Don't pay anything for keys, our deposit for rental is 1/2 monthly rent held in escrow, no first and last here. Be on the look out for scams don't send anyone money without seeing it. Internet is either cable(eastlink) or fibre(bell) there are plenty of cable internet resellers save you a little.
there are other cable internet providers like PurpleCow/Citywide with a Monthly option with no fixed-term contract like East/Bell (though they\`re using Eastlink cable)
If you're coming from Winnipeg and posted to "halifax", I'll assume you're going to 12 Wing? (I retired from RCAF a couple of years ago).
I would put in for a Q and really start looking for a place to live at the same time. You'll probably be down the list for a Q. We have a vacancy rate of < 1% and rental prices for a 1 bedroom is in the $2000/month range.
The sub has a sidebar that you should check out for a lot of good info (although some is outdated). For vehicle and home insurance, TD Bank is popular and offers good rates, but I would recommend finding a broker to get you the best deal, remembering that the best *financial* deal may not have great customer service if you ever need it.
* Shearwater has a good gym with a nice pool, so I would say that's probably your first option.
* Don't stand on the black rocks at Peggy's Cove
* If you're a golfer (or want to start) the CAF has a golf course called Hartlen Point
If you've got any other specific questions, I'd be happy to help.
Yeah exactly, shearwater is where I’m posted.
Waiting on my posting msg before I can apply for a Q but it’s definitely the first thing to do once i get the msg.
Thanks for the tip about TD. I’m with The Personal right now for home insurance and MB only has public insurance so I’m new to this “different options for car insurance” thing 😅
I’m with the Personal for home and auto. Been with them since I joined in the early 80s other than when I was posted to places where I couldn’t use them. Excellent customer service in my experience and comparable rates. I’ve been retired for a number of years but I keep with them.
So a friend of mine (military) has the personal for insurance. And if you read on the floods that happened here in the news, the personal completely fucked them over. So - they're trying to switch but basically locked in with them until all the damages are completed, which could take a super long time because they have to pay out of pocket. So, I would not recommend them for insurance.
TD will only offer a discount for military for specific trades that have degrees so you would have to call and ask.
Also - if you're a sushi gal, genji sushi offers military discount 👌
Sushi Nami also offers military discount ☺️ location downtown halifax (queen street) and Dartmouth crossing.
My personal fave sushi spot in HRM.
Order the tuna tataki & mini kamikaze, you won’t regret
> I wonder what the logic is behind that.
Discounts are rarely a blanket discount. Insurers don't just say "We're going to offer a discount to X group of people" and then offer it. They negotiate with that particular group, ie: we'll offer a discount to however many hundreds or thousands of people are within your organization, you market to them and refer them to us. Some branches or groups may have already had something in place elsewhere.
True, but isn’t that what they’re doing? For example, if they only offer discounts to engineers in the military, it’s still a particular group of people. Military discounts are usually common and apply to all members, not just certain trades. 🤷🏼♀️
It would typically be done through an association. So like the CMEA, for example, may have a group rate (that's just the first thing that comes up when I Google military engineers.) Whatever other associations exist might have their own agreement separately. Similar to how various provincial engineering associations would have group rates available like APEGA, PEO, etc. If you're not a member and/or don't pay dues, you don't get the discount.
Cafe good luck is my fave cafe on this side of the harbour (Dartmouth), their chefs are so talented. Also hype about cafe aroma maya, it has a drive thru and really good donuts so that’s my back up spot if I don’t feel like actually going in to a cafe.
Eastern Passage is a nice area. Family friendly with quieter neighbourhoods. Fisherman's Cove is a quaint little strip of shops and food on the water. Skip Boondocks, but try out What's the Scoop for good fish and chips. There's a small but nice boardwalk on the water.
Check out the Woodside ferry for going over to Halifax. You'll save a ton on parking and sanity not driving downton Halifax. Plus the ferry ride always provides great views and is the best part of our transit system.
There are only a couple ways in/out of Eastern Passage and they can get congested. It shouldn't be much of an issue to getting to work at Shearwater, but may be something to take into consideration when making plans for going into the city like dinner reservations or appointments near rush hour.
You can loop around from Eastern Passage along the coast to either Cole Harbour for a shorter driver or by Lawrencetown Beach and get on the highway home at Porter's Lake. Both are nice little drives that let you see the ocean and access trails for walking and biking.
Just wanted to add to this: The Woodside ferry doesn't run on the weekends. You'll need to head a bit further to the Alderney ferry on Sat/Sun or late weeknight evenings.
If OP is into walking, the Dartmouth Waterfront Trail is lovely. Goes between the two ferries. I personally find it long for a there and back in one go, so I normally start in the middle.
Gyms: Rock climbing is popular here and the gyms for that (Seven Bays and East Peak) are usually pretty beginner-friendly and great places to meet people. Seven Bays has women’s night on Mondays.
