After a century of struggle between the British and French for control of North America, Nova Scotia became a British possession in 1710, with the seat of government in Halifax. In 1867, it joined with New Brunswick, Ontario, and Québec to form the Confederation of Canada.

Nova Scotia was settled by French, English, Irish, German, Scottish, and African peoples whose languages and traditions add to its flavor. Today, a recreational wonderland awaits tourists with fishing, boating, camping, golf, swimming, and charter cruising—no part of Nova Scotia is more than 35 miles (56 kilometers) from the sea.

Major attractions include the Cabot Trail, often described as "the most spectacular drive in North America"; the highlands of Cape Breton; the reconstructed Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site; and Lunenburg, a World Heritage Site renowned for its Colonial architecture and Fisheries Museum. The Greater Halifax area offers a variety of attractions, including parks, noteworthy public gardens, art galleries, universities, theater, outdoor recreation, pubs, fine seafood dining, the world's second-largest harbor, and the Citadel Fortress—Canada's most visited historic site. Nearby is the rugged beauty of Peggy's Cove.

The weather is cool in the spring and late fall, warm in the summer and early fall. East Nova Scotia enjoys relatively mild winters due to the proximity of the Gulf Stream. Nova Scotia observes Atlantic Standard Time.

Safety belts are mandatory for all persons anywhere in a vehicle. Children under 40 pounds in weight anywhere in a vehicle must be in approved safety seats. Compliance of passengers under age 16 is the responsibility of the driver. For further information, phone 902/424-4256.