Ontario Canada - something for everyone!
My first port of call was Toronto. The centre of Toronto is a mix of modern and old buildings and the downtown area was surprisingly interspersed with residential brownstones and apartments. This gives the city a relaxed but vibrant atmosphere. What I found unique was having large malls and small neighbourhood shops happily living side by side. Restaurant choice is fantastic in this city. Having travelled extensively in USA, I usually tire very quickly of the food on offer in America. This was not the case in Canada. The quality, choice and variety are wonderful and any foodies having a weekend here would not be disappointed.
Toronto is nicknamed the Hollywood of the north as a lot of films are shot here. Don’t be surprised if you turn a corner and find a road block with LAPD squad cars in a shoot out. This happens on a regular basis and makes sightseeing very interesting. Of course no visitor to Toronto should miss out on a ride up the CN Tower. Views over Lake Ontario are spectacular and the high speed ride is thrilling. Anyone seeking culture will have plenty of choice in Toronto. Whether it’s theatre, art galleries or architecture - you’ll find Toronto has a lot to offer.
Next location was Niagara Falls, which is a leisurely two hour drive from Toronto - the falls are truly magnificent. The noise and force of the water is mesmerising and as they say in North America - awesome. I stayed in the Sheraton on the Falls and had a Falls View room – well worth the supplement. I sampled the falls in every way possible, helicopter over them, Maids of the Mist boat ride, giant Ferris wheel and dinner in the Skylon Tower revolving restaurant, which were all very exciting. A must when in Niagara is a visit to one of the many vineyards en route to the charming town of Niagara on the Lake. The wineries are reminiscent of those in the Cape Town area of South Africa, very gentile and peaceful. It is interesting to hear how they harvest grapes in extreme winter temperatures to produce the unique ice wine produced in this area. On to Niagara on the Lake which is a pretty clapboard town very similar to those charming villages in New England. A good lunch and a stroll around the lovely shops rounds off the day outing very nicely.
After leaving Niagara I travelled up to Algonquin National Park to experience the tranquillity of Canada’s natural beauty. I stayed in Arowhon Pines, a beautiful rustic lodge on the edge of a lovely lake, which has a renowned kitchen and offers attentive service and warm hospitality. Whether hiking, canoeing, bird-watching or just swimming in the lake, this area is a joy. I was treated to a wonderful sight of a moose with her two babies quietly feeding on a roadside watering hole – a real thrill.
My trip ended with a short but interesting stay in Ottawa. This city has lots to interest the overseas visitor. After a trip on the Rideau Canal which runs right through the centre of the city, I had a tour of Parliament Hill, Canada’s equivalent to our Houses of Parliament. The highlight of any trip to Ottawa is a visit to Canadian Museum of Civilisation – a fascinating view of the human history of Canada and an insight into the diversity of its people. Allow at least 4 hours for this as there are some very interesting exhibition halls and lots to see.
All in all I enjoyed my trip to this wonderful and diverse country. I especially loved the Canadian people who were friendly and welcoming at all times. And of course, the Canadians also love the British people too!