So, you and your family just moved to a brand new Canadian city. Your boxes are almost all unpacked, you’ve found the grocery store, and you met your new colleagues. But you still feel like a bit of an outsider in your new home. It might take a while for you to feel completely at home at your new address, especially if you’re living in another part of the country. But if you want to feel like a real local, here are a few ways to speed up the process:
Stay Away from Tourist Spots
The most touristic areas in any city aren’t usually where you’ll find the local citizens. Toronto’s Yonge and Dundas is like Canada’s mini Times Square. It’s big and bright and hectic. But most locals like to do their shopping in Queen West and Yorkville. In other words, don’t follow the tourists—follow the people who know where the sweeter spots are hiding. That’s where you’ll find the authentic part of the city.
Learn About Your City’s History
Not knowing anything about your new city can certainly make you feel like a stranger to it. That’s why you might want to take a trip to your local historical society or library to find out all the fascinating details that made your new hometown what it is today. If that sounds boring or dry, it doesn’t need to be. Consider taking a ghost tour of all the haunted areas in your neighbourhood, or find a segue or scooter tour that you can take with your family. The more you know about the city itself, the more you’ll come to appreciate it.
Find Community Events
It’s simple: simply type in “things to do in [my city]” in Google, and you’ll instantly find a hundred and one events happening all around the city. Getting involved in community events like festivals, live theatre, and fundraisers will not only help you meet new people with whom you share something in common, but it’ll also give you and your family something fun to do.
Talk a Walk
The easiest way to learn about your new city is to explore it on foot. Rather than biking or driving, walking is the perfect pace for you to take in all the sights, learn the street names, find new neighbourhoods, and explore local wildlife. Plus, it’s a group activity that is healthy and safe for every member of the family.
King’s Transfer Moving and Storage may not be able to give you a guided tour, but it can certainly help you get where you’re going. Contact your cross Canada movers today for a free estimate!