Ottawa Accommodation Guide

	Canada's Parliament Buildings1

Canada's capital city lies on the banks of the Ottawa River directly across from its twin city Gatineau in Quebec. The city boasts the fourth largest population in Canada and yet is so compact visitors can walk to the majority of attractions and lodgings. Easily accessible by bus, car, plane and even train, Ottawa is composed of a number of different districts, each of which has evolved since the city's beginnings in the mid-19th century to become distinct neighbourhoods with special characteristics, landmarks and sites. Accommodation options are numerous and visitors, whether they are young travellers on a budget, families with kids or in the city on business, will all find something within their price range. Options include basic and fun hostels, charming neighbourhood B&Bs and ritzy, upscale hotels.

DOWNTOWN, CENTRETOWN AND SOMMERSET HEIGHTS

Ottawa's downtown core is the city's commercial and financial centre, and many of the city's most prominent landmarks are found in the area, which encompasses Parliament Hill and is bordered to the north by the Ottawa River, to the east by the Rideau Canal, to the south by Somerset Street and to the west by Bronson Avenue. Directly south of downtown is Centretown, which stretches to the Queensway Highway (Hwy 417), while Sommerset Heights encompasses the area directly to the west of Bronson Avenue.

The relatively small Parliament Hill district (visitors can easily walk from the eastern to the western edge within 20 minutes) is one of the most visited areas in Ottawa, if not in all of Canada. In addition to Canada's Parliament Buildings, travellers will find the Bank of Canada Currency Museum, the Supreme Court of Canada, the National Library and National Archives, Confederation Park, the National War Memorial in Confederation Square, the National Arts Centre, the Canadian War Museum and more. In addition, the Rideau Canal, which becomes the world's longest ice-skating rink in the winter, is a great spot for a walk along a scenic pathway and enjoying a picnic.

The Stately Fairmont Chateau Laurier2

Shopping devotees will be happy to spend some time in central Ottawa at Sparks Street Mall as well as Bank Street, where a number of unique shops and boutiques are located. Dining options abound in the area as well, and food-fans will find everything from local cuisine to international flavours. Elgin Street in the east is particularly lively when it comes to restaurants and nightclubs, while Somerset Heights, centred around Somerset Street West and formerly known as Chinatown, is the place to go for Chinese and Vietnamese eats. The city's Italian community is based around Preston Street, where visitors can explore the area, called Little Italy, and dine on some of the best Italian fare in the city.

Tourists are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation choices in this part of Ottawa. Almost every major hotel chain, including everything from mid-price to ultra luxury lodgings, is represented in this central district. The Sheraton Ottawa Hotel, the Crowne Plaza Ottawa Hotel, the Delta Ottawa Hotel and Suites, the Radisson Hotel Ottawa Parliament Hill and the Ottawa Marriott are all located within walking distance of Parliament Hill. Situated on the opposite side of the Rideau Canal from the Parliament buildings, the Fairmont Chateau Laurier is the city's most iconic hotel, built in 1912 in the style of a 16th century French Chateau. The upscale hotel offers comfort, elegance and an impressive view.

A stay downtown does not require one to break the bank, and the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Downtown is one of a number of reasonable mid-price options. Business travellers and those planning on staying in the area for a week or more can check into an extended stay hotel or suite. These accommodations generally offer fully furnished rooms with kitchens or kitchenettes and laundry facilities. Examples include the Residence Inn Ottawa Downtown and the Bostonian Executive Suites.

A number of bed and breakfast accommodations are available, especially in the Centretown area where Victorian homes rest in the shade offered by tall trees lining the streets. Those new to B&Bs should note that they often offer many of the same amenities as a hotel but are less costly and more personal. In addition, guests have the opportunity to meet other guests and can benefit from the specialized knowledge of local B&B owners. A tasty breakfast that is incorporated in the price of a stay helps guests start the day off right.

	The Rideau Canal Borders Byward Market3

BYWARD MARKET

Located directly east of downtown and bordered by the Rideau Canal, Ottawa's trendy Byward Market district was just a small fruit and vegetable stand in the mid-1800s when the city was still in its early stages. Known at the time as Bytown, today the market has grown into a lively, bustling community gathering place that is one of the city's major tourist attractions. Every Saturday the main building is filled with arts and crafts, clothing and other goods made by local artisans, while farmers from the surrounding region set up shop in the outdoor areas immediately around the market and sell homemade baked goods as well as fresh, often organic, produce.

The area in the vicinity of the market is full of upscale and trendy boutiques. In addition, a variety of restaurants and cafes in the streets around the market feature patios that are great for people-watching during the summer. Due to its close proximity to the University of Ottawa, the nightlife scene in the Byward Market is hopping with clubs that heave with students and young area residents.

