Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

There is so much to be said about Ontario’s capital city.  Ottawa, Ontario, Canada is indeed regarded as one of the most affordable cities among 144 international cities. Ironically, the city also rated at number 19 out of 200 cities for having the best quality of life. That speaks volumes about the people, their business ethics, and their zest for life in general. That's not surprising when you realize all the artistic, musical, and cultural opportunities that are made available to the people of this prime city. They do know how to have fun and it shows in their friendly dispositions. Not only have those, the people who make up the 900,000 strong populations seemed to be a very intellectual breed too. There are more doctors, engineers and scientist graduates residing in Ottawa than any other city in the country can even come close too. It is also has well over 1500 high tech companies operating there.

People from all over the world tour this magical city regularly to experience a glimpse of what it’s all about. The city has over 30 museums in it, which is the most of any Canadian regions. The most visited museum, The Canadian Museum of Civilization is in Ottawa. Festivals in this town are in abundance. There is always something to celebrate, whether it's the tulips in the spring, the Blues fest in summer, or The Chambers Music Festival at summers end. In the winter months, it’s a picture perfect winter wonderland with the freezing temperatures and ice skaters galore gathering at the ponds to whirl around a bit. The most famous of the rinks is Ottawa’s Rideau Canal. It is the largest in the entire world. It’s a terrific gathering place, on this naturally frozen pond, for kids, teens, or for romantic rendezvous for all ages. Nothing like a nice cup of hot chocolate afterwards to take the chill off and then get right back to it.  There is always a gathering of minds and spirits and tremendous talent among the Canadians. Physical endurance, as well as stamina is evident by the mass numbers of people involved in biking, skating, hiking, and jogging.

There are over hundreds of miles of trails in and around the city. They are specifically designed to accommodate those who enjoy being next to nature and crave the fresh air and natural beauty the city has to offer. It’s not unusual on a Sunday morning to have miles of the main parkways shut down to vehicles so the bikers and joggers can enjoy yet more space. There is an entire network of recreational paths available to those who care to partake in the splendor of it all. The trails highlight the green, lush land and focus on the cities conservation efforts. There is a marvelous story that accompanies each and every site in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The people who live there will never leave and the people who are passing through on a visit never want to leave.

10 Things to Do and Visit in Montreal, Quebec, Canada

If you were looking for getting out of town and take the family on a nice vacation that will not break the bank, a visit to Montreal, Quebec, Canada would be ideal. The city is bursting with excitement and filled with energy all year round. There is a wide array of activities and sights to see that are sure to please every age group. The best part is that it does not cost a lot. In fact, there are tons of things to do, which are low cost or free. There will be no problem jam-packing your days and nights with fun and excitement for all. You can experience the whole package, make some wonderful memories, and still come home with some money in your pocket.

If you are planning your trip in the winter, you will want to check out one of the free skating ponds around and in the city. Parc La Fontaine in the Plateau, Beaver Lake at Parc Mont Royal, The Quays of the Old Port of Montreal and Parc Jeanne-Mance are just a few sites you can count on to have a blast. The Montreal High Lights Festival in February is something you will not want to miss. The festival offers a free ice slide and skating, plus music and fireworks. It is topped off with the Montreal All-Nighter where the city never sleeps. Everyone stays up all night to listen to live music, dance, and skate. The grand finale is a free breakfast at 4 AM. What more could you ask for? You are certain to have a ball.

If you are a nature buff, you will not want to miss out on biking or hiking to the summit of Mount Royal where you will have a spectacular, majestic view of the entire city. If you happen to be there on a Sunday morning there, the Tam Tams will be going on. It is an outdoor drum jamming festival. If your Sunday is not complete without church services, you must get to the 11 AM mass at the exquisite, beautiful, and historical Notre Dame Basilica. It was built back in the 1800's, and it will take your breath away.

Walking tours are also available. They say that the best way to experience all that the city has to offer is on foot. If you are interested in self-guided tours, there are many sites online where you can download trails with directions and interesting information about all the places you will be stopping at, before you go. Be prepared for a great adventure.

End your day on the Montreal Dinner Cruise aboard The Cavalier Maxim. Savor a delicious meal in the glass-enclosed dining room and listen to good music out on the terrace later. It would be a perfect way to end the perfect day, taking in all the beauty and charm that Montreal, Quebec, Canada has to offer.