Friday, January 28, 2011

Things to See and Do in Toronto Ontario Canada

Toronto is a Vibrant Multi-Cultural City
A population of nearly 3 million, it is Ontario’s Capital is among the most thriving and culturally diverse cities on the planet. Visiting Toronto is much like traversing the planet in a day - without need of a passport. (Unless of course your Toronto Travel is as a foreign visitor).

Be it taking in the colorful sights of China town, savoring the “Taste of Danforth”, especially during festival time or inhaling the aromatic ambiance of Kensington Market, Toronto`s cultural mosaic has everything.

Toronto Attractions:
Found in the heart of downtown Toronto, very near Harbor Front, the iconic CN tower reaches an enormous height of just one,815 ft (553.33m), offering the most spectacular view in city.

If you are riding the tower`s glass elevator, exploring among the four separate look out points, or venturing to walk about the 1,122 square ft glass floor close to the top, you'll be sure to find an exceedingly breathtaking vista from the city scape.

Explore the exotic at the Royal Ontario Museum whose assortment of artifacts tops Six million. Noted for its spectacular assortment of dinosaurs, fossils and diverse world art, the ROM will definitely intrigue visitors spanning various ages.

This spring (2011), why don't you discover all the Ontario Science Centre provides, such as the stunning exhibit of Nature Unleashed: Inside Natural Disasters, or its ever present selection of comprehensive and fun educational displays.

Enchant your way into Casa Loma, a storybook castle built in 1911, where secret passages and turrets await...or swing about the wild with a trip to the Toronto Zoo. Both, which, will certainly become cherished memories.

While downtown, don`t forget to indulge your senses at The Art Gallery of Ontario. Noted for its Henry Moore sculptures and the expansive Thomson collection, the AGO is also featuring the Maharaja Exhibition where visitors can immerse themselves within the opulence of India`s Royal Courts.

Cultural Events:
Toronto can also be renowned because of its world-class theaters and festivals. With an array of shows which range from grand spectacles to intimate dramas, Toronto`s spring theater scene is like none other.

If grand musicals are your passion, why not treat yourself to a performance of Disney`s The Lion King at the stunning Princess of Wales Theater. The breathtaking costumes and innovative staging alone are worth price of admission.

Dance your way into the Cannon Theater`s electrifying musical presentation of Billy Elliot. Or a more comical experience, try out the wild tale of middle aged sisters, in the manufacture of
More Fine Girls at the cozy Tarragon Theater.

Canada`s largest city can also be home to numerous festivals, making nearly every day a celebration! Immerse yourself within the pageantry of Caribana, North America`s largest Carribean street festival.

Bask in the glow from the stars in the acclaimed Toronto International Film Festival or delight the sounds of the Beaches International Jazz Festival.

By having an ongoing whirlwind of festivals and events, the varied things you can do during Toronto are endless.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Winterlude in Ottawa 2011 - Celebrate Winter in Canada's Capital

Ottawa's Winterlude Events:

No matter what you plan on doing this winter, make sure that Winterlude in Ottawa is a stop on your destination list. The spectacular outdoor festival draws over 650,000 people from all over the world annually.

This year's winter extravaganza runs every weekend from February 4th - 21st and is open on Family Day. The celebrations take place in venues all over the city including: The Rideau Canal Skateway, Confederation Park, Jacques-Cartier Park, The Museum of Civilization, and Ottawa City Hall.

The exciting three week spectacle has many activities and attractions that appeal to all ages, most being free of charge. Whether it is viewing the fireworks, skating on the Rideau Canal, watching the enormous ice sculptures taking shape, or keeping warm in the ice cafe, Winterlude in Ottawa has it all.

If you're still looking for more, you will also find free concerts, a hilarious bed race, horse drawn sleigh rides, the Norway/Keskinada giant Ski Event, Byward Market Mardi Gras, a massive snow playground and so much more!

Stretching a whopping 7.8 km the Rideau Canal is the world's largest skating rink. This skater's paradise is open 7 days a week and is well maintained by the National Capital Commission. You can call (613) 239-5234 at any time for the latest updates on ice conditions.

Forgot your skates? No problem, there are different 3 places to rent a pair right on site. As well as 12 stair and ramp access points, there are many canal side stops to rest, and stay warm.

While you're working up an appetite on the canal why not treat yourself to one of Ottawa's famous beaver tails, a delicious pastry topped with sweet treats like chocolate or icing sugar - in the shape of a beaver tail!

While you are enjoying your Rideau Canal skating experience, you will pass by many spectacular and breathtaking views. With picturesque parliament buildings in the background coupled with many scenic stretches, you will also see the odd teddy bear or winter character skating by.

Taking your family skating on the Rideau Canal is equally as enchanting as any theme park vacation. Ottawa`s winter festivities will create fond memories that will last a lifetime.

Ottawa Accommodations:

When choosing where to stay while visiting Canada's capital, you will find that there is a whole host of large and trusted hotel chains that are located downtown, within walking distance of many Winterlude events.

The Albert at Bay Hotel is renowned for its customer service and satisfaction. The economically priced large suites come equipped with a Kitchenette that has a microwave, fridge, coffee maker, stove and dishwasher. This is perfect choice for families on a budget.

The Best Western Victoria Park Suites Hotel is part of a chain you know and trust, that has the added bonus of newly renovated suites. Their special value packages like arts and culture, or dinner and a movie, guarantee a great stay; even if you are not enjoying Winterlude`s outdoor festivities.

The Holiday Inn & Suites is located mere steps away from the Rideau Canal and many other of Ottawa's most famous landmarks. This reliable hotel has included luxuries like: heated bathroom floors, individual room climate control, a large fitness complex and complimentary wireless Internet service. You don't have to sacrifice comfort and quality for price with this hotel package.

Other Ottawa Festivals and Attractions:

If you are planning to visit Ottawa after the snow flies you may be able to take in Canada's celebration of spring, The Ottawa Tulip festival running from May 6 - 23 or stop by The National Gallery of Canada and add some culture to your visit.

While you're in Ottawa don't miss Mosaika, the sound and light show set against the spectacular back drop of Parliament Hill, presented nightly from July 6 - September 11. Whenever you choose to visit Canada's Capital you are sure to find something to please everyone.

Ottawa, Canada's national capitol holds many attractions all year long. It is a cultural hot spot in Canada offering theater, museums, art galleries and world class accommodation and fine dining. To learn what you have been missing in attractions visit Ottawa Winterlude Festival

Ontario itself offers many diverse attractions year round. Spectacular scenery and outdoor experiences to the incredible pulse of the major cities. Toronto and Ottawa are the major hubs but smaller cities such as London and Niagara Falls have their attractions. To plan your vacation or just to discover hidden gems to visit, see Ontario Travel Information and Deals.