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5 Must Have Apps for Canadian Newcomers 📱🍁

🎢 Canadian Amusement Parks are open for the season

Did you know? 🌷In spring, Canada experiences a meteorological rollercoaster ride, from snowstorms to sunny days. In eastern regions like Ontario and Quebec, spring showers bring May flowers, but don't be surprised by the occasional snow flurry. Out west, in British Columbia, spring heralds the arrival of the cherry blossom season, painting the landscape in delicate hues. Across Canada, spring weather is as unpredictable as it is enchanting, always keeping Canadians on their toes.☀️

LIVING
5 Must Have Apps for Canadian Newcomers

📱Moving to a new country can be daunting, but with the help of mobile apps, navigating life in Canada becomes much easier. From language learning to transportation and budgeting, these apps are indispensable tools for newcomers looking to settle into their new home:

🗨️ Language Learning Made Fun with Duolingo
Mastering English or French is essential for thriving in Canada, and Duolingo makes language learning enjoyable and accessible. With engaging lessons and interactive exercises, Duolingo helps newcomers develop language proficiency at their own pace.

🚌 Navigating Canadian Cities with Transit
Getting around a new city can be overwhelming, but Transit simplifies trip planning with real-time updates on public transportation schedules, routes, and fares. Whether it's the bus, train, or subway, Transit ensures newcomers can navigate Canadian cities with ease, providing step-by-step navigation and service disruption notifications.

🛒 Budget-Friendly Shopping with Flipp
Living on a tight budget as a newcomer is challenging, but Flipp helps stretch every dollar further by offering access to weekly flyers and special offers from various retailers. Newcomers can compare prices, find discounts, and plan their shopping trips efficiently.

💲Financial Heath Made Simple with Mogo
Managing finances in a new country can be overwhelming, but Mogo simplifies the process with its suite of financial services and tools. From budgeting and credit monitoring to personal loans and mortgages, Mogo empowers newcomers to build a solid financial foundation in Canada.

💰Maximize your Financial Health with Wilbur
Wilbur is a leading budgeting app designed to help users maximuze their financial health in today’s challenging economic climate. With features like categorizing spending, net worth tracking, cash flow forecasting and opportunities to earn extra income, Wilbur helps newcomers take control of their finances. 

CANADA EH?
Things To Do Around You:

Experience the thrill of ziplining through Ontario's Carolinian Forest in Turkey Point, ON, with Long Point Eco Adventures' featuring rope sky-bridges and eight lines connecting suspended wooden platforms. Season opens on May 14th. Get tickets

Catch the Vancouver Canucks in action for Game 7 at Rogers Arena on Sunday, May 5th. Tickets are selling fast, and can cost a pretty penny. Can't make it to the arena? Join watch parties at Parq Vancouver or Gastown's Blarney Stone. Get tickets

Get ready for more delicious eats as Eataly opens its third store in Toronto May 30th Located at CF Shops at Don Mills, the new spot will feature a restaurant, retail store, and quick-service counters, spanning almost 10,000 square feet. Learn more

Join us at Festival des Musiciens du monde at the Saint-Enfant-Jésus du Mile-End Church in Montreal from May 17 to 19, 2024. This annual event offers inspiring performances, interactive experiences, and masterclasses with international musical masters. Learn more

Be a part of Wheel of Fortune's first-ever nationwide theater tour! Hosted by Mark L. Wahlberg and Clay Aiken, this live show offers audience members the opportunity to win big prizes. Join us at the Great Eagle Resort and Casino in Calgary on Sunday, May 12th. Get tickets

Join us at Place George V from May 17 to 20, 2024, for the Festival AfriCa Fest et Showcase Québec. Explore the rich diversity of Quebec's African culture through cuisine, musical performances, and artisanal craftsmanship. Learn more

Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt at Halifax ComedyFest from May 8th to 11th! With over 30 comedians from across North America taking the stage, this event promises to be the funniest four days of the year. Join us at The Light House Arts Centre. Get tickets

TRAVEL
🎢 Canadian Amusement Parks are open for the season

🇨🇦 As the snow melts away and the temperatures rise, Canadians eagerly await the opening of amusement parks. From roller coasters to water slides and animal encounters, Canadian amusement parks offer attractions to suit every taste. Here are just a few of the great Canada has to offer (Medium):

Vaughan, ON 
Ontarians eagerly anticipate the opening of Canada's Wonderland, the country's premier amusement park. Boasting over 200 attractions, including world-class roller coasters like Leviathan and Behemoth, or beat the heat and head to SplashWorks, Canada's Wonderland's expansive water park.

