They are here. The new visitor guides have been delivered and are ready to be read! They are full of amazing activities, restaurants and accommodations, parks, beaches and interesting facts about Saint John - our culture- our people. Come get yours today!

Saint John Transit

There's nothing I love more than putting my ipod on and catching a ride on the bus. Now you may find that taking the bus weird activity to enjoy but taking the bus in Saint John is kind of like taking a tour around the city minus the tour guide. Saint John City Transit is very user friendly and allows for one to use public transportation easily. Where Saint John isn't a massive city, you can get from one location to another fairly quickly and hassle free.

City Transit even allows for you to take a bus out to the neighboring communities such as Rothesay, Quispamsis and Grand Bay-Westfield. This is their new Comex bus line. Often tourists will want to go to the Brundage River Centre in Grand-Bay or the Quispamsis Arts and Culture Park (just some examples) when there are certain events being held outside of the city. With this bus line, one is able to make the short commute.

Saint John City Transit even offers up a bus tour. I will include the information below.

Saint John Transit City Bus Tours
Saint John Transit offers guided tours of historic Saint John from mid-June through late September, twice daily. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours. Tickets are available from the driver on a first come-first serve basis. Dates of operation are June - October.

Tour 1
Departures:
Reversing Falls9:30 am
Barbour's General Store9:45 am
Rockwood Park Campsite 10:00 am

Tour 2
Departures:
Rockwood Park Campsite: 12:30 pm
Barbour's General Store: 12:45 pm
Reversing Falls: 1:00 pm

For more information:
Tel: (506) 658-4700
www.saintjohntransit.com

New Saint John Visitor Guide!

It's done folks! Completed and ready for the stands! (MONDAY) The new Saint John Visitor Guide hit the printer on Saturday and is due to be in visitor's hands by Monday, May 3. With some new colors and some great additions, it's sure to be a great guide for all of your tourist needs.

I think there are so many unique experiences you can do in Saint John and this guide will point you in the right direction as to where to find these unique experiences.

You can attain a copy of the new guide by simply stopping by one of Tourism Saint John's Visitor Information Centres or by calling 1-866-GO FUNDY and request to have one sent. I will list the Centres below. You can also get it online:

http://www.turnit.ca/index.php/ci_id/49477
Be sure to get yours- coming soon to a visitor information centre near you!

Visitor Information Centres

City Hall - Open year round
Shoppes of City Hall
15 Market Square
Tel: (506) 658-2855
Toll Free: (866) 463-8639
visitsj@saintjohn.ca

Barbour's General Store (Open June - October)
10 Market Square
Tel: (506) 658- 2939

Highway #1 West (Open May - October)
1509 Saint John Throughway West (East bound)
Tel: (506) 658-2940

Reversing Falls (Open May - October)
200 Bridge Road
Tel: (506) 658-2937

Grand Bay-Westfield (June - October)
Brundage Point River Centre
4 Ferry Road
Grand Bay-Westfield, NB
Tel: (506) 738-3258 (seasonal)
Tel: (506) 738-6406 (off season)

St. Martins Visitor Information Centre (May - October)
424 Main Street
St. Martins, NB
Tel: (506) 833-2006


-Saint John Suzy

I thought i would include some pictures of when I went ziplining in Costa Rica about 5 years ago to get us in the mood for the new zipline that will be coming to Saint John. Yes folks, I said it. A zip line in Saint John... and it's not going to be across a forest or in someones back yard. No no, it will be across the Reversing Rapids. That's right we are getting a zipline that will take you across the Rapids and a tormenting speed that is sure to be a thrill for all. Whether you are risk taker or not, this experience is a great way to the rapids in action. How else will you be able to get up close and personal with thousands of tonnes of water rushing in and out of the bay? Truly amazing. You can visit the link I've provided below for more information. This is one adventure Suzy will definitely be trying out once in place yeeeeeeeeehawwwwwwwww!

http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/city/article/1012863

Boating in Saint John

I bought a boat. Yes this is a weird post but i though I would share with you all my reasoning for buying a boat (this post ties in with tourism I promise). The Kennebecasis River is an amazing body of water that should be experienced by all who visit our region. It is full of amazing aquatic life and not to mention the fishing one can do. My favorite spot is Long Island which is directly across from the Rothesay Yacht Club. It is about a 40 minute paddle from the Quispamsis / Rothesay area to the island. Some of the island is protected due to rare flowers that grow on it. Some of the island is privately owned.

The river system is amazing whether you are in a paddle boat, a kayak, or ripping around in a speed boat. When I worked my first ever job, I bought a kayak, I figure why not step up my game and get a speed boat. I'm much older and wiser now and above all, I deserve it.

