Central Newfoundland - Part 2: Gander, Coastal Communities and Wild Adventures

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastCentral Newfoundland offers a side of the province shaped by aviation history, small coastal communities, outdoor adventure and a strong tradition of hospitality. In this second episode exploring the region, David and Tim return to Gander before heading farther afield to Harbour Breton, the Bay Verte area and Grand Falls-Windsor.

The conversation begins with Gander International Airport and its remarkable role in transatlantic aviation, then explores the story behind Come From Away and the community response to diverted flights on September 11, 2001. From there, the episode moves into smaller communities where hiking, music and conversations with local residents provide a different perspective on Newfoundland life.

Tim and David also explore some of Central Newfoundland's more adventurous experiences, including whitewater rafting, ziplining and shark tagging, alongside distinctly Newfoundland traditions such as the screech-in ceremony and a food culture built around cod and wild game.

Topics CoveredGander & Aviation History - How a small Newfoundland town became an important stop during the early era of transatlantic aviation.The Story Behind Come From Away - Gander's response to thousands of stranded airline passengers following the closure of U.S. airspace on September 11, 2001.Small-Town Newfoundland - Exploring Harbour Breton and the Bay Verte area for coastal landscapes and community experiences.Outdoor Adventure - Whitewater rafting, ziplining, hiking and salmon viewing around Central Newfoundland.Shark Tagging - A fishing experience that combines tourism with ecological research and education.Newfoundland Traditions - The screech-in ceremony, storytelling, music and the region's welcoming social culture.Local Food - Cod cheeks, cod tongues, moose and other foods connected to Newfoundland's history and landscape.

Top Things to See & DoGander International Airport - Explore an airport with an outsized place in aviation history. Its international terminal retains a distinctive mid-century modern character, including a large-scale mural, while guided tours introduce visitors to stories from Gander's years as a major transatlantic refuelling stop.

Come From Away in Gander - The musical tells the story of the passen