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Halima: [00:23:05] I lost everything except for my children.
Ramit Sethi: [00:23:09] Do you mind telling me a little bit of what happened?
Halima: [00:23:11] No, I don’t mind. With my first marriage, I divorced my ex-husband because of financial infidelity.
Ramit Sethi: [00:23:22] What happened?
Halima: [00:23:24] We were going under, and I didn’t know. I was a high school teacher, and I had a great job, and I got pregnant with my firstborn and decided that I wanted to be a housewife and have babies, raise children. And that the man of the house was going to work. And my ex-husband was in banking. He was in finance. And to me, I feel like if you’re dealing with money, you know everything about money.
Ramit Sethi: [00:24:07] Ah.
Halima: [00:24:08] Yeah, yeah. The house that we purchased when I was working, we were going into foreclosure. He was responsible for all the bills, and I trusted him with that as any good wife. In the beginning, I was married to my ex for about 10 years, 12 years total, being together with him. So I trusted him, and I loved him.
The house was being sold because I thought that—I was pregnant with my second now. They’re only 16 months apart, and we needed to upgrade. We were living in a really small 1,200 square foot home, so we wanted to upgrade and buy something bigger and better. So for about six months while we were—we sold the house, but it was actually foreclosed. The bank took it.
Ramit Sethi: [00:25:10] You didn’t know this?
Halima: [00:25:11] I didn’t know this. I didn’t know this.
Ramit Sethi: [00:25:13] Wow.
Halima: [00:25:13] We ended up renting a house. And while we were renting this house and sold our home, with that money, we were going to buy something bigger. So for about six months, I became really, really good friends with the real estate agent that we were working with because my Saturdays and Sundays would be going to look at homes with him. Even weekdays, we’d look at homes. So it was this grand plan for him to drag things on because he knew that once I found out, I was going to leave him.
And it ended the day after Halloween, on November 1st, 2019. We got a knock on the door. It was the owner of the house with the sheriff, another cop, evicting us. My son, at the time, was about 18 months old. My daughter was a little bit older. They were both in diapers, and I still have the hamper that’s downstairs that I was able to fill in with whatever I could. And that’s how I left the house.
And my whole foundation, my whole world came crashing down. Long story short, he left the country because there was really nowhere else for him to go. Nobody trusted him anymore. He was borrowing money left and right. Nobody believed him anymore. And he left me with the two babies.
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Irresistibly crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts are simple to make, loaded with delicious flavor, and have the best crunchy texture. These pair well with almost any protein and will definitely upgrade your side dish game!
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
Nutrient-Rich Side: Smashed Brussels sprouts taste wonderful and are loaded with vitamins and fiber. You’ll want to make these on the regular!
Simple: You only need four ingredients and 20 minutes of prep time to have a healthy snack or side dish to go with creamy Tuscan garlic chicken, grilled tri-tip, or any main dish you can think of!
Delicious Flavor and Texture: These are not only flavorful, but they also have an amazing crunchy texture. Even kids gobble these up!
Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts
Smashed Brussels sprouts are a spin-off the very popular and very delicious smashed potatoes recipe. They’re just as easy to make and are the perfect side dish or appetizer. I might even like these more than smashed potatoes because they are addictively crispy and caramelized around the edges. So addictive, in fact, I sometimes can’t stop myself from eating them straight off the pan!
Crispy Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
You won’t believe that just four simple ingredients can bring so much flavor! The whole smashing method takes this green vegetable to the next level. The exact measurements of the ingredients are in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.
Brussels Sprouts: This recipe uses about one pound of cleaned and trimmed whole Brussels sprouts.
Olive Oil: This recipe uses a generous amount of olive oil to cook the Brussels. This will help them to become crispy and keep them from burning.
Salt and Black Pepper: All you need is a simple seasoning of flakey salt and black pepper.
How to Make Smashed Brussels Sprouts
These smashed Brussels sprouts are a unique side dish that everyone will love! They’re so good that your family will be swiping them from the sheet pan before you can get them to the table!
Boil: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Par-cook the Brussels sprouts by adding them to the water and boil for 15-18 minutes. Strain the Brussels sprouts from the water and drain them in the colander for 5-10 minutes.
Season: Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a large baking sheet, then drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with a couple of generous pinches of flakey salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss until all the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
Smash and Roast: Use a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to smash each tender Brussels sprout flat against the baking sheet. Bake the Brussels sprouts for 10-15 minutes. Once the underside is crispy, flip them all over and roast for another 10-15 minutes until both sides are crisp.
Tips and Variations for the Best Brussels Sprouts
This Brussels sprouts recipe could not be any easier! However, here are a few tips and variations so your family will go crazy over these every time you make them.
Brussels Sprouts Size: If your Brussels sprouts are extra large, you can cut them in half instead of roasting them whole. Smash them with the cut side down on the baking sheet.
Drying the Sprouts: It can help to pat each Brussels sprout dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. The more water that is left on them, the longer they will have to roast before they become crispy. Patting them dry helps remove the extra moisture before roasting.