In addition to the market, this district includes a number of other interesting sights for visitors. Majors Hill Park is located on the Rideau Canal and includes the Colonel By Statue and the Peacekeeping Monument directly across from the park. Art-lovers won't want to miss the National Gallery of Canada, while those interested in monetary history can visit the Royal Canadian Mint. Ottawa's Notre Dame Cathedral, which served Bytown's early residents, who were mostly Catholic, is located a few blocks north of the market.

The area is a quick walk (and an ever quicker drive) to one of the country's wealthiest neighbourhoods, Rockcliffe Park. Visitors who want to explore this ultra-exclusive former village will find the Canadian Prime Minister's Residence at 24 Sussex Drive, and also Rideau Hall, the Governor General's official residence. Stornoway, the official residence of the Leader of the Opposition is in the neighbourhood, as are the homes of a number of ambassadors to Canada including those from Norway and the United States.

Accommodation choices in this district are not as numerous as downtown but visitors will still find several suitable options. The Fairmont Chateau Laurier is situated right on the border of Byward Market and downtown, and is a good choice for those who want to experience the best that the city has to offer. In addition, visitors will find a few mid-price hotels including the Quality Hotel Downtown Ottawa and the Days Inn Ottawa, both on Rideau Street.

Bed and breakfasts are a good option as the residential section of the neighbourhood is close to the market but also offers peace and quiet. The Allure B&B, a boutique-style bed and breakfast featuring well-appointed rooms with pillow-top mattresses, is one popular option. One of the city's hostels is located a few blocks from the market and is great for families on a budget or young travellers looking for an affordable option in an exciting neighbourhood. A range of other accommodations can be found within walking distance of the neighbourhood in either the downtown district to the west, or to the south in Sandy Hill.

Stay in a Converted Cell at the HI -Ottawa 4

SANDY HILL

South of Byward Market and bordered by the Rideau Canal to the west is the neighbourhood of Sandy Hill. Once Ottawa's most prestigious area, the district is still important as a number of historic homes and nearly 30 foreign embassies line its streets. The Embassy of Russia in Ottawa and a number of African embassies are clustered together near the Rideau Canal in former mansions once owned by wealthy lumber barons at the beginning of the 20th century. Visitors who choose to stay in Sandy Hill can spend hours exploring and trying to find these embassies as well those of Brazil, Austria, Poland, Switzerland, Vietnam and Venezuela.

Other spots to check out in the district include the Rideau Centre shopping complex, the University of Ottawa campus and Strathcona Park. Two other former mansions that may be of interest to visitors include 5 Blackburn, which is currently the headquarters of the Heritage Canada Foundation, and Laurier House, a former official Prime Minister's residence. The neighbourhood offers an extensive number of accommodation choices such as the Westin Ottawa Hotel, located next to Rideau Centre and featuring luxurious rooms and a range of amenities, the Novotel Hotel, on the opposite side of Rideau Centre and Les Suites Hotel, located a few blocks north of the University of Ottawa.

The neighbourhood features more B&Bs than anywhere else in the city, giving visitors the opportunity to stay in one of the grand family homes. A particular favourite is the Ottawa Centre B&B, which with 3m (10 ft) ceilings, hardwood floors and antique furnishings exhibits the opulent qualities of a stately home. A handful of inner-city inns, which offer amenities such as suites with Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces, are also located in Sandy Hill.

The majority of the city's hostels are located in the neighbourhood, making it popular with young travellers. The most unique of these accommodations is the HI - Ottawa Jail Hostel, located in a building that was once the Ottawa Carleton County Jail. The hostel offers jail tours in addition to all the necessary amenities, and adventurous guests can even share accommodation in converted cells.

GLEBE

Located south of downtown, Glebe is an elite, mostly gentrified neighbourhood bordered to the south and east by the Rideau Canal. The heart of the district is centred on the southern portion of Bank Street. Considered by some to be an extension of downtown, Glebe has attracted a number of residents, including a number of families, looking to live near the many amenities offered in and around the area. Attractions include Carleton University and Lansdowne Park, which features the home of Ottawa's Canadian Football League (CFL) team, the Frank Clair Stadium. A haven for treasure and bargain hunters, the neighbourhood also hosts the Great Glebe Garage Sale, an annual event where locals sell previously enjoyed goods and donate a portion of all profits to charity.

	B&Bs Offer Luxurious Rooms and Personalized Service5

Visitors wishing to stay in the area will be impressed by the shopping and restaurants located on and around Bank Street, as well as by the close proximity to downtown. The area is ideal for those wanting to be close to the action, but not immersed in the noise and commotion of downtown. While there are not as many hotel choices in the vicinity as downtown, visitors will find several bed and breakfasts. Many of the available lodgings in Glebe are located close to or on the Rideau Canal, or are near Carleton University. Guests have the chance to stay in century-old estate homes or modern residences with a variety of special amenities.

AIRPORT AND THE WESTERN DISTRICTS

The Ottawa International Airport is located a mere 20 minute drive from downtown, and there are a number of accommodation choices for those who wish to stay nearby. The Days Inn Ottawa Airport, the Southway Inn and the Monterey Inn Resort are all possibilities and, in addition, those staying near the airport can amuse themselves with a round of golf at the Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club.

