Living in Ottawa
Ottawa has been described as one of the most beautiful capitals in the world. As the fourth largest metropolitan area in Canada, with a population surpassing 1 million, Ottawa enjoys all the attributes of a major centre. Yet, it still maintains the atmosphere and charm of a smaller city. Ottawa is safe, clean and green, surrounded by three rivers and enclosed by a 42,240-acre greenbelt of protected farmland and wetlands.
As a capital city and a cosmopolitan centre located on the Ontario/Quebec border, Ottawa boasts an ethnically diverse and bilingual population. Daily newspapers, in French and English, are published locally.
The city is compact and easy to negotiate using public transportation. There is an extensive network of bicycle paths. Temperatures range from the low 30s Celsius in the summer to below zero in winter. Autumn and spring temperatures are a moderate 16 to 20 degrees.
Ottawa is filled with parks and recreational facilities. The Rideau Canal, the world's longest skating rink in the winter, meanders through the city. The Gatineau Hills, located only 10 minutes from the downtown core, offer spectacular views and outstanding recreational opportunities (hiking, skiing). Ottawa boasts the finest in Canadian arts, culture and history. Tour the Parliament Buildings, admire the treasures within the National Gallery of Canada and our 29 museums (including 12 national museums) and enjoy performances at the National Arts Centre or the Great Canadian Theatre Company.
Celebrate in one of over 60 festivals and events, including the internationally recognized Winterlude, Ottawa International Jazz Festival, Bluesfest, Canadian Tulip Festival, Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival and National Capital Air Show.
Ottawa has four universities in the area: Carleton University, the University of Ottawa, the Université du Québec à Hull, and the Université du Québec en Outaouais (UQO). There are also three community colleges: Algonquin College, Cégep de l'Outaouais (formerly the Collège de l'Outaouais), et La Cité Collégiale.
If it is entertainment you are looking for, Ottawa has a variety of places to suit every taste. The Byward Market and Elgin Street are well-known for their night clubs, dance clubs, pubs and live music halls. Scotiabank Place, an 18,500-seat sports and entertainment facility, hosts the Ottawa Senators National Hockey League Team, concerts, figure skating, family events and more.
For more information about Ottawa and life in Ottawa:
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