Well, where do I begin? The flight to Ottawa was uneventful and the drive into Ottawa was interesting. I knew right away it could possibly be a challenge to drive in foreign cities. But surprisingly, I feel I have adjusted pretty quickly. I am even starting to drive like the locals... with a little bit of attitude!
Our few days in Ottawa were excellent! The hostel we were in was so cool - it was a former jail which was converted into a hostel. We got to stay in a cell (with metal barred door). It was amazing. We did the ghost tour in the evening which explained the history of the jail and showed us all the interesting parts: jail cells, death row and the gallows! I was so impressed with the whole hostel. But I have to admit, I did have trouble sleeping the second night. First night was excellent... the best night's sleep I had had since I stopped staying in hostels (obviously, months of hostels changed my sleeping habits and what I felt comfortable in). But I think the creaks and noises in the dark got to me on the second night.
In Ottawa, we walked around By-Market (the oldest part) and then did a bus tour through the city. At that point, we were able to see all the major sites including those further out. My mother is still recovering from her broken ankle so we cannot do too much walking. The following day, we did the National Parliament of Canada. That was very interesting - would have been cooler if Parliament was in session, but of course, Parliament had recessed for holidays (sometimes it seems they are never in session!). Then I drove us to Montreal. Once we entered the city limits, driving was a little more interesting. In Quebec, all signage is in French! Makes it fun when you do not speak french. But we arrived to another excellent hostel.
Montreal was a beautiful city. It took me a while to see what everybody raves about but then I was so intrigued. My sister takes regular trips to Montreal every year and I could see why she loves that city. The old port area was so great - lots of grass to lay down and people watch (or sleep :) ). My mom and I took a horse-drawn carriage tour through the old city which was great (a little smelly though!). I just had such a great time. On our other day in Montreal, we had a bust day. It was St Jean Baptiste Day in Quebec so the city was alive in celebration. We went to the Biodome, Botanical Gardens and Insectarium. That was great. But the crowds were insane as they went to the big party in the park so Mom and I headed to the port which was much more relaxed and quieter. It was a great day (amazing weather). Before we left, we went to the Archaelogical remains of the city which are down by the port. The museum is all underground and it was great to wander through the remains. But then we were off to Quebec City.
On our way, we went to Montmorency Falls which was excellent. Mom has wanted to see them for years so I was happy she was finally able to see them in person. Then we made it to our hostel in Quebec. Interestingly, we chose one in the neighbourhood known for the separatist beliefs. Hmm, that could be interesting! But the hostel is great as well (my Mom chose really well - remember, she had to make all the plans!). We spent 2.5 days in Quebec City and it was definately needed to see the major sites. The old city and the area within fortification walls was so beautiful. But so much to see: churches, walls, museums, parks, statues, Chateau Frontenac, Citadel, Plains of Abraham, Parliament, chocolate museum... Today, we took a trip out to St Anne de Beaupre which is known for an amazing Basilica and more amazing, a 360 degree mural painting of the crucifixion of Jesus and the landscape of Jerusalem at that moment. So stunning!
It has been a really interesting trip so far, personally. I have come to a number of conclusions. First, I definately travel better alone. I love my mother and she is my favourite person in the world but it has even been difficult travelling with her! After so many months on my own, it has been difficult to adjust to having someone else with me. Second, I am a control freak. Yes, I can admit it. Even though I told my mother she was making all the plans and I was just going to come along for the ride, I have had a bit of a problem letting go of control and going along with what she had planned. Of course, that can cause problems but that just led to number three. Communication - I have to be honest (but not too honest to the point that it is offensive or hurtful - sorry Mom!) and I have to be fine with other people's honesty as well. And lastly, that I LOVE to travel and I know I will be doing this for the rest of my life. I have been bit by the travel bug (whatever it is) and can't seem to get enough of the challenge and excitement and beauty. It is such a rush to be away from home and feel so content and at peace. So I do not know what wil come next and where I will be years down the road... I just know that I have loved every moment of this year and I will continue to look forward to having travel in my life until I die!
So, I guess I will talk later. We leave tomorrow for the long drive back to Ottawa. Two more days await us and then I return home... but for how long, you will have to keep reading!
Love, Lisa
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