Definitively, the words Nova Scotia are Latin for New Scotland and with the abundant Scottish / Celtic cultures, plus the Acadian (French), since early immigration of tens of thousand new pioneers in the early 1600's, Nova Scotia has become a vibrant land of its roots. All of the divine cultural elements contribute to a unique experience for every visitor that touches its shores. Though modern conveniences of all forms have since grown up with the province, former protective wooden forts, historic sites, traditional festivals in full costume, and the unequivocal Nova Scotia accent, forever solidify how visitors feel about the true Nova Scotia. Its people and its music echo in your ears for days, long after you return home. While visiting, you can trace your genealogy at the Halifax Archives, discover colourful historic fishing towns, step back into the life of Alexander Graham Bell (who, of course, discovered the telephone), find yourself lost in an evening of fine dining and Celtic song, or revel in a maritime sunset after a day beachcombing one of the one hundred (plus) beaches! Considering that so much of Nova Scotia lines the ocean, you won't be surprised to find dozens of truly wondrous sea bound activities that take you whale watching out for Digby Neck, surfing of the shores of Lawrencetown, scuba diving around the deep wrecks, rafting the grand Tidal Bore, trying out your kayaking skills in the beautiful rocky coastline of the Bay of Fundy (home to the world's highest and lowest tide-lines), or sailing to and from just about anywhere along the province. However, if you happen to be a land-lover you will be happy to discover the forested cycling trails, over sixty golf courses, terrific National park trails, or the chance to take on a hike through Cape Chignecto. For a culturally enriching experience in Canada, Nova Scotia is appropriately named on the eastern shore as "The Gateway to Canada" and remembered as one of the friendliest welcomes found anywhere!