New Found Land New-found Joy

There’s much to discover in this easterly part of North America, and St. John’s is a great place to get the party started

- Beth Thompson

I CAME TO ST. JOHN’S WITH FEW AMBItions beyond getting a selfie at the easternmost edge of North America: Cape Spear. I left with several new books tucked under my arm, including one on birding for beginners and another filled with easy instructions for playing the button accordion. Say what? Such is the charm of this lovely city, where the passion of its people spills over into the hearts of its guests.

Before my trip, I lusted only for its dramatic physical beauty: plunging cliffs, moody rock formations, sparkling sapphire waters. Rookie mistake, to be sure. Its residents are the true natural wonders of the region. I mean, where else would locals pop out of their front doors to invite you to nightly jam sessions while you’re trespassing on their properties to get a good shot of their jellybean houses? As you think about that, chew on this: In just a few short years, St. John’s has created an emerging food scene that has garnered global attention. Its good ol’ boys have been coming home to recreate and reinvent the dishes of their youth for new generations of travellers to enjoy.

From its people to its food to its activities, the city is unexpectedly interesting and worth adding to your bucket list. Here are a few of my recommendations to get you started.

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