Hiya Moo.
Congratulations on getting an interview! Hope it goes well; we could sure use some more Canadian blood around here (yes, I'm one too -- although the fact that I'm a dual citizen makes my situation a bit different from yours.)
Don't worry in the slightest about having a regional interview. I took that option myself, and was very glad I did -- arrived at the interview infinitely more relaxed and less finacially depleted that if I'd tried to get myself to Durham.
The biggest difference is that interviews at Duke consist of two separate half-hour sessions One interview is ostensibly supposed to focus on your "data" -- i.e., what you've done; the other is supposed to be about who you are, what you're like. From all reports, though, there's significant overlap. Conversely, a regional interview is one session, and it last however long it lasts (mine was a bit over an hour.) Personally, I much prefer longer interviews (the shorter ones never seem to flow very well) so I was glad it worked out this way.
Also, be aware that your regional interviewer will have been sent only the very basics of your file -- mine didn't even have my personal statement. Be prepared to answer one of those horrible "tell me about yourself" requests.
Don't worry about not having a chance to see Duke -- although you'd likely enjoy a stroll though Duke gardens in this FABULOUS 75-degree weather we're having -- the pond has some really gorgeous water lillies in it right now....As you are no doubt well aware, Interview Day is NOT the best time to get an idea of what a school is like: you're all keyed up, jetlagged, wearing a suit, your feet hurt, you've just been treated to one of those awful financial aid presentations that make you question your vocation like nothing else can -- in short, you're not yourself. This is why Duke (and many other schools) have a Second Look weekend for accepted students -- spend three days with a student, in comfortable clothes, being fed, sitting in on classes, going to parties, seeing Durham, meeting your potential future classmates -- this will give you a better impression of what it's really here, and whether it will be a good place for you.
One final bit of advice:
A few weeks after your interview, call the admissions office to make sure they have received your interview report. Just like a letter of recommendation, it can go astray. Best to be neurotic about these things.
Again, good luck! Do let me know if you have any more questions
