Valley and the South Shore are two distinct regions, each with its own unique charm and characteristics. While both areas boast fertile soil and temperate climates, their microclimates and geographic features create diverse gardening conditions that offer gardeners both opportunities and challenges.

The Annapolis Valley: A Garden Oasis
Nestled between two mountain ranges, the Annapolis Valley is often referred to as the “breadbasket of Nova Scotia” for its fertile farmland and abundant agricultural output. Its microclimate benefits from the warming effect of the Bay of Fundy, creating milder winters and extended growing seasons. These favorable conditions make the Annapolis Valley a haven for a wide range of crops and gardens.

Climate: The Annapolis Valley experiences a maritime climate with mild, wet winters and warm summers. The moderating influence of the bay helps protect plants from extreme temperature fluctuations, allowing for early spring planting and a longer growing season.

Soil Quality: The valley’s soil is predominantly fertile and well-drained, offering ideal conditions for a variety of crops and gardens. Rich in nutrients and organic matter, the soil supports vigorous plant growth and yields abundant harvests.

Crop Diversity: From vineyards and orchards to vegetable gardens and flower farms, the Annapolis Valley boasts a diverse array of agricultural ventures. Fruit trees, such as apples, cherries, and peaches, thrive in the region’s temperate climate, while vineyards produce award-winning wines.

The South Shore: Coastal Gardening
Stretching along the Atlantic coast, Nova Scotia’s South Shore offers a contrasting gardening experience shaped by its maritime influences and rugged coastline. While characterized by cooler temperatures and shorter growing seasons compared to the Annapolis Valley, the region’s coastal beauty and unique microclimates present their own rewards for gardening enthusiasts. The closer you are to the coast, the more likely you’ll experience cool, foggy days over the bright sunshine of the Valley.

Climate: The South Shore experiences a cooler maritime climate with brisk sea breezes and higher humidity levels. Winters tend to be colder than in the Annapolis Valley, with shorter frost-free periods and a narrower window for gardening activities. Coastal gardening comes with its own set of challenges, including salt spray, strong winds, and soil erosion. Windbreaks and protective barriers can help mitigate these effects, while careful plant selection and site preparation are essential for success.

Soil Quality: Coastal soils in the South Shore can vary widely, ranging from sandy to loamy compositions. While sandy soils offer good drainage, they may require additional amendments to improve fertility and water retention. Organic matter from coastal vegetation contributes to soil health and structure.

Comparing the Two Regions

There’s no doubt that there are far more small, medium, and large-scale agricultural operations in the Valley than there are on the South Shore. This can mean more competition if you’re selling your produce, but it can also mean less opportunity to network with other farmers and build community. The Valley has more garden centres (here’s my top five), but the South Shore has a few very nice garden centres too.

There are plenty of homesteaders happily growing lovely gardens on the South Shore. Yonder Hills Farms is one of my favourites. Plus, land is often a little less expensive for similar properties, and the South Shore has truly spectacular sandy beaches not found in the Valley.

If you’d like to explore some of the communities in the Annapolis Valley, check out my YouTube channel, my Move to the Annapolis Valley website, or set up your custom search so you’ll receive email updates when properties are listed that meet your criteria.


Additional Resources for Hobby Farmers

THINKFARM provides introductory-level resources for starting a farm in Nova Scotia. This website has information on defining your farm vision, business planning, and regulations which apply to new farm businesses. It is a good starting point before accessing advisory services from the Department of Agriculture regional offices.

Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation is a provincial development agency with the mission to support growth, transformation, and economic development in Nova Scotia’s agriculture, seafood, and food and beverage sectors. We are Nova Scotia’s only technical development agency focused solely on our food sector and maximizing its value.

Guide for BEGINNING FARMERS in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Grow Southwest Nova Scotia

 

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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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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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Annapolis Valley U-Picks

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia,Moving to Nova Scotia
Annapolis Valley U-Pick

One of the best things about living in Nova Scotia is the easy access to fresh, local, fruits and vegetables during the summer months. Sometimes though, buying your fresh fruit and veg from the many farm market stands or hundreds and hundreds of end-of-driveway market tables just isn’t enough. If you feel the urge to get out to the fields and pick your own blueberries, strawberries, beans, corn, and more, I’ve compiled a list of my favourite Annapolis Valley U-picks.

Dempsey Corner Orchard in Aylesford is our family’s absolute favourite Annapolis Valley U-Picks. They offer fruits and vegetables including squash, pumpkin, corn, potatoes, carrots, onions, and beets. There’s a small farm-themed playground and petting zoo with goats and other farm animals, and there are often kittens playing about. A bakery, tea room, and retail area are onsite, and during special events, they have scavenger hunts, wagon rides, and more.

