Experience in Toronto, Canada by Marina

What is it like to live in Toronto? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Toronto is quite expensie. Grocery shopping is cheaper than eating out. Nonetheless I recommend going there. I think people from outside of Canada would be surprised at how eclectic and multicultural the city is, and it is wonderful to immerse yourself in that sort of environment and to embrace everyone that is a part of it. The city loves exchange students because it amazes us whenever people from outside of the city would take interest in Toronto.

What is the student lifestyle like in Toronto?

Quite relaxed. People love to study in groups, and we tend to have time to go out on the weekend (we make the time, really... ). Lots of resources available for students through your institutions. But, there are not too many student discounts that I have known of. If there are (some places will have them), it's good to take advantage of them. If you know english, it shouldn't be hard to get a job or to communicate with locals.

How much does it cost to live in Toronto?

I lived at home, but my friends have lived in downtown, Toronto and have usually paid anywhere from $400-600CD/month for accommodations. Groceries might be about $150-200 depending on how much you like to eat.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Toronto? Is there any advice you can give?

It's not difficult at all! Lots of availability. But it's hard to find an affordable accommodation (under $400). I hear Kijiji is a great place to go for apartment hunting. BUT any online hunting for apartments you do, make sure you check out the place in person (and hopefully with a friend).

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Delicious. Not usually local in grocery stores. I've never been to a restaurant in Toronto where I wasn't satisfied. Food is great, servings are pretty good. Locals love all-you-can-eat sushi here, and there's a lot of great sushi restos to go to.

What places would you recommend visiting in Toronto?

• CN Tower



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• AGO & ROM
• Rogers Centre/ACC - any game you can afford to go to!



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• Theatres for musicals
• Harbourfront
• The Distillery district
• walking through the Annex - interesting houses
• Toronto islands
• Casa Loma



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• Entertainment district for bars - King St.
• the CNE in the summer
• Nathan Philips Square
• Any outdoor skating rink in the winter :)
• the Humber trails for easy hiking
• the boardwalk
• UofT - St. George campus
• High Park



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Is it good to eat out in Toronto? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Soooo good! If you can afford it you can find cheaper places, but I don't recommend eating out everyday for those who are financially restricted.

I love Mother Dumplings in Chinatown. I love New Generation (sushi place) along Bloor St. in the Annex (there's two; both are yummy). There's so many other places but I am forgetting the names now.

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Is the nightlife good in Toronto? Where is good to go?

Depends on what you like! Lots of variety, lots of clubs, lots of bars, lots of sports bars, and lots of places that are a mix of both. My personal favourites:

• Ballroom Bowl



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• Grace O'Malleys (Gracie's)
• Tequila Jacks



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• The Madison



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• Any bar on King. St.

What advice would you give future students heading to Toronto?

Local students are SUPER friendly, so don't hesitate to ask for help with anything.

Always walk the city. The best way to get to know the city is by walking! You get to see and learn so much more this way.