Ottawa , General info:
9/10

Nestled on the banks of the majestic Ottawa, Rideau and Gatineau Rivers, Ottawa is one of the most beautiful capitals in the world. A thriving international technology and business centre and world class tourism and convention destination, Ottawa is also rich in culture and heritage with its many national institutions, parklands, waterways and historic architecture. It is home to a large number of foreign embassies and is a recognized centre for both academics and professional training. The city offers an open and welcoming environment to cultures from around the world, providing service in English, French, and a host of other languages.

Ottawa , Different stuff:
9/10

Ottawa is great city to explore on foot. With pedestrian friendly streets and the density of attractions, a car is expensive and unnecessary for the most part. An excellent place to start any tour of Ottawa is the Capital Infocentre, located directly opposite Parliament Hill on Wellington Street. They have maps and brochures for most tourist attractions in Ottawa, many of which are within walking distance.

Ottawa , Don't miss:
7/10

The Ottawa Bluesfest, an annual outdoor music festival that takes place each July in downtown Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. While ostensibly focused on blues, the festival has increasingly showcased mainstream pop and rock acts in recent years.

Ottawa , Food:
8/10

Ethnic foods from around the world are available at a wide variety of restaurants and street vendors throughout the city. The Byward Market area has a wide selection of different cuisines; the Chinatown area is along Somerset Ave. between Bronson Ave. and Preston St; Little Italy runs along the length of Preston Street, from Carling Avenue to Albert Street. Also try the tasty beaver tail, a doughy, deep-fried pastry associated with Ottawa, although a number of places claim to have created it. It's available in sweet and savory versions, topped with cinnamon, sugar, icing sugar, etc. In the winter, many places will offer it on the canal. During the summer, the only place downtown to offer it is in the Byward Market on George St. There is a variety of toppings and the taste of the beaver tail arguably stands out more with the classic sugar & cinnamon.

Ottawa , Hotels:
10/10

Within Ottawa and the National Capital Region, there is an abundance of hotels, offering a wide-range in choice in both style and price-range. The city is home to world-class luxury hotels with a long history and tradition of accommodating dignitaries, celebrities and sports figures alike. Yet at the same time, the city is able to offer top rated lodging to the more budget conscious traveller. The Bed and Breakfast industry is alive and well in the Ottawa area. For those travellers accustomed to a more personalized setting, there is an equally wide range of choices, with a number of Bed and Breakfasts options available.

Ottawa , Safety:
9/10

Ottawa is a very safe place to live and visit, so if you use common sense it is at least as safe as any other city. There are many tourists in the city, especially in summer months, and there are very few incidents of robbery or assault.

A note about marijuana, a decision by the Ontario Supreme Court in 2007 has rendered possession of less than 30 grams legal within the province.

Syracuse , General info:
9/10

Syracuse is a city in Central New York, USA. It is the county seat of Onondaga County and the economic and educational hub of Central New York, a region with over a million inhabitants.

Syracuse is served by the Syracuse Hancock International Airport in nearby Salina, near Mattydale. The airport is served by 17 airlines (9 major), which provide non-stop flights.

Syracuse , Different stuff:
9/10

Syracuse is known for its snowfall. Boasting 115.6 inches (293.6 cm) on average, the Syracuse metro area receives more snow on average than any other large city in the United States.

The Everson Museum of Art, which opened in 1968 features one of the most extensive pottery collections in the United States along with works of American art, dating from the 18th century to the present.

Syracuse has gained the nickname "the City of Festivals" for good reason. There are numerous festivals year round.

Syracuse , Don't miss:
6/10

The Great New York State Fair is a spectacular twelve-day summer extravaganza of New York State. Lasting from the end of August to Labor Day, it features 375 acres of family fun, mouthwatering foods, incredible animals, fascinating exhibits, top-flight entertainment, exciting competitions and much more.

Syracuse , Food:
8/10

Virtually every cuisine in every price range can be found in Syracuse, with something to satisfy every appetite.

Syracuse , Hotels:
9/10

Whether you're coming with a family of four or fifty friends, you'll always have a place to call home in Syracuse. From full-service national hotels to quaint B&Bs, you'll find just what you're looking for.

Syracuse , Safety:
9/10

Crime rate is a bit higher than average but it is a pretty safe city.