It is true that every international student has the dream to explore Canada along with the studies.
If you are an adventure lover or just want to enjoy nature, you have various options to explore. Students have a good opportunity to explore the country. This is because there is a break between semesters which a student can utilize in the best possible way. Apart from that there are various student concessions which save them the travel cost.
The below guide can turn handy when international students plan to explore Canada. Hence, look at the major tips of exploring Canada while studying.
- Budget preparation
Canada has various luxurious resorts, hotels and restaurants. However, you can explore the places in your student budget too. It requires proper research and budget planning. Find out about the destination and match the expenses with your budget. This will lead you to budget friendly travel opportunities.
- Look for proper accommodation
You can explore the city where you are studying by staying in the university residence. For instance, while living at York University Housing in Toronto, you can travel easily in the city. You do not have to worry about accommodation and other facilities. However, while visiting other places in Canada, you can get cheap hostels and cottage stays. There are great deals to look for on websites where you also get the option of shared residences. You can also do camping between May to October. This is the time when students travel the most. You may also have assignments related to your studies which is related to exploring the place. Thus, with comfortable accommodations you can travel easily. Also, you are able to discover new places.
- Check the transport facility
Canada is a big country and it takes time to reach certain locations . But the best part is there is a large network of train, bus, and flight for making travel easy for you. You can choose any of the options depending upon your destinations. A lot of students even hire a bicycle if they want to explore the city where they are living.
The most common transport which students use is train. This is specially observed in the eastern half of the country. There is a discount offered to students who travel through VIA Rail. It is a national rail network.
International coach company Megabus is most popular in Canada. Students can use it to travel from one place to another as the fare is cheap.
One can use a car too. But it is crucial to check driving regulations if you have foreign licence. It can be used for a short span. To travel in Canada throughout your stay as a student it is better to apply for a Canadian driving licence. You need to come with an International Driving Permit (IDP) before entering Canada if using foreign license.
- Look for discounts and free options
You may have a tight budget but still Canada gives you options of discounts and offers. There are student discounts on things such as hotels and restaurants, museum entry and more. There are free events too like street food festivals, summer events and more. In winters students can enjoy ice skating or sledging which is completely free. Thus, you can enjoy both in summers and winters with your free perks. There are attractions like concerts and indoor gaming which you can enjoy using your student pass.
You can travel in winters too and see the country from a different angle as a snow filled land looks picturesque during winters.