Just back from Maine and Atlantic Canada, a favorite vacation spot. Some
observations:
1) Park signs for both state and federal parks along coastal route 1 north
of Acadia seemed to be dual mile/kilometer.
2) The little international bridge at Compobello had a dual mile/kilometer
sign on the *US* side.
3) Irving gas station in Calais were advertising prices in dual
gallon/liter. Irving is based in Saint John NB.
4) Route 9 between Calais and Bangor had sections freshly marked off every
20 m for road resurfacing.
5) An 18-wheeler in New Brunsick had its length labeled in huge letters
"26.5 metres". I'd like to see them deliver something in the States.
6) A 50-something waitress at Canso Causeway (Cape Breton) restaurant was
complaining loudly to restaurant patrons about temperatures near 27-29. When
she refilled my coffee I said Maritimers don't have a clue what hot is, try
38 to 40!
7) A couple Canadians in teens/20s seemed intrigued at an American who
understood Celsius. Others didn't notice.
8) 90% of all private signs were labeled in kilometers in NB/NS.
9) Dual mile/kilometer distance signs along the Maine Turnpike now extend
into New Hampshire, which is NEW since my last trip two years ago. I took
pictures, but unfortunately they're buried in a new roll of film which I
won't finish for another month (fall colors in northern PA/NY). When that
happens I'll post to the list. I know, must get the digital camera
fixed/upgraded.
Nat
PS: On a ligher note, I ran into US customs inspector(Calais ME)with a good
sense of humor:
Customs: Where are you from?
Me: Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Customs: Citizen of what country?
Me: U.S.
Customs: How long have you been out of the country?
Me: 4-5 days.
Customs: Are you bringing anything back with you?
Me: No.
Customs: Why aren't you driving a horse and buggy?
Me: [startled for 500 ms] Huh??
Customs: [smile showing] You know I grew up around Philadelphia. I know
about you Amish in Lancaster.
Me: [defensive/smiling] Well, we don't ALL drive horses and buggies!!
Customs: [smiling] Have a good day.
[both laughing]
He was still doing his job though, I was from Lancaster because I pronounced
it the local way.
