the views were beautiful. We also got the chance to visit Parliament.
We went on a tour with a lovely tour guide who was more than happy to answer any of our questions. It was really interesting getting to see all the different buildings and learn all the traditions of the Parliament. For example, the English and French representations in the building are kept strictly separate – this includes the portraits of the different monarchs. The Senate Chamber has red carpeting and the chamber of the House of Commons has green carpet, and the two aren't allowed to sit together. In fact, there are places in the back roped off where the different members are allowed to stand – it isn't very big. Also! If you want to sit in on either meeting, there are seats open to the public at the top with (and this was my question) earpieces in case they decide to speak in French or English, whichever you don't speak. So you get to hear the same translations that the other members hear.
We also got to see where the Queen would sit in the Senate, which was pretty cool. There are some smaller seats to the side that are apparently reserved for first year college students who intern there. That's a pretty sweet gig for a first year student.
Probably the most exciting thing for me was the Memorial Chamber. It was originally to honor the sacrifice of Canadians who died in the WWI, but has since come to include all Canadians who served and died in military conflicts. There are a lot of stories and other inspiring things carved into the stone around the room. I was particularly excited to find “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae as one of them.
Well, I've talked enough for this one post. Part II coming up soon!
