So all that I need for my trip to France is finally in my possession: host family found, VISA approved, flight booked. So, naturally I decided to start doing the things in Ottawa that I've wanted to over the last few years, but never really got around to. I figure, why not share some of the things I've enjoyed over the summer months. Who knows, maybe it will give someone (or some people) ideas of great things to enjoy in the future!
So here are my top 10 events of the summer!
1. La Ronde. Yes, I know it is not IN Ottawa, however Montreal is a close trip. I realize now I didn't spend as much time in Montreal as I probably should have over the last 4 years. I have heard mixed things about La Ronde. I think most of the bad reviews came from Canada's Wonderland lovers. But despite loving Canada's Wonderland myself, I didn't think it was too shabby of an amusement park. There were enough rollercoasters to keep me amused for a day!
2. Hope Volleyball Summerfest. This year I believe we set the Guiness Book of World Records for the biggest one day outdoor volleyball event! There were SO many people and SO many courts (somewhere in the 80s I believe). Plus there was live entertainment (and beer). A beautiful way to spend a Saturday!
3. The City Chase. I rememebr a few years back seeing a checkpoint on Parliament Hill and wondering what the heck it was! After doing a little research, I found out about the City Chase which is essentially like a small, one-day Amazing Race. You get a sheet of clues and have to try to figure them out to locate various "check points" which are small challenges you need to complete to get a stamp. Finish 10 and run back to the starting line before 6 hours are up, and you officially complete the City Chase Challenge!
4. Bluesfest. I decided to take part in Bluesfest this year as a volunteer. I worked as a member of the Green Team, completing 8 shifts of 3 hours during which I emptied compost and recycling containers and picked up compostable beer cups and recyclable bottles. It was a great experience because I met many amazing people I hope to keep in touch with, and I also saw a different side of the festival (like seeing some of the backstages!). I would suggest this to anyone who wants to go to Bluesfest anyway because you get entry into any concert free and a free meal for every shift!
5. Some of Canada Day on the Hill/The Royal Couple. From work we had a great view of the Royal Couple visiting the War Memorial in Ottawa. That weekend I also went down to see some of Canada Day on the hill. The crowds were insane of people trying to see the Royal Couple. Canada Day in Ottawa is definitely something everyone should see at least once!
6. Weekly Beach Volleyball at Mooney's Bay. Beach volleyball is something that I love; toes in the sand, sun in your face, what more can you ask for?! So beach volleyball once a week all summer is absolutely perfect. For anyone who loves volleyball, or even thinks they would, I would suggest beach volleyball as a summer sport. Thanks to all my team members on "Sloppy Sets" for making this summer memorable! I am also glad we discovered M.I.C for a few pitchers and nachos after our games!
7. Funny pictures around the University of Ottawa campus. This is pretty self-explanatory, but had to be done before I left the University of Ottawa, possibly for good!
8. A Works peanut butter burger. Also pretty self-explanatory. I have wanted to try one since my first trip to The Works a few years ago, but as an adamant burger lover, I was worried I would be disappointed . However I love peanut butter, bacon, cream cheese, and cheese, so this burger was absolutely worth the risk and proved to be delicious!
9. Hiking in Gatineau Park. If only I had a car, or even a bike, I would go here all the time to hike!
10. Girls' Night Out at Milestones - $40 for 4 appetizers and 4 peach bellinis. An excuse to hang out just with the girls. The bellinis are yummy (and came with amusing miniature moose figurines), as are the appetizers (we chose Spinach and Artichoke dip, Yam frites, Bakes Goat Cheese & Slow Roasted Garlic Flatbread Plate, and Crisp Honey Phillo Shrimp).
Well that's it folks! Those are probably the top 10 adventures of my last summer (unless I come back) in Ottawa. Hopefully it entertained you, or even gave you some ideas for next summer or the rest of this one!
Au Revoir
<3 Canny
