Canada is a vast country characterized by cultural and geographic diversity, so the choice of the city you want to visit depends on your interests.

If you prefer stunning nature, Vancouver is an excellent destination due to its proximity to mountains and the sea, while Toronto and Montreal are vibrant cities offering many cultural events and festivals.

If you are a history and culture enthusiast, Ottawa, the capital, is a great choice where you can visit the Canadian Parliament and explore other historical landmarks like the Rideau Canal.

In this article, we present an overview of your anticipated trip to Ottawa, as it is the heart of the city that combines a rich past with a vibrant present.

Staying Among Historic Buildings in Ottawa

It is advisable to choose your accommodation in the downtown area, where you can enjoy the historic buildings that give the city a unique charm, such as the three buildings of the Canadian Parliament.

These buildings are prominent landmarks in Canada's history and were constructed on Wellington Street between 1859 and 1876, on a hill known as "Parliament Hill," overlooking the Ottawa River.

Visitors can also stroll through the halls of Parliament and discover history through the tours offered by these landmarks.

The Canadian Parliament, being one of the most prominent tourist attractions, offers a great opportunity for visitors to explore some of its halls. Visitors can book tours inside one of the three Parliament buildings through the official Parliament website, where they choose the day, time, and language that suits them.

The Parliament consists of a central building that houses the Senate and the House of Commons, in addition to the famous Parliamentary Library and the Peace Tower.

This building is located at the highest point on Parliament Hill, near a steep cliff. The eastern and western buildings serve as administrative offices and are situated on either side of the central building, connected by a public square.

The vast grounds surrounding the buildings feature monuments to important political figures, adding a rich cultural and historical dimension to the visit.

The Historical Importance and Status of Ottawa

In 1857, Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as the new capital of Canada due to its strategic location and military significance. The area known as Barrack Hill was previously home to royal engineers who worked on the Rideau Canal and was selected as the site for federal buildings.

Over the years, Parliament Hill has seen several expansions, especially after the fire that destroyed the central building in 1916. In 1927, Parliament Hill took on its current shape with the completion of the Peace Tower.

In recognition of its historical importance, the Parliament buildings were designated as national historic sites in 1976. Visiting Parliament gives visitors the opportunity to discover Canada's rich history, with around 3 million people visiting these landmarks annually, reflecting Ottawa's popularity among tourists.

Visitors who have previously traveled to Europe may notice similarities between the historic buildings in Ottawa and those found on the European continent.

The Arab Community in Ottawa

Ottawa is a city rich in cultural diversity, with its residents speaking both English and French, reflecting its rich cultural history. Among these cultures, Ottawa is home to a large Arab community, where visitors may encounter people from various Arab countries while strolling through the streets or shopping in malls.

There are also many Arab restaurants offering traditional dishes, such as shawarma, which is served in various ways. You can try the Western-style shawarma, which includes vegetables, or the traditional Lebanese and Syrian shawarma that adds an authentic touch to the experience.

The ambiance in these restaurants contributes to creating an unforgettable experience, as Arabic songs fill the place, making visitors feel as if they are in the heart of the Arab world. We must not overlook the presence of Palestinian and Turkish restaurants as well.

As for desserts, you can try the mango kunafa, which is one of the famous sweets served in some restaurants, to enjoy a rich and delicious Arabic food experience.

Shopping and Coffee

When talking about the shopping experience in Ottawa, it is noted that buying winter clothing is somewhat different from what is commonly experienced in other places. When trying to choose thick jackets to face the harsh cold, the seller will be keen to guide you towards jackets suitable for specific temperatures, such as -10 or -20 degrees Celsius.

This feature reflects a great awareness of the harsh weather conditions in Canada, where winter is a challenging period that requires special preparations.

For coffee lovers, the "Tim Hortons" chain of cafes and restaurants, established in 1964, offers a distinctive experience.

This chain is not just a place to have coffee; it has become part of Canadian culture. It offers a variety of hot beverages, including coffee, donuts, and sandwiches, making it an ideal destination to relax and recharge while shopping or exploring the city.

In conclusion, exploring these aspects of Ottawa adds depth to your experience, helping you to better understand daily life and the local culture.