Burlington, Canada7 Tips for Living in Burlington
Summary: Advice for people moving to Burlington or thinking about moving there.
This is a must read if you're moving to Burlington or thinking about moving there.
As an expat or digital nomad, moving to a new city can be an exciting yet daunting experience. Burlington, with its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals, is a fantastic place to call your new home. Here are seven key tips to help you navigate and enjoy your new life in Burlington.
1. Understand the Local Culture
Canadians are known for their politeness and friendliness, and Burlington is no exception. It's important to understand and respect the local customs and traditions. Canadians value punctuality, so always try to be on time for appointments and social gatherings. They also love their sports, especially hockey, so joining a local sports club can be a great way to meet people and immerse yourself in the local culture.
2. Explore the Neighborhoods
Burlington is made up of several unique neighborhoods, each with its own charm. Downtown Burlington is known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture. Alton Village, on the other hand, is a newer residential area with modern amenities and beautiful parks. Roseland is one of the oldest and most prestigious neighborhoods in Burlington, known for its large, historic homes and proximity to the lake. Spend some time exploring each neighborhood to find the one that suits your lifestyle and preferences best.
3. Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Burlington is known for its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. The Royal Botanical Gardens, the largest of its kind in Canada, is a must-visit. With over 2,700 acres of gardens and nature sanctuaries, it's a great place to relax and enjoy nature. The city is also home to the beautiful Burlington Waterfront Trail, a perfect spot for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the stunning views of Lake Ontario.
4. Try the Local Cuisine
Canada's culinary scene is as diverse as its population, and Burlington offers a wide range of dining options. For a taste of local flavors, visit The Martini House, known for its innovative dishes and extensive martini list. For a more casual dining experience, try The Works Gourmet Burger Bistro. And don't miss out on the opportunity to try Canada's national dish, poutine, at a local spot like The Judge and Jury.
5. Get Involved in the Community
One of the best ways to feel at home in a new city is to get involved in the local community. Burlington has a wide range of community groups and organizations that welcome newcomers. Whether you're interested in arts, sports, environmental conservation, or community service, there's likely a group that aligns with your interests. Do some research and find a group that resonates with you.
6. Learn the Local Lingo
While English is widely spoken in Burlington, you'll also hear a lot of Canadian slang. Words like "loonie" (the Canadian one-dollar coin), "toque" (a winter hat), and "double-double" (a coffee with two creams and two sugars) are commonly used. Learning these terms will not only help you understand local conversations better, but also make you feel more at home.
7. Embrace the Weather
Canada is known for its cold winters, and Burlington is no exception. But don't let that deter you. Embrace the winter by trying out winter sports like ice skating, hockey, or snowshoeing. Burlington has several outdoor rinks and trails perfect for these activities. And remember, there's no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. Invest in a good winter coat, boots, and other winter gear to stay warm and comfortable.
Living in Burlington, Canada, as an expat or digital nomad can be a rewarding and enriching experience. By understanding the local culture, exploring the neighborhoods, enjoying the great outdoors, trying the local cuisine, getting involved in the community, learning the local lingo, and embracing the weather, you'll soon feel right at home in this beautiful city.
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The TEFL Institute of IrelandThe TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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