Add Seasonings: I like these with just salt, pepper, and olive oil, but you can add a little more flavor by adding ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or crushed red pepper to the Brussels sprouts before you toss them. You could even add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top when they come out of the oven.
Make Them Cheesy: For a little extra flare, add ¼-⅓ cups of finely grated parmesan cheese to the tops of the Brussels sprouts about 5 minutes before they are done cooking.
Best Freshly Cooked: Avoid cooking these too far ahead of when you plan to serve them. The longer they sit, the more crispiness they will lose! They are best fresh out of the oven.
Storing Leftover Smashed Brussels Sprouts
Make-Ahead Option: You can par-cook the Brussels sprouts in advance to save on prep time. Once they finish boiling, transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Store them in an airtight container lined with 2-3 paper towels to absorb the excess water. When you are ready to finish them, continue as directed in the recipe card.
In the Refrigerator: Cooked smashed Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To Reheat: You can reheat them in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for 5 minutes or in an air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-3 minutes.
More Delicious Sides
A delicious side dish recipe is the perfect way to complete a meal and really take it to the next level! I have so many wonderful sides that you’ll want to try. You can find all of my side dish recipes here. Below are some favs that I make for my family on repeat!
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
Par-cook the Brussels sprouts by adding them to the water and boil for 15-18 minutes. Strain the Brussels sprouts from the water and drain them in the colander for 5-10 minutes.
Spread the brussel sprouts out in a single layer on a large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a couple generous pinches of flakey salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss until all the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
Use a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to smash each Brussels sprout flat against the baking sheet.
Roast the Brussels sprouts for 10-15 minutes. Once the underside is crispy, flip them all over and roast for another 10-15 minutes until both sides are crisp. Serve immediately.
Cindie Haakenson is seen through a window of her home as the family farm is reflected before her on May 21 in Willow City, N.D. Despite a preference to remain at home, Cindie’s husband, Sherwood Haakenson, needed to move to a 24-hour long-term care center.
Tim Evans/for NPR
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Tim Evans/for NPR
RUGBY, N.D. — Cindie Haakenson was relieved when a room opened up at the Heart of America long-term care center this past spring.
Her 74-year-old husband, Sherwood, had been suffering from multiple fainting episodes in recent months due to issues with his heart and kidney. Finally, he could receive the 24-hour supervision he desperately needed.
But soon a new anxiety crept in: how to afford it.
“We’ve got enough tucked away to keep him for about a year. After that, I’m not sure,” Cindie said. “We’ve got farmland that we own we could sell, but it’s like giving away part of your legacy.”
Rain clouds gather near the Haakenson family farm in Willow City, N.D., on May 21. Most of the small cattle and wheat farm has been in Sherwood Haakenson’s family for over 130 years.
Tim Evans/for NPR
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Tim Evans/for NPR
The Haakensons own about 2,600 acres in North Dakota’s Willow City area. Most of the small cattle and wheat farm has been in Sherwood’s family for over 130 years. It survived brutal winters and the farm crisis of the 1980s. Now, the couple confronted a situation many aging family farmers fear: being forced to sell or break up the farm to pay for long-term care.
It was a gut-wrenching position to be in, but woefully familiar. Years earlier, Cindie watched as her parents’ health issues nearly cost them their farm.
Sherwood Haakenson sits in his room at the Heart of America Medical Center long-term care facility in Rugby, N.D., on May 14.
Tim Evans/for NPR
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Tim Evans/for NPR
“I’ve known forever that this is the way it is,” Cindie said. “And you just kind of hope that you don’t have to face it in the future.”
A third of Americans 65 and older will need a year of nursing home care in their lifetime, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. A semiprivate room today can cost some $8,700 per month — and it’s generally not covered by Medicare. Long-term care insurance exists, but it’s deeply unpopular with older Americans. So, many seniors dip into their retirement or savings to get the care they need, while others apply for Medicaid, which has its own challenges.
The choices are especially daunting for small farmers, according to Robert Moore, an attorney and researcher at Ohio State University’s Agricultural & Resource Law Program.
“I tell farmers all the time: There are no easy solutions to long-term care planning,” he said.
Moore called long-term care needs one of the biggest threats today to small family farms. He said farmers go to great lengths and years of planning to protect their land in their golden years. But with soaring costs and an aging boomer population, he expects the problem to only grow.
Leaving the farm isn’t easy, even when long-term care becomes a necessity
A person makes their way into the Heart of America Medical Center in Rugby, N.D., on May 21. The cost of long-term care can be challenging for some small family farmers to afford, especially if their assets are tied up in their farm and equipment.
Tim Evans/for NPR
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Tim Evans/for NPR
Sherwood’s health took a turn for the worse in October, when he collapsed at home and was airlifted from the local hospital to an emergency room in Fargo, N.D., some 200 miles away. Over the course of four months, he was taken to the ER six times, according to Cindie.
