CTV News reports that Opposition MPs in the Canadian government are calling for an “urgent” meeting of the House of Commons’ Transport, Infrastructure and Communities Committee to discuss the treatment of Via Rail and airline passengers this holiday season, and to hear directly from the minister responsible.
“Hundreds of Canadians were stranded over the holidays due to extreme weather and poor customer care on the part of Canadian airlines and VIA Rail. These difficulties add to the troubling treatment of air passengers during the pandemic,” reads the letter, sent to committee chair and Liberal MP Peter Schiefke. “Canadians deserve timely answers and accountability.”
LOTS OF U.S.LOVE FOR ONTARIO
The opposition MP’s say they also want to hear from Transport Minister Omar Alghabra.
Two major U.S. publications are showing a little love to Canada’s most populous province.
Travel + Leisure has published a lengthy story focused on great things to see and do in Muskoka, a terrific vacation region a couple hours north of Toronto. The story includes a look at the Bala Cranberry Festival, Algonquin Provincial Park, The Rock golf course (always a fun place to play) and the JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa, a personal fave I’ve had the pleasure of staying at a few times.
The writer also includes Gravenhurst and a visit to the Muskoka Wharf.
“From here, board the legendary RMS Segwun — North America’s oldest-operating steamship — for a scenic cruise. The journey offers a perfect vantage point for appreciating Muskoka’s unique mixture of elements: glamorous waterfront mansions, pristine nature, and the luxury of getting away from it all.”
Take a ride on the RMS Segwun out of Gravenhurst and enjoy the fall colours on wonderful Lake Muskoka. PHOTO COURTESY MUSKOKA STEAMSHIPS & DISCOVERY CENTRE
I’m not sure about calling Muskoka “The Hamptons of the North,” which is the story headline. I guess the comparison is fair, but I’d rather put Muskoka on its own and not compare it to another region that doesn’t look anything like it.
The Hamptons features million dollar homes, cute towns and endless beaches, but it doesn’t offer pristine lakes and historic steamships.
Still, it’s nice to see some love sent Muskoka’s way by a major publication such as Travel + Leisure, which called the area “a glamorous year-round retreat.”
It’s also nice to see CNN Travel name Ottawa as one of the 23 places to visit in 2023.
Ottawa is a terrific city I always enjoy visiting. Museums (such as the National Gallery) are top-notch, the food is excellent, and the craft beer is outstanding. I love the Fairmont Chateau Laurier hotel and the Andaz Hotel, which has a fab rooftop patio. I also love exploring Ottawa’s neigbourhoods, including Hintonburg and Wellington West, as well as The Glebe. On top of all that, Byward Market is one of Canada’s top markets for food and shopping.
Fireworks in Ottawa. JIM BYERS PHOTO
“Graceful and understated, Ottawa has its own draws,” CNN said in its story. “Music lovers should take note of two Ottawa Jazz Festivals. There’s a winter edition February 2-3. If you can’t handle the cold, there’s a summer edition June 23-30.
“The Rideau Canal turns into the world’s largest skating rink from sometime in January to late February or early March, depending on ice thickness. It’s free and accessible 24/7. When it’s warmer, it’s a great spot for people and boat watching.
“A don’t-miss is Parliament Hill, home to Canada’s federal government and the visually striking Parliament buildings on a promontory overlooking the Ottawa River.”
CNN’s top 23 for 2023 also included Belize, Liverpool and Western Australia, which I visited in May of last year and dearly loved.