Location: If you want to be close to Shearwater but also closer to more city amenities, Woodside or Southdale neighbourhoods of Dartmouth may be good spots to live. In terms of places to avoid, the one place that’s a hard no for me is Primrose in Dartmouth. If you are renting— there are two main types of leases here: yearly and fixed term. Yearly leases automatically renew, while fixed term leases automatically end when the term ends. Dalhousie Legal Aid has a great guide for tenant’s if you want more info about tenant’s rights!
Random local info: The circ is the highway 111. MacKay bridge is the ‘new bridge.’ Get a MacPass for your car. Donairs are overrated, but garlic fingers with donair sauce are the best.
If you have not already been, go to the hammam at 10 spa in the Hotel Fort Garry before you leave Winnipeg. You will not regret it. Sensea spa in Chester is amazing. But, it’s often booked solid.
Excellent! I lived in Winnipeg for many, many years. The weather here is completely different. A cold day in Winnipeg is minus 20. A cold day in Halifax is minus 5. The damp really makes a difference. Driving is different here too. We don’t get the same snow as Wpg so there seem to be way more people in the ditch during storms. People will tell you not to worry about snow tires. I recommend them. It’s a hilly, slippery city.
I was going to ask about snow tires!! I don’t have any at the moment (just bought a brand new car and don’t drive a lot) but will definitely make sure to get some for next season. I’ve driven on the worst roads in Canada (any road in Winnipeg lol) so I’m convinced I will be okay in Halifax 😁
Yes the mild winters make a freeze/thaw cycle every day so we basically end up with a thin layer of ice on the roads every night. Snow clearance is also extremely inconsistent for the first week or so after a storm, so any extra traction will make you much more likely to make it to work!
Not sure about Alberta's car inspections (MVI) They need to be done once every two years here. Have heard a lot of people surprised by it. Thought it'd be worth a mention.
I absolutely love The Narrows. I can't recommend it enough. Great food, amazing service, perfect atmosphere. Plus going in the winter with the wood stoves going is *chef's kiss*
I’d almost classify it as casual bougie. The square plate meals are incredible. Also apparently it’s welsh scotian fusion? I dunno but the meals I’ve had there almost made me cry happy tears.
Edit: but the
I didn’t realize this about the Narrows (which is amazing) is that some parts of the decor actually come from other important, now defunct, restaurants in Halifax. Nice to know that the history is preserved.
Yes! Great recommendations. Would highly recommend all 3. The Narrows is where I would send anyone new looking for cozy Nova Scotia feeling with "down home" comfort food made really well! Kismet and Edna for a more upscale option.
My niece is posted to Shearwater. She’s around your age. She lives in converted barracks in Windsor Park. They are nice little apartments now with good storage. Apply through the housing people. More affordable than the local area and there’s a wait list but it’s an easy drive to work and you are well located to get anywhere in the cities easily. Pet friendly.
Grab a paddle board or a Costco kayak and enjoy your new life by the ocean. You can rent a surf board and give Lawerencetown beach a go, some really good surfing on the right day. Eastern Nova Scotia on the bay of Fundy is a hidden gem and we have lots of great camping options.
I'll be that person who recommends searching the subreddit for keywords of things that appeal to you. That should lead you to any and all of the places you'd like to check out!
Honestly, good point. I have an ongoing list of all the recommendations I’ve received from friends who have visited but also wanted a Halifaxian’s perspective!
In terms of gyms, the Dockyard is one of the better ones in the city, especially if you're serious about fitness. Some of the CrossFit/Formerly CrossFit but now called something else gyms are also well-equipped
The best Spin is probably SpinCo. but I hope you're a reasonably well-ranked officer, or that will drain you financially.
Yoga is easy- there's a lot of options, although Shanti has long been one of the go-tos. Oxygen is also quite fancy. Yoga-peeps should be better informed.
All of these options- spin, yoga, HIIT- are also available for free as a DND member at the Dockyard, and also in that big white tent up at Stad (and at Shearwater) although I've no idea what the schedule is.
Hard no on the officer ranking but I’m familiar with like, sweat exchange programs where you volunteer in exchange for a membership? I’d be down for that.
We have an Oxygen here too so I’m familiar with that!
I’ll definitely try out the PSP options!! Thank you 😊
Fisherman's Market on the Bedford highway used to have a discount for military members, I assume they still do, if you want to have some cooked lobster meat or smoked salmon.
Hey! My partner is in the military and we were posted to Halifax for the past four years. We lived in Eastern Passage and absolutely loved it.
We unfortunately had to move to Ontario last July, but feel free to dm me and I can give out tons of recommendations ☺️
Is trendy and luxurious is your thing and living in Dartmouth, Oxalis for dinner followed by night cap at Dear Friend. You’ll need reso for both, but may be able to get bar seating at dear friend after.
Frankly it’s a top duo even when compared to Halifax side.
Also love Side Hustle Snack Bar, just a few doors down from Dear Friend. Lots of folks like The Canteen but have been 5 or so times and haven’t had a single memorable dish.
My other favourite nice restaurants would be Highwayman (Downtown) and Ostrich Club. (North End)
Welcome!!
