Winter in Canada may come as a surprise to many international students. The sun sets early, the cold bites, and the snow… well, the snow can be great or bad depending on the amount. There’s a lot to adjust to when you come to Canada.
However, it is best to think of winter as another challenge in life. As long as you’re prepared, there’s no reason your first winter shouldn’t be enjoyable. The nine tips below can help you shake off the cold, stay focused on your studies, and even have fun!
9. Winter Clothes
Wearing a thick winter coat and other warm clothes is something you must have when winter is coming. Even though it’s not stylistic, in the end you just need your body temperature to stay warm. Winters in Canada are no joke and can often get very cold, especially in the north if you live there. Buy a quality jacket, waterproof boots, warm gloves, hat and scarf. Trust us, it will make winter life much more enjoyable.
8. Visit a Local Ice Rink
When the snowfall comes, it’s time for everyone to gather at the ice rink. From hockey players and figure skaters to parents teaching their children, skating on ice skates is one of the most fun activities you can do in the winter. However, skating can seem a little scary for those of you who are not used to ice skating or did not grow up in a country with winter. After all, falling on ice can hurt!
Don’t let this fear stop you from lacing up a pair of roller skates. Nothing will require you to become great at ice skating in a short time, so just relax and have fun. Most cities have various arenas that can be used for free. All you have to do is wear warm clothes, grab some friends, and join in on the Canadian tradition!
7. Go for a walk or Ice Hiking
Canada has so many great places to hike. Of course, climbing in winter requires a little more effort than in summer. In other words, you can’t just put on your best shoes and hit the trail. Wearing appropriate clothing is a must and even the climb itself can be more difficult, as you may be walking in deep snow. In fact, the whole thing may sound like more effort than it’s worth. However, hiking in winter can be a lot of fun. In addition to being a great source of exercise, winter hiking can reduce stress and offer a nice break from everyday life.
6. If you drive, use winter tires
Winters on some roads in Canada can be rough. If you drive your car more often, we can’t stress enough how important it is to have a good set of winter tires. In fact, winter tires are mandatory in Quebec from December 15 to March 15 every year. Many other provinces offer insurance discounts and other incentives to drivers who use winter tires. Sure, winter tires can be expensive but they make driving easier and safer. Safety is of course more important when driving!
5. Try the Downhill Activity
If you’re new to Canada, you might be wondering why activities like tobogganing, skiing, and snowboarding are so popular there. One reason is that fresh snowfall turns any big hill into a winter playground. Spending hours outside flying down hills is great fun and a great way to take a break from your studies. Tobogganing is the easiest to do, because all you need is something to ride on and a hill to climb. Skiing and snowboarding require a little more time and money, as you have to pay for equipment and entry fees. Just like skating , learning to ski or snowboard is a fun way to make the best of the winter months. Try!
4. Stay Indoors
Listen, nothing requires you to love winter. As beautiful as fresh snowfall, winter in Canada is often cold, dark, and quite difficult for your daily activities. There will be days where the thought of going out will make you want to curl up in bed and get covered in a thick sheet. On those days — or whatever days you like — give yourself permission to stay indoors and do something fun and relaxing.
Whether it’s playing board games with friends, reading a book, or watching Netflix, there’s always something to do inside the house. Taking a break from the winter weather is also good for your mental health. Remember to get out every once in a while. It may be cold out there, but you’ll never make it to class if you stay home all season.
Listen, nothing requires you to love winter. As beautiful as fresh snowfall, winter in Canada is often cold, dark, and quite difficult for your daily activities. There will be days where the thought of going out will make you want to curl up in bed and get covered in a thick sheet. On those days — or whatever days you like — give yourself permission to stay indoors and do something fun and relaxing.
3. Warm Food and Drinks
One of the worst things about the winter months is that eating outdoors is almost impossible (unless you like sitting out in the cold). Luckily, eating and preparing food indoors is a great excuse to try something new in the kitchen! Whether it’s warm soup or hot chocolate, there are so many delicious treats you can make to help get through the winter. Plus, the more you prepare food at home, the less you’ll spend on takeout. Trust me, your bank account will thank you.
2. Go Somewhere Warm
One good way to enjoy winter? Vacationing south is something you might consider if you’ve had a bad experience with the winter blues. Of course, spending a week in Jamaica or another tropical country is not an option for every student. With limited money and free time, it can be difficult to justify going south. We definitely don’t recommend going if it doesn’t fit your budget. However, if you have the funds and time available to do so, consider stepping away from winter for a bit. Alternatively, you can bring study assignments with you… just in case you find the time.
1. Know That Summer Will Return Soon
Winter in Canada often feels like it will never end. You might be thrilled by the first big snowfall in December, but come late January, don’t be surprised if you just want to see it all melt away. It’s okay to feel this way. Most Canadians feel the same way as you. Winter can be tough but cold weather makes spring, summer, and fall feel more rewarding and special. By the time the trees start growing leaves again in spring, you’ll probably be glad winter is over. However, when the leaves start to fall six months later, there’s a good chance you’ll be looking forward to seeing snow again!