Comprised of a number of suburbs and bedroom communities, the Western Districts are situated on the western edge of the city. The area is ideal for those who want to avoid the hustle, bustle and noise of more central areas, but who still want to stay close to all of the sites and attractions. Areas like Barrhaven, Bells Corner, Nepean and Kanata are all far enough away from downtown that accommodation not only offers a measure of peace and quiet but is also considerably less expensive.

Attractions for those staying in the Western Districts include the Kanata Golf and Country Club, the Cedarhill Golf and Country Club, the Bayshore Shopping Centre and Carlingwood Mall. Brookstreet Hotel, Embassy West Hotel, Holiday Inn Select Ottawa - Kanata and Days Inn Nepean (Ottawa West) are all possibilities.

The Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau6

GATINEAU

Located directly across from Ottawa on the northern shores of the Ottawa River, which acts as a natural border between the provinces of Ontario and Quebec, Gatineau, together with Ottawa and a number of surrounding towns and villages, comprises Canada's National Capital Region. Formerly known as Hull, Gatineau's residents are mainly French-speaking and the name change was voted for by the city's inhabitants. Ottawa and its twin city are connected by four bridges spanning the river, making the capital city easily accessible from Gatineau.

Visitors who would like to stay in the Ottawa area but are looking for a somewhat different experience should consider Gatineau. In addition to the many attractions in nearby Ottawa, Gatineau offers a wealth of sights for tourists. Museums including the Canada Museum of Nature, the Canadian Museum of Civilization and the Canada Science and Technology Museum offer education and insights, while Gatineau Park features a range of fun and exciting outdoor adventures as well as Canadian history lessons at the Mackenzie King Estate. In addition, visitors of legal age can try their luck at the Casino du Lac Leamy. Several golf courses are located in and around Gatineau, and popular yearly events include the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon and Fall Rhapsody festivals.

Many major hotel chains offer lodging in Gatineau and visitors will find, among others, the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel and Conference Centre, the Hilton Lac Leamy, the Ramada Plaza Memoir du Casino, the Holiday Inn, the Comfort Inn and the Best Western Jacques Cartier.

For those looking for hotel-quality lodging at an affordable price, the city offers more than 20 bed and breakfasts. Budget travellers who visit from May until the end of August will find reasonably priced rooms at the Residences at the University of Quebec at Outaouais Gatineau. Outdoor-lovers camp at Gatineau Park, which offers 300 sites at the La Peche Lake Campground.

TRANSPORTATION

With planes, buses, cars and trains all viable options, the journey to Ottawa is easy. The Ottawa International Airport, is located approximately 20 minutes south of downtown and serves a number of major Canadian and American airlines that offer daily flights throughout Canada, to major US destinations and to the United Kingdom. West Jet Airlines, Air Canada and Air Canada Jazz are good bets for cheap flights to Ottawa from within Canada.

There are various alternatives to flying. Greyhound Canada offers long-distance motorcoach trips to Ottawa from all over Canada as well as the United States. Other motorcoach operators run trips to Ottawa from throughout Ontario and Quebec. Alternatively, VIA Rail has a station in the city, so visitors can reach the city by train from as far east as Halifax and as far west as Vancouver. The company offers transportation for both leisure and business travellers, as well as three fares: economy, VIA 1 and Sleeper Class. The Queensway Highway, along with several other major roadways, runs through Ottawa making the city easily accessible by car.

Several options for travelling within the city are available. Most major car rental companies, including Avis and Budget, have locations throughout the city and those who choose to drive will find on-street meter parking around town as well as a number of enclosed and surface pay parking lots. In addition, one of the city's many taxi companies can transport visitors to and from the airport, hotels and major tourist sites.

Affordable public transportation options include bus routes operated by OC Transpo. The company also also runs the Transitway, a rapid transit bus network offering more limited but much faster routes around town including to the airport. The O-Train is a light-rail transit system that runs from north to south through downtown from Bayview to Greenboro. For those who are centrally located and are headed to check out the sights, walking may be the best option. As many of the city's main districts and attractions are close together, walking provides a healthy and environmentally conscious alternative and gives visitors the chance to explore all the interesting little details Ottawa has to offer.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF:

1. Canada's Parliament Buildings; Ottawa, ON, Canada
2. The Stately Fairmont Chateau Laurier; Ottawa, ON, Canada
3. Skating on the Rideau Canal Which Borders Byward Market to the West; Ottawa, ON, Canada
4. c/o HI - Ottawa Jail Hostel; Stay in a Converted Cell at the HI - Ottawa Jail Hostel; Ottawa, ON, Canada
5. B&Bs Offers Luxurious Rooms and Personalized Service; Ottawa, ON, Canada
6. Gilles Rivest; c/o Tourisme Québec; The Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau; Gatineau, QC, Canada