MY FAVORITE PLACES : CANADA-OTTAWA

I first discovered the city of Ottawa and Hull , its Quebec neighbour across the river, while on leave from my Royal Canadian Airforce training base at Trenton, Ontario. That low budget journey happened several decades ago, yet my ongoing love affair with Canada's capital deepens which each return. Why is there never enough time, yet so much to learn and enjoy? In the coming months, we plan to recall certain highlights and provide a few pointers for those yet to explore the area. I've arrived in a variety of ways, by auto, motor coach, rail and air - all that's left is to arrive by river cruise, which is tempting. Some of the comments on Ottawa as a business or tourism destination will come from our many readers, others will arrive via official source. Each week or so we expect , a new item will be added to our online magazine's editorial menu. Here is a small taste of the attractions you will discover in Ottawa and area.

The House of Parliament.
A wooded area looking out over the Ottawa River, known as Parliament Hill, is not only the heart of the city, it home to the Canadian government. Most of the stately Parliament Buildings were built between 1859 and 1927. While I didn't make it there for Canada's hundredth birthday, a Centennial Flame honors that event. In spring, over 3 million tulips are in bloom, and in summer, you can watch the Changing the Guard in their 19th Century military costumes. Tours of the House of Commons, Senate, and the Library of Parliament are conducted regularly and should you want to to view the entire area and its surroundings, the scene from the observation deck of the Peace Tower is impressive.

The Canadian War Museum
This museum was one of the most impressive attractions I experienced during a visit to Ottawa - it was part of a scenic 3 hour bus tour that I highly recommend. It tells the dramatic real-life story of Canada's proud military history. Having been in the Royal Canadian Airforce, I was able to identify with much of it. Exhibits begin with the earliest days of New France, and there are three floors of exhibitions, plus the Discovery Room with its hands-on activities.

Rideau Centre
After seeing the sights or doing business in Ottawa, you are likely to find us here at one of Canada's most popular shopping destinations. At last count there were over 180 shops and restaurants at Rideau Centre in Ottawa's downtown.

Natural Sciences Museum

Canada's foremost natural history and natural sciences museum. Our gothic castle is home to world-class exhibitions that feature the full spectrum of Canada's natural treasures. An architectural masterpiece, Canada's most popular museum offers you the world's largest indoor collection of totem poles, a thousand years of Canadian history, an IMAX® theatre, a children's museum and much more.

Islam

Islam in Canada is not enough. Although, there is an Islamic centre in the capital, but, it must have been many mosques in there. Insha-Allah, muslims in there will develope things that frankly is required.