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Expert Tips and Techniques for Winter Survival in Canada for international students

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Canada, regarded as the great white North, has become an increasingly popular study destination. However, one of the first things that comes to mind whenever someone speaks of Canada, is cold-harsh winters. If you are planning to study in Canada and especially if you are visiting for the first time, Canadian winters can be brutal; and to make things convenient for you, we have compiled a winter checklist in Canada for international students to help them keep warm while they try to study, work and settle in chilly days and nights.

You could be going to these international universities in Canada, which may include:

  • University of Toronto
  • University of Winnipeg
  • Thompson Rivers University
  • York University
  • Humber College

Nevertheless, you, as international students, must be well-prepared for the cold and we are going to tell you how:

1. Create a Warm and Cosy Living Space

If a wood-burning stove is unavailable in your student accommodation, you can keep yourself warm by trying these alternative ways:

  • Replace your white LED bulbs with the ones that give off a sunnier light.
  • Put some stylish lighting such as LED candles for a welcoming and inviting glow.
  • Place some inexpensive houseplants at sunny spots in your apartment,
  • Keep a warm blanket by your side,
  • Draft proof your windows and draft-proof your doors,
  • Buy heated mattress or electric blankets,
  • Place rugs on the floors.

2. Buy and seek out the Warmest Attire You Can Find

Even if you are on a budget, a few warm clothes will help you beat the Canadian winters. You can buy from thrift stores, Facebook groups, preloved Instagram pages and other affordable places; and when it comes to buying, here is what you should do:

  • Buy sturdy and robust pair of boots with a good grip,
  • A warm jacket,
  • Purchase a long coat in case you are buying a thick turtle-neck sweater,

And if you are going to Vancouver or Victoria – cities with moderate temperatures, you may need some items like:

  • A thick pair of gloves,
  • Ice cleats for slippery days,
  • A toque or hat to pull over your forehead and ears/ a woolen headband,
  • Long-sleeved thermal top or leggings,
  • Wool insoles for boots.

3. Walk and Move Around a Lot

Moving around and going for a run or jog is an ideal way to cope with Canadian winter. You can do several things to warm yourself such as roller skating, whizzing around on the ice. Playing outside. Doing some activities is not only good for your health but it also helps you keep in better mood.

On the other hand, if you do not want to go out, you can always search for some helpful indoor exercises on YouTube to keep yourself warm, cosy and comfortable.

4. Keep track and Check the Weather Daily

Regularly check weather apps to keep yourself informed, checking both ‘real’ and ‘feels like’ temperatures to ensure you dress properly or if your need to carry an umbrella or not.

For instance, if you are living in Edmonton, not checking the weather or dress accordingly will be an issue as the rain there can be unpredictable.

5. Eat Well

Though you should take care of your diet regardless of the season; ensure that you are eating fruits and vegetables, drinking hot chocolate, and taking enough Vitamin D in case you are not getting much sunlight. Furthermore, try to experiment with in-season ingredients for bakes, stews and soups.

We understand that you may have many questions regarding Canadian winter and we assure you that surviving winter is easy if you follow aforementioned guidelines properly and take necessary and important measures; not only it will help you study better but enjoy the weather as well!

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