Ottawa, Ontario!

Ottawa is the capital of Canada and is well known for its politics and museums. But once you've visited the Parliament and a couple of their many museums what else is there to do in the city? Lots!! You can chill out in one of the cool coffee shops in Chinatown, enjoy a sconewich at the aptly titled Scone Witch or sample a beer at the newly opened Centretown Brewery. Backpackers are well catered for with 3 hostels in town meeting a variety of price ranges. The cheapest dorms start from $27. 

Here are just a few reasons to visit Ottawa:

• A chance to learn more about Canada's history at both the Parliament and the Canadian Museum of History
• Easy to reach from both Toronto (5 hours by bus) and Montreal (2 hours by bus)
• It's a very walkable city with a small town feel
• Lots of live local music on offer, much of which can be found on Ottawashowbox.com or apt613.ca
• Full calendar of festival events including Bluesfest, Ribfest and Poutinefest!
• Great variety of beers to sample, breweries in Ontario are well known in the country!

To find out more visit the city's website! http://www.ottawatourism.ca/en/

City of the Week, October 21st to October 27th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Barefoot Hostel in Ottawa, Ontario!

This week we talked to Sabina, the owner of the Barefoot Hostel in Ottawa. Here's what we learned about the place! 

The start of the Barefoot Hostel 
The start of the hostel was actually quite a surprise decision for Sabina! She owns the Swiss Hotel and the opportunity came up to purchase the building next door. Her kids thought it would be a great idea to open up the accommodation to younger guests and she agreed. She loves geography so being in the travel industry is a great passion for her. 

Ottawa as a destination 
Why should people come to Ottawa? Because 'Ottawa is a small, beautiful city where you can do everything on foot.' Whether you're in Ottawa in Summer or Winter there is always something to do! 'Skating on the Rideau Canal, visiting the greatest museums in Canada, going to Gatineau Park which has great cross country skiing, swimming, biking....'. 

Staying at the Barefoot Hostel 
The Barefoot Hostel is a small (16 bed) hostel which is intimate and charming. It is designed for young professionals who are visiting the city for 3-4 days and need a place to do their work. They encourage guests to follow the 'unspoken' rules of hostelling to create a great environment for everyone! 

And finally one random fact about the Barefoot Hostel! 
The Barefoot Hostel got it's name from the fact that guests have to take off their shoes at the doors! So remember to wear your best socks if you're going to the Barefoot Hostel! 

There are four 4 bed dorms at the Barefoot Hostel, a dorm bed is $39 per night.

You can find out more and start planning your trip here: 

http://www.barefoothostel.com/

Hostel of the Week, July 15th to July 22nd 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Carleton University Conference Services, Ottawa

Ottawa's Carleton is a secluded, safe and beautiful campus located along the historic Rideau Canal and the Rideau River.  Carleton University Conference Services is only 10 minutes from the airport, 5 minutes to the Glebe and 10 min to the downtown core. It is just walking distance to Dows Lake and a short bus-ride to Downtown shopping, museums and galleries. Ottawa's O-Train stops in front of the campus.

The university campus has access to top-notch athletics facilities, including an Olympic size swimming pool and a brand new gym, available for a small fee (subject to availability)

An all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast is included in all reservations.

Feature of the Week, July 31st to August 15th 2012
Submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Barefoot Hostel, downtown Ottawa!

Barefoot Hostel youth hotel offers free internet and WIFI. A small, quiet independently-owned, 16-bed backpackers haven. Newly renovated, air-conditioned and with a modern European decor, this affordable hostel offers a great hostel experience in Ottawa. Swiss style bedding in white color only with duvet and duvet cover is included. Lovely backyard patio in Summer time to relax and enjoy.

Check availability and rates through Barefoot Hostel's website reservations page.

Hostel of the Week June 27th to July 3rd 2011
Submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Ottawa Backpackers Inn

Ottawa Backpackers Inn

Just recently, on December 12th, the Olympic Torch was carried past the newly refurbished Ottawa Backpackers Inn, at 203 York Street Ottawa. Behind the runners, staff and guests of the Ottawa Backpackers Inn can be seen waving with Olympic fervour.

Ottawa Backpackers Inn will soon be celebrating its 10th Anniversary. Congratulations to Martin Jones, owner and operator of the OBI!

Hostel of the week, December 20th to January 3rd 2009
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada