IIA Canada National Conference 2023

Venue & Travel

Visiting Ottawa

Climate

Fall is a breathtaking time to explore Ottawa. As the temperature cools and the air becomes crisp, the leaves begin to turn beautiful shades of red, orange and gold. This weather is best enjoyed on outdoor hikes and local farmers markets.

  • October average high: 13ºC / 55ºF
  • October average low: 3ºC / 37ºF

Expect roughly 8 to 15 days of rain in October.

Time Zone

Ottawa, Ontario, is officially in the Eastern Time Zone.  Daylight Savings Time is observed from the second Sunday in March till the first Sunday in November.

Language

In Ottawa, the primary language is English. But like the rest of Canada, the official second language is French. With a significant government presence as Canada’s capital bordering Quebec, French is more prominent than in other parts of Ontario or Canada. Overall, both English and French are widely spoken in Ottawa.

Emergency

You may dial 9-1-1 at any time in case of an emergency. The service is free from a pay phone. Operators are in contact with emergency, firefighter, police, and ambulance services at all times. Medical travel insurance should be considered if you travel from outside Canada. Emergency phone numbers:

  • Emergency: 911
  • Poison Information Centre: 613-737-1100
  • Ottawa Fire Services: 613-580-2860
  • Ontario Provincial Police: 888-310-1122

Health Link: 811

Get connected to health care 24/7. Access safe, high-quality care and avoid unnecessary visits to the emergency room. This service is an easy way to get connected to care you or your loved ones need, but it does not replace your other touch point with your health care provider. In a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

Driving in Ottawa

The speed limit on major highways (417, 416, 174) is 100 to 110 km/h (approximately 62 to 68 mph). The limit on other highways (7, 16, 31) and most rural areas is 80 km/h (50 mph). In the city, the speed limit is generally 50 km/h (30 mph) unless otherwise stated. The limit on the 148 in Quebec varies between 50, 70, and 90 km/h (between 30, 43 and 55 mph).

Many streets in Ottawa, especially downtown, are one-way. Be aware of signs that indicate a one-way street (a white arrow on a black background).

In Ontario and Quebec (except Montreal), drivers are permitted to turn right on a red light unless otherwise stated.