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Is renting or buying cheaper in Canada?

Canada's top indigenous-owned retreats

Did you know? Ethan Katzberg’s is Canada’s first gold medallist in any throwing event since Etienne Desmarteau won the 56lb weight throw at St. Louis 1904. (olympic.ca)

LIVING
 Rent or Buy in Canada?

If you're new to Canada and exploring your housing options, CTV News has shared some valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're considering buying or renting, understanding the costs in different cities can help you find the best place to call home.

🌟 Where Buying Might Be Cheaper
In Winnipeg, owning a home could actually cost less than renting! The average mortgage payment is just slightly lower than the typical rent. Regina and Quebec City also came close, with only a small difference between mortgage and rent payments.

🏙️ Cities with a Smaller Gap
Cities like Edmonton, Halifax, Montreal, and Saskatoon have a relatively small difference between renting and buying. So if you’re eyeing one of these places, you might find some good options whether you decide to rent or buy!

🌆 When Renting is More Affordable
In major hubs like Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary, renting is generally cheaper than paying a mortgage. This is something to consider if you’re planning to live in a bustling city but want to keep costs down.

🔍 What to Keep in Mind
While the numbers can give you a general idea, remember that the cost of owning a home involves more than just mortgage payments. You’ll also need to budget for property taxes, utilities, and maintenance. Plus, saving up for a down payment can be a significant hurdle for many.

CANADA EH?
Things to do around you

The 43rd annual Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival is set to spotlight 216 theatre productions across 38 venues. August 15-25

The Calgary Arab Festival highlights regional and cultural distinctions in Arab countries celebrating clothing, cuisine, dance, and art. August 9-11

The African Descent Festival is intended to celebrate the cultural diversity of people of African Descent within Vancouver. August 10-11

Experience world-class entertainment, enjoy delicious authentic cuisine, warm hospitality, and view beautiful cultural displays during Folklorama in Winnipeg. August 4-17

Aged fifteen years to perfection, the Toronto Waterfront Night Market is excited to make its highly anticipated return. August 9-11

ÎleSoniq, the electronic music festival, will take place Friday and Saturday at Parc Jean-Drapeau in Montreal. August 10-11

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TRAVEL
Top Indigenous-Owned Retreats!

Did you know that many Indigenous-owned retreats across Canada are driven by a mission to create deep connections with the land and its original inhabitants? cbc.ca travel showcases some of these indigenous-owned businesses designed to provide meaningful experiences for visitors while also supporting and benefiting First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities.

🌲 Turtle Village, Manitoba
Experience luxury camping in eco-friendly "Turtle Shell" cabins in Riding Mountain National Park. Enjoy beading workshops, storytelling, and ice-fishing while connecting with nature and local culture. 🏕

🌊 Métis Crossing, Alberta
Immerse yourself in Métis culture with canoe trips, moccasin-making workshops, and sky-gazing domes. This boutique lodge and cultural destination offers a deep connection to Métis history and the land. 

🐻 Spirit Bear Lodge, British Columbia
Explore the Great Bear Rainforest and spot the rare spirit bear. Enjoy cultural tours led by the Kitasoo Xai'xais Nation, rainforest adventures, and learn about traditional foods and practices. 

🏡 Red Bank Lodge, New Brunswick
Stay in a cedar lodge with local art and enjoy traditional activities like bread-making and nature walks. Experience the rich culture of the Metepenagiag Mi'kmaq Nation and explore the historic Metepenagiag Heritage Park.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Canadian Burgers with a Global Twist!

Street Hawker’s kimchi bacon smash burger. Richard Won/Supplied

Who says burgers are just about beef and cheese? Across Canada, chefs are bringing vibrant international flavors to the classic patty! Here is a breakdown from the Globe and Mail.

🔥 Fireside Flavors
Meet Devan Rajkumar, a Canadian-Guyanese chef whose love for cooking over an open flame shines through. His unique "fireside" method, using a clay stove from India, adds a smoky essence to his grilled paneer and watermelon sandwich. Perfect for those craving a fresh, herbaceous twist on the traditional burger! 

🍍 Jerk Sensation
Over at Chubby’s in Toronto, the jerk burger is a must-try! Made with juicy Angus beef, house-made jerk seasoning, and topped with mango salsa and pickles, this burger brings a burst of Caribbean flavor to your taste buds. 

🍔 Tartare Temptation
Vancouver’s Elephant is all about bold flavors with their late-night tartare burger. Made with organ meat for an intense, crispy experience, it’s served with beer vinegar-pickled onions and double cheddar sauce—ideal for a late-night treat!

🥡 Pan-Asian Perfection
Justin Cheung’s Street Hawker in Vancouver mixes Pan-Asian flavors with burgers. From kimchi bacon smash burgers to the Aloha burger with spam and pineapple, Cheung’s menu is a delicious blend of cultures. 🍍🥓

ART & ENTERTAINMENT
Moose Car in British Columbia

In British Columbia, Lyle Brown-John, a charming 72-year-old with a flair for the extraordinary, travels in his eye-catching “art car” – a 1951 Austin panel van adorned with vintage license plates, stickers, and topped by a whimsical moose in a wicker chair. Inspired by a colorful car show, Lyle’s vehicle has captured hearts across B.C., California, and Saskatchewan. Measuring his travels in “smiles per gallon,” he delights in the joy his unique ride brings to others. Though his odometer’s broken, Lyle’s journey continues to spread cheer, with hopes of a cross-country adventure someday. (Global News)

OUR PICKS & FAVS

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