Sydney, Nova Scotia

Wow is it ever weird sailing past your home.  Sure we have sailed in and out of Vancouver but we lived a distance inland.  We literally sailed by our home.  We could faintly make out the 2nd floor.  

We docked at 9 am but we are not in a rush to get off.

A coffee is in order.  Bernie grabs some breakfast and we wander off around 11 am.

We did have an issue with our safe.  It stated the battery was low.  We called the front desk and someone from housekeeping came to change but it ended up the batteries were just a little loose.  

What was funny is Captain was walking by when I opened the door (his cabin is nearby) and he said "Vickie what did you break"  I said my safe but you can charge my Medallion for the repair!   Love Captain Marco, so friendly and approachable, and he is always making his presence known.  He is not competing with the cruise director like some Captains, he is professional and serious but still fun.

Once ashore we met up with our nephew who came to bring us two things we forgot.  Bernie's IPod and earphones and my gloves.  Then he drove us to Sobeys so we could pick up some Halloween candy for the crew.

Watch your step from that second floor

We walked back and i was busy taking pictures that could be used in future Port Lectures from a passengers point of view. 

You know.   Walkway to town, shops, Tim Hortons, Casino, statues, etc.  I have recently applied for some Canada New England Destination Expert jobs on a few cruise lines and I want to be prepared.   

There is no port lecturer on this voyage and I really think it is a loss because there is so much interesting history, culture and sites to see that many have no idea.  

While walking around we were searching for Remembrance Day poppies to bring for those on board. We saw a woman with one and asked if she had seen anyone selling them. She had not and as she walked away she ran back and gave us hers to give out onboard. Now that is what is amazing about the people here. Best people. Proud to call myself a Caper.

After about three hours we were back on board.

It was hard to hear guest complaining that there was not much here.  I got a defensive feeling and want to be protective but I know their comments are because of lack on knowledge.

There is so much to see here but you need to be informed and plan accordingly.  If you just get off and walk around you are not seeing much.  And the fact we are here on a Sunday and many shops downtown are closed.  

So if you are ever planning a visit to Sydney make sure to explore.  Visit the Cabot Trail, Baddeck, tour our Coal Mines, enjoy our musical talents, enjoy a craft brew.  Check out our local crafts and amazing seafood.  

Back on board we stopped in to see Simone Smith the assistant Hotel General Manager.  We brought her some All Dressed potato chips and she is now supplied with storm chips.  Yup storm chips.  People here stock up on chips when there is a storm in the forecast.  You hunker down with your storm chips and a cold beer or wine and you are all set.  So hey live like the locals I always say.

We are back on board and Bernie is reading and I am catching up on things.

I need to move as I am in Explorers and trivia is starting in a half hour and they are flocking in and they are eyeing my table with desperation.  So off I go so they can have a comfy couch and table.  

Loving ships!