Category: Travel Blog

  • Ottawa, The Parliament and Historical Sites

    Ottawa is one of Canada’s oldest cities, and therefore one of the most historic cities as well. History can be felt in this city, while you are visiting the downtown or Lowertown of Ottawa. The downtown and Lowertown area (also known as Byward) are some of the oldest parts of Ottawa. Here you will find the iconic Parliament buildings, the famous Chateau Laurier, Rideau Canal, Byward Market, and the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Ottawa. These are all must see places while you visit. In case you are a travelling on a budget, you are in luck; all these places are free to visit!

    The Parliament buildings of Canada are an icon around the world. The green turned copper roofs, the towers, and the intricate stonework are all works of art. The Parliament building is located near the Rideau Canal, in downtown Ottawa. Fun fact: the building of Parliament is not the original one. The Parliament building was originally constructed in 1866. In 1916, the centre block of parliament was destroyed by a fire, and only the library of Parliament was left unburned. It was reconstructed in 1928. Currently, there are restorations underway, and set to complete by 2032. 

    Visitors are still welcome to view the Parliament grounds, as well as partake in tours. There are free tours available to the public, for the House of Commons and the Senate of Canada. Bookings should be made in advance, online. They can be booked here. The tour guides are knowledgeable and upbeat. Pictures are allowed, as long as you do not take any of the service workers or guards. It is such a great opportunity to see history in person. If you are a history nerd, this is a must see! Along with the guided tours, members from the public are allowed to attend the chamber meetings at Parliament. You might be so lucky to see the Parliament in action!

    There are gargoyles on the outside, guarding the building. The heavy wooden doors are carved with expertise carpentry: flowers and other intricate designs are laid into these doors. The whole building is done in a Neo-gothic style, very reminiscent of the type of architecture you would expect to see in Britain or France. Inside the Centre Block of Parliament, you will have an opportunity to step into a world out of time. Artwork from the 1800’s, as well as paintings of all the Prime Ministers of Canada are on display along the hallways and gathering spaces. Artwork featured from Canadian artists from across the nation are also showcased, such as Sedna sculpture. Sedna is a sea goddess from Inuit mythology. It is a one-of-a-kind sculpture, showcasing indigenous talent. 

    Next up, walk over to the famous Rideau Canal. This waterway is known for its picturesque scene. The Bytown Museum is located here too and is free for all visitors. Take a peek into the past. Anyone can walk across the Rideau Canal using the narrow walkways located along the gates of the sectioned parts, as long as you do not feel scared of heights or water. Boat tours along the Rideau canal are a fun way to see more of Ottawa, as well as a fun experience. There are various companies that can take you along the waterway, all easy to book right there in person. 

    The historic Chateau Laurier, a beautiful building, is located next to the Rideau Canal. It is rumored to be haunted. Guests of this hotel have claimed to feel the presence of ghosts. Enter at your own discretion. Or do what many do, and just enjoy the view from the outside, whether it be from the canal, the main road, or from the gardens at Major Hills Park, which is located to the back of Chateau Laurier. Major Hills Park gives amazing views of Ottawa. From here, you can see the National Gallery of Canada (a museum), which features a giant spider statue, the Notre Dame Cathedral towers, and Parliament itself. Enjoy a break from your walk, from wandering around the city. Have a picnic, or chitchat with locals. This space is meant to be enjoyed by all. During the spring and summer months, you will see picnic blankets galore, families with children, the University of Ottawa students, and tourists all having a good time. Be sure to check out the beautiful flowers while you are there. 

    From the Major Hills Park, head over to the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica Ottawa. Do not confuse this with the famous one in France. This Notre Dame is located across from the National Gallery of Ottawa. It features two towers, all shiny and white, which can be seen from across the neighboring city of Gatineau in Quebec. This cathedral is open to anyone, regardless of religion. It feels like a step back in time when you enter. The stained-glass windows, the ornate statues, and vibrant artwork are all breathtaking. You feel as though you have teleported into Europe and are no longer in Canada. If you go on a Sunday, you might even be able to sit in on a function or hear the choir. The atmosphere is light and peaceful. In the basement you can find a gift shop and café. Sit and enjoy yourself or wander around and find some historical artifacts. 

