April 2019 Issue#28 April 2019 Issue #28 | Page 214

Gay Halifax - Have the
Canada’s charming colonial city by the sea holds a secret: despite its small size, it’s
home to a thriving gay community fuelled by a large and diverse student population,
the city’s status as Maritime Canada’s regional hub and, ahem, the city’s largest em-
ployer, the Canadian Navy. There’s plenty here for the gay traveller to enjoy, and the
welcoming Maritime attitude will make you feel at home right away.
On a summer day, Halifax’s bustling port is where the action is. The pleasant board-
walk features the usual touristy shopping and buskers, but it is a great starting point for
a trip into Halifax’s seafaring history. Historic ships line the harbour, and guided tours
can be arranged at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Down the harbour, you’ll find
the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, the port through which more than a
million immigrants entered Canada in the 20th century. Along the stroll, you’re sure to
spot some of Canada’s finest uniformed men.
Get wet
Some of the best views of the city are from the water. The cheapest option is to take
a ride on the ferry to Dartmouth, a part of the public transit network. Several boat tour
operators offer minicruises around the harbour and into the ocean, with routes focused
on historical vistas, whale watching, deep-sea fishing, dinner cruises and even tall-ship
sailing. If you’re more adventurous, you can rent canoes from St Mary’s Boat Club and
paddle around the harbour by yourself.
Before buying your whale-watching ticket, ask the attendants if you’re likely to see
whales on that day — certain morning weather conditions cause the whales to hide,
Getting here
Halifax Stanfield International Airport serves the city and most of the province, with
scheduled domestic and international flight destinations. Driving here takes 30 to 45
minutes from downtown Halifax.
Metro Transit operates MetroX service to and from downtown for $3.50 each way.
The number 320 bus operates every 30 minutes for peak morning (6-9am) and after-
noon(3-6pm) times. Otherwise buses depart every 60 minutes.
Via Rail Canada has overnight sleeper car passenger rail service from Halifax Railway
Station (1161 Hollis St) six days a week to Montreal, with stops at major centers along
the way, including Moncton.
HALIFAX
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