Exploring the Arctic Wonders of Iqaluit with Friends

Finding Beauty and Comfort in Iqaluit

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the profound beauty of Iqaluit's cultural landmarks with the simple pleasures of good food and local shopping. It's amazing how much a single day can offer, especially when you're open to the unexpected. I started the day with a sense of anticipation, eager to explore more of what this unique Arctic city has to offer.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Tim Hortons. I know, I know, it's a Canadian staple and perhaps not the most adventurous choice, but sometimes you just crave that familiar taste of home, even when you're thousands of miles away. Plus, it was a great spot to plan out the day with my friends over coffee and Timbits. We discussed our itinerary and made sure we were all set for a day of exploration.


Discover Tim Hortons in Iqaluit: Your go-to spot for delicious coffee, fresh pastries, and hearty breakfasts amidst the beauty of Nunavut.

Our first stop was St. Jude's Anglican Cathedral ᒫᓐᓇ ᐃᓄᒃᑎᑐᑦ ᐃᓄᒃᑎᑐᑦ. This isn't just any cathedral; it's an architectural marvel shaped like an igloo, a nod to the traditional Inuit homes. The original cathedral was built in 1972, but after a devastating fire in 2005, it was rebuilt and reopened in 2012. The story of its resilience is as inspiring as the building itself. Standing before it, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The igloo shape, stark white against the Arctic sky, is both simple and striking.


Discover the cultural heart of Iqaluit at St. Jude's Anglican Cathedral, a stunning architectural wonder reflecting the spirit of the North.

Inside, the cathedral was even more impressive. Although I am not particularly religious, I was deeply moved by the sense of peace and community within those walls. The architecture is designed to incorporate elements of the Inuit culture. The altar cross, crafted from narwhal tusks, was particularly striking, a testament to the local craftsmanship and the unique environment. The silver bowl, a gift from the Queen during the initial groundbreaking ceremony in 1970, added a touch of historical significance. It was a truly special place, and I felt grateful to have experienced it with my friends.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of places.

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of St. Jude's, we were ready for lunch. We headed over to BT Kitchen Food, a local spot known for its delicious and comforting meals. I decided to try some local cuisine, and it was absolutely delicious. The portions were generous, and the flavors were hearty and satisfying – exactly what we needed to fuel our afternoon adventures. It's these small, unassuming places that often offer the most authentic experiences, and BT Kitchen Food certainly delivered.


Discover the flavors of fast food at BT Kitchen Food in Iqaluit – where local meets classic in every bite!

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured to the Northern Store. This isn't your average convenience store; it's a vital part of the community, offering everything from groceries to household essentials. As someone who appreciates sustainable living, I was particularly interested in seeing how the store caters to the needs of such a remote community. It was fascinating to see the range of products available, from familiar brands to local Inuit crafts. I picked up a few souvenirs, including a beautiful hand-carved soapstone figurine, a perfect reminder of my time in Iqaluit. I even found a Tim Hortons inside the store, which was a pleasant surprise.


Experience the Northern Store in Kinngait, a must-visit grocery store blending local culture with essential shopping.

The Northern Store also provided a glimpse into the logistical challenges of life in the Arctic. Seeing how supplies are shipped in and the resourcefulness of the locals was truly eye-opening. It made me appreciate the conveniences we often take for granted back in Berlin. Mei would have loved browsing the aisles here, always on the lookout for unique ingredients and household items.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at The Storehouse Bar & Grill. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the menu offered a variety of options. I opted for a classic burger, while my friends tried some of the local specialties. The food was delicious, and the company was even better. We shared stories and laughs, reminiscing about our adventures so far and planning for the days ahead.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Nunavut at The Storehouse Bar & Grill - where local cuisine meets a lively atmosphere.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I had learned and experienced. From the spiritual significance of St. Jude's Cathedral to the comforting flavors of local cuisine and the unique shopping experience at the Northern Store, Iqaluit had once again surprised and delighted me. It's these kinds of days that make travel so rewarding, offering a glimpse into a different way of life and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut. I'm looking forward to learning more about the political landscape of this unique territory. We're also planning to have breakfast at The Granite Room, lunch at Asian Kitchen food Iqaluit, and dinner at The Frob Kitchen & Eatery. And perhaps we'll end the day with a drink at the Aqsarniit Hotel & Conference Centre. It promises to be another exciting day in Iqaluit!

Even though I missed Lina and Mei, I knew they would have loved to see the igloo-shaped cathedral. I made sure to take plenty of pictures for them. I can't wait to share all my stories with them when I get back to Berlin.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of Arctic adventures. Good night from Iqaluit!

I am truly grateful for this opportunity to see a part of the world so different from my own. I hope my experiences can inspire others to step out of their comfort zones and explore the beauty and diversity of our planet.

Until tomorrow!