On February 26th, 2017, our KLM flight from Amsterdam to New York suddenly began to change speed and direction! We were informed we were to be diverted to St. John's, Newfoundland, as a crewmember was ill. The Crewman got the immediate medical attention he needed, and 270+ passengers and nine horses got a surprise day in Canada!<br /> My wife, Wendy, and I are from Norwalk, CT, in the USA. We had never been to Canada before, let alone Atlantic Canada, so far North and East of home!<br /> When we found ourselves displaced in time and place, we looked for some advice. we got our advice, all right, from some of the nicest people we have ever met!<br /> Funny, big hearted bus drivers, Portugal cove Holiday Inn staff, Citywide Taxi drivers who were like volunteer tour guides, Crew from supply ships in the harbor, and Yellowbelly brewery barstaff. Of Course, the terrific gal at the Downhome shop on George st.!<br /> We had time to explore George st, Water st. and Gower St., with its trim Jellybean colored houses, amd more. We saw the huge oil-rig supply ships, like the Atlantic Heron, drank some fine Yellowbelly local beer, and ate hot Poutine!<br /> Jet-lag was never so fun!<br /> We loved experiencing the &quot;Downhome<br /> Way of Life&quot;, even if only for a few hours. What wonderful people we encountered all day!<br /> We did have to leave later that day, along with other passengers, and the nine Dutch horses that spent the night on the plane, munching Canadian Hay.<br /> The plane smelled like Noah's ark when we finally reboarded for New York!<br /> What an unexpected adventure for your neighbors from down the coast!<br /> Thanks to all the kind people, including the Doctor who helped our crewman!<br /> We hope to return one day, with a bit more time to spend "Downhome" in Newfoundland.<br /> Best, James and Wendy Kenyon   Submitted By: James Kenyon