The point that i'm trying to make is that an afternoon paddle or a boat ride on the Kennebecasis or Saint John River is a great way to spend time in the Saint John and surrounding areas. I know i'll be on my boat as soon as possible... visit www.tourismsaintjohn.com for more information on tour companies that offer these services!

-Saint John Suzy

Saint John Suzy explores the Pedway System

There is nothing worse then having to walk outside in the rain, snow , fog and whatever obstacles mother nature throws at us. This is why the inside connection pedway system is so fantastic. You can get from one end of the city centre to the other in virtually a few minutes and all by staying inside out of the bad weather. The pedway system connects you to all major amenities. These amenities include: the Saint John Free Public Library, Trade and Convention Centre, Market Square, Hilton, Delta, City Market, Saint John City Hall, Brunswick Square, Brunswick Business Centre, Aquatic Centre, Harbour Station, and not to mention countless shops and restaurants. This is part one of a two part series. Stay tuned for part 2!

Loyalist Burial Ground

The Loyalist Burial Ground is a landmark in Saint John. Despite it being a historic grave yard, the park is actually quite beautiful. The greenery in the summertime is beautiful and is a must see when visiting the city. I find as a tourist, whenever I am in a destination I've never been before, I tend to get tired quite quickly. This park is somewhere where you can relax, unwind and get that second wind to do other fantastic fun things within the city. There is also a fountain where you can sit and regroup before hitting the market or taking a ride on the jet boat. For the historian in you, the park offers plenty of of interesting facts and historical depictions on different stones. You're walking and learning! who woulda thought? Next time you are in Saint John, grab a coffee and take a stroll through the Loyalist Burial Ground. You won't regret it I'm sure.
-Suzy

Clocks spring ahead an hour, Suzy loses an hour of sleep

For those of you who didn't change your clocks this morning, i bet you have some pretty mad bosses. I was fortunate enough to remember. I lost an hour of sleep last night but woke up surprisingly refreshed this morning. I am so excited for Wednesday!! ST PATTYS DAY

This weekend was a great weekend. I went to check out some of the live music at O'learys Pub and even got up to play a quick acoustic set with Ryan Smith who plays in the acoustic section of the Irish bar. Saint Patrick's Day is coming up sooner than later. There were many celebrations this past weekend pertaining to the Irish holiday. I keep getting alot of questions as to what is going on this St. Patty's Day. Well be rest assured, there will be lots to do in Canada's oldest Irish city. The Irish Canadian Culture Society offers a great calendar of events pertaining to this Irish holiday: http://www.newirelandnb.ca/Events/Events-Saint-John-area.html

I hope you all have a safe and jolly Saint Patrick's Day.
-Saint John Suzy

St. Patrick's Day in Saint John

Saint John is known for it's deep Irish roots. We are practically the little Ireland of Canada. We taker St. Patrick's Day very serious and that being said, this year is bound to be a success. There will be several events from Irish stew dinners to crazy Irish pub nights... and the weather has been so beautiful that even Saint John will be wearing green to show their inner Irish pride. Here is a list of all the events that are sponsored by the Irish Canadian Culture Association of New Brunswick:

Friday
12 Mar /10
6:30 pm Gala Irish Dinner Show
Saint John Trade & Convention Centre
Reception 6:30pm Dinner at 7:30pm
Entertainment: Tom O’Donoghue and Kathleen Gorey-McSorley
Special Guests: Keynote Speaker: Barry Ogden; Honorary Chair 2010: Clare Walsh;
Honorary “Irish” Person for the week: Jacqueline Oland
Tickets $40.00each. (up to 10 per table).
Call: Agnes & Paddy Addison 634-7919. (No tickets available at door.)

Saturday
13 Mar /10
9 am - 1 pm Irish Breakfast at O'Leary's
Irish Breakfast at O’Leary’s In Support of L’Arche
Tickets: $7 Under twelve $5
Entertainment: Comhaltas Musicians & Friends
O’Leary’s is St. Patrick’s Week’s “Official Irish Pub”

11:00 am St. Patrick’s Week OFFICIAL OPENING at Market Square

Parade of flags and O’Canada -
Greetings from: Owen Boyle, President ICCA; City of Saint Johnand dignitaries.
Entertainment featuring : Tom O’Donoghue & invited guests


12 Noon Parade to City Hall and Raising of Hibernian Flag.

2 - 4 pm Irish Set/Ceili Dance Workshop, 69 Branch Legion, Wilson Street, Saint John West
No age limit, $5 per person, free to Pub night/Ceili ticket holders
Contact: Stuart 847-0010 Paul 653-8469 or e-mail info@comhaltas.caThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

4 - 6 pm
(take-out 5 to 5:30 pm) Beef Stew and Kentucky Gingerbread
St. John the Baptist Church Hall
Broad Street
Adults $10 Children $5.00
Call Noreen 646-1009 or
Gertrude 693-7852
4:30 - 6:30 pm Shamrock Roast Beef Dinner
St. Mark's United Church
Dexter Drive
Adults: $10 Children: $5.00
Call Doug MacPherson 672-2662