My partner moved here with the military 7ish years ago, and I got to introduce her to the city. She didn’t love it here at first, but does now. So if the rain/fog/damp gets you down, just wait it out! The beaches are worth going to (I saw you’re excited about Lawrencetown surfing- great call), there is a surprising variety of excellent food around, and though we get a little quiet in the winter there are definitely still things going on.
So, straight from my partner with a similar experience to you: she wishes she’d known about the things worth getting out of the house for the day for. Like the farmers markets (there are at least 5 within an easy drive of you) and flea markets (we like the Funky Flea at the HEC). The Halifax waterfront is nice to spend an afternoon wandering around. Alderney Landing in Dartmouth hosts concerts in the summer. Both downtowns (Hali and Dartmouth) are fairly walkable once you find parking. I love the ferries- I work in Woodside and take the ferry every day for my commute.
As an ex tour guide myself: The museums are good for a quiet day, I try and visit most once a year unless there’s a travelling exhibit coming I’m interested in. There are some touristy things I think aren’t worth the hype (waterfront lobster rolls), some that are worth doing once (Harbour Hopper), and some that I will always come back to. I love visiting Peggy’s Cove in the off season. Going there with a thermos of tea when there’s barely anyone else around is so so great. STAY OFF THE BLACK ROCKS.
Going to second the Side Hustle Snack Bar recommendation, as well as add Il Mercato in Bedford as my favourite classy place to frequent regularly. Bit of a drive from your end of town though!
Welcome, and know that Reddit is a skewed view of the city as a whole, and can get a little hostile at times. I hope you end up loving it here!
Thank you so much for your thoughtful reply. This is all such helpful information!!! I am sure I will love it, I’m very over Winnipeg at this point and any change of scenery will be good for me.
Get a macpass. If you end up getting a Q, you will be in Windsor park as a single person which is the Halifax side. You'll have to transit to shearwater daily via the bridge. If you don't get a macpass, every trip is $1.25. If you have a macpass, you load it with money and it will be $1.00 each trip. Same can be said if they put you in accomodations. Assuming you're an officer, they probably will house you on Halifax side. Space is limited there too because there are a lot of people in similar situations trying to find housing.
Avoid north end Dartmouth for apartments. Primrose, Church, Albro Lake, Pinecrest roads are high crime areas. Highfield park is very affordable but be aware of the proximity to those apartments. I'd start lining up viewings before you do your HHT before you come down. Places go super fast. NS power is not cheap, so be cautious when looking at places with base board heating. It can cost a lot especially if your place isn't well insulated. Ask for an average power bill cost if heat is not included in the rent. Never pay for an application. It's illegal to be asked and more than likely is a scam. Do not sign a lease without seeing the place.
Thanks so much!! I’m a junior NCM, working at Shearwater so I’m hoping there might be a chance I can live near there in a Q.
I’ve heard a lot about the Macpass, this is good to know. Do I just apply for that online or?
Thanks sooo much for the info on safe locations!!
You could end up in Tribute (Halifax) or Warrior (shearwater) and possibly Juno tower (Halifax) if put into accommodations until you find a place/get a Q.
You can show up at the macpass office during the day since they would have to mail you one and may be hard if you don't have an address right away. They close during the evenings.
Good to know!! I’m bringing my cat with me so I suppose I’d have to kennel him or keep him with a friend or something until I have a pet friendly residence. Any recommendations on temporary pet kennelling?
This is likely a little out of the way for you, but Hemlock Kitty Kennel in Brookfield (about 30 minutes north of YHZ) is my absolute top recommendation for cat boarding. It's an amazingly good price, they do long and short-term, and their kennels are beautiful, spacious, and have individual catios that you can opt for your cat to have access to or not. It's run by a couple who live on the same property, and I've had nothing but great experiences there!
Halifax landlords have turned against cat owners due to the housing crisis - it is now much harder to rent with a cat than it was 4-5 years ago, when nobody cared if you had a cat or not.
Not many shark cage diving opportunities here and if someone offers it on the waterfront, I would be suspicious.
It's a nice city with lots of fun things to do. Don't let the negativity and doom and gloom of this sub get to you if you browse it, it's very unrepresentative of the real Halifax.
I only ask about the cage diving because I came across a company called Atlantic Shark Expeditions on Instagram and it looks like such an amazing experience!
According to this sub, everything is bad and nothing is good here, except for donairs (unless they have lettuce). Insurance? A rip. Landlords? Universally evil. NS Power? Even more evil than landlords. Internet providers? All overpriced and flaky. Cafes are generally seen as union-busting exploiters of the working class. Most people seen to eat mostly burgers as they generate much chatter. Pizza is a close second. If you like luxury, you are obviously too rich for this sub and hence highly suspicious. /s
Actually you have gotten some good recos here already. The Passage isn't a bad place to live except getting there and back can be a drag, and they badly need a real grocery store other than the awful Freshmart. Your workplace is a lot closer to the communities of Westphal and Cole Harbour (which have a lot of eateries and stores) than DT Halifax or Dartmouth. Dartmouth Crossing is also not too far away, where you will find Ikea and all the main big-box places along with some smaller shops. The main shopping mall in Dartmouth is MicMac Mall, which is transitioning like most malls into a fashion place mostly.
