Ottawa, history, diplomacy and pride.

It is a quiet, cool and grey March morning at the Lord Elgin Hotel, as I head to breakfast to accidentally bump into Canadian tv personality George Stroumboulopoulos. He appeared to be on a mission but did stop to say hello and I even think I saw a little grin. He always looks so serious. Of course curious me wonders, what is George up to here in Ottawa? I am sure he will post something on social media. Then off to breakfast and "detective" me always tries to figure out, who is who in the dining room. I am pretty sure there were some bureaucrats present, maybe even a senator, the political kind not the NHL.

Despite the weather I make my way towards Wellington St, passing by the PMO's office which looks pretty uneventful as he was away. No security detail, no journalists and no protestors. To my right, you cannot miss the grandeur of the Cenotaph, a touching monument to our fallen soldiers and a reminder of those who fought for Canada and our freedom. A few more steps west I know face the centre block, the Peace Tower that towers over the parliament buildings, behind scaffolding due to a long over due update and renovation. I do recommend a tour of our legislative buildings as there is so much history to them and the architecture is pretty impressive. Did you know that in 1857, Queen Victoria selected Ottawa as the capital of Canada?

I decided today that a visit to the National Canadian Museum of Fine Arts would be a nice way to spend my time and a good way to stay warm. The museum is quite large but time is on my side. I really enjoyed that some rooms were not at all busy, so I had the art all to myself. From the Group of Seven to my all time favourite, the Impressionist artists of Monet, Renoir, Manet and Degas. The visit to the museum was a change of pace, followed by a quick visit to Notre Dame Basilica across the street. Upon arriving to this magnificent and ornate church, I realized that a french mass was in process so I stayed and I am glad I did as it was almost therapeutic sitting there in prayer and mediation. You know what they say, God works in mysterious ways.

Before heading back to the hotel, I stop at another of my favourite hotels, the Fairmont Chateau Laurier that sits just next to the Rideau Canal. Be it summer or winter, I always like to pop in for a cocktail on their terrace or in Zoe's Lounge, that houses the highly coveted portrait of "The Roaring Lion" also known as Winston Churchill. Just another little fun fact.

As much as I enjoy walking around downtown Ottawa, I always look forward to a drive up Sussex where one can see many embassies, the French being one of my favourites. Then onto Rideau Hall and the lush park its sits on. The predominate statue of our late Queen Elizabeth II on a horse of course, situated in the middle of a roundabout, a lovely tribute. Then onto 24 Sussex a piece of history which sits empty for now. Lastly there is the Rockcliff Park neighbourhood, where there are some spectacular homes if not mansions and where ambassadors also call home. It is a stunning drive that never grows old.

Back at the hotel, who do I see walking with a garment bag, but George. He had spent part of his day at Rideau Hall as a guest of our Governor General, Mary Simon. I came to learn he a recipient of the Order of Canada, which recognizes outstanding achievement and dedication to the community. Who knew?

As dinner hour approaches, there are many options in Ottawa. One can find numerous restaurants in the Byward Market, along Elgin St, around the Rideau Mall and some unique finds around downtown including Little Italy on Preston Street. We have never had a bad meal while visiting Ottawa and were pleasantly surprised with the many options, including the various coffee shops with fresh pastries and the lounge bars for a late night cocktail or two.

Ottawa may not always be on top of mind as people plan a vacation. However do not count it out if you ever want to go away for a few days. It has numerous museums to visit, bus and boat tours to take, a hockey team to cheer on, a canal to skate on and numerous historic sites with Canadian flags waving proudly.