Things I learned in Ottawa:
I learned some fun things last week...
- Sometimes the best thing to do in life is throw all caution to the wind and go on an unplanned, no-drama adventure! I have to admit, I don’t usually just run off to another country to visit a friend on a whim, but it was very worth it.
- Canadian beer is more alcoholic, more expensive, and should not be combined with shots. Otherwise Aly may get too drunk and get kicked out of the bar and not be able to recall several hours.
- It is very true-Hockey in Ottawa (or probably all of Canada) is much like Baseball in Boston, but without the boringness (sorry Sox fans, but baseball is just not engaging whatsoever). The games are much more interesting and the announcers are less annoying.
- It is very easy to get around a city that follows a basic grid pattern-unlike the unpredictable and chaotic roads of Boston. I didn't get lost once!
- If I drink enough, I am quite quiet and completely unable to think the next day. This is a far cry from my usual talkative nature.
- I learned a new phrase: “going to a patio” and got some funny responses when I didn’t quite understand the phrase. I understood each word, but never had I been asked if I wanted to go to a patio and have it refer to a pub and not someone’s house. It is apparently a big deal to go to a pub that has an excellent patio and I must admit the weather was so gorgeous you just had to be outside with a pint.
- There are still places in North America where you can watch a good soccer game and people are still passionate about the sport.
- We really are spoiled in the States. If you do the math, they are already paying well over $4/gallon in Canada and they are just as spread out as we are.
- Poutine is delicious and therefore dangerous. Take fries, which are already not good for you, and cover them with lots of gravy and cheese. Super tasty! (though I did get teased for only eating a small)
- They do say “eh?” a lot, but probably no more than I say “huh?” “what?” or “wicked.”
- Ottawa has an excellent live music scene.
- The good people of Ottawa have a flair for the dramatic when it comes to the architecture of their governmental buildings (see Parliament Hill), but they also have retained their sense of fun (lots of people picnicking, sunning themselves, and other general nice weather frolicking right on the lawns of Parliament Hill)….you won’t see that on Beacon Hill!