Each time felt like a close call. It’s not easy for EMT crews to find the couple’s home — especially at night. It was also impossible for Cindie, who’s a foot shorter than her husband, to try to lug him to the hospital herself.
In March, it was clear Sherwood needed to be closer to medical care in the likelihood he fainted again.
Although the nursing home was just a 20-minute drive from their home, it was hard for him to settle in. The Haakensons never did well far from home. They preferred the quiet, and although they had traveled across the country, their favorite views came from their family room window.
Sherwood and Cindie Haakenson sit in Sherwood’s room at the Heart of America Medical Center long-term care facility in Rugby, N.D.
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Tim Evans/for NPR
Sherwood had lived and worked at his farm for the past five decades. It was the ground his great-great-grandfather homesteaded.
“In June of 1890, that’s when they got their first land up there by Willow City. And I still have it,” Sherwood said back in April.
His family was among hundreds of Norwegian immigrants who helped shape Willow City. By the time he was born, the town had nearly 600 residents. Now, it’s just shy of 150 people and the grocery store, the high school, and two bars he once enjoyed are all closed.
“Everyone says it’s a dying little community,” he said.
Why long-term care costs are a threat to farmers
Cindie Haakenson drives an ATV out of her garage in Willow City, N.D., on May 21.
Tim Evans/for NPR
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Tim Evans/for NPR
Small family farmers are often “land rich, cash poor,” meaning their assets are tied up in their farm and equipment, according to Moore from Ohio State University.
“Most farmers live very frugally,” he said. “They don’t have living expenses of $100,000 a year. So when they get a $100,000 bill from the nursing home every year, that’s just not in their budget.”
There are about 1.9 million farms in the United States — 40% of which are owned by farmers 65 and older. Despite a trend of consolidation, as of 2022, about three-quarters of farms earned $50,000 or less in sales a year, according to the Department of Agriculture.
The average farmer can afford a year or two of long-term care by using their savings, or by selling their crops, livestock and machinery, Moore added. The situation can become dire when an aging farmer needs more than the average three years of care.
“What may keep farmers up at night is the possibility that they can be in a nursing home for many years and use up available resources and jeopardize the family farm operation for themselves and future generations,” Moore said.
Cindie Haakenson drives an ATV between her family farm and a neighboring property in Willow City, N.D., on May 21.
Tim Evans/for NPR
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Tim Evans/for NPR
The Haakensons sold their tools and machinery years ago. The only significant thing left to sell, according to Cindie, was their Chevy pickup truck, which would have helped pay for two months of care.
Ray German, the lead attorney at German Law in Grand Forks, N.D., said that in his experience,farmers with land that’s worth less than $1 million are at the greatest risk of losing their entire farm over long-term care costs.
“They are very concerned they could lose the whole farm. They could lose everything,” German said.
Medicaid is far from a solution
Registered nurse Susan Eback checks in on Sherwood Haakenson in his room at the Heart of America Medical Center in Rugby, N.D., on May 14. Haakenson had been suffering from multiple fainting episodes in recent months.
Tim Evans/for NPR
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Tim Evans/for NPR
Long-term care insurance is rife with its own problems, from complex underwriting to rising premiums. German, who has worked with thousands of older farmers to help preserve their estates in North Dakota and Minnesota,said only a tiny fraction of his clients use it.
“It’s expensive, and many times, you’ve got to jump through so many hoops depending on the policy,” he said.
Short-term care policies are a newer alternative to long-term care insurance, said Lance Boyer, a sales director at Farmers Union Insurance in North Dakota.But their benefits usually last no more than a year.
“They are really affordable and underwriting is pretty simple,” he said. But “it’s yet to be determined how impactful they are in the market because they’re still so new.”
Another option is Medicaid, which is the largest single payer for long-term care in the U.S. In North Dakota, while the program completely covers nursing home costs, enrollees can only have a few thousand dollars to their name. They can keep some additional cash and their home and car if it’s in their spouse’s name, but generally no other property. That’s especially troubling for farmers, whose livelihood and families are often intertwined with their land.
The Haakensons made arrangements to transfer their land to their son and daughter, who plan to continue their legacy of farming.
Tim Evans/for NPR
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Tim Evans/for NPR
“Owning farmland, particularly that’s been in the family for generations, is very different than owning a stock portfolio that may need to be liquidated,” Moore said. “There’s usually family heritage involved, and continuing that legacy is really important for a lot of farmers.”
One way farmers work around the Medicaid restrictions is to transfer their farm into an irrevocable trust and name their children as beneficiaries.
Even if farmers qualify for Medicaid, it can still take five years before Medicaid will pay for long-term care. That’s because in most states, Medicaid looks to see if any improper financial transactions were made in the five years leading up to seeking assistance. The requirement is called a “look-back period.”
Cindie made arrangements to transfer their farmland to their son and daughter three years ago. At the time, she thought she was being proactive — believing that she would be the one needing long-term care in the future. But because the Haakensons were within Medicaid’s five-year look-back period, they were unable to receive government assistance for Sherwood’s care.