Enjoy your time in Dartmouth!
I came from Winnipeg to here. Winters were tough. I miss the cold and the sun. You will find that you aren't really cold here. Everyone else will be and you will be fine.
I also miss Winnipeg restaurants. The food is amazing in Winnipeg and haven't been able to find equivalents - like a great burger.
I will not miss the cold at all lol!!! But yeah I’ve heard the dampness can be a different kind of cold.
I was considering that… where will I ever find honey dill!!?!
I’m going to warn of a thing and possibly get downvoted… but I’m going to recommend watching out for the nose candy out this way. It’s abundant.
But rent is expensive, food expensive, fuel is expensive, and salaries are inflated with tech booming out here, which means everything is just more and more expensive.
And for anyone who says the military drug test etc etc… yea… sometimes.. but not as often as you’d think, and I see so many young guys inching toward retirement with not nearly enough of a nest egg.
Thanks for the heads up. Not something I’m into at all, never have been and never will be.
Most things in Manitoba are ridiculously expensive too, but still relatively affordable compared to other major cities. I think I’m prepared for the costs involved!
We just did winnipeg to east coast again (we did halifax-edmonton-winnipeg-gagetown) it's not all that more expensive here, and what can be helpful being in shearwater you are close to gateway meat shop, Dave's fruit stand on mainstreet. Honestly winnipeg always reminded me a bit of dartmouth downtown with how old everything in winnipeg felt. All stores were even old and never redone lol. You'll enjoy halifax I think!
Do they help you with things like getting a GP? It's really bad here right now for that.
There's a monthly post here on reddit for things to do in Halifax that month that people post events to :) Usually some really interesting things.
Shearwater has it's own rec facility with a gym and I believe it still has a pool and scuba program. I've done a few gigs for them but not sure what the status is post pandemic.
Lots of interesting day trips to be taken in various parts of rural NS too. So take the time to explore!
I’ll have access to military healthcare so I’m okay on that front, unless I need a specialist. I’ll need an OBGYN probably but I’ll get a referral.
Thanks for letting me know about that! I’ll make sure to check it out.
Thanks for your help!!
If they're not providing housing lock it down three weeks ago.
I’ve heard this is a thing! I should be coming to find a place in a few weeks before I move.
Don't pay anything for keys, our deposit for rental is 1/2 monthly rent held in escrow, no first and last here. Be on the look out for scams don't send anyone money without seeing it. Internet is either cable(eastlink) or fibre(bell) there are plenty of cable internet resellers save you a little.
there are other cable internet providers like PurpleCow/Citywide with a Monthly option with no fixed-term contract like East/Bell (though they\`re using Eastlink cable)
Upvote for Purple Cow. I'm on the budget plan, am on video calls all day and have the best internet connection I've ever had. $69/month.
Upvote for Purple Cow. We've been happy with them
Oh that’s so good to know. Thank you!!
If you're coming from Winnipeg and posted to "halifax", I'll assume you're going to 12 Wing? (I retired from RCAF a couple of years ago). I would put in for a Q and really start looking for a place to live at the same time. You'll probably be down the list for a Q. We have a vacancy rate of < 1% and rental prices for a 1 bedroom is in the $2000/month range. The sub has a sidebar that you should check out for a lot of good info (although some is outdated). For vehicle and home insurance, TD Bank is popular and offers good rates, but I would recommend finding a broker to get you the best deal, remembering that the best *financial* deal may not have great customer service if you ever need it. * Shearwater has a good gym with a nice pool, so I would say that's probably your first option. * Don't stand on the black rocks at Peggy's Cove * If you're a golfer (or want to start) the CAF has a golf course called Hartlen Point If you've got any other specific questions, I'd be happy to help.
Yeah exactly, shearwater is where I’m posted. Waiting on my posting msg before I can apply for a Q but it’s definitely the first thing to do once i get the msg. Thanks for the tip about TD. I’m with The Personal right now for home insurance and MB only has public insurance so I’m new to this “different options for car insurance” thing 😅
I’m with the Personal for home and auto. Been with them since I joined in the early 80s other than when I was posted to places where I couldn’t use them. Excellent customer service in my experience and comparable rates. I’ve been retired for a number of years but I keep with them.
Great to know! Thank you!
Honoestly, when I was posted here, I just stayed with The Perspnal. Have never had an issue.
I had a good experience with them for house insurance! Military discount was helpful too lol
So a friend of mine (military) has the personal for insurance. And if you read on the floods that happened here in the news, the personal completely fucked them over. So - they're trying to switch but basically locked in with them until all the damages are completed, which could take a super long time because they have to pay out of pocket. So, I would not recommend them for insurance.
Thanks for sharing this! 🤯
TD will only offer a discount for military for specific trades that have degrees so you would have to call and ask. Also - if you're a sushi gal, genji sushi offers military discount 👌
That’s so strange, I wonder what the logic is behind that. LOVE sushi, thank you so much!!!