    Byward Market should be a stop while visiting Ottawa. Byward Market is the name for the whole neighborhood, not just the building itself! The neighborhood usually is buzzing, with many events and activities. You will find escape rooms, board game cafes, a number of restaurants and cafes, as well as comedy clubs. This is where all the fun happens. Do not feel as though Ottawa is a boring place. There is much to discover in the Byward Market. Whatever type of food you prefer, chances are you will find it. Ottawa itself is quite diverse, with people settling here from around the world. There are little shops that have European delicacies, as well as French bakeries, selling fresh pastries and bread daily, to the gelato shops, and of course Beaver Tails. When in Ottawa, if you have never had a Bever Tail, it is a must to try! Bever Tails are flat fried sweet bread, and then lightly tossed in cinnamon and sugar, however you can have other toppings as well, such as chocolate and bananas! Yummmy. 

    Byward Market Heritage Hall, as in the actual market, was built in the late 1820’s and early 1830’s. It has been around since, changing over the years. In the past, this is where farmers and vendors would sell their produce and goods. Now, it is home to many quaint shops and cafes. The Byward Café has some of the best coffee in Ottawa, and costs under $3. Make sure to step in for a bite to eat, as they have a good array of sweets and paninis. At the other end of the Byward Market, you will find an open style bakery, with so many options of pastries. It is a hard choice to make here. The Byward Market Heritage Hall is open year-round, almost every single day. There is usually music to be heard outside, events running every other weekend, as well as local artists performing just outside. Be sure to check them out – it’s a free concert! The famous “Ottawa” sign is just around the corner from the Byward Market. Be sure to get in a photo op. 

  • In The Heart of British Columbia – Vancouver

    Beautiful British Columbia! This is where I have spent most of life. Hands down, this is one of the most amazing places on earth. I may be biased, but I will try to sway you. Here, you have the mountains, ocean, rivers, lakes, valleys, and many vineyards. You can go from bustling and busy Vancouver to serene forests, away from it all. All in a matter of one hour, in some cases. 

    It is one of Canada’s most sought-after provinces for newcomers to this country. Afterall, it has the best weather in all of Canada. Most of Canada has long, extremely cold winters (imagine -20 to -40 degrees Celsius, for 4 to 5 months), and incredibly hot summers. BC, mainly in what is known as the Lower Mainland (this is an area that includes Vancouver and the Fraser Valley), the winters are mild. Usually, there is little to no snow, and temperatures hardly dip past -5. The fall and spring usually hover around 5-12 degrees Celsius. And the summers are just gorgeous! Temperatures usually sit around 22-30 degrees, and it is all sunshine and happiness.

    Aside from the weather, BC has so much to offer to locals and visitors alike. If you are coming from a different country, Vancouver and the surrounding cities have amazing public transit. Busses and the SkyTrain are fairly fast, and they consistently show up within 5 to 10 minutes, so you are never waiting around for hours. You can get from Vancouver to Richmond in a matter of 30 minutes on the Skytrain, or from Waterfront in Vancouver to Commercial Drive in 10 minutes. It is amazing! 

    When you first fly into British Columbia, most people tend to fly into Vancouver. Vancouver has one of the easiest to navigate airports, for travelers. Everything is clean. It is easy to ask for help, as people here are friendly and kind. When leaving the airport, you can opt for a taxi or uber, but for those who are on a budget, just walk out and head towards the SkyTrain. This line is known as the Canada line, connecting the Vancouver airport to downtown Vancouver, in only 30 minutes. It is easy and convenient. From there you can easily connect to a different SkyTrain or even catch the bus. Vancouver is very commuter friendly. 

