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Ottawa has been described as one of the most beautiful capitals in
the world. Less than an hour's drive from the American border, Ottawa
enjoys the attributes of a major center for the visual and performing
arts, as well as other big city attractions. Yet, it still maintains the
accessibility, atmosphere and charm of a smaller city, in addition to
access to spectacular park and wilderness areas located within and
around the city.
From humble beginnings, Ottawa has evolved into Canada's cultural
capital. The most difficult problem visitors have when visiting Ottawa
is choosing what to do first. There are over 50 galleries and theatres
in the region, showcasing the best of Canadian and international art,
theatre, music, and dance performances. The city's museums, heritage
buildings, parks, and monuments paint an exciting picture of its
colorful past, while also allowing a glimpse of its future.
Canada's Capital Region is the fourth largest metropolitan area in
Canada, with a population of just over one million people. The Capital
Region is an area comprising two provinces (Ontario and Quebec) and two
main cities (Ottawa and Hull), creating a region much like Washington,
DC in the United States. The region comprises 27 municipalities (11 on
the Ontario side) and covers an area of 1,800 square miles.
Because of its position as the capital of Canada and seat of the federal
government, Ottawa has traditionally enjoyed a stable economy and
measured growth. In turn, this has provided a supportive business
environment for its commercial, industrial, retail, hospitality and
government-related industries.
The region is the headquarters of many national corporations. Termed
"Silicon Valley North," Ottawa is home to more than 800 companies
specializing in high technology. It is also a center for advanced
research and development, especially in the fields of space science,
telecommunications and environmental technology
There are three universities in the area, Carleton University, the
University of Ottawa and Université de Québec à Hull and two community
colleges, Algonquin College and La Cité Collegiale
As it is situated on the border of Quebec and Ontario, Ottawa blends
English and French cultures; almost half of the residents are bilingual.
Added to this mix is a growing ethnic diversity inspired by the city's
German, Lebanese, Italian, Polish, Dutch, Portuguese and Asian
populations, among others. The result is a truly cosmopolitan city that
celebrates its heritage in many colorful, multicultural festivals and
events throughout the year.
Ottawa's status as an international capital and its ethnic diversity
have created an exciting dining scene. Food to suit just about any taste
can be found : from African to Afghani, Canadian to French, German to
Greek, from Lebanese to Mexican, Spanish to Sri Lankan, Thai to Turkish,
vegetarian to Vietnamese and many others.
Ottawa boasts one of the most modern public transit systems in North
America.
Visitors who like to shop will find that Ottawa is their kind of city.
Whether they are looking for major department stores, discount
warehouses or individual boutiques, Ottawa has them all. The capital
region is home to 70 large shopping centers. and also smaller shopping
centers and boutiques in the downtown core.
If it is entertainment visitors are looking for, the city has offerings
to suit every taste. The ByWard Market and Elgin Street are well-known
for their night clubs, pubs, dance clubs, and live music halls. Ottawa
has five theaters staging plays, musicals, operas and classical
concerts. The Corel Center, an 18,500 seat sports and entertainment
facility, offers NHL hockey, music's biggest stars, figure skating, and
many family events.
Ottawa is a meticulously maintained city. The grid-planned streets
sparkle. Trucks sweep up litter even in pouring rain. Snow is whisked
off the pavements as soon as it hits; pollution is almost nonexistent.
Ottawa has been accessorized with many beautiful parks and gardens,
bicycle and jogging paths.
The National Gallery of Canada, founded in 1880, is home to the world's
largest collection of Canadian art (including major works by Inuit
artists) as well as excellent European and American collections.
The National Arts Center, opened in 1969, is Canada's premier showcase
for the performing arts. It features three stages, where visitors can
enjoy the best of English and French theatre, dance - avant garde to
classical, music, opera and variety performances year-round. Under the
direction of the newly-appointed and world-renowned celebrated
conductor, Pinchas Zucherman, the National Arts Center Orchestra has
gained a high international reputation, touring at home and abroad.
Ottawa's own Opera Lyra brings opera center-stage with its performances
at the National Arts Center.
The capital is divided by the Rideau Canal into Upper and Lower Town: to
the west, on the steep banks of the Ottawa River, the Gothic-inspired
Parliament Buildings are the high point of Upper Town, while in Lower
Town the focal point is the boulevard of Sussex Drive, which curves
along the river to the mansions of Rockcliffe in the northeast, passing
the National Gallery and several other smaller museums on the way. To
the south, beyond the Lower Town, the National Museum of Science and
Technology.
Originally constructed for defense and trading purposes, the 125.5 mile
Rideau Canal is today used for leisure and pleasure. This system of
natural lakes and rivers is made navigable by locks, dams and canal
cuts. During the winter, the Ottawa portion of the canal is transformed
into a 4.5 mile long skating rink which is utilized also by many people
on their way to and from their offices. During the summer, the canal
provides a haven for hundreds of boating enthusiasts and, for those on
shore, a constantly changing panorama of boats of all shapes, sizes and
vintages.
The Québécois town of Hull, just across the Ottawa River, is linked to
Ottawa by five bridges and is fast becoming an integrated part of the
city, though Hull is still very proud and protective of its French
heritage.
On the Hull side of the river is Gatineau Park, where residents and
visitors alike enjoy swimming, fishing, biking, spelunking and skiing.
From May until October, train buffs can experience a half day trip along
the beautiful Gatineau River on one of Canada's last authentic
steam-powered trains.
Canada's Capital Region provides the perfect setting for a family
vacation with its magnificent setting, historic sites and numerous
family attractions.
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