3rd instalment

WINNIPEG

Arrival Winnipeg: -18d, wind chill = -25d.

Depart Winnipeg: -20d, wind chill = -40d. (Frostbite likely in minutes)

In other words; COLD BEYOND DESCRIPTION!!!

Winnipeg is a beautiful city, a small town that doesn't attempt to portray itself as anything but. Population hovering around 700,000, a small, walkable downtown area which is litteredd with historic buildings.
The Exchange district is a bit like Gastown in Vancouver, minus the glitzy, touristy feel to it.
There's a lot of history to this city, and the people aren't afraid to show it off. Buildings everywhere preserved and continually used...
They haven't been converted into merely tourist venues, they're places like cafes, restaurant, thrift stores, etc.
The arts scene appears to be moving along nicely here. Far from being a country town, there is the WSO, ballet, numerous theatre companies, university papers, arts festivals... Perhaps the French influence has helped it alot.
St Boniface just over the river is the main Western French quarter - it's like a quaint little village - esp. with the snow covered streets and trees.

Walking back to downtown across the river was a nerve-racking experience for me... Despite the fact the ice is very thick - perhaps 1/2 metre or so - every little creak makes you nervous. Perhaps when you realise that beneath you is deep, running, freekin freezing water directly underneath you. With the safety of the riverbanks 50 metres either side of you.
I know I'm being fairly pathetic here, but there you go.