The Land That Draws You Back

A travel journal to Churchill by Doreen

I'll soon be making my third trip to Churchill, and can't wait to get there. There's something about this special place that draws you back -- again and again.

  • 3 reviews
Sure, Churchill is best known as the 'Polar Bear Capital of the World,' but there's much more to it than that. If you come in March, you'll bear witness to a spectacular show in the skies, as the aurora borealis -- northern lights -- dance overhead. But be warned. March in Churchill can mean bitter cold temperatures and roof-high snow.

Visiting in summer is spectacular. You'll have the opportunity to get close enough to the beluga whales to pet them, and you'll also have the opportunity to visit the Prince of Wales Fort and several other historic sites.

But most visitors come to Churchill during October and November, when polar bears in the region can outnumber the human inhabitants!

Quick Tips:

The best tip anyone can give a potential visitor to Churchill is: BE PREPARED FOR THE WEATHER!

Churchill's weather can be extreme at any time of year. I was there in August, when record-breaking hot temperatures exceeded 90 degrees F (34 degrees C). I was also there in March, when it was minus 80 degrees F with the windchill factored in.

The best advice is to bring plenty of layers, and check Environment Canada's Web site for the latest weather conditions before leaving home.

Best Way To Get Around:

There are no public buses in Churchill, but there are taxi cabs.

It's easy to walk from one end of the town in summer (June - August), but in winter (anytime from November until April), the Arctic winds off Hudson Bay can instantly freeze your skin.
The Churchill Northern Studies Centre provides dorm-style accommodations that are clean and comfortable.

Meals are included in most programs, as are seasonal activities.

You'll also have the opportunity to rub shoulders with researchers and photographers from throughout the world during your stay at the Centre.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by Doreen on August 25, 2000

Churchill Northern Studies Centre
P.O. Box 610 Churchill, Manitoba
(204) 675-2307

Gypsy's is the meeting place in Churchill. Pretty much everybody -- whether locals or visitors -- can be found at Gypsy's sometime during the day.

They have fabulous European-style pastries, a well-stocked deli, light meals and a full bar menu.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Doreen on August 25, 2000

Gypsy's Deli and Bakery
253 Kelsey Blvd. Churchill, Manitoba
(204) 675-2322

About the Writer

Doreen
Doreen
Dugald, Manitoba
  • "I'm a freelance writer, specializing in travel, lifestyle, and entrepreneurhsip."
  • 3 journals
  • 0 photos
  • 6 reviews

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