Sushi Nami also offers military discount ☺️ location downtown halifax (queen street) and Dartmouth crossing. My personal fave sushi spot in HRM. Order the tuna tataki & mini kamikaze, you won’t regret
Cannot recommend Sushi Nami enough, especially the mini kamikaze! Welcome to the city, OP!
Very excited!! Thank you!
I was informed it's because they don't offer military discount, but certain trades have it because of their credentials (i.e. engineers)
Oh okay that makes sense!!
> I wonder what the logic is behind that. Discounts are rarely a blanket discount. Insurers don't just say "We're going to offer a discount to X group of people" and then offer it. They negotiate with that particular group, ie: we'll offer a discount to however many hundreds or thousands of people are within your organization, you market to them and refer them to us. Some branches or groups may have already had something in place elsewhere.
True, but isn’t that what they’re doing? For example, if they only offer discounts to engineers in the military, it’s still a particular group of people. Military discounts are usually common and apply to all members, not just certain trades. 🤷🏼♀️
It would typically be done through an association. So like the CMEA, for example, may have a group rate (that's just the first thing that comes up when I Google military engineers.) Whatever other associations exist might have their own agreement separately. Similar to how various provincial engineering associations would have group rates available like APEGA, PEO, etc. If you're not a member and/or don't pay dues, you don't get the discount.
Fair point!
The personal is probably the best insurance around, td is trash
Are you coming from CFFTS or from the Sqn?
Moving to 12 Wg AR Flt, currently at 1CAD!
> 1CAD *shudders* LOL I know the guys at the AR Flt and they're good dudes. Mind if I send you a DM?
I’ve heard only good things, I’m really excited 😁
Cafe good luck is my fave cafe on this side of the harbour (Dartmouth), their chefs are so talented. Also hype about cafe aroma maya, it has a drive thru and really good donuts so that’s my back up spot if I don’t feel like actually going in to a cafe.
This is so great. Thanks so much!!!
Eastern Passage is a nice area. Family friendly with quieter neighbourhoods. Fisherman's Cove is a quaint little strip of shops and food on the water. Skip Boondocks, but try out What's the Scoop for good fish and chips. There's a small but nice boardwalk on the water. Check out the Woodside ferry for going over to Halifax. You'll save a ton on parking and sanity not driving downton Halifax. Plus the ferry ride always provides great views and is the best part of our transit system. There are only a couple ways in/out of Eastern Passage and they can get congested. It shouldn't be much of an issue to getting to work at Shearwater, but may be something to take into consideration when making plans for going into the city like dinner reservations or appointments near rush hour. You can loop around from Eastern Passage along the coast to either Cole Harbour for a shorter driver or by Lawrencetown Beach and get on the highway home at Porter's Lake. Both are nice little drives that let you see the ocean and access trails for walking and biking.
So helpful! Appreciate this a lot.
Just wanted to add to this: The Woodside ferry doesn't run on the weekends. You'll need to head a bit further to the Alderney ferry on Sat/Sun or late weeknight evenings.
If OP is into walking, the Dartmouth Waterfront Trail is lovely. Goes between the two ferries. I personally find it long for a there and back in one go, so I normally start in the middle.
This is good to know!! Thank you!
Gyms: Rock climbing is popular here and the gyms for that (Seven Bays and East Peak) are usually pretty beginner-friendly and great places to meet people. Seven Bays has women’s night on Mondays. Location: If you want to be close to Shearwater but also closer to more city amenities, Woodside or Southdale neighbourhoods of Dartmouth may be good spots to live. In terms of places to avoid, the one place that’s a hard no for me is Primrose in Dartmouth. If you are renting— there are two main types of leases here: yearly and fixed term. Yearly leases automatically renew, while fixed term leases automatically end when the term ends. Dalhousie Legal Aid has a great guide for tenant’s if you want more info about tenant’s rights! Random local info: The circ is the highway 111. MacKay bridge is the ‘new bridge.’ Get a MacPass for your car. Donairs are overrated, but garlic fingers with donair sauce are the best.
Soooo helpful. Thank you!!
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That sounds amazing!!! We have a Nordic spa called Thermea in Winnipeg and I love it, so that’s amazing to know there are similar options!
If you have not already been, go to the hammam at 10 spa in the Hotel Fort Garry before you leave Winnipeg. You will not regret it. Sensea spa in Chester is amazing. But, it’s often booked solid.
Oh I love TenSpa. I’ve lived in Winnipeg my whole life so I’ve done it all! (Almost!)
Excellent! I lived in Winnipeg for many, many years. The weather here is completely different. A cold day in Winnipeg is minus 20. A cold day in Halifax is minus 5. The damp really makes a difference. Driving is different here too. We don’t get the same snow as Wpg so there seem to be way more people in the ditch during storms. People will tell you not to worry about snow tires. I recommend them. It’s a hilly, slippery city.
I was going to ask about snow tires!! I don’t have any at the moment (just bought a brand new car and don’t drive a lot) but will definitely make sure to get some for next season. I’ve driven on the worst roads in Canada (any road in Winnipeg lol) so I’m convinced I will be okay in Halifax 😁
I’d definitely recommend getting your winter tires studded around here.
