My experience living in Edmonton, Canada by Paul-Emile

Why did you choose to go to Edmonton, Canada?

I was born and raised in Edmonton, therefore I did not choose to go there.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I do not know

What is the student lifestyle like in Edmonton?

It depends on who you socialize with. For the most part students gather around whyte avenue or stay around campus. But it's a big city and the U of A has a lot of students, so to generalize seems unfair. Rest assured however that there is something to do for all sorts of people whatever your interests are, you just have to find like minded locals to help you out.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Edmonton to other students?

Yes I would, but it must also be said that the city is not the most beautiful, and for Europeans or anyone not accustomed to north american lifestyle it can be overwhelming. That said, Edmonton has a certain charm, even more interesting for someone hailing from a far away land.

What is the food like?

Very multicultural. One can find cuisine from all over the world represented in Edmonton. Alberta has a rich heritage of immigrants who shaped the local food culture by bringing their style of cooking to their new home. Primarily Alberta and in turn Edmonton, was populated by European immigrants, namely Ukrainians, Scots, French, English, and German. Latter many Chinese immigrants arrived and since there have been people from many other Asian countries like Vietnam, Korea, India, and Pakistan. Recently, Edmonton has welcomed many immigrants from Africa and to a lesser extent from south america. So all of these cultures are represented in the food Edmonton has to offer. It is also important to note that Edmonton and Alberta in general, was almost entirely agricultural for a long time, and cattle ranching was and is a big part of that. Therefore, Beef is a major part of the traditional Alberta diet, and that tradition does continue to this day and we have a lot of steak houses.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Edmonton?

Rent is expensive, but if you stay in the residence it would be cheaper for you. That or make sure to live with others to make life more affordable.

How much does it cost to live in Edmonton?

It is expensive to live in Edmonton, but if you get creative or you find locals who know how to get by for less, there are ways to live cheaper and have even more fun. Just don't fall for the trap of only going to bars, especially the expensive one's and you should be okay.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

The language is English. I assume there are language courses at the University.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Edmonton from your city?

Bicycle or walking, especially if you stay around campus and Whyte ave is the most economical. To go a bit farther away, like downtown, use public transit. But if you want to see the whole city you really need a vehicle, the city is just too big and public transit is just too slow to make it worth your time otherwise.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Edmonton?

For Whyte ave I recommend: the Black dog, the Strat, the Pawn shop, Cook Counly Saloon, the Empress, the Elephant and castle, and Filthy McNasty's

For downtown I recommend: the Starlight Room, the Common, Red Star, and Pub 1905

Also note that bars close at 2am (sometimes 3am if you're lucky)

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Edmonton?

Packrat Louie, I used to work there so I know it is very good and the staff are great.

The Next Act, just across the street from Packrat

Three Boars, creative and cool

Sloppy hogs, awesome BBQ

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Fort Edmonton Park, the art gallery, the provincial museum, the high level street car,

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Edmonton in the future?

Have fun! Keep warm! Be nice! And have an open mind!