A trip to Arichat, a charming little seaside town. It was a beautiful day when we set out to explore the town and its surroundings. Our loyal companion, our dog Diana, was of course along for the ride and, as always, thoroughly enjoyed the car journey.
Pictures from the drive.
A Quick Look at Arichat
Arichat is located on the south coast of Isle Madame, an island that belongs to the Canadian province of Nova Scotia. The town has a rich history dating back to the 18th century when French fishermen settled here. The name Arichat comes from a Mi’kmaq word meaning „camping place“ or „worn-out rocks.“ Arichat was one of the first Acadian centers in Nova Scotia. The Acadians, descendants of French settlers, greatly shaped this region, making it a cultural and social hub. In the 19th century, the town was a key port for trade with the Caribbean and Europe. Today, Arichat is a quiet place that has preserved its historic charm while offering modern comforts. You can find more information on its history here.
Who Are the Mi’kmaq?
The Mi’kmaq are an Indigenous people who originally lived in the eastern parts of Canada, including Nova Scotia. They are part of the First Nations and have a long history and culture deeply rooted in the region. The Mi’kmaq were traditionally hunters, fishermen, and gatherers, known for their skills in building canoes and their extensive knowledge of the natural environment. Their language, culture, and traditions remain a vital part of Nova Scotia’s cultural heritage. We will soon publish a blog post dedicated to the history of Nova Scotia, which will explore this topic in more detail.
Our Visit to the Tax Office
Our main reason for visiting Arichat was the local tax office. While it might not sound like the most exciting destination, for us, it was an important step in our emigration process. We went there to pay our property taxes and register our current address, so we are now reachable by mail in Canada, not just in Austria.
At the tax office, we were warmly welcomed and were able to take care of everything smoothly. The staff were extremely helpful and gave us valuable tips for the rest of our stay in Nova Scotia.
The Beauty of the Coast
After our visit to the tax office, we took a long walk along the coastal road. Arichat is known for its breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and its rocky shores. While we didn’t find a sandy beach to walk along, the rocky coast had its own rugged charm. Diana was overjoyed to sniff the fresh sea air and explore the rocky shores.
We took numerous photos of the coastline, which we are excited to share with you. We were absolutely amazed by how quickly we can now be at the ocean whenever we want. We still haven’t fully realized this, and it feels a bit like a dream.
Your Thoughts?
Have you already emigrated and have your own story to share? We’d love to hear about it, just like Ariane did! Are you planning to emigrate? What are your hopes and fears about starting fresh? We look forward to hearing your messages!