Montreal, QC
In Quebec, La Ronde enchants visitors with its thrilling rides and stunning views of Montreal's skyline. From heart-pounding roller coasters to gentle attractions for younger guests, La Ronde offers a diverse range of experiences for the whole family.

Vancouver, BC
Playland at the PNE (Pacific National Exhibition) in Vancouver is a seasonal amusement park that opens its gates during the spring and summer months, offering thrilling rides, carnival games, and live concerts all summer long. 

Calgary, AB
Calaway Park is Western Canada's largest outdoor family amusement park. With its scenic Rocky Mountain backdrop,Calaway Park offers over 30 rides and attractions, including thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and entertaining live performances. 

Winnipeg, MB
Assiniboine Park Zoo in Manitoba offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of wildlife, with exhibits featuring animals from around the globe. From polar bears to red pandas, visitors can embark on a safari adventure without leaving the heart of Winnipeg.

Halifax, NS
Atlantic Playland in Nova Scotia provides classic amusement park fun with a maritime twist. With rides, games, and delicious seaside snacks, Atlantic Playland is the perfect destination for families looking to enjoy a day of wholesome entertainment.

FEATURE SPONSOR 

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT
10 Must-Visit Farmers’ Markets Across Canada 🧑🏽‍🌾

🥕 Across Canada, farmers' markets offer not just a place to shop, but a vibrant experience that celebrates local produce, crafts, and community spirit. Reader’s Digests Canada put together a list of the 10 must-visit farmers' markets, here are a few that stood out:

🍎 Woodstock Farm & Craft Market - Woodstock, New Brunswick:
With roots dating back 50 years, this market in western New Brunswick has grown from eight vendors to a full-time operation. Visitors can shop for heirloom dry beans from Van Dine Quality Dry Beans and enjoy special events like maple syrup festivals and fundraising dinners.

🧀 Charlottetown Farmers’ Market - Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island:
As the largest market in the province, Charlottetown Farmers’ Market offers over 60 vendors showcasing local delicacies like shellfish, blueberries, and potatoes. The market partners with local organizations to improve access to fresh food for families.

🎃 Marché Wakefield Market - Wakefield, Quebec:
Starting with just six vendors, this market has become a regional favorite, offering everything from coffee to garlic scapes. Visitors can also support charities and non-profit organizations at the community table.

🥦 Covent Garden Market - London, Ontario:
One of Canada's oldest markets, Covent Garden Market has been a downtown fixture since 1845. With over 50 merchants, visitors can shop for handmade phyllo pastry dough and specialty meats while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

🌻 Grande Prairie Farmers’ Market - Grande Prairie, Alberta:
Since 1974, this bustling market has been a hub for food, entertainment, and fundraising. Visitors can sample mead from Tamarack Jack’s and fruit wines from Shady Orchard & Winery while enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere.

Whether you're a local or a newcomer, exploring these markets is a delightful way to experience the richness of Canadian culture and cuisine.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Canadian Movies Everyone Should Watch
🇨🇦 🎬

No matter where or when they are set, Canadian may make you consider what it means to be Canadian. You could even say they bring us closer. Among these cinematic gems is "Bon Cop, Bad Cop" (2006), a film that breathes new life into the classic "mismatched cops" trope with a distinctly Canadian twist. Set against the backdrop of NHL-linked murders, the film deftly navigates linguistic and cultural divides, showcasing the complexities of Canadian society. Explore the full list of Canadian movies that you should watch.

OUR PICKS & FAVS