    Just based on the World’s perception, Vancouver has amazing sunsets, unbeatable views of nature from within the city, and it one of the world’s most livable cities. Vancouver is known for it’s kind and friendly people. You will see people getting together over coffee, at parks, hanging out at beaches. We like to socialize. There are many public events to meet new people, as well as places to be a bit more reserved if that is what you prefer. Regardless, you will not feel alone in Vancouver, unless you want to be. 

    Although I love Vancouver, it is not the end-all-be-all of what BC has to offer. For travelers coming here for the first time, I do recommend staying within Metro-Vancouver, however, if it is your second or so time visiting this province, do make sure to venture out! In my upcoming blogs, I will cover Vancouver, Vancouver Island, the Fraser Valley, Whistler and more. Be sure to check those out.

  • Rideau Canal

    Rideau Canal

    The Greatest engineering feat of the 19th century

    The Rideau Canal is a historic waterway in eastern Ontario, Canada, that stretches over 200 kilometers (125 miles) from Ottawa to Kingston. Completed in 1832, it was originally built as a strategic military route during the War of 1812. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Canada’s most iconic landmarks.

    In modern times, the Rideau Canal serves as a recreational haven, attracting boaters, kayakers, cyclists, and hikers. The canal is most famous for its winter transformation when it becomes the world’s largest skating rink, drawing thousands of visitors each year. During the summer, it remains an important recreational route for boats, offering picturesque views of Ottawa, rural Ontario, and historic towns like Merrickville.

    When you visit Ottawa, don’t forget to walk over to the famous Rideau Canal! This waterway is known for its picturesque scene. The Bytown Museum is located here too and is free for all visitors. Take a peek into the past. Anyone can walk across the Rideau Canal using the narrow walkways located along the gates of the sectioned parts, as long as you do not feel scared of heights or water. Boat tours along the Rideau canal are a fun way to see more of Ottawa, as well as a fun experience. There are various companies that can take you along the waterway, all easy to book right there in person.

  • 7 Museums You have to See in Ottawa!

    Do You Know What Ottawa is Famous for?

    Ottawa is known as the City of Museums. There are seven national museums and up to 28 historical sites or smaller museums that are open to the public! Some of these museums are even free. For the frugal traveler, that is a must to go check out.

    Ottawa is old, so as a result, there are many historical sites. Across from the Parliament building, you can walk over to the War Memorial. Here you can see a statue called “The Response,” a cenotaph which symbolizes the sacrifice of all soldiers who have served Canada. It is a granite statue that measures 70 feet high. Here you can feel a somber presence, and it is an impressive design showcasing all the years Canada has actively fought in wars. At the bottom of the statue, there is another statue that was added in 2000, called the “Tomb of an Unknown Soldier,” dedicated for those who have died or will die in service to their country. Canada truly knows how to honor the sacrifices of their soldiers. It is a place to pay one’s respect.

    In addition to the War Memorial, there is the Canadian War Museum. This museum has a collection of artillery, tanks, jet fighters, and more from the various wars that Canada has fought in. In November, close to Remembrance Day, the Canadian War Museum hosts special events and activities. On Remembrance Day itself, a beam of sunlight passes through a window at the museum and onto the grave of Canada’s unknown soldier, at exactly 11am. This is truly an unforgettable experience. This museum is typically costs money to enter, however it is free for Canadian military personnel, for all Indigenous peoples of Canada (including Inuit and Metis), on Canada Day, on Truth and Reconciliation Day, on Remembrance Day, and on every Thursday after 5pm.  

    Ottawa War Memorial

    The Canadian Museum of Nature is such an interesting structure; it looks like a castle! The museum has a giant globe hanging from the ceiling, which creates interesting photo opportunities. In the lower level, there is bug world, which can be great for kids and adults who love creepy crawlies. On the first floor, there are rooms with dinosaur skeletons, huge displays of long lost creatures, and many other fossils to look at. This is a dream come true for any adult who is a child at heart. The museum also showcases Canadian animals and their habitats. It is a glimpse into what Canada is like outside of the urban setting. This museum is free to attend every Thursday after 5pm. 

