Who: Denise Newberry of Fort Collins
Where: Out on a Tundra Buggy alongside the Hudson Bay, in the far North of Churchill, Manitoba. The “polar bear capital” of the world!
Best meal: Gypsy’s Bakery anytime, especially for treats like Naniamo bars if you’re craving chocolate. A handful of restaurants to try if you stay long enough: Seaport Hotel Dining Room, Traders Table, Churchill Restaurant, and the Lazy Bear Café, to name a few.
Best deal: Begin watching the Polar Bear Cam before you depart on your trip. The Polar Bear Cam is the best way to experience the polar bears of Churchill without actually being there! Polarbearcam.com donates 60 percent of your $25 subscription directly to worldwide polar bear conservation efforts managed by Polar Bears International.
Best time to go: There is no predictable peak-viewing time since congregation of the population depends on ice formation. This period can vary from early October to mid-December. Generally, you should be able to see polar bears throughout the months of October and November, but there is never any guarantee. During October and November, several polar bear-viewing tours, including Tundra Buggy Tours and Great White Bear Tours, operate out of Churchill. Natural Habitat Adventures is a Boulder company that leads several tours to Churchill.
Best travel tip: With plenty of planning you can arrange a trip by yourself. Lots of info on the Internet (townofchurchill.ca). If you travel by train in Economy Class bring your pillow, small sleeping bag, and learn how to turn the pairs of seats such that they face each other; it essentially gives you a “micro-suite” of sorts!
