A Seamless Border Crossing and Making Notes of Future Stops for Future Adventures

This isn't my usual style of post, but travel is all about surprises—and today's adventure fits perfectly with how we uncover future destinations.

Border Crossing

June 7, 2025 – We crossed into Canada today at the Calais border, and it was one of the smoothest experiences we've ever had. Not a single car in sight—neither at the US exit nor the Canadian entry. The border officer greeted us with a warm smile, asked the standard questions, and with a cheerful "Welcome to Canada," sent us on our way. Our entire border crossing took less than 5 minutes! If you're looking for a stress-free crossing, this is the place!

St. John & St. Andrews - Should have added these into my itinerary

From there, we drove through Saint John (about 60 minutes from St. Andrews), New Brunswick's oldest incorporated city (founded in 1785). Perched on the Bay of Fundy, it's famous for having the highest tides in the world—reaching a staggering 46–53 feet twice a day! These extreme tidal shifts create the Reversing Falls, where the bay's powerful flow pushes the Saint John River backward. Beyond its natural wonders, Saint John boasts historic charm, a lively waterfront, and a thriving food scene—definitely worth a full day of exploration.

But the real discovery came when I researched our next potential stop: St. Andrews-by-the-Sea. This picturesque coastal town, settled by Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution, feels like stepping into history. Its Water Street earned recognition as one of Canada's "Great Places," and it's easy to see why—quaint shops, historic buildings, and a serene waterfront make it ideal for leisurely strolls. Nearby, the Kingsbrae Garden (one of Canada's best public gardens) and a wildlife refuge add even more reasons to visit.

Future Trip Plan:

How Long to stay:

At Least 3 nights to give you:

  - 1 day in Saint John (just an hour from St. Andrews)

  - 1 day in St. Andrews, including the wildlife refuge

- Bonus: The town has an award-winning golf course for those inclined.

For camping & RV:

the Kiwanis Oceanfront Campground looks like the perfect spot—full hookups, pull-through sites, and oceanfront views. Summer bookings will be essential, but this gem is officially on our list!