Erasmus in Ottawa

Information and tips for Erasmus students in Ottawa

Are you thinking about studying in Ottawa? Don't think twice! It's the Canadian capital, so it offers a wide range of leisure activities for the thousands of international students it welcomes. Its streets are among the cleanest, calmest, and safest in the country, not to mention its excellent universities, which are favourites for pursuing a master's or doctorate in Canada. Here, we'll tell you everything you need to make the most of your stay in Ottawa!

Cost of living in Ottawa, Canada

In general terms, Canada is an expensive country due to its high standard of living. However, Ottawa is more affordable compared to other major Canadian cities.

The cost of renting your accommodation will be your biggest expense. We recommend looking for a shared flat, which is the option chosen by most students. A room in a shared apartment in the city usually costs between CAD 320-1,000 (€ 220-680) per month, depending on your accommodation. On the other hand, there are also university residences, but international students don't typically choose this option as they are more expensive than a shared flat.

The cost of groceries varies depending on where you shop. Most students agree that the best supermarket in terms of quality and price is Superstore (Real Canadian Superstore).

Finally, public transport offers a monthly pass with a discount of up to 20% for students. It's perfect for exploring the city since you can travel as many times as you need throughout an entire month.

It's worth noting that educational institutions in the city offer various types of financial aid to international students, so we recommend that you gather information about them to take advantage of them.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Ottawa, Canada

Despite being the Canadian capital, Ottawa is a relatively quiet city, and its nightlife is limited. That being said, the nightlife in the neighbourhood called ByWard Market ("The Market" for students) is the best in the metropolis, as it's where most nightclubs and pubs are located.

Don't be discouraged because most establishments close at 2 a.m. It allows you to recharge your batteries for the next day! You'll need it because, unlike the nightlife, there are plenty of activities to choose from during the day. For example, in summer, you can swim in Lac O'Brien or take a boat tour on the Rideau Canal, which in winter, becomes the world's largest ice skating rink! Take the opportunity to skate or go sledging there. Additionally, in spring, you can admire the display of tulips at Commissioner's Park. Other activities suitable for any time of the year include visiting the largest and oldest church in the country (Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica), attending a curling match, seeing the Rideau Falls, skiing at Camp Fortune, and hiking in Gatineau Park.

Culture and gastronomy in Ottawa

One of the great aspects of this city is its bilingual environment, with both English and French as official languages. However, thanks to the multiculturalism of its residents, you'll hear a variety of different languages in its streets. Ottawa embraces this cultural diversity and celebrates it in its museums, music venues, schools, festivals, galleries, and especially in its gastronomy. Therefore, you'll find food from all around the world to suit every taste because there are establishments offering dishes from various cuisines. If you're interested in trying typical Ottawa cuisine, there are many traditional dishes that you'll love, such as:

• “Oreilles de crisses” (fried pork rinds dipped in maple syrup)

• “Fiddleheads” (roasted fern leaves)

• “Peameal bacon” (back bacon coated in cornmeal)

• “Queue de Castor” (fried dough pies)

Advantages of doing Erasmus in Ottawa

• You have all the advantages of a cosmopolitan metropolis without the hectic and overwhelming lifestyle that sometimes comes with it. Ottawa is a city with a peaceful environment.

• This capital city has English and French as official languages, making it a bilingual population. You will have the opportunity to practise not just one, but two languages at the same time!

• As soon as you arrive, you will notice the famous friendliness that characterizes Canadians. In Ottawa, people are so hospitable that you will immediately feel at home.

• The city is located close to many cultural attractions in the country, such as Montreal or the La Vérendrye Nature Reserve. It is a perfect starting point for exploring Canada.

Cheap student accommodation in Ottawa

Are you looking for accommodation in the Canadian capital? Well, you're in the right place! At Erasmus Play we show you the best flats, rooms and apartments for students in Ottawa so you can find your ideal accommodation.

Frequently asked questions about doing Erasmus in Ottawa

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