TripOut Gay Travel:
Ottawa’s Top 5: Noah Picks His Hometown Faves by Cory Stottlemyer

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Left: Musician Noah. Right: Ottawa’s Peace Tower.

Up and coming artist Noah, though originally from Dubai, claims Ottawa, Canada, as his current home. The singer, whose debut album Human Geometry was recently released on June 23, gave us his list of the top 5 best places to check out while visiting Canada’s capital city.

1) Zaphod Beeblebrox

Aside from being the set for the Rolling Stone’s video “Streets of Love,” this bar is where I played my very first show! It’s definitely one of those places where we just always end up. Full of good people, new (and international) music and hilariously named drinks (See: Pangalactic Gargleblaster).

2) Elgin Street Diner / Zak’s Diner

Depending on what bar you went to that night, you’re probably going to end up at one of these diner-themed, well, diners. Greasy food, GIANT milkshakes and staff who may as well just join you at the table. Some do. (If you’re shy, stay still; they might not see you.)

3) Ragtime

Hidden off of Bank street, one of the major, always-under-construction streets in Ottawa, Ragtime vintage clothing is jam-packed with wearable and not so wearable finds from every era imaginable. Although, now the secret’s probably out, so think fast.

4) Aveda Experience Center

Not only does everything smell beyond amazing, it all actually works. On the top level of the Rideau Center, which overlooks the famous Rideau Canal, this store is tucked away in an alcove…with no doors, luring you in with free tea and $5 massages. Oh, and the service is excellent.

5) Bablyon Nightclub

For a while, it was kind of like a hidden gem in the sense that we all went there, but people who didn’t, didn’t really know it even existed. Although it now has a glaring sign which tears into bank street, it went unmarked for years. Some of the worlds best DJs and artists have played there, including Diplo, Chromeo, MSTRKRFT, Girl Talk, Thunderheist, Hercules and Love Affair, Jamie Lidell and more. Hopefully I’ll get a chance to play in this intimate/grungy/chic little hotspot.

Head on over to NewNowNext to watch a video interview with Noah, wherein he talks about his debut album as well as performs an acoustic version of his first single, “Mannequin.”