The Great Escape: Ditching London for Oshawa (and Not Getting Lost in the Process)
So, you've bravely decided to ditch the Big Smoke for the slightly-less-smoky pastures of Oshawa. Excellent choice! You're in for a treat (and poutine, but more on that later). But first things first: how on earth do you get from Point A (London, Ontario) to Point B (Oshawa, Ontario) without getting hopelessly lost in the Canadian wilderness (spoiler alert: there won't be any wolves, but there will be Tim Hortons)? Fear not, intrepid traveler, for this guide will be your beacon in the storm, or should I say, the maple syrup.
Choosing Your Chariot: A Cavalcade of Travel Options
There are several ways to get from London to Oshawa, each with its own unique blend of quirks and perks. Let's take a peek under the hood of each option:
- Train: Our good friend VIA Rail can whisk you away in just under 4 hours. Perfect for those who want to sit back, relax, and avoid the responsibility of, well, driving. Bonus points for spotting some picturesque Canadian countryside along the way. Word to the wise: pack some snacks, train food can be a bit...meh.
- Bus: FlixBus is your ride if you're on a budget. For a mere $20-something, you can be bouncing along the highway for around 5 hours. Things to bring: an excellent playlist (trust me, you'll need it) and a neck pillow (those seats were not designed for comfort).
- Car: Feeling adventurous? You can hit the road yourself! The drive is a breeze at around 2.5 hours, and you get the freedom to blast Nickelback at the top of your lungs (but please, for the love of all things decent, don't). Just remember to brush up on the highway code – those moose on the signs aren't just a suggestion.
- Plane (kind of): Technically, there's no direct flight from London to Oshawa. But, you could always fly into Toronto Pearson Airport and then snag a connecting train to Oshawa. It's a bit more time-consuming and expensive, but hey, if you crave the thrill of air travel, who am I to judge?
The Ultimate Choice:
The best option for you depends on your budget, time constraints, and tolerance for Nickelback. Train is a great all-rounder, while the bus is easy on the wallet. For the free spirits out there, there's the car. And the plane is there for those who like a touch of extravagance (or maybe just a deep fear of Greyhound).
FAQ: Your Oshawa Odyssey Awaits!
How to pack for a trip to Oshawa?
Think layers! Canada can be unpredictable. Pack for both sunshine and the occasional rain shower. Also, don't forget comfy shoes – you'll be exploring!
How long does the trip take?
It depends on your chosen mode of transport. Train clocks in at under 4 hours, while the bus can take up to 5. Cars are the speed demons, taking around 2.5 hours.
What currency do they use in Oshawa?
The good ol' Canadian dollar! Be sure to exchange your cash or hit up an ATM before you arrive.
Is there anything I should bring for the train/bus ride?
Snacks (train food is, ahem, interesting), entertainment (books, podcasts, etc.), and a neck pillow (trust me on this one).
How do I get around once I'm in Oshawa?
Oshawa has a decent public transport system, but renting a car might be a good option for exploring the surrounding areas. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also available.
Now that you're armed with this essential knowledge, get out there and conquer Oshawa! Just remember to pack your sense of adventure (and maybe some maple syrup for the return trip).