The Haakensons’ farmhouse is pictured in Willow City, N.D., on May 21.
Tim Evans/for NPR
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Tim Evans/for NPR
A grim stroke of fate lets them keep the farm in the family, for now
Boyer of Farmers Union Insurance added that Medicaid should not be the end-all-be-all and there should be better solutions for aging farmers facing high long-term care costs.
Farming is not easy or predictable, he said. Overnight, a hailstorm can destroy months of labor invested in a crop. But farmers work the land anyway.
“They work their whole life, they pay their own bills,” he said. “Then, all of sudden, when they need the most help to get to the finish line, they literally have to wipe out everything they’ve accumulated in life to get that help.”
Cindie Haakenson is pictured at her home in Willow City, N.D. Sherwood Haakenson is pictured at the Heart of America Medical Center long-term care facility in Rugby, N.D. Sherwood died on June 17.
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Tim Evans/for NPR
On June 17, Sherwood died in his room at the long-term care center.
Friends near and far, both old and new, attended his service. Weeks later, Cindie said fellow farmers continued to reach out to give their condolences and share stories about her husband — many of which were new to her.
“I’ve said it this way: He’s cut a wide swath over his years,” Cindie said in July.
It was strange for her to talk about Sherwood without also worrying about him. For the better part of the last decade, Cindie’s life centered around being her husband’s caretaker and, more recently, protecting their farm. She felt some peace knowing she had done her part. But a little anxiety remained.
“If I can stay healthy for two years, the land is safe,” she said.
This story was supported by the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting.
The online event is an invitation for BIPOC artists to chat about the potential of using sound and video in creative endeavours.
Led by industry experts Chris Gatchalian and Anju Singh, this free interactive session can also provide valuable insights into collaborating with media artists, and securing funding for media arts elements.
Save the date: Mar. 18, 1 – 2:30 PM Location: Online Register now to reserve your spot
CultureBrew.Art is a digital platform that promotes and fosters intersectional interculturalism throughout Canada’s professional performing and media arts sectors by facilitating opportunities and connecting Indigenous and racialized artists.
The BC Alliance is extremely inspired to be sponsoring this event, and to be building meaningful ongoing collaboration with our wonderful colleagues at CultureBrew.Art.
Saint John New Brunswick just might be the most underrated city in Canada. And during our two visits, we found plenty of things to do in Saint John, that will completely surprise you. With historic buildings converted to chic coffee shops and micro brewpubs, local artists setting up shop downtown, and nature at your fingertips, Saint John has quickly turned into one of Canada’s coolest cities to visit.
Things to do in Saint John, New Brunswick
Saint John, NB is one of Canada’s oldest cities dating back to 1604. Discovered by Samuel de Champlain, it became a major hub due to its inviting harbour. The city has been having a renaissance this past decade with Millenials opening businesses and artists setting up shop. If you are planning an East Coast road trip, be sure to put Saint John, New Brunswick on your list. Fundy National Park, located in southern New Brunswick, is easily accessible from Saint John and offers wilderness areas, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. These are the top attractions in Saint John and the best day trips from the city.
While the rugged coast of New Brunswick is a major draw road tripper, there are plenty of things to do in Saint John located in the heart of the city. We suggest spending at least two nights to take in the energy of the town and to explore the nightlife.
1. Reversing Falls
As one local said to us, “The Reversing Falls of Saint John is probably the most overrated attraction in the city, but the science behind it is interesting.” And once you understand that the Bay of Fundy is so powerful that it reverses the flow of the Saint John River twice a day, it’s pretty cool.
We checked it out from two different viewpoints. I highly recommend going to the Reversing Falls Skywalk and Bridge to see it from above.
Saint John itself s located on the Bay of Fundy creating a unique phenomenon as the Bay of Fundy’s high tide collides with the Saint John River. As the tides rise, it overpowers the river reversing the flow. It’s a cool thing to see the river flowing one way and then smashing against the tide creating rapids and whirlpools.
2. Market Square
This cool street has kept its historic feel with eateries and bars inside building facades dating back to the 1800s. It has that old world charm with a hip modern vibe.
Stroll along North Market Wharf’s waterfront boardwalk where you’ll happen upon festivals and music events on the outdoor stage. Pop into a pub or restaurant and do some shopping. At night, things really kick off with people bar hopping and outdoor entertainment taking place at the waterfront.
Cool fact: The New Brunswick Museum is also located at Market Square. It’s Canada’s oldest continuous-running museum!
3. Saint John City Market
City Market is an indoor market in downtown Saint John and it is perfect to stroll through to buy some snacks for your road trip or for a picnic in the park. Grab some bread and cheese at the lovely market and have a picnic in King’s Square, a vibrant park with a unique design that resembles the British flag and is close to local attractions like the Saint John City Market. This is a great place to end your walk after browsing the Saint John Galleries.
4. Kings Square
Established in 1734, King’s Square was named after King George III. There are statues and monuments dedicated to great Canadians and war heroes. And it’s situated in a lovely setting with park benches and greenery surrounding the main pavilion, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic.
