Airbnb | Ottawa Trip 2018

We still can't believe how charming our Ottawa getaway turned out to be! After months of Toronto's hustle and bustle, we desperately needed a change of scenery that didn't require crossing any borders or dealing with international flights.

Our Airbnb was an absolute gem – a cozy heritage home in the Glebe neighborhood that felt like staying with old friends. The hosts had left us a bottle of local wine and the most thoughtful welcome note with handwritten recommendations for everything from the best shawarma spots to hidden walking trails along the Rideau Canal.

What struck us most about Ottawa was how effortlessly multicultural it felt. Walking through ByWard Market, we heard conversations flowing between English, French, Punjabi, and Vietnamese – it reminded us why we love Canada so much. Amir was particularly excited to find authentic kulfi at a little shop near Parliament Hill, while I discovered the most incredible Vietnamese coffee at a café run by a family who immigrated around the same time as my parents.

The Parliament Buildings were obviously stunning, but our favorite moments happened in the quieter spaces – sharing poutine on a park bench, getting lost in the Canadian Museum of History, and having deep conversations during our evening strolls through New Edinburgh.

Sometimes the best adventures happen right in your own backyard. Ottawa reminded us that you don't need to travel halfway around the world to feel that spark of discovery.

What's your favorite Canadian city for a quick getaway? We'd love to hear your recommendations!