A smiling Indo-American woman enjoys a picnic on the sandy shores of Lawrencetown Beach, Nova Scotia.

Hi there! I’m Moka Satish Kumar. I make art with paper, but I also LOVE to travel. Have you ever heard of Nova Scotia? It’s a place in Canada where the ocean is always nearby. In 2024, it’s celebrating its 200th birthday! So, why not come celebrate with them?

Quick Facts About Nova Scotia

An Indo-American woman hikes along the scenic coastline of Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia
Embracing the breathtaking views and rugged trails of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Capital: Halifax (like a big city with a harbor full of boats!)
  • Biggest City: Halifax (lots of things to do there!)
  • They Speak: English (but you might hear some French too)
  • Nicknames: “Canada’s Ocean Playground” (because you can have fun in the water!) and “New Scotland”
  • What They Do: They fish, welcome visitors, grow food, and take care of forests.
  • How Big: About the same size as the state of West Virginia in the U.S.
  • Number of People: Around 1 million (that’s a lot of friends!)
  • Can They Read?: Almost everyone can! They’re smart folks.
A woman enjoys local seafood at a restaurant in the picturesque Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia.
Savoring the flavors of the Annapolis Valley, a region renowned for its fresh seafood, vineyards, and orchards.

What’s Cool About Nova Scotia in 2024?

  • Party Time: They’re turning 200! So there will be special festivals, parades, and lots of fun activities.
  • Whale Watching: See giant whales swimming in the ocean! This year, they’re expecting lots of baby whales.
  • Cabot Trail Turns 100: This is a famous road along the coast. In 2024, they’re having a big birthday bash for it.
  • New Museum: In Halifax, a brand new museum about the Mi’kmaq people (who were there first!) is opening.
A woman on a whale-watching tour in Nova Scotia excitedly spots a humpback whale breaching.
Witnessing the incredible sight of whales breaching in the waters off Nova Scotia, a truly unforgettable experience.

Things YOU Can Do in Nova Scotia

  • Look for Whales: Take a boat ride and try to spot them!
  • Hike Like a Pro: Walk by the ocean or in the woods (ask a grown-up to help you find a good trail).
  • Camp Out: Sleep in a tent! You’ll see lots of stars at night.
  • Go Kayaking: Get in a little boat and paddle around the water.

Cool Places to Visit

A smiling Indo-American woman explores the colorful waterfront of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.
Discovering the vibrant history and charming architecture of Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Halifax: The big city with museums, a fort, and a fun boardwalk by the water.
  • Lunenburg: This town looks like it’s made of candy! All the houses are bright colors.
  • Peggy’s Cove: Here, you can see a very famous lighthouse right by the ocean.
  • Baddeck: A pretty town near a special road called the Cabot Trail.
A woman in romantic attire stands on the rocks at Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia, with the lighthouse in the background.
Experiencing the raw beauty and iconic lighthouse of Peggy’s Cove, a must-visit destination in Nova Scotia.

My Travel Tips for Kids

  • Bring a Camera: Take pictures of all the cool things you see!
  • Ask Questions: Talk to people in Nova Scotia. They’re very friendly!
  • Try New Foods: Nova Scotia has yummy seafood, like lobster and fish and chips.
  • Explore: Don’t just stay in one place. Go on adventures!
A woman explores the historic Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, overlooking the cityscape.
Stepping back in time at the Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fortress with panoramic views of the city and harbor.

Similar States in Canada

Nova Scotia, known as Canada’s Ocean Playground, is celebrated for its stunning coastal landscapes, rich maritime heritage, and warm hospitality.

New Brunswick

A delighted Indo-American woman enjoys fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant in St. Andrews by-the-Sea, with the charming harbor and lighthouses in the background.

Neighbouring Provinces: Explore New Brunswick, Nova Scotia’s neighbour to the northeast, known for its scenic coastal drives and vibrant cultural festivals. Discover New Brunswick with our Comprehensive New Brunswick travel guide.

Newfoundland & Labrador

Similar Landscapes: If you love Nova Scotia’s rugged coastline, you’ll appreciate Newfoundland & Labrador’s dramatic cliffs and pristine fjords. Explore Newfoundland & Labrador with our comprehensive Newfoundland & Labrador travel guide.

A kayaking Indo-American woman paddles through Western Brook Pond in Gros Morne National Park, surrounded by towering fjords.

Similar States in India

Nova Scotia, famous for its maritime heritage and scenic beauty, resonates with several Indian states in its coastal charm and cultural attractions:

Goa

Close-up of Goan fish curry with spices and vegetables.

Goa: Like Nova Scotia, Goa boasts a rich maritime heritage, stunning beaches, and a unique cultural blend with Portuguese influences. Explore Goa’s beaches, historical sites, and cultural fusion with our comprehensive Goa travel guide.

Kerala

Kerala: With its beautiful coastline, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Kerala offers a similar experience to Nova Scotia’s natural beauty and cultural attractions. Discover Kerala’s scenic landscapes and cultural richness with our comprehensive Kerala travel guide.

Woman in sari walking on a Kerala beach

Similar States in Australia

Nova Scotia, famous for its maritime heritage and scenic beauty, resonates with an Australian state in its coastal charm and cultural richness:

New South Wales

Indo-American woman enjoying wine in Hunter Valley

New South Wales: Similar to Nova Scotia, New South Wales boasts a rich maritime history, charming coastal towns, and a vibrant cultural scene. Both regions offer stunning scenery, diverse cultural experiences, and a strong connection to their coastal heritage. Explore New South Wales’ coastal charm and cultural diversity with our New South Wales travel guide.

Call to Action:

Want to see pictures of my art and hear more about my travels? Visit my website, lovelore360.com.

Author’s Bio:

I’m Moka Satish Kumar, an artist who loves making paper sculptures and traveling the world. I hope you’ll join me on my adventures!

A woman watches the tidal bore rush in at the Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia, a natural wonder.
Witnessing the highest tides in the world at the Bay of Fundy, a truly awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.

FAQ

Nova Scotia is a fantastic destination for families in 2024! Kids will love whale watching, especially with the anticipation of seeing baby whales this year. Exploring the Halifax waterfront, visiting Peggy’s Cove lighthouse, and hiking in Kejimkujik National Park are also great options. For a special treat, take a drive along the Cabot Trail, which is celebrating its 100th birthday with special events.

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in Nova Scotia. Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers stunning coastal hikes and breathtaking views. Kejimkujik National Park is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and camping amidst pristine wilderness. Don’t miss the Bay of Fundy to witness the world’s highest tides, a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder.

For a taste of history, head to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful houses and shipbuilding past. The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site offers a glimpse into Nova Scotia’s military history. In 2024, a new museum dedicated to the Mi’kmaq people will open in Halifax, offering a unique cultural experience.

Absolutely! Nova Scotia’s charming towns, scenic coastlines, and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect destination for couples. Enjoy romantic walks on the beach at Lawrencetown, indulge in delicious seafood dinners in the Annapolis Valley, or take a scenic drive along the Cabot Trail.

Resources

  • Tourism Nova Scotia: The official tourism website, packed with information on attractions, accommodations, events, and trip planning tools: https://www.novascotia.com/
  • Explore Nova Scotia: Another excellent resource with detailed guides on destinations, accommodations, activities, and more: https://www.explorenovascotia.com/