5. Barbour’s General Store
Barbour’s General Store is a very cool museum and shop that dates back to the 1800s. This is a great place to start your tour of Saint John. It was originally built in Northern New Brunswick and brought to Saint John in 29167.
The Saint John visitor’s centre is located inside where you can book tours and pick up information on the area. And get information on touring downtown for the historic walks of Saint John.
6. Historic Walks of Saint John New Brunswick
Saint John is Canada oldest city and the only city located on the Bay of Fundy. It is filled with history from the early settlers and a fascinating maritime past.
It is worth taking one of its historic walks to learn more about a city that dates back to 1604 when Samuel de Champlain proclaimed the name St. John. It was another 25 years before a trading post was built here.
The area saw many historic events including the American Revolution where 14,000 Loyalists settled along the St. John River. Today you can trace that history along the Loyalist Trail, Victorian Stroll, and Prince William Walk.
Each self-guided walking tour takes about 1.5 hours and is an interesting way to explore the architecture and streets of Saint John.
7. Loyalist Trail
Loyalist House – Union Street
Walk the Loyalist Trail throughout the downtown core to follow in the footsteps of early settlers. There are signs throughout the city featuring plaques and buildings showcasing the history of the Americans who settled the area after the American Revolution. Here you’ll see the loyalist cemetery and picturesque gardens.
Stops on the Loyalist Trail Include:
County Court, King’s Square
City Market
The Old Burial Ground at Sydney Street
Stone Church on Carlton Street
Loyalist House on Union Street
Barbour’s General Store.
8. Historic Imperial Theatre
The Imperial Theatre is a gorgeous historic theatre with a connection to Hollywood. Louis B. Mayer (MGM Studios fame) grew up in Saint John and mentored a local businessman by the name of Walter Golding.
Golding opened the vaudeville theatre attracting the likes of Ethel Barrymore and Harry Houdini. It has recently been renovated and the historic decor will knock you off your feet. You can take a tour of the theatre, or see a show!
9. Grannan and Germain
This is the coolest corner in Saint John. Here you’ll find quirky shops, artist galleries, and plenty of choices for food, bars, and pubs. Grab dinner at Italian by Night that serves delicious authentic Italian food and then finish off on the comfy sofas of Port City Royal for cocktails.
10. Downtown Art Galleries
There are plenty of artists that have set up shop in Saint John and you can take a gallery tour to see them all. The people of Saint John are welcoming and will happily invite you in for a chat to talk about the artists and art of display.
If you continue walking to Princess Street from Grannan, you’ll come to many galleries and workshops. Pop into the historic warehouses and you’ll find artists studios showcasing unique works of art.
11. Cape Spencer Lighthouse
Just a short drive out of the city is the Cape Spencer Lighthouse. The lighthouse itself isn’t spectacular, but the view is phenomenal. High cliffs overlook the Bay of Fundy with the lighthouse standing proud on a steep hill reaching 200 feet above the bay.
It’s located near Bayshore Beach, when you are there, head down to the water for a little bit of beach time.
12. Hiking Trails Irving Nature Park
If you are looking for things to do in Saint John outdoors, there are plenty of things to do near the city. Irving Nature Park has plenty of hiking trails with lookouts to impressive views of The Bay of Fundy. With 6 different ecosystems, it’s an interesting hike. We stumbled upon a long sandy beach that we walked hand in hand in solitude and it is a great place for bird watching and watching the Bay of Fundy.
13. Sunset at Fort Howe
The best place in Saint John for sunset is Fort Howe. Climb to the top of the hill and watch the sun go down over the city with the Trinity Church Steeple front and centre.
14. Carlton Martello Tower
Martello Tower dates back to the war of 1812. It is just one of 9 remaining Martello Towers in Canada that were important forts for keeping watch over the port. It is a national historic site and worth a visit. The structure has been restored with army barracks, jail, and gun powder rooms dating back to 1865.
15. Rockwood Park
Rockwood Park is a sprawling 2,200-acre oasis in the heart of Saint John, New Brunswick. This natural gem offers a diverse array of landscapes, from dense forests and serene lakes to lush wetlands. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a biking enthusiast, or someone who loves to paddle, Rockwood Park has something for everyone.
Families will find plenty of picnic areas and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for a day out. Wildlife enthusiasts can keep an eye out for deer, various bird species, and fish in the park’s waters. Open year-round, Rockwood Park offers guided tours and educational programs that cater to visitors of all ages, making it a fantastic destination for nature photography and birdwatching.
One of the park’s highlights is the 1.5 km Rockwood Park Trail, perfect for a leisurely walk to soak in the natural beauty of Saint John. Whether you’re looking to relax or embark on an outdoor adventure, Rockwood Park is a must-visit destination in Saint John, New Brunswick.
Saint John Day Trips
When travelling anywhere in Canada, we recommend having your own car. We booked a car rental for our road trip giving us a lot of flexibility. And with cheap parking across the street, we set out daily to explore the sights in and around the city. Most attractions are anywhere from 10 minutes to 2-hours away.
