I wanted to find out from the experience of young people who know life in both Toronto and Ottawa... I like the lifestyle in toronto but have never lived in Ottawa. now i have a great opportunity for a job in Ottawa... but i am just not sure about the city. could anyone who knows well both cities try to compare?... how is the social life, the nightlife, professional life, transportation, cost and standard of living?

thanks...

I never lived in TO but went there fairly often when I lived in Oakville. I'm not particularly young either but I can vaguely remember what it feels like.

Ottawa is certainly not as lively as TO. It wouldn't be; it's much smaller. It is, however, a lot prettier. There are lots of young people here (several universities). Most of the social action takes place in the Byward Market area of downtown (think Covent Garden crossed with the St Lawrence market). Public transport is very good in both Ottawa itself and across the river on the dark side.

It's a very good place to be if you are sporty/like the outdoors. Cycling, skating, skiing, watersports, camping, beaches etc are all here for the taking.

Where are you at the mo - are you in To? If so, you should get yourself along to the meet-up in Ottawa on Sat 9th, 6.30pm at the hard Rock Cafe in Byward.