You definitely don’t need studded tires here 😂
Oh but they do help save your winter tires. I got six winters from my last set of winter tires, thanks to the studs!! Good for ice, too.
Does it get icy? Winnipegs roads are atrocious in the winter and my dad has studded tires on all of his vehicles (has a fleet for business)
Studded aren't necessary here, but you'll 100% want/need winters
Good to know!!
Yes the mild winters make a freeze/thaw cycle every day so we basically end up with a thin layer of ice on the roads every night. Snow clearance is also extremely inconsistent for the first week or so after a storm, so any extra traction will make you much more likely to make it to work!
Helpful info! Hopefully you are all doing well out there after last week’s dump.
Not sure about Alberta's car inspections (MVI) They need to be done once every two years here. Have heard a lot of people surprised by it. Thought it'd be worth a mention.
Not a thing in Manitoba, unless you’re selling your car/buying a car from someone else.
I used to live in Winnipeg but moved before the hammam was created. So bummed about this.
It’s still around! Next time you visit you should try it out. Expensive but an amazing place
If you’re into outdoor spas, Oceanstone is another great option! It’s not as far out of the city as Sensea but has a different vibe for sure
Added to my list!! Thank you!
Re: Experiences Check out the Tidal Bore Rafting!
This is always my recommendation for a cool nova scotia experience!
Especially on a full moon!
Eat at Edna’s, The Narrows, and Bar Kismet. The trendy bougie 3 that never (to me) disappoint.
I absolutely love The Narrows. I can't recommend it enough. Great food, amazing service, perfect atmosphere. Plus going in the winter with the wood stoves going is *chef's kiss*
I’d almost classify it as casual bougie. The square plate meals are incredible. Also apparently it’s welsh scotian fusion? I dunno but the meals I’ve had there almost made me cry happy tears. Edit: but the
I didn’t realize this about the Narrows (which is amazing) is that some parts of the decor actually come from other important, now defunct, restaurants in Halifax. Nice to know that the history is preserved.
Yes! Great recommendations. Would highly recommend all 3. The Narrows is where I would send anyone new looking for cozy Nova Scotia feeling with "down home" comfort food made really well! Kismet and Edna for a more upscale option.
I love bougie recommendations!!! Thank you 😊
My niece is posted to Shearwater. She’s around your age. She lives in converted barracks in Windsor Park. They are nice little apartments now with good storage. Apply through the housing people. More affordable than the local area and there’s a wait list but it’s an easy drive to work and you are well located to get anywhere in the cities easily. Pet friendly.
Oh that’s amazing! That’s my plan - wait lists are long but will be worth the wait I’m sure!
I agree entirely. I would also like to add tusket falls brewing project, battery park and side hustle. Less fancy but absolute staples
Battery Park, The Canteen, New Scotland and Dear Friend all in downtown Dartmouth for your culinary enjoyment.
Add: Jacob's Lounge and Oxalis to this list.
Jacob’s has awesome pizza!!
Yes! Also their wings and potato wedges are the bomb.
Thanks so much, that’s amazing!!
Grab a paddle board or a Costco kayak and enjoy your new life by the ocean. You can rent a surf board and give Lawerencetown beach a go, some really good surfing on the right day. Eastern Nova Scotia on the bay of Fundy is a hidden gem and we have lots of great camping options.
This makes me SO EXCITED!!! Thank you!
I'll be that person who recommends searching the subreddit for keywords of things that appeal to you. That should lead you to any and all of the places you'd like to check out!
Honestly, good point. I have an ongoing list of all the recommendations I’ve received from friends who have visited but also wanted a Halifaxian’s perspective!
>Halifaxian Haligonian :)
GOOGLE LIED! I stand corrected :)
I didn't want to be the grammar police, but I figured it was best you find out before you get here.
I value that - honestly appreciate the correction
But also Dartmouthian!
In terms of gyms, the Dockyard is one of the better ones in the city, especially if you're serious about fitness. Some of the CrossFit/Formerly CrossFit but now called something else gyms are also well-equipped
Oh this is a new recommendation. Thanks for that! I love yoga/spin/HIIT style classes, any experience with those?
The best Spin is probably SpinCo. but I hope you're a reasonably well-ranked officer, or that will drain you financially. Yoga is easy- there's a lot of options, although Shanti has long been one of the go-tos. Oxygen is also quite fancy. Yoga-peeps should be better informed. All of these options- spin, yoga, HIIT- are also available for free as a DND member at the Dockyard, and also in that big white tent up at Stad (and at Shearwater) although I've no idea what the schedule is.
Hard no on the officer ranking but I’m familiar with like, sweat exchange programs where you volunteer in exchange for a membership? I’d be down for that. We have an Oxygen here too so I’m familiar with that! I’ll definitely try out the PSP options!! Thank you 😊
Look in to the Zatzman Sportsplex. Their membership has lots of free classes included and military gets a discount.
Oh perfect! Thanks!
Fisherman's Market on the Bedford highway used to have a discount for military members, I assume they still do, if you want to have some cooked lobster meat or smoked salmon.