Fundy National Park, located in southern New Brunswick, offers stunning wilderness areas, diverse wildlife, and scenic landscapes, making it a must-visit destination.
If you visit Saint John, New Brunswick, here are the main attractions you cannot miss.
16. Hopewell Rocks
Hopewell Rocks is a perfect day trip from Saint John New Brunswick
The Hopewell Rocks are probably the most famous attraction on all of New Brunswick and with good reason. Located 2 hours from Saint John, they make for an excellent day trip from the city.
These flower pot rocks grace the covers of magazines and travel guides whenever one searches for Canadian East Coast Attractions. Every day 100 million tons of water drain from the Bay of Fundy revealing the ocean floor. This is your chance to witness the world’s highest tides.
Visitors can walk for hours along the Bay of Fundy taking in the massive rock formation uncovered by the tides. Keep an eye on tidal times to plan your visit. You can walk around the rocks 3 hours before and 3 hours after low tide.
We recommend visiting around sunset. Once the sun goes down, most people leave and you have it all to yourselves. There are companies that offer kayaking around Hopewell Rocks at high tide and this is highly recommended. We kayaked the Three Sisters on the other side of the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia and it was a highlight of our trip!
17. Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park is one of Canada’s Premier National Parks Located between Hopewell Rocks and Saint John, it is just a 1-hour drive from the city. Spend at least a day exploring the beautiful scenery and hiking trails of the park. Trails range from short 100 metre walks to 8 km treks. Read more at: The Most Beautiful National Parks in Canada
18. Waterfalls
It’s a beautiful drive, but please do get out of the car to take in the lovely waterfalls, bogs, beaver ponds and boardwalks. If you decide to overnight in the park, there are several options from camping to cabin rentals, yurts and oTENTiks.
You can also book guided walks at the park headquarters to explore the Medicinal forests, beach explorations and indigenous experiences.
19. Cape Enrage
Cape Enrage is not only a gorgeous scenic stop on the coast, but it is also a beautiful drive. Driving through the winding roads, we stopped regularly to take in the views before coming out at a rocky beach filled with Inukshuks.
When the tide is out, the rock led to a giant sandbar where you can walk out 200 metres along the ocean floor.
Just a little farther along is the Cape Enrage lighthouse sitting atop a towering cliff. Bring a picnic to enjoy the view or have a coffee and snack at the restaurant.
There are also some adventures to be had including a zip line and 46-metre (150 foot) rappelling wall. We didn’t know about the rock climbing wall, or we would have definitely geared up for a climb.
20. St. Martins Covered Bridges
Covered Bridge St. Martins
St. Martins is a beautiful historic town that is not far from Saint John. While we recommend staying a night here, it can easily be done as a day trip to see it’s amazing scenery including its 2 covered bridges. New Brunswick is known for its historic covered bridges. You can find them scattered throughout the province. But there are two located very close to Saint John in the town of St. Martins.
If you time it right, you can experience the best of the Bay of Fundy at low tide. We went early in the morning to avoid crowds and traffic and explored at low tide. The town was quiet and fishing boats sat on dry land waiting for the tides to come in. The ocean floor was exposed and we walked along the rocky beach spying eagles perched on the pier looking for their prey. Be sure to take a walk on the trails near the lighthouse for better views of the river and bridges.
21. Caves of St Martins
The Caves of St. Martin are also not to be missed! St. Martin Caves almost disappear at high tide, but when the water goes out, you can walk all the way out to explore inside. These caves are massive and impressive.
The red cliffs attract photographers from around the world to capture those iconic Instagram shots. Don’t forget to go around the corner to explore even more caves and cliffs.
And make sure come back later in the day to see the caves at high tide. You’ll be amazed to see how much water covers the ground that you walked on hours earlier. You can also book kayaking trips in St. Martins to go out and explore the Bay of Fundy.
22. Fundy Trail Parkway
St. Martins is the gateway to the Fundy Trail. The Fundy Trail Parkway is a 30km (19mile) drive along the coast of New Brunswick. At one time, visitors could only see this scenic stretch of coastline by hiking the Fundy Footpath (68 km long). But today anyone can explore the coast by car with the option to get out and hike a few km to see beaches, gorges and waterfalls.
Hikes range from 300 (984 feet) metres long to 4.4 km. (2.73 miles) It is one of the most scenic drives in Canada with incredible views of massive sea cliffs. What we love about this drive is that the speed limit is only 40 km (24mph) and there are several pull-offs to take in the view.
23. Split Rock at Duck Pond Beach
We never would have known of this spot were it not for Ingrid at Bunkhaus Hostel. We were searching for a place to spend sunrise and she suggested Duck Pond Road, just 40 minutes outside the city.
While crowds gathered at the cliffs of St. Martins, we had the view of the Cliffs of Simonds all to ourselves. They are just as impressive as St. Martins with red cliffs stretching out to the sea. The cliffs are located on a beach where you can spread out a blanket to take in the view.