    Dinosaur display at the Canadian Museum of Nature

    Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is a unique experience. Most of it is interactive. There are dairy cows, pigs, chickens, and horses. A petting zoo is open to all, so long as you are not scared of the animals. You can view the exhibits about the other farming methods throughout the country and learn how important farming is to the Canadian economy as well. While visiting this museum, nearby is the Dominion Arboretum. Check out the beautiful gardens and have a stroll across the peaceful ponds. The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is also free every Thursday after 5pm, and you do not need to prebook tickets. 

    The Canadian Museum of History is a two for one type of museum. This museum also has the Canadian Children’s Museum inside! This is a great option for those with children, or if you simply want to check it out for yourself. The Canadian Museum of History has the largest collection of totem poles, all inside. It is worth visiting to check out the amazing Indigenous artworks and parts of Canadian history. This museum is free every Thursday after 5pm. 

    If you are an airplane fanatic, be sure to head over to the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. This museum is like a hangar – it is huge! It hosts a big collection of aircrafts, from the early days of the aeroplane to the more sophisticated aircrafts we have now. Here you can digitally fly a vintage plane, or sit in the cockpits of the aircrafts and take some fun pictures. This museum is free every Thursday after 5pm. 

    For art lovers and history nerds alike, check out the National Gallery of Canada. Outside of this museum there is giant spider sculpture. Throughout the year, many people flock here to take pictures, whether it is pretending screaming, or running away. It is a neat way to gather people though. This museum holds a large college of artwork, in many different styles. Take a stroll through one of the many halls. There is artwork from Canadian artists, such as the Group of Seven, from Indigenous artists, and artwork from overseas. There are paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures, and even pieces of jewelry and clothing from the past. Downstairs, you can listen to music, catch up with friends, and maybe even grab a drink if you come in the evening. This museum is free every Thursday after 5pm. 

    Spider Sculpture Outside the National Gallery of Canada

    The last museum to see on this list is the Canada Science and Technology Museum. This museum is great for those who prefer a more interactive type of learning. There are new technologies on display, so take advantage of that and play around, as well as old locomotives. It showcases both past and present tech. If you are a child or a child at heart, make sure to head to the Crazy Kitchen. This is a fan favorite. There are many other exhibits, so expect to be here for a few hours. By far, this is the most fun museum on this list. 

    These are only the bigger museums in Ottawa, but there are many other museums to explore. All of the museums on this list are free to visit every Thursday after 5pm. Many of which do not require tickets, so feel free to check them out while visiting the beautiful city of Ottawa. 

  • Ottawa – Canada’s Capitol

    Visit Ottawa!

    Whether you are a local or a newcomer to Canada, Ottawa, Ontario (the nation’s capitol) is a must see once in your lifetime. From the iconic parliament buildings to the nature surrounding this city, to the many museums in the city, you will find many things to see and experience. We will be exploring this historic city over time and showcasing some of the amazing sites. 

    Some background: Ottawa is one of Canada’s oldest cities! It was founded in 1826, originally as Bytown and then Ottawa in 1855, as the city grew. Ottawa is the fourth biggest city in Canada, and one of the most visited cities in Canada. People from across the globe visit this city annually, approximately 11 million. It makes you consider travelling there, to see for yourself what Ottawa has to offer. 

    For travelers, whether you live here in Canada or are coming from abroad, consider this: Ottawa is one of the safest cities in Canada. Compared to the other provinces, Ontario in general has a lower crime rate. You can feel at ease as you wander around and can actually enjoy your day with a stress-free mind. Imagine that: no stress while you walk outside! It is also well known globally that Canadians are polite and friendly. If you need help with directions, or just want to say hi, most people in the city will welcome you with open arms and help you in any way that they can. 

