canadian maritimes - are you sure this is spring?

Oh Canada - how are you colder than the arctic circle? We have just sailed through ice and snow, yet the Maritimes boast springtime temperatures of -3. As a natural-born Canadian, I can only nod and laugh.

We have arrived in St. John’s and are warmly welcomed by humans and giant Newfoundland dogs - we know exactly which province we’re in. After some serious cuddles, we head for Signal Hill as a decent hike is needed after three days at sea. Strong, numbing winds try to dissuade us, and the last dregs of frozen flakes sit ready in the clouds above. The smell of pending snow brings back memories of too many winters. I shiver. 

A quick walk around Cabot Tower, sitting proudly at the top, and we retreat posthaste to a warm pub. Passing a few creatively named breweries, I’m looking at you Dildo Brewing, we find a public house and scurry inside. To my delight, the menu lists a Quebecois dish, perfect for this chilly day. Poutine.

Fresh, hand-cut fries ( or chips, if you’re a British person ) topped with fresh cheese curds, all smothered in gravy. In this cold weather, the calories won’t even land. We indulge in a delicious mess until enough warmth returns to see us back to the ship. 

Once in our suite, a 3-hour food coma hits. The poutine aftermath! Cold outdoor hike + warm, heavy food = best nap ever

We don’t eat for 15 hours, poutine has sustained us until the next day.