24. Alma
Alma is a town located at the entrance to Fundy National Park and is a charming fishing village that is worth spending some time in. It has a lot of different options for dining and a few places for accommodation.
There are gift shops and bookstores reminding me a bit of the small towns located along Route 66. In the summertime, this place is buzzing. It is here that you can capture another one of those iconic shots of fishing boats tied to the pier sitting on dry land waiting for the tide to come in.
25. Bay of Fundy
The Bay of Fundy, nestled between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, is a natural wonder that boasts some of the highest tides in the world. This stunning bay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like kayaking, whale watching, and hiking. The bay’s rich biodiversity includes whales, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds, making it a prime spot for wildlife observation.
Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Bay of Fundy is celebrated for its unique natural and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the bay through guided tours that delve into its fascinating history, geology, and wildlife. With numerous beaches and coves, the Bay of Fundy is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and boating. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, the Bay of Fundy offers an unforgettable experience in New Brunswick.
Where to Eat in Saint John
Lemongrass & Peppers Pub – Lemongrass had authentic Thai Cuisine that was very satisfying. Located at Market Square you can eat on the patio or inside.
East Coast Bistro – East Coast Bistro is an upscale restaurant that is perfect for a romantic night out. We strolled along Prince William Street to the inviting diner where we ate wine and cheese while waiting for our main course. I’ll definitely be eating there again.
Saint John Ale House – Located near Lemongrass at Market Square, Saint John Ale House is another great place to eat. Its upscale pub fare offers a lot of choice with a rotating menu. Like Lemongrass, it has a patio where you can take in the action on the boardwalk.
Italian by Night – This was our favourite meal in Saint John. The authentic Italian cuisines made us feel as if we had stepped into a little corner of Italy.
Port City Royal – Port City Royal has an inviting atmosphere with exposed brick and a comfy leather couch that invites patrons to mix and mingle. Great for a cocktail after your meal, or you can order food here too.
Where to Stay in Saint John
The Hilton Saint John is a good central location on the water that is within walking distance to all the downtown attractions. Plus, you can never go wrong with a Hilton. Check out rates and Availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
Delta Hotels by Marriott is another great location downtown. Just 25 minutes from Saint John Airport in the heart of downtown. The indoor pedway system connects it to Saint John City Market, Brunswick Square Shopping Complex, City Hall, the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, Harbour Station. View it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
Saint John, New Brunswick will definitely surprise you. Many people overlook travel to New Brunswick when visiting the East Coast, but there are many things to do in Saint John and the surrounding area.
If you add it to your itinerary, you won’t be disappointed.
If you ask someone from Saint John what makes it so special, the unanimous answer will be the people. And we agree! The people of Saint John are the friendliest in Canada and are happy to lend a helping hand, offer advice and just say hello in the morning while you are out for your coffee. If you travel to Saint John New Brunswick, you’ll make memories to last a lifetime.
Plan Your Trip To Canada’s East Coast With These Resources
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DAY 9 #TYLERPERRYMARATHON Today was bearable outside, altho temperatures are reaching 90 degrees here in Atlanta, I’m cool as Gil Scott Heron on my crusade. We only have one life to live, so if you deserve your space at the table, You’d better SHOW UP! And show up with RECEIPTS! Don’t fall in line with all the internet fantasies. People are really struggling out here and the struggle REQUIRES passion, resilience and purpose. I AM ON PURPOSE! I AM IN ALIGNMENT WITH MY DESTINY! I AM RELENTLESS!PLEASE TAG Tyler Perry Tyler Perry Studios Oprah Winfrey Mona Scott-Young TMZ The Zeus Network Will Packer Barrett Dungy and any other influencer who you believe can move this initiative forward. I’ll do this ALL YEAR if need be. Think of it this way: If Gordon Parks, James Baldwin, or Gil Scott Heron wanted this meeting, could they get it? Check my receipts. And as usual, For GOD SAKES, if you see me in these Atlanta streets with my little cardboard sign, HONK 3X FOR LOVE! I NEED A MEETING WITH MISTER PERRY!
Marcus Hutchins’ journey from an obscure hacker to a global cybersecurity hero is a tale of redemption and moral complexity. Born and raised in a quiet English village, Hutchins was always drawn to the world of computers. By the age of 13, he was already exploring the dark corners of the internet, learning to code and creating his first piece of malware—a simple password stealer. As his skills grew, so did his involvement in the hacker underground, eventually leading him to create more sophisticated and dangerous software.
At 16, Hutchins was approached by a mysterious figure known as “Vinny,” who offered him a partnership to develop a rootkit called UPAS Kit, later evolving into Kronos—a potent piece of banking malware. Despite his growing unease, Hutchins continued down this path, driven by the thrill of hacking and the financial rewards it brought. However, the more he delved into the world of cybercrime, the more he realized the consequences of his actions, particularly when he was asked to create features that would enable financial fraud.