7 - 11 pm Irish Pub Night and Ceili
69 Branch Legion, Wilson Street, Saint John West
Featuring: Comhaltas Musicians, Lyris Dancers, Alexandre Banks, Tom O’Donoghue, Brad & Krista Trecartin and Debbie Harrity.
Tickets: $10, available from Kennebecasis Drugs,Catholic Book Store,Hampton Pharmasave, Scholten’s Grand Bay and at the door.
Contact: Stuart 847-0010 Paul 653-8469 or e-mail info@comhaltas.caThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it


Sunday
14 Mar /10
9 am - 1 pm Belfast Children’s Breakfast,
Loch Lomond Villa Auditorium. Sponsored by the Simons Lions Club.
Music by Comhaltas. Tickets $8. Children under ten $4.
Call Terri Mullin 633-0236


12 - 3 pm St. Patrick's Tea Extravaganza
St. Ann's Parish Hall, Glen Falls
Tickets: $5.00
Call Barb 696-7976
1:00 pm Ecumenical Service at the Celtic Cross. St.Patrick’s Square (The foot of Prince William Street)
Refreshments to follow at market Square


2 - 4 pm Irish Family Festival at MARKET SQUARE
Entertainment: Tim Maloney & Ron, Zany Lane and the Lyris Dancers
Children: BE SURE TO WEAR GREEN – prizes to be won. Face painting, Colouring, green fountain Enjoy- “A Wee Taste of Ireland” Cake Cutting at 2:45 pm.
Call: Helena 847-0010 or Toni 672-1612


March 15-20 O'Leary's Irish Pub is hosting The Andrew Doyle Irish Band

Wednesday
17 Mar /10
12 noon St.Patrick’s Day Mass 12 noon at the St. Pius X, Church, Somerset Street, Saint John. Cake and refreshments to follow in the church basement.

6:30 pm St. Patrick's Society Men's Annual Dinner
Saint John Trade and Convention Centre
Guest Speaker: The Honourable Kelly Lamrock
Tickets: $65
Call Hugh Fitzpatrick 634-1965

Friday
26 Mar /10
8 pm

Saturday
27 Mar /10
2pm and
8 pm
Irish Play:
An Amharclann presents Martin McDonagh's hilarious black comedy "The Cripple of Inishmaan" in the Saint John High School Mini theatre (Canterbury Street entrance).
Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and students with ID.
Contact Patrick at irishtheatre@rogers.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Shopping for a deal in Saint John

How about this weather? It is beautiful in the city today. The birds are chirping which is a sure sign that spring is here and hopefully here to stay. I wanted to talk about shopping in the city. I am known as the queen of shopping around here. If there is a deal to be had.. I'm on it.

There are several places to shop in the city. It really depends on what you are looking for.

McAllister Place Mall is on the eat side of the city. It is located with easy access to Highway 1, a major traffic artery.It is full of 110 different shops and services. The mall underwent major renovations this past year so it's become a great spot to shop and have a bite at the food court while you're at it. Parkway Mall is also on the east side. It has some clothing stores, a pet store and Newbody's fitness is located there. This is a smaller mall in comparison to McAllister Place. East Point Shopping Centre is brand new and is full of clothing stores, Costco, and Indigo. It's a definite stop when trying to shop in Saint John. Here is their website. http://www.eastpointshopping.ca/shops_and_services.php

There is a mall further West if you are visiting the Falls and would like to do a quick shopping trip. Lancatser Mall is located on 621 Fairville Boulevard. This mall has 25 shops and services to choose from.

The uptown core offers Brunswick Square and Market Square for malls. Brunswick Square has over 60 shops and services. They both offer great clothing stores and fantastic places to eat once you get hungry from all of the shopping you've been doing.

Then you have the vendors on the streets as well as shops that line the street ways. You are always sure to find something unique in one of these shops.

-Saint John Suzy

Did someone say coffee?

I am a coffee drinker. I don't get heavy duty into the lattes and creme de la cremes. I'm more of a double double kind of girl from Tims. That being said a little creme de la creme isn't nice once in a while.

Although there are many coffee shops in Saint John, there are three that rule the uptown core. When visiting Saint John city centre, these are the coffee tycoons you will come across.

We have our local Java Moose which is located in the Saint John City Market as well as on Prince William Street, McAllister Place, and their new West side location. They have all sorts of different coffees to choose from. Ones that sound more like a decadent desert or a milkshake rather than a black coffee. I definitely reccomend Java Moose. http://www.javamoose.com/ is their website. You can check them out.