Noggins Corner Farm in Greenwich is a mixed farm operation that includes a variety of homegrown fruits and vegetables, a dairy, a bustling year-round farm market, and a corn maze.

Spurr Brothers Farms in Melvern Square, near Kingston offers limited berry U-pick, and a fantastic market store. Check their Facebook page before you go to ensure they’re allowing picking.

Blue Ridge Farms outside Berwick offers blueberry U-pick each August.

Morse’s Farm in Berwick offers strawberry U-pick, and a small market with veggies they’ve picked and packed. Check their Facebook page before you visit.

Kennie’s Farm in North Kentville offers U-pick strawberries, beans, peas, and more.

Vital Berry Farms (also known as My Country Magic or Blueberry Acres) in Centreville offers U-pick berries and tomatoes.

Boates Farm in Woodville offers apple and pear U-pick in the fall. Follow them on Facebook for updates.

Arirang Farm in Port Williams offers no spray blueberry U-picking in August.

Make a day of it – visit a U-Pick and one of these popular Annapolis Valley festivals.

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Raise a family in Annapolis Valley

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Buying in Nova Scotia,Life in Nova Scotia,Moving to Nova Scotia
Kids at the beach

Are you thinking of moving to Nova Scotia, and wondering if the Annapolis Valley is a good place to raise a family? In 2017 my wife and I moved to the Annapolis Valley with our then 10, 7, and 6-year-old children, and we’re so happy we did. Here are some of the reasons we love raising our kids in the Annapolis Valley.

Close to nature

We traded in our tiny city suburban backyard for a beach, lake, and forest. But even if you’re moving into one of the towns in the Annapolis Valley, you’ll likely still find nature is much closer than it is where you’re living now. When we lived in Alberta, the closest public beach was a 90-minute drive away, and the ocean was a full province away! Now we spend a lot of spring, summer, and fall hiking and enjoying the hundreds of beaches Nova Scotia has to offer. Because we bought a rural property, we can raise chickens, grow a huge garden, and feel like we’re on vacation as soon as we pull up to the house. The kids get hands-on experience with growing their own food, and their new peer group is also more familiar with this kind of lifestyle. Many of the kids they now socialize with have chickens, barn cats, or horses, and raise animals for food.

A slower pace of life

People often say they want to move to Nova Scotia for a “slower pace of life.” But what does that actually mean? For some, it means enrolling the kids in fewer structured activities and enjoying more leisurely pursuits, such as family board games, fishing, or just spending time together at the waterfront or around a campfire. If you move to a rural part of Nova Scotia to raise a family in the Annapolis Valley, it’s not as easy to access elite-level sports or academics. For instance, many smaller schools don’t offer AP or IB classes in person but do offer them virtually, and clubs like Debate or Coding may not be available at all. Stepping out of the elite level of these pursuits and enjoying them more recreationally might be the right move for your family.

Fewer commercialized activities

There are so many free or inexpensive events and activities in the Annapolis Valley, and the focus is less on attending large-scale, costly events or facilities. When you have to drive an hour to the nearest indoor trampoline park, or 45 minutes to the McDonalds, you just don’t go as often! Instead, you can take in a festival, sign up for a free class with groups like Annapolis Valley Folk School, or visit one of the many beaches, parks, playgrounds, orchards, or farms in the area.

Do you want to learn more about what each of the smaller towns and communities has to offer? Visit my relocation website, MovetotheAnnapolisValley.ca, to find information on places like Berwick, Kingston, Paradise, and more.

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Where to stay when driving to Nova Scotia from Ontario

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Moving to Nova Scotia
Map Driving from Ontario to Nova Scotia

Are you driving to Nova Scotia from Ontario? Here are a few options for good hotels to stay at during your drive. 

First, if you’re travelling with pets, be sure to check in advance if the hotel will accept your pet. BringFido.ca is a great website for your initial research into any size or breed restrictions, but I also recommend you call the hotel directly and confirm that the information is up-to-date and their policies haven’t changed. 

  1. Comfort Inn Cornwall
    The indoor heated saltwater pool is an interesting amenity! This hotel has a small gym, perfect for getting your body moving after a long day on the road. Further, the Comfort Inn is within walking distance of a number of restaurants, but if you’re tired of road food, they charge for microwave or mini-fridge rental. 