Hutchins’ turning point came when he was caught in a web of his own making. He had become deeply involved in a world where trust was scarce, and betrayal was common. His partnership with Vinny eventually led to the creation of Kronos, a piece of malware that could have catastrophic effects on its victims, siphoning money from their bank accounts without their knowledge. The weight of his actions began to weigh heavily on Hutchins, leading him to step away from the dark side of hacking.
By 2017, Hutchins had shifted his focus to cybersecurity, working for a firm called Kryptos Logic. It was during this time that the WannaCry ransomware attack struck, spreading rapidly across the globe and causing widespread panic. Hutchins, using his deep understanding of malware, discovered a “kill switch” within the WannaCry code that could stop the attack in its tracks. He registered a domain name that the malware was programmed to contact, unknowingly halting the spread of WannaCry and saving countless systems from being compromised.
However, this act of heroism did not erase his past. Just months after stopping WannaCry, Hutchins was arrested by the FBI while attending a conference in Las Vegas. The charges against him were related to his earlier work on Kronos, and he was faced with the harsh reality that his past actions had finally caught up with him. The hacker community rallied around Hutchins, recognizing his transformation and the good he had done, but the legal system was less forgiving.
Hutchins eventually pleaded guilty to two charges related to his creation of malware, but the judge, recognizing his efforts to turn his life around, sentenced him to time served, allowing him to walk free. Despite the relatively lenient sentence, Hutchins struggled with guilt and the feeling that he did not deserve the support and accolades he had received.
Now living in the shadow of his past, Hutchins continues to work in cybersecurity, driven by a desire to prevent others from making the same mistakes he did. His story is a powerful reminder of the complexities of morality, the possibility of redemption, and the impact one individual can have on the digital world—for better or for worse.
Next week I have a speaking engagement to share with a room of professionals about ‘AI’. It is such a big subject and everyone seems to be talking about it. It reminds me of back in the day when the Internet was in its infancy. All talk but not so much action.
I thought it would be interesting for my readers to learn a little bit about what I have learned and how I am using AI to massively improve my productivity. I will split my presentation into sections on particular business functions. I will be focussing on:
“How do I grow my business cost effectively when I just don’t have enough hours in the day?”
Marketing – always more to do, never enough budget – and how do I stand out from the rest. AI is a game changer – especially for a start-up or Entrepreneur who is still trying to do a lot themselves.
There is still a place for experience, creativity, and human emotion.
When you think about ‘where should I start?’ consider what is the one bottleneck in your business that if you solved it – life would become easier.
Below, I explore look at how AI tools are revolutionising marketing strategies, with examples of well-crafted prompts that maximise potential – so you can give it a try for yourself. (I might have had AI help me some what with the below). The most important thing to remember is to review what comes back, based on your own experience and who your audience is. Not everything produced by AI is factually correct or right for your brand.
AI-Powered Content Creation
AI tools like GPT-4 by OpenAI are transforming content creation. These tools generate high-quality content quickly, reducing the time and effort required for writing and editing.
Example Prompt: “Generate a 500-word blog post on the latest trends in digital marketing for small businesses, highlighting the impact of social media and SEO strategies.”
Benefits: Saves time, ensures consistency in tone, and allows marketers to focus on strategic tasks – but always check it.
Enhanced Customer Segmentation
AI algorithms analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and segment customers more accurately. This enables personalized marketing strategies that resonate better with target audiences.
Example Prompt: “Analyze our customer database to identify distinct segments based on purchasing behavior, demographics, and engagement levels.”
Benefits: Improves targeting and personalization, leading to higher conversion rates.
Predictive Analytics for Campaign Optimization
AI-driven predictive analytics tools forecast future trends based on historical data, helping marketers optimize their campaigns for better outcomes.
Example Prompt: “Predict the performance of our upcoming email marketing campaign based on past campaign data and suggest improvements.”
Benefits: Enhances campaign effectiveness, reduces wastage of resources, and improves ROI.
Chatbots for Customer Engagement
AI-powered chatbots provide instant customer support and engagement, improving user experience and freeing up human resources for more complex tasks.
Example Prompt: “Create a chatbot script that guides users through our product catalog and assists with common queries.”
AI tools monitor social media platforms to gauge public sentiment and gather insights about brand perception. This information helps in shaping marketing strategies and addressing customer concerns promptly.
Example Prompt: “Analyze social media mentions of our brand over the past month and provide a sentiment analysis report.”
AI personalizes user experiences by recommending products, content, and services based on individual preferences and behavior.
Example Prompt: “Generate personalized product recommendations for each user based on their browsing and purchase history.”
Benefits: Increases customer satisfaction and loyalty, boosts sales, and enhances user engagement.
Conclusion
And there is so much more! There are tools that help you craft content specifically designed to optimise for search (SEO) perhaps you could get it to help you craft the perfect brand promise, edit images or create great designs… If it is a bottleneck in your business then there is probably an AI tool that is changing the way we do business.
It might be worth practicing. How you write / develop prompts is key… put yourself in the shoes of the reader.
For more insights on how AI is transforming marketing and other industries, visit NaomiSimson.com.
