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Smoking Hills Canada Cruise Port Guide
Location:
As cruise ships are not able to dock here you will be tendered ashore.
Sightseeing:
The Smoking Hills are located on the east coast of Cape Bathurst in Canada's Northwest Territories, next to the Arctic Ocean and a small group of lakes.
The cliffs, named by explorer John Franklin, contain strata of hydrocarbons (oil shales), who have been burning for centuries without cessation (original inflammation by lightning). The clouds of smoke have given the region its name and have acidified the lakes during the years down to a pH lower than 2.
Although the soil of the region contains much limestone, the buffer effect has completely disappeared. The nearest community, Paulatuk, which is about 105 km (65 mi) east, is named in recognition of the coal found in the area, traditionally spelt "Paulatuuq" or "place of coal".
Perhaps the most remarkable feature of this region is the "smoking hills", a site of slow-burning bituminous coal. In this landscape, which resembles paintings of Hell, sulphur fumes have killed off the vegetation, and smoke billows from the cracks in the ash-covered ground.
Tours Excursions Transportation:
Nearby Places:
Shopping and Food
It's considered normal to tip 10-15% of a restaurant bill. Tips are also usually given to bell hops, concierges, room cleaners, cab drivers, hairdressers, hotel attendants and, by savvy drinkers, bar staff.
Currency:
Canadian dollar
You will find ATMs in many grocery stores, malls, airports and so on, and most are linked to the international networks, the most common being Cirrus, Plus, Star and Maestro. You can also grab cash from an ATM if you use a major credit card although this method tends to be more expensive because, in addition to a service fee, you'll be charged interest immediately.
Communication:
In Canada the main languages are English 59.3%, French 23.2% (both official); other 17.5%. Quebec and New Brunswick being the most "French" The rest of the country is English speaking.
Opening Hours and Holidays:
Holidays in Canada
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