I’ve decided to leave my Tracker behind for my loop into the Canadian Maritime Provinces. Several View/Navion owners who have gone before me all say “You won’t need it, and in fact, it will be more trouble on these pot-holed roads and ferries than it’s worth.” So I find a place to store it near the border. This will also save me from the dilemma of what to do with all the bottles of liquor I seem to have amassed for the past four years of full timing. In addition to my daily refreshments, there are mixers, wine and craft beer souvenirs from wineries and breweries, duty free from Mexico. One would think from the looks of the Tracker contents that I had a drinking problem.
It’s more difficult to drive off and leave the Tracker behind than I had anticipated. He’s been dutifully following along, serving me well for over four years now. So to cut the “umbilical cord,” removing the Blue Ox tow bar makes me sad. What is it about automobiles that cause us to have such an emotional attachment? Some people even go as far as giving them names, which must make it even harder.
Leaving my “toad” behind is both a blessing and a curse. Already, driving the Winnie feels like a sports car compared to towing. Hills are much easier, driving is less stressful, and speeds are much faster. It’s a treat being able to only take up one parking space instead of circling the lot, hoping for a pull through opportunity. And I backed up twice today, just because I could. Yes, I will miss opportunities to drive to more isolated trails and remote fishing villages, but there is plenty to explore here just with the Winnie. With the expensive “by the foot” priced ferries and reportedly brutal potholed roads, it just makes sense to leave him behind for a little rest, particularly since my exit point is the same as my entry point.
As it turns out, crossing the border is a non-issue. After having asked several locals which was the better option, the older, original crossing in downtown Calais, or the newer, fifty million dollar “commercial” crossing outside of town, the vote was pretty much split 50/50. But their reasons sway me toward the older crossing. “No B.S. from those guys. Yes, the commercial crossing is less crowded, but those guys at the newer crossing don’t have enough to do, so they may hold you up longer.” I choose the older crossing. I’m in line for 20 minutes. My Customs Official asks all the typical questions of any border crossing. They are checking for anything that might be sold, particularly liquor. And firearms, mace, pepper spray, etc. The Tracker is now traveling liquor store, and I also left behind my one “firearm” a can of Glacier National Park bear spray. So without much adieu, I’m on my way along the TCH, or Trans-Canadian Highway.
First thought, “Gee, I wonder how fast is 110 kilometers??”
Can’t wait to read this set of adventures!! Safe travels!!
So glad you made it safely over the border. We’ve visited with just the motorcycle and then the MH and trailer that had the car and motorcycle. The side roads can be bad especially on two wheels riding on the back!! Have a great time! I hope you read our blog posts. Remember, if you go to St. John’s to see the Reversing Falls, it only makes sense if you spend the day returning three times to see them go one direction, then, be calm, and finally to see them go the other way. Otherwise, it is just a river.
Welcome to Canada, so lovely to have you and Winnie here. Looking forward to your experiences and adventures.
The visitors centres throughout Canada are the best, and staffed by friendly, knowledgeable folks. Hope you bought the flip-flops — best souvenir I’ve seen yet!
My initial thought on reading your title was that you had to give up the tracker…say it ain’t so!!!! Thank goodness it’s still alive! Safe travels!
I just left Canada, now back in the USA (Washington State). You can change your GPS unit to metrics (switch back and forth and you’ll get the hang of it), and you can set your currency exchange rate on the GPS too.
Be honest. You left Canada 6 weeks ago and are back in Mexico…
My mind is already spinning ahead to all the cool Canadian lighthouses you’re going to see. Oh, I can’t wait!
Nina
You’re in Canada now, cannot keep up with you! Love it there, so enjoy exploring and keep taking your pictures!
Welcome to Canada! Glad you’re finding the roads and info good, even if the internet is doubtful in some parts of the country. (It’s just fine here). Hope you have a wonderful time. And I did stick with you all through Mexico!