New smartphone apps make perfect aids for visitors in Ottawa

Canada Travel Tips

|

Monday, 19 December 2011 18:16

Last year, the city of Ottawa held a contest for travellers and residents alike in hopes of further connecting the city's attractions, transportation options and people. Individuals were encouraged to submit their designs for smartphone applications, or apps, that cater to navigating around Ottawa and getting the most out of a visit to the city. The applicants created a wide array of useful and informative programs that have been reviewed by users, often in a very positive light. Some were awarded monetary prizes by Ottawa officials, who judged the programs based on things like usefulness, easy access and originality. The following five apps were among the best rated and can be used on a variety of smartphones to help enhance the holiday experience in Canada's capital city.

RinkSide
With the winter season coming up quickly, visitors to Ottawa may want to know where the best places are to strap on their skates. Many skating sites pop up throughout the region at various times of the year, so it may be difficult to keep track of when and where the public skating opportunities are. RinkSide offers the GPS locations of hundreds of the city's skating rinks and directions for how to get to each of them. Many are also updated with the ice's current condition and if it's the ideal spot for a pick-up hockey game or a leisurely skate.

Ottawa Dog Park Finder
Many travellers like to bring their pets along for the ride when taking a holiday. Those who have their four-legged friends with them, or who want to simply mingle with some local dog owners, can use the Ottawa Dog Park Finder application. Each place is rated by its popularity, cleanliness and friendly atmosphere.

OCTranspo Mobile
Those who enjoy utilizing local transportation while on vacation can download the OCTranspo Mobile app. This stylish program offers pictures and maps of the city's bus routes and provides the times each one runs.

Ottawa Blend
Finding out what locals are up to is often a great way to get a feel for a new place. The Ottawa Blend app is ideal for this, as users can upload events, activities and more through their Facebook accounts.

Couch Assassin
If some local events are on a traveller's itinerary, they can check out what's going on through the Couch Assassin app. Everything from movie times to rock concerts are listed through the program, and many offer links to the performer's website to get a sense of the upcoming event.