  2. Hotel Rive Gauche Beloeil
    Just outside Montreal, this hotel is a little more upscale than the others on this list, and perfect if you’d like an excellent in-hotel restaurant with superior wine choices. There’s an outdoor pool, and the hotel is situated next to the river. 

  3. Hotel Universel Riviere-Du-Loup
    With a pool and waterslide for the kids, and a Nordic spa for the parents, this is an excellent choice just an hour before the New Brunswick border. They have lovely spacious suites for families that want to spread out.

  4. Days Inn by Wyndham Riviere-Du-Loup
    A nice place to stop in Riviere-Du-Loup featuring standard hotel rooms as well as cabins with full kitchens and washers and dryers. This inn has an outdoor pool.

  5. Hotel 1212
    Enjoy an indoor pool and fitness centre at this popular stop for travellers. The hotel side of Hotel 1212 has more spacious rooms, but if you’re travelling with pets, you may be placed on the motel side, which features smaller rooms and more dated decor.

  6. Best Western Plus Edmundston
    This hotel has ample-sized rooms, a great pool, hot tub, and gym. Additionally, it’s walking distance to a number of restaurants and offers a good-sized parking lot for those with trailers.

  7. Days Inn Edmonston in St. Basile
    The Days Inn doesn’t have a pool, but it does have a small outdoor climbing structure. It also has larger rooms and great parking for trailers. They definitely allow pets, but you’ll likely want to call ahead and book a ground floor room.

  8. Best Western Plus Woodstock
    This popular stop for those driving to Nova Scotia from Ontario has a small pool, gym, good parking, walking distance to a variety of restaurants. 

  9. Fredricton Holiday Inn Express
    No pool at this hotel, but the rooms feature many amenities like microwaves and mini-fridges, and there’s no charge for the first two pets. 

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Moving to Nova Scotia with pets

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Moving to Nova Scotia

Are you moving to Nova Scotia with pets, and wondering about the best way to transport your pals? Here are some tips for travelling with or shipping your precious pets.

Driving with your pet

If you’ve driving to your new home, you might decide to bring your pet along. Here are a few tips:

  • Visit a vet first, and ensure your pet is in good health. Ask about vaccination for Lyme Disease, if your dog is not already vaccinated for Lyme.
  • Ensure you make plenty of stops to allow your pet time out of the carrier or kennel (safely leashed of course).
  • Ensure your pet is microchipped and wearing a collar with your current contact information. Sadly, many beloved dogs and cats have escaped their owners at busy rest stops, and not had current contact information on their tag or microchip.
  • Check to ensure the accommodation you’ve booked really is pet-friendly, and bring your own water and food dishes. Pre-booking your accommodation will ensure you can find a pet-friendly place to stay.

Flying with your pet

Are you looking to bring your pet with you on your flight? Small animals under a certain weight limit can fly in the cabin with you. Typically this is a small animal in a soft-sided carrier, under 10lbs. Larger pets will have to fly in the baggage compartment in an airline-approved kennel or carrier, which should be lined with training pads.

You’ll need to call the airline to register your travelling pet and pay the additional fee, which varies by airline. Because not all aircraft are equipped with temperature-controlled and ventilated baggage compartments, animals can only fly cargo at certain times of the year.

It’s recommended that you book a vet visit in advance of your travel and ask your vet for specific travel recommendations. They can tell you when to limit food or water prior to the trip and may provide you with an animal sedative and any necessary paperwork.

Some airlines will have specific rules. For example, Air Canada will not permit your pet to travel with you in the cabin if you are seated in an exit or bulkhead row, require the use of a medical device that needs to be stowed underneath the seat, or are travelling in their Premium Economy cabin.

Shipping your pet

Airlines like WestJet and Air Canada offer a cargo option if your pet is flying, but you’re not. When we moved here from Alberta, we drove across the country over 10 days. A family member cared for our cat Lucy, and we arranged for Lucy to travel by WestJet’s cargo service once we had arrived and settled in. While we made the arrangements ourselves, there are pet transport companies that will handle all travel arrangements and documentation, veterinary arrangements and transportation, approved carriers, pet boarding near the airport, etc.

Certain short/snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds of cats and dogs cannot travel in the baggage compartment because they are susceptible to increased risks of heatstroke and breathing problems when exposed to extreme heat or stressful situations. Certain dog breeds classified as strong dogs by the airline must be transported in a special reinforced container or crate when travelling in the baggage compartment. If you have a pet with special needs, you may be asked to book your pet’s travel through the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association.

Safe travels!

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

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