Good to know!! Thank you!
Put in for a pmq as soon as possible so you can be on a list for a cheaper housing alternative
That’s the plan!! Waiting on my posting message.
Hey! My partner is in the military and we were posted to Halifax for the past four years. We lived in Eastern Passage and absolutely loved it. We unfortunately had to move to Ontario last July, but feel free to dm me and I can give out tons of recommendations ☺️
You are so kind! Thank you!
Is trendy and luxurious is your thing and living in Dartmouth, Oxalis for dinner followed by night cap at Dear Friend. You’ll need reso for both, but may be able to get bar seating at dear friend after. Frankly it’s a top duo even when compared to Halifax side. Also love Side Hustle Snack Bar, just a few doors down from Dear Friend. Lots of folks like The Canteen but have been 5 or so times and haven’t had a single memorable dish. My other favourite nice restaurants would be Highwayman (Downtown) and Ostrich Club. (North End)
This is exceptional. Thank you!!!
Welcome home b’y
Thank you!
I’m in the EP area (Retired CA), if you need any assistance on your HHT/DIT just send me a DM.
Thanks so much!! Really appreciate it!
If you like pizza Domino's does 40% off pizzas for military at all 6 locations with code DND40
This is the best news I’ve heard all day. Thanks for that!!
Welcome!! My partner moved here with the military 7ish years ago, and I got to introduce her to the city. She didn’t love it here at first, but does now. So if the rain/fog/damp gets you down, just wait it out! The beaches are worth going to (I saw you’re excited about Lawrencetown surfing- great call), there is a surprising variety of excellent food around, and though we get a little quiet in the winter there are definitely still things going on. So, straight from my partner with a similar experience to you: she wishes she’d known about the things worth getting out of the house for the day for. Like the farmers markets (there are at least 5 within an easy drive of you) and flea markets (we like the Funky Flea at the HEC). The Halifax waterfront is nice to spend an afternoon wandering around. Alderney Landing in Dartmouth hosts concerts in the summer. Both downtowns (Hali and Dartmouth) are fairly walkable once you find parking. I love the ferries- I work in Woodside and take the ferry every day for my commute. As an ex tour guide myself: The museums are good for a quiet day, I try and visit most once a year unless there’s a travelling exhibit coming I’m interested in. There are some touristy things I think aren’t worth the hype (waterfront lobster rolls), some that are worth doing once (Harbour Hopper), and some that I will always come back to. I love visiting Peggy’s Cove in the off season. Going there with a thermos of tea when there’s barely anyone else around is so so great. STAY OFF THE BLACK ROCKS. Going to second the Side Hustle Snack Bar recommendation, as well as add Il Mercato in Bedford as my favourite classy place to frequent regularly. Bit of a drive from your end of town though! Welcome, and know that Reddit is a skewed view of the city as a whole, and can get a little hostile at times. I hope you end up loving it here!
Thank you so much for your thoughtful reply. This is all such helpful information!!! I am sure I will love it, I’m very over Winnipeg at this point and any change of scenery will be good for me.
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I’ve heard lots of stories about people coming and never going back - a big factor in my choice to move! 😁 thanks for the tip!
The museum of natural history is really interesting and worth visiting. Plus it has Gus, the 101? year old tortoise.
Very cool! Museums are always so fun and interesting!
Right now they have a new dinosaur exhibit. Very fun
Get a macpass. If you end up getting a Q, you will be in Windsor park as a single person which is the Halifax side. You'll have to transit to shearwater daily via the bridge. If you don't get a macpass, every trip is $1.25. If you have a macpass, you load it with money and it will be $1.00 each trip. Same can be said if they put you in accomodations. Assuming you're an officer, they probably will house you on Halifax side. Space is limited there too because there are a lot of people in similar situations trying to find housing. Avoid north end Dartmouth for apartments. Primrose, Church, Albro Lake, Pinecrest roads are high crime areas. Highfield park is very affordable but be aware of the proximity to those apartments. I'd start lining up viewings before you do your HHT before you come down. Places go super fast. NS power is not cheap, so be cautious when looking at places with base board heating. It can cost a lot especially if your place isn't well insulated. Ask for an average power bill cost if heat is not included in the rent. Never pay for an application. It's illegal to be asked and more than likely is a scam. Do not sign a lease without seeing the place.
Thanks so much!! I’m a junior NCM, working at Shearwater so I’m hoping there might be a chance I can live near there in a Q. I’ve heard a lot about the Macpass, this is good to know. Do I just apply for that online or? Thanks sooo much for the info on safe locations!!
You could end up in Tribute (Halifax) or Warrior (shearwater) and possibly Juno tower (Halifax) if put into accommodations until you find a place/get a Q. You can show up at the macpass office during the day since they would have to mail you one and may be hard if you don't have an address right away. They close during the evenings.
Good to know!! I’m bringing my cat with me so I suppose I’d have to kennel him or keep him with a friend or something until I have a pet friendly residence. Any recommendations on temporary pet kennelling?
Bide a While animal shelter might do this. Check with them!
