Ottawa The Canadian Capital

We received mixed advice about travelling to Ottawa. People have mixed opinions as they do about Canberra, the Australian capital. We had an enjoyable few days!
The Parliament hill area has a great charm and character and the city has a wealth of museums and fine eateries. We specialised in the eateries and not the museums this time.

Gail in Sparks street a pedestrian only area where we had dinner the first night and breakfast this morning

The Parliament building is very impressive. We had a double tour. We have had too much Canadian and US electioneering but did enjoy making comparisons with our own system

The first part of the tour took us to the Peace Tower with its magnificent views and architecture.

Gail with the spire of the Parliamentary library in the background

Inside the Memorial Chamber. It records the war dead and we were there when the daily ceremony was conducted to turn the pages so that each name is shown at least once a year.

They ensure that the First Nation and minorities are incorporated into memorials.

                                           The lower house is called The House Of Commons

                                             The Parliamentary library

                                         The Senate. Representatives are appointed and not elected

It was lunch time when we finished our tours so we headed down towards the Byward market area

                                              On the way we passed the famous Rideau canal

We worked up an appetite by looking at the fresh fruit and vegetables. These are " ground cherries". Like a tiny tomato inside the fibre cover.

We went on a long walk down to the Rideau Falls before retracing our steps to our hotel

 After the falls we visited the War Memorial and a park near our hotel before a rest to head out to the restaurants in Elgin street for dinner