Starbucks is another fine establishment that we have here in our city. With a location in Brunswick Square, East Point Shopping Centre, and McAllister Place Mall, you are always close to getting that vento latte that you've been waiting for all day. I like Startbucks. It's a real treat for me. I always feel somewhat classy when sipping from the cup. Probably because the girls from Sex in the City all do it. Suzy in the Saint John City... I like it.

Last but certainly not least, there is Tim Hortons. I love Tim Hortons because where can you buy a coffee for $1.35 and have it in your hand in 10 seconds? The Tim Hortons in Brunswick Square, thats where. I pay and I receive immediately. There are Tim Hortons all over the uptown core of Saint John. One in Brunswick Square, Market Square, King Street, Union Street... The list goes on. Not to mention, they are located all around greater Saint John.

There you have it folks. Coffee is good. It's what keeps us awake during the day, it's what puts a smile on our faces in 7 am in traffic. And now you know where to get it. So next time you're in line, I want a large 3 milk , half sugar. Thanks! ;)

A Beautiful Weekend

It was a beautiful weekend in Saint John. Come Friday, all the talk was about the plus nine we were to get on Saturday. Boy was it delivered! I woke up, looked out the window and bestowed upon me was sunlight! Finally .. and not the wintry sunlight that we'd been getting for the past 5 months, no no this was definitely spring sunlight. Even the air was fresh like spring. I wore my shorts and a sweatshirt all day. People were out walking everywhere. The Irving Nature Park was in full swing. Both dog parks in Saint John and in Quispamsis were very busy. Saturday night, I checked out a few spots for nibblies and drinks. We have some of the best restaurants I swear. So there you have it folks on a nice day check out the Irving Nature Park and follow it by one of our great restaurants. Guaranteed to be a great weekend!

City of Saint John Gallery opening

Do you like art? I once went to an exhibit and interpretted something completely wrong. What was supposed to be a part of the Berlin wall, I thought was a gun. The artist was unfortuneately standing next to me and overheard my pensive conclusion of the peice. He agreeed and thought that maybe somehow he sunconscioulsy painted it in the shape of a gun. I think he was just trying to make me feel less dumb. Anyway the Saint John Arts Centre on 20 Hazen avenue will host "Recent Works by Saint John artist Peggy Smith," on Friday, March 12, from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm. The exhibition continues through to May 1.

Suzy Q on the Scene

Last night was a good night. The wind was a blowin', the snow was a snowin' but that wasn't going to stop me from hitting the town to see what kind of trouble I could get myself into. I ended up at Pepper's Pub where a bunch of people had gathered to enjoy half price wing night and live entertainment. That's one thing about Saint John. It may be a small city but it sure has some amazing talent. Miacha Nickerson, Sean Roach, and Erin McKay hit the stage and put on a hell of a preformance. Every Thursday night, artists are brought in to preform. This is a great place to go Thursday nights. It is a great place to go period. Lemongrass is the restaurant portion of the establishment, GREAT FOOD. The Thai food is amazing. One of the best in the city. So there you have it folks. EAT, DRINK, and be MERRY!

I have the "Inside Connection"

One thing I like about Montreal is you can pretty much get from point A to point B without having to go outside. I mean sure it's nice to walk outside when it's nice out but when the weather is snowing and raining or your hands feel like they're going to freeze off, it's nice to have the option. Saint John,NB much like Montreal has taken the same approach when it comes to the inside connection. You can get from one side of the city to the other through underground walkways and pedways. It's a feature that the city has to offer not only citizens for tourists. I run into people travelling here from Cruise ships all of the time who say how much they love the fact that they don;t have to go outside.

Snow Golf? why not....

This weekend was full of things to do. We had the wine festival that came to town, snowgolf 2010, and not to mention several bands playing at different venues around the city. Saturday was jam packed for me. I went to Snowgolf 2010 held in Midland at the Midland Meadows Gold Course. This was a great course covered in snow so I can't even imagine how nice it is when green! I definitely will be checking it out when the golf season starts up again.. hopefully sooner than later! Lots of money was raised in support of the Children's Wish Foundation which was awsome. Later that night I decided I would check out O'learys which is an irish pub in the Saint John city centre. The music was great! Boys Next Door is a band from Nova Scotia. They were there full tilt and kept the place rocking all night long! Good music, good people, what more could I ask for?

My trip to the City Market!

I love the City Market. It always smells so great! The coffee from Java Moose, Lord's fresh fish, and the Baking Stones sweets all make the contribution to the experience. Today I shot a quick video about the history of the market. It was built 1876 and actually is the oldest continuing farmers market in all of Canada. In 1877, the great fire swepth throughSaint John and left the market untouched? Miracle, I should say. The market also has a really neat feature which I think is so cool. Next time you are there look up at the ceiling. It's shaped like an inverted ship's hull.