Heading to the Maritimes

In June of 2024 I went to the Maritimes for 44 days. It had been some years since I was there for something other than a death in the family. I was supposed to go last year, in the Fall, but there were a number of factors that delayed it. This time it was planned as a trip to spend time with and helping my mother, seeing my sister and her family, extended family visits, seeing friends I had not seen for some time, and when my wife joined me to have a two week vacation. 

    In between the vacation with my wife and among the other parts I wanted to explore the Maritimes I had never visited or stayed at for long periods. I wanted to have a solo vacation. What will follow, for about a month, will that trip in a long series of posts. I will not be posting every day so stay with me as I reminisce about this journey. First off...food!

    If you are ever in the Calgary airport I recommend VIN.

    

    I ordered the linguine puttanesca pasta with Kalamata olives, capers, tomatoes, onions, and sautéed kale and a choice of pan-fried shrimps or grilled chicken breast. I went with the shrimp. The portion was generous, pasta al dente perfect, and ingredients fresh and flavourful. 

 

    I then got an email that my plane was delayed by an hour. I could pay my bill and wait on airport seats or ask for their recommended appy. They suggested...meatballs! Merguez meatballs! Five meatballs, ground local lamb, dates, red pepper purée, and tzatziki. Moist, perfectly cooked, and the dates added a special flavour.

    Then it was time for the Westjet flight and eventually breakfast. I had paid a little extra, as it was on sale, for premium seating. I had no idea the extras you get in addition to the seating: metal cutlery, little salt and pepper shakers, nice choices for the main? Although I enjoyed the experience I am a little worried with the recent downscaling of tickets less that Premium for Canadian airlines. Undercarriage baggage...fee...carry on bag for basic ticket...fee...food onboard...fee. It used to be that airlines gave the passenger things to get their business when now they deny everything unless the customer pays much more or piecemeal. Of course that is true for most things so that shareholders can get their dividends and CEOs can get their bonuses. Sigh. Still, these are thoughts in retrospect as I enjoyed the experience and now my thoughts are those who cannot afford the experience. Double sigh.