    Canada is known for its nature: the great outdoors. What many people do not realize however, is that within many Canadian cities, there are bits of nature scattered throughout the city. Ottawa is no exception. Ottawa is home to many parks, lakes, and rivers. Within downtown Ottawa itself, you can view the famous Rideau Canal that flows into the Ottawa River. This river is just behind the Parliament building itself! You can enjoy the views of the historic green, sloping roofs and towers of the Parliament building, and a view of the river, all while you are situated near Chateau Laurier (another famous site – just steps away from the Parliament). There are many beautiful gardens in the spring and summer in this area, so make sure to plan accordingly if you enjoy flowers or want to snap some amazing pictures. 

    While walking around the city, you will notice that there are little trails everywhere, just a few minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the main roads. Greenery is apart of this city, giving it a unique feel, making it less of a concrete jungle. If you little ones, older kids, or just love to be surrounded by trees, Ottawa is amazing for that. You can grab a coffee from a local café and just head towards a serene park to sit at or enjoy a nice walk as you are surrounded by the outdoors. 

    Ottawa hosts many events throughout the year. Many of which are free – which is nice if you are a traveler on a budget. Starting in Winter, Ottawa is home to the largest outdoor skating rink: the Rideau Canal. Yes, the famous Rideau canal freezes over, and the city opens it up for free outdoor skating. This event has been happening since the early days of the city, dating back to the 1800’s. Come and enjoy a favorite pastime. Bring your own skates, or you can rent a pair from the rental booths that are conveniently located right by the canal. Outdoor skating runs from December till the end of February, being weather and temperature dependent of course. Winterlude, a winter events festival, is hosted every year throughout the months of January and February. Throughout the city, there are ice sculptures to marvel at, free apple cider, photo op areas, tobogganing, snow shoeing, and much more. Music and dances are also showcased at certain venues during Winterlude. It is a good opportunity to get outside in Winter, and experience what it is to be a true Canadian: braving the cold and having fun at the same time. 

    From winter to spring, more changes than just the weather. In early spring, the weather is perfect; not too hot, and not too cold. For anyone who hates the hot temperatures, I would suggest coming in the spring, as summer gets very humid and hot. In May, Ottawa is home to the Canadian Tulip Festival. This is one of the world’s largest tulip festivals, showcasing over a million tulips. This festival began as a partnership between Canada and the Netherlands. During World War two, Canada hosted the exiled Dutch royal family, as well as helping liberate the Netherlands. The Netherlands, as a gesture of gratitude, sent Canada tulip bulbs, and has since been sending tulips. It is a beautiful tradition that has continued on. The tulip bulbs get planted throughout the city, such as near the Parliament, along the Rideau Canal walkways, at Major Hills Park, and most of the tulips get planted at Dow’s Lake. There are a great variety of tulips, with vibrant colours. The city has such an amazing display of color during this time. It truly feels magical, as you walk around Ottawa. Dow’s Lake also has many other attractions during the Tulip Festival. Outdoor movie nights, kayaking, canoeing, laser light shows, and even a nighttime light-up board walk can all be enjoyed. Many food trucks are also at the venue or pack a picnic for a more personal touch. Dow’s Lake is easily accessible by driving or taking public transit.

    Throughout the summer months, there is much else to do. There are music festivals, such as the Blue’s Fest, if you want to check out a different side to Ottawa. The line up for 2025 can be found here. Gatineau Park, a Provincial Park in Quebec, is only 30 minutes away from downtown Ottawa. It is open year-round, however free shuttles from downtown Ottawa to Gatineau Park run daily. Enjoy a hike, bird watching, or a dip in the lake. Then head back to Ottawa, without the hassle of driving yourself. 

    Whether you are a city person, or an outdoors person, Ottawa has it all. From winter to summer, there are a variety of activities you can enjoy. More blogs to come, so keep posted.