With the province of Ontario on track to safely continue its reopening measures, this summer has become the season of freedom and reconnecting with the things and people I love. From seeing my niece and nephew again for the first time in months IRL, to weekend trips with Julio while we do the long distance “thing”, I’m all about sharing experiences with you all to inspire and make you smile. Having planned out several trips this summer together when we aren’t apart, I wanted to take the time to tell you why you should consider a staycation (for those of you who also call it home) or vacation weekend in Ottawa. The nation’s capital is ready to make your memories more beautiful and I can’t wait to tell you why!
First and foremost, let’s address the fact that I’m sharing a lot about hotels, food and fitness right now. I think that at this juncture in my life those are things that make me happy while I work around the clock and save for adoption with Julio. It’s sometimes a weekend getaway after being apart for weeks that makes the distance barrable. Or the fact that travelling with Canela is challenging so when we find a hotel that can accommodate us all (and hopefully a baby one day in the next few years) we remain quite loyal to them.
Thankfully we have just that in The Westin Ottawa – a beautiful hotel located in the heart of downtown Ottawa with some of the best experiences for a couple like us. Not only is the hotel one of the best areas to walk and explore the city, it also offers some of the best food and romantic experiences for us while we reconnect this summer. For those of you thinking about making a trip to the city with the three reasons I’m about to share, this is the hotel to lay down at the end of a beautiful day exploring the city together and enjoy a delicious meal at. So let’s dive right in!
- The Views
Ottawa is probably one of Canada’s most beautiful cities in my opinion. From it’s walkability (no offense intended) because of it’s smaller size, the historic building and the nature that awaits those of you wanting to explore, it’s quite the experience. I recommend the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, The Byward Market and Westboro as just a few of the areas to explore. Thankfully with the BikeWESTIN Program guests of The Westin Ottawa can rent BMW Bicycles for $10 each at the Front Desk and all proceeds are donated to our Local Children’s Hospital, CHEO. We will absolutely be taking advantage of that this weekend!
2. The food scene
Ottawa is actually a food scene that many visitors might not expect – in that I mean some of my favourite restaurants in Canada are right here! From the long standing icons to the new kids on the block, there are quite a few restaurants that top my foodie to do list including (though not limited to) Riviera, Play Food & Wine, El Camino, Mati, The Shore Club, Feast + revel, SIDEDOOR, Meat Press, Supply and Demand, Metropolitain Brasserie and many many more.
A great resource to check out is Ottawa Tourism since they are always in the know – click here for more inspiration.
And for those of you thinking the days of room service in a robe are long gone, I dare you to try it at The Westin Ottawa and not feel like you’re in heaven while sipping some wine or a cocktail with that special someone. I know I can’t wait to do just that!
3. The Change of Pace
For those of you who have explored Ottawa before you’ll understand what I mean here. While I love the hustle and bustle of the big city, Ottawa has a certain sense of calm to it while people enjoy the summer. There’s so much to see and do but there isn’t a sense of having to rush yourself through it like you might find elsewhere. For those of you who also live in the city, a staycation at The Westin Ottawa is a great way to change up your normal day to day and see things differently. Because all of us have worked really hard to overcome the past year and a half, and we all deserve a little down time at one of Ottawa’s most beautiful hotels.
While the hotel and it’s amenities aren’t completely open due to restrictions, there is still so much to see and do. From another fabulous stay for Canela because they are dog friendly, to restaurant recommendations and and experiences that the team can help book for you, The Westin Ottawa is a way to relax, rejuvenate and really enjoy the summer this year in a whole new way.
If not now after everything we’ve been through, then when? Head to The Westin Ottawa website to check out their current offers and make a magical summer weekend of your own come to life.
Join in on the social media conversation with us by following @TheWestinOttawa on Instagram, @TheWestinOttawa on Twitter and by ‘Following’ their Facebook Page. Share your #MyOttawa and #WestinOttawa memories with us all – I can’t wait to see what you enjoy most about your weekend!
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Photos: Daniel Reyes & All Social Media accounts listed above
Don’t forget to be kind & laugh a little more this year, and the next!
Mobile photos were taken with my Google Device of choice on the Rogers network.
*Promotional consideration may have been offered by participating brands – all opinions expressed are my own and my disclosure can be found at all times by clicking here.