I decided to take the most direct route to the ferry. It was only 6km, but seemed longer. Although there was barely any traffic the road was cracked and worn and there was a cool wind blowing against me. When I got to the ferry cars had just started loading, but since I was on a bike I was able to pass all of them and ride right to the front of the ferry. I noticed two bicycle tourists on their way out and I waved. I found my way to the deck of the ship where I spent almost the entire 75 minute ride to P.E.I. It was cool, but I enjoyed the breeze as I watched Nova Scotia grow fainter while the island up ahead crept closer into view. Although the sky was overcast and I could occassionally feel a few drops of rain, at least there was no fog so I could actually see.

The lighthouse at Wood Island.

As it neared noon I stopped at a restaurant by the road for lunch. They didn't, as usual, have anything healthy on the menu so I had fish and chips again. While I continued my ride I could feel drops of rain, but it was never enough to make anything wet. Then, all of a sudden, the traffic came out of nowhere. Before long the riding felt more like a chore as I was forced to pay most of my attention to keeping on the shoulder. At least the wind was on my side and its coolness kept me from sweating as profusely as I normally do.

A fine looking abode.

I made my way through the myriad of one way streets into downtown. I managed to find the right address—a big old house across the street from a pub. I went in the lobby and found people all about. I asked a lady if they were open. No, they were moving. Um. Dang. That explained the truck outside. I was dissappointed—this would have been a great location. So I found my way back up through the roads to the International Hostel. It looked like an old farm house, and judging by it's land, laneway and location, probably was at one point.

The PEI hostel. Where it's at.

We talked for a long while. Or rather, they did most of the talking. The girl tended to steer the conversation to herself more than Jeff. After a while Jeff and I walked (and walked) into downtown to grab a bite to eat. We found a pub and I had another unhealthy (but very appetizing) meal... and a Keith's. Afterwards we checked out the park by the river where they had a band playing (Great Big Sea tomorrow) and other pre-Canada Day festivities. There was admission to get in, so we didn't stay long and headed back to the hostel. We walked (and walked) back and arrived at about 10:00pm. Throughout the entire time Jeff and I were together he did most of the talking. It's kind of ironic, really—you'd think I'd be the one starved to talk to people. But I found myself more than happy to listen to him. I guess I've gained a bit of humility on this trip. I think I could tell you about his life and dreams. Still, his chatter felt less self-centred and more of a need to talk to someone other than the people he's with every day.

Back at the hostel I grabbed a seat on the couch where a girl and two guys were watching T.V. Then they put in The Empire Strikes Back. Before long there were about six or seven of us watching it and making the occasional 'witty' comments. About halfway through I managed to pull myself free. I think they plan to watch the next one, too, but I'd like to get up early. (Like I ever manage to get up as early as I want to!)

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