Yarmouth and Acadian Shores, Nova Scotia

“Yarmouth and the Acadian shores turned out to be the place I have always imagined Nova Scotia would be—between the beautifully rugged scenery, rich history, music and friendly local people I discovered a place that I wish I had more time to explore. I've also decided I would like to be adopted by an Acadian family.”

Diane Selkirk, travel writer

“It was an honour to be welcomed into the Yarmouth and Acadian Shores area. The strong sense of shared community, no matter where I went, made me feel more like a friend, than a visitor. There's a vibrancy to the region, an enthusiasm for its diversity of culture, Acadian history, fishing industry, traditional food, landscape and the sea. It has all woven together for an exciting regional blend—a kind of living history. Yet, one where if a stranger asked, ''What is your history...what is Yarmouth and the Acadian Shores all about?", I can see someone with a friendly smile, taking the time to reply, ''Well, sit down, have a coffee and we'll be glad to tell and show you." Thank you Yarmouth and Acadian Shores—I will be back.”

Elle Andra-Warner, travel writer

“The trip was a real journey of discovery for me, on several levels. I learned about what was once a great fishing and shipping community and was astounded at the wealth Yarmouth once enjoyed. I found a whole new aspect of Acadian history through the personal contacts we made with locals as we travelled and through our guide, Calvin d'Entremont. Most of all, I was amazed that while the Acadian diaspora left its people saddened and dismayed at the injuries of the past, they remain nonetheless open and without any bitterness. Indeed, it has been a source of strengthening their identity and has enabled them to hold tight to their heritage. It's a message I want to give my readers when I write the story.”

Liz Campbell, travel writer

“The snow flew, the winds were bitter, and then rain fell seemingly from buckets. But the welcomes could not have been warmer as we—a group of travel writers from across Canada were led on a tour of Yarmouth and the Acadian Shores. Historians and boat builders; painters and craftspeople; dancers, musicians and story tellers; lobster fishermen, fine chefs and inn keepers, a brewmaster and so many others, greeted us and shared their skills and tales of their region, leaving us with treasured memories, new friendships and a host of stories to tell our own readers. The tour took place over three days before the participants gathered in Halifax for the annual AGM and Conference of the Travel Media Association of Canada. "How was your trip?" so many of our colleagues asked in Halifax. "Fabulous!" we all replied. All on the trip now join me in thanking everyone involved for their fine hospitality and we hope one day we can all meet again in Yarmouth or somewhere along the beautiful Acadian shores.”

Ann Wallace, travel writer