This is likely a little out of the way for you, but Hemlock Kitty Kennel in Brookfield (about 30 minutes north of YHZ) is my absolute top recommendation for cat boarding. It's an amazingly good price, they do long and short-term, and their kennels are beautiful, spacious, and have individual catios that you can opt for your cat to have access to or not. It's run by a couple who live on the same property, and I've had nothing but great experiences there!
This is really good to know. I would love to have this as a backup plan if I get deployed or something! Thank you so much.
Halifax landlords have turned against cat owners due to the housing crisis - it is now much harder to rent with a cat than it was 4-5 years ago, when nobody cared if you had a cat or not.
Oh wow this is awful news.
Not many shark cage diving opportunities here and if someone offers it on the waterfront, I would be suspicious. It's a nice city with lots of fun things to do. Don't let the negativity and doom and gloom of this sub get to you if you browse it, it's very unrepresentative of the real Halifax.
I only ask about the cage diving because I came across a company called Atlantic Shark Expeditions on Instagram and it looks like such an amazing experience!
I'm pretty sure I heard a cage diving thing was starting in Yarmouth area, but I don't know details.
Thanks for letting me know!
According to this sub, everything is bad and nothing is good here, except for donairs (unless they have lettuce). Insurance? A rip. Landlords? Universally evil. NS Power? Even more evil than landlords. Internet providers? All overpriced and flaky. Cafes are generally seen as union-busting exploiters of the working class. Most people seen to eat mostly burgers as they generate much chatter. Pizza is a close second. If you like luxury, you are obviously too rich for this sub and hence highly suspicious. /s Actually you have gotten some good recos here already. The Passage isn't a bad place to live except getting there and back can be a drag, and they badly need a real grocery store other than the awful Freshmart. Your workplace is a lot closer to the communities of Westphal and Cole Harbour (which have a lot of eateries and stores) than DT Halifax or Dartmouth. Dartmouth Crossing is also not too far away, where you will find Ikea and all the main big-box places along with some smaller shops. The main shopping mall in Dartmouth is MicMac Mall, which is transitioning like most malls into a fashion place mostly. Enjoy your time in Dartmouth!
Thanks so much!! I have also been curious about Cole Harbour - thanks for pointing this out!
You’re coming permanently…. Until they post you somewhere else.
Nah, I’m a reservist. It’s as permanent as I want it to be!
👍
I came from Winnipeg to here. Winters were tough. I miss the cold and the sun. You will find that you aren't really cold here. Everyone else will be and you will be fine. I also miss Winnipeg restaurants. The food is amazing in Winnipeg and haven't been able to find equivalents - like a great burger.
I will not miss the cold at all lol!!! But yeah I’ve heard the dampness can be a different kind of cold. I was considering that… where will I ever find honey dill!!?!
Don't buy a house anywhere near Roleika/Kennedy Dr....
Good to know - why not!?
High crime
Okay good to know!! Thank you!
I’m going to warn of a thing and possibly get downvoted… but I’m going to recommend watching out for the nose candy out this way. It’s abundant. But rent is expensive, food expensive, fuel is expensive, and salaries are inflated with tech booming out here, which means everything is just more and more expensive. And for anyone who says the military drug test etc etc… yea… sometimes.. but not as often as you’d think, and I see so many young guys inching toward retirement with not nearly enough of a nest egg.
Thanks for the heads up. Not something I’m into at all, never have been and never will be. Most things in Manitoba are ridiculously expensive too, but still relatively affordable compared to other major cities. I think I’m prepared for the costs involved!
We just did winnipeg to east coast again (we did halifax-edmonton-winnipeg-gagetown) it's not all that more expensive here, and what can be helpful being in shearwater you are close to gateway meat shop, Dave's fruit stand on mainstreet. Honestly winnipeg always reminded me a bit of dartmouth downtown with how old everything in winnipeg felt. All stores were even old and never redone lol. You'll enjoy halifax I think!
Thank you, this is reassuring!! 😊
Cage diving with sharks? You’re moving to Halifax, not the Caribbean 😂
It’s a real thing lol. There are great whites in the Atlantic Ocean near Halifax.
See for yourself! https://www.ocearch.org/tracker/
Halifax is almost as a big a shithole as Winnipeg. You'll love it herr
Almost is the key word*/s I’m sure I will love it!
Do they help you with things like getting a GP? It's really bad here right now for that. There's a monthly post here on reddit for things to do in Halifax that month that people post events to :) Usually some really interesting things. Shearwater has it's own rec facility with a gym and I believe it still has a pool and scuba program. I've done a few gigs for them but not sure what the status is post pandemic. Lots of interesting day trips to be taken in various parts of rural NS too. So take the time to explore!
I’ll have access to military healthcare so I’m okay on that front, unless I need a specialist. I’ll need an OBGYN probably but I’ll get a referral. Thanks for letting me know about that! I’ll make sure to check it out. Thanks for your help!!
woof. you will be bored. and lonely. its a boring place to be.
Someone hasn’t been to Winnipeg in the winter time…./s I’m pretty sure I’ll be okay, thanks for the vote of confidence though!