16 Signs You Can Start Calling Ottawa Home

613-bred.

Canada's capital remains one of the most underrated cities in the country.  Unsurprisingly, its reputation as a boring government city hasn't made people too keen to venture out here to explore Ottawa's potential. Most people, unsurprisingly, are often turning their attention to cities like Vancouver and Toronto. While those cities themselves are actually pretty amazing, you're pretty lucky if you can actually call Ottawa home.

With its beautiful gothic Parliament buildings and its proximity to nature, Ottawa is a welcoming and amazing mix of an urban playground and the country. It's the biggest small town in Canada and you're bound to know familiar faces very quickly.

Here's 16 signs you can start calling Ottawa home if you've moved here:

Your cell number's extension is 613

Yep, you're no longer a 416 or whatever you once were.

You're billingual or you know the words, "Je ne sais pas parler français."

Either one has benefitted you immensely.

You've survived at least one winter

Congrats! Most people can't make it that far.

You've hiked in Gatineau Park at least once

If you haven't done so, Pink Lake's a good starting point.

You've complained about the OC Transpo

You're #Ontrack to being a true local.

You can name at least one Sens player

Yes, Alfredsson counts and always will count.

You've travelled to the suburbs of Barrhaven or Orleans

For whatever reason, you had to trek to Ottawa's western or easternmost parts. That being said, they're still a part of our city and only a true local has missioned out here.

You've skated on the Canal

Touristy but essential.

You've eaten one BeaverTail (preferably cinammon and sugar) at the ByWard Market BeaverTails shack

The first shack in our great nation.

You've celebrated Canada Day on Parliament Hill at least once

You probably have seen them more than once (if you don't hate crowds).

You've had Bridgehead coffee

The local brew.

You've never swam in the Ottawa River

Because you know better.

You've had a meal at a restaurant in the ByWard Market

Whether it's breakfast at Zak's, a five dollar snack at El Furniture, chicken and waffles at The King Eddy or an unholy free birthday dinner at Tucker's, you've made it.

You've purchased one item from the Rideau Centre

Yes, the Bay across the street counts, too.

You know one person who went or goes to uOttawa, Algonquin or Carleton

Bonus points if you know someone who went to St. Paul's. I've lived here practically my whole life and have yet to meet someone who's been there.

You've had shawarma once or twice

Shawarma Palace garlic sauce is probably flowing through your arteries.