INSIDE...OTTAWA
As the capital of Canada, Ottawa offers the convenience of a big city, but the feel of a small town. A city bilingual in English and French, Ottawa is only minutes away from Quebec, mixing Canada's two cultures nicely. Can$1 = Euro0.71.By Julie Hawrishok
WHAT'S ON
Every winter, from mid-December to late-March, one of Ottawa's main waterways becomes the world's largest skating rink. The Rideau Canal Skateway, 7.8 kilometers long, goes through the heart of the city. It offers locals and tourists plenty of fun and a way to get from one end of Ottawa to the other. Skates and sleighs are available for hire. See www.canadascapital.gc.ca/skateway
DON'T MISS
The Canadian Museum of Civilization Gatineau, Quebec, is across the river from Parliament Hill and is just a short walk from downtown Ottawa. The museum has exhibits from more than 1,000 years of Canadian history. Totem poles, interactive exhibits and temporary displays make this museum a must. Fore details, see www.civilization.ca
For art lovers, there's the National Gallery of Canada, with more than 10,000 works of art in its permanent collection. From early Canadian art to Baroque and modern times - including Canada's beloved Group of Seven artists - there's certainly something for everyone. For details see www.nationaly.gallery.ca
WHERE TO MEET PEOPLE
Outdoors: Parliament Hill is where Canada's government meets, but it is also a popular meeting ground for tourists and people living in the area. At the foot of the Hill is the Centennial Flame, which burns continuously throughout the year. Built to symbolize Canadian unity, the small pool there also acts as a wishing well. Throw in a penny or two and see what happens. See www.parl.gc.ca
Indoors: Although the Byward Market (56 Byward Street) is a traditional outdoor market, in winter, a lot of people go to the area's many bars and pubs to talk and warm themselves up. Bar 56/Collection are small, conjoined martini bars with huge drinks menus and House music. If pubs are more to your taste, The Heart and Crown (67 Clarence Street) is a perfect stop. A mix of Irish and Atlantic-Canadian styles, the large pub is very popular.
DAY TRIPS
Only an hour north of Ottawa is Mont Ste. Marie, one of the best local downhill ski mountains. See www.montstemarie.com/winter/home.html
WHERE TO EAT
The Empire Grill (47 Clarence Street) offers all kinds of different food and service here is considered among the best anywhere.
For the best seafood in town, check out Coasters Seafood Grill (54 York Street, 2nd Floor.) Their all-you-can-eat mussels are a local favourite.
WHERE TO STAY
The Fairmont Château Laurier is right next to Parliament Hill, at 1 Rideau Street. Rooms start at Can$219. Tel. (001) 613-241-1414; www.fairmont.com/laurier/
Overlooking Confederation Park is the newly renovated Lord Elgin Hotel at 100 Elgin Street. Single and double rooms start at Can$122. See www.lordelginhotel.ca
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Ontario Tourism (office in Munich, Germany): tel. (0049) 89-2368; www.ontariotravel.net