Canadian London Encounters

Map from – here 

Introduction

London in Ontario, Canada is 5,872 kms (3,649 miles) away from London UK, on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean. The Canadian namesake even has its own River Thames! The focus, however, of O Lonada is London, UK. There is much to discover and learn about Canada right here in London. The birthplaces and homes of early explorers and traders can be visited. The exploits, protests and artefacts of Canada’s Indigenous peoples can be seen, heard and remembered. And you can experience a rich Canadian cultural heritage. As well as these distinctly Canadian sites, London has its own and other multiple histories and places of interest – their accompanying stories abound.

What you will find in O Lonada

O Lonada contains 'Encounters', organised under the headings of Indigenous, Trade, Migration, Women, Animals, Military, and Sport. Under each heading, sites are listed – each with a map location and telling you ‘how to get there’. Descriptive and background information are provided, as well as links to related media and further information. In the 'Tours' section, sites are combined into themed tours. You can make up your own tours by bringing together any sites in any combination. Walk where you can or use public transport for the far-flung sites.

The 'In the Boonies' section contains sites outside of London. I have used the term to refer to anywhere outside London and is not meant in a derogatory way.

Following is an 'Article' section which contains features on aspects of O Lonada or related topics such as book reviews. An 'Events' section shows upcoming events related to Canada.

This app includes images and names of deceased people that may cause sadness or distress to Indigenous peoples.

Make a contribution

O Lonada is keen to hear your comments and reports of your encounters. What do the sites make you think and feel? What did you discover on your visit? Most importantly, what Canadian connections have you discovered in London?  The 'Over to You' section asks some thought provoking questions. Make comments throughout and send your text, pictures and videos via the 'Contribute' section – they will be included in O Lonada. Use the 'Search' tool to find what interests you. 'Contact' O Lonada by email or phone.

So, grab your device (with the downloaded app), a camera, bottle of water, sketchpad and/or notebook and head out of the door. Enjoy the journey to O Lonada.

Public domain - from here

Technical tips

O Lonada is a Progressive Web App (PWA) accessed by a url –

Android users

The app will work on all devices – laptop, tablet, mobile – using the android operating system. Copy and paste the url into Chrome. Follow the prompts to create an app icon on your home screen and to allow access to your location. You’ll need to be connected to wi-fi or 4G to access any external links in the app. If you’re planning to use the app offline, you’ll need to open all the pages you require while connected to wi-fi or 4G, then they will be available to you when offline. External links won’t work until you are back online.

Apple users

The app content is accessible on all devices – laptop, tablet, mobile – using the Apple operating system. Copy and paste the url into Safari. Create an app icon for your home screen by clicking on the share icon (box with arrow pointing up) and select ‘add to home screen’ by scrolling right on the bottom menu. This can then be used to access the app. To allow access to your location go to ‘Privacy’ in your device settings and switch on ‘Location Services’ and ‘Share My Location’. Scroll down to make sure that Google maps and Safari websites are switched on while using. You’ll need to be connected to wi-fi or 4G to access any external links in the app. If you’re planning to use the app offline, you’ll need to open all the pages you require while connected to wi-fi or 4G, then they will be available to you when offline. External links won’t work until you are back online.

About the author

O Lonada represents a personal interest in travel and fond memories of holidays spent in Canada. My partner, Louise, is a London born Canadian citizen. Plus, I have many Canadian friends who often visit London and this is for them. O Lonada follows on from Londown Under, an app which directs the user to sites of historical and cultural interest for Australians.

Post career as a health professional I completed a masters degree in Public History.

Robert Williams

London 2021