Life in Canada: Must-Visit Provincial Parks in Ontario

Life in Canada: Must-Visit Provincial Parks in Ontario This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Ontario’s provincial parks are a testament to the province’s rich natural beauty, waiting to be explored and enjoyed throughout the year. They offer outdoor activities that suit every interest and passion with…

Socializing in Canada: Newcomer Stories on English Learning Journeys

Socializing in Canada: Newcomer Stories on English Learning Journeys This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Learning English can feel like a real adventure and often brings unforgettable stories of lighthearted and funny moments, as well as valuable lessons. We reached out to settled newcomers who learned…

Newcomer Guide to Canadian National Parks: Destinations and Essential Tips

Newcomer Guide to Canadian National Parks: Destinations and Essential Tips This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Canada’s national parks are a natural beauty and adventure gold mine, both because of the breathtaking landscapes and a wide array of activities. Before exploring the beauty of these parks,…

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Socializing in Canada: Tips on Navigating Language Barriers for Newcomers

Socializing in Canada: Tips on Navigating Language Barriers for Newcomers This blog was written by YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Communicating effectively in your non-native language can present challenges, but it’s a skill that can be mastered with persistent practice over time. Whether you’ve just started learning English or trying…

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Coping with Homesickness

Coping with Homesickness This blog was written by YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Moving to a new country opens the door to a world of possibilities but can also bring sadness and homesickness. This feeling is familiar and natural to many newcomers. It’s important to remember that adjusting to a…

4 Mindfulness Tips: Navigating New Beginnings in Canada

4 Mindfulness Tips: Navigating New Beginnings in Canada This blog was written by YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Alicia Rasul. As a newcomer who has just arrived in a new country, the settlement process may be difficult at first as you are still trying to learn the Canadian culture, the environment and…

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My Family

This blog was prepared by YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialists Doris Garcia. For Canadians, the family is mostly described as a father, a mother and children. However, the family is beyond that. In my country and for me family means brothers, uncles, aunts, cousins, pets, extended family and close friends who can…