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Practical Information
Getting around
The city is served by rail, several airlines and
inter-city bus companies. Several networks of freeways operate within the
city, the main ones being provincial Highway 417, commonly called the
Queensway, and Highway 416, connecting Ottawa
to the 400-series highway network operating in Ontario.
Ottawa’s
transit service is known as OC Transpo. The system is reliable and convenient,
with buses operating on a network of high-frequency reserved bus transit
lanes, with full stations and stops. The transit-way operates from the far
east of the city to the far west, and a light rail system connects the north
to the south. Bus fare is $3 for a
one-way ticket that permits transfer to another bus. Full day, multi-ride
tickets are available for purchase from bus-drivers at a cost of $8 per day.
Many OC Transpo buses are equipped for passengers with disabilities.
Passengers enter at the front of the bus and drop their coinage into the
machine next to the driver. Transfer stubs will be provided to all passengers
as proof of purchase, which is required as a receipt when taking any public
transit.
Tipping
No service charges are included in your bills at
restaurants. Tipping is customary, allowing for 15% of the bill before taxes.
Shopping
Stores in downtown Ottawa
are mainly located in the ByWard Market, Sparks Street and the Rideau Centre, all within walking
distance of the hotel. Larger shopping malls are located in greater suburbs
of the city and can be reached by public transit or taxi. Most of the larger
shopping malls contain the same stores as the Rideau Centre. If you are
looking for more unique gifts, the ByWard Market, Sparks Street and Sussex Drive are the best bet.
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For more information –
The National Capital
Commission Infocentre is located at 90 Wellington Street, directly across
from Parliament Hill. It is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5 pm,
Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm. For more detailed information about
history, local events, landmarks, museums, organized tours and shopping,
visit the office or phone: 613-239-5100.
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