This week was one of exploration and discovery of Halifax. The first stop was the Boardwalk facing the entrance to the Bedford Bassin. The different art pieces shown along the walk brings colors as well as represents the marine culture of the city. Some local shops can also be found as well as multiple ships docked along the way. George Island is also visible along most of the waterfront, showing the history of defenses throughout Canada’s first settlements. Music can also be heard as well as can the different discussions of the citizens frequently walking along the water during sunny days.
Next was an official search through the city with the goal of finding the different local street art. I managed to find a few examples, and each seemed to express a different story. The vibrant colours almost scream at you to pay attention to them. Their placement and size are impressive and show the artist’s dedication. These art pieces bring something unique to the city by expressing individual art in its streets, highlighting a unique and varied culture.
The Public Gardens were also a site to see. While the vegetation hasn’t fully bloomed for the summer, it’s scenery and infrastructure bring a reprieve from the sounds of sirens, the cars honking at each other or the roaring of the engines passing by. This haven allows you to reconnect with nature while bringing you out of the city lifestyle for a moment.
Lastly, the Titanic cemetery was a moment to honour the lives of those who perished on the night of the 12th of April 1912. Here lays 150 victims from this tragic incident. Some are young crewmembers perishing on duty, some are parents with their children and others are babies found among the departed. These moments put into perspective the fragility of life itself.
At the hostel this week, I met people from Ontario, Asia, France, Peru and Ecuador. The last two has allowed me and one of my colleagues to practice our Spanish a little bit. I also translated to help French guests communicate with the Front desk; it was a real test to my skills and was a formative experience.
With this being my last post before my departure from this beautiful city. I just want to thank anybody that read any of my blogs or followed me on this journey. I want to thank my teachers as well, who helped us every step of the way for the preparation of this trip and guided us through this language program with my classmates. It was a blast. I want to also thank Hi Heritage House for allowing me to work with them and be a part of their team. It was an amazing experience that I will cherish for years to come. I made some new friends along the way, reconnected with long term ones and met some incredible people on this journey. This adventure helped me find and reinforce parts of myself to lead me closer to the person I want to be.
I’m now going to enjoy my last week in Halifax at its fullest, cherishing every second of it. Until next time, so long travelers, live your lives like there is no tomorrow, always stick by your values and stay open minded.
Isaak Bolduc
English Immersion
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