THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE CITY OF LONDON IN CANADA
Published on August 27, 2023
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE CITY OF LONDON IN CANADA
London is not only the capital of the United Kingdom, but it is also known as a city in the province of Ontario, Canada. London is a harmonious blend of vibrant culture, beautiful natural landscapes, and diverse learning opportunities.
OVERVIEW OF THE CITY OF LONDON, ONTARIO
The city of London is located in the western part of the province of Ontario, stretching along the northern banks of the Thames River. About a 2-hour drive southwest from downtown Toronto, London is not only a significant commercial hub but also a gateway to the majestic landscapes of western Canada.
With a population density of around 530,000 people, London is ranked the 6th largest city in the province of Ontario and the 10th largest in Canada. This area is continuously developing, aspiring to become one of the major urban centers in the southwestern region.
CLIMATE AND NATURAL LANDSCAPE IN LONDON, ONTARIO
Beautiful natural landscape
London is often referred to as the "Forest City" with its 7 million trees, encompassing green parks, over 30 km of walking and biking trails. This surrounds London with breathtaking wilderness and the world's largest network of fresh water bodies.
Diverse climate
London's climate changes with the seasons, offering a different experience all year round. Winter brings snow and cold, making winter activities enjoyable, while the mild summers are perfect for exploring parks, lakes, and natural areas.
WHAT MAKES THE CITY OF LONDON, ONTARIO UNIQUE
Diverse culture
From diverse museums to the stages of the Grand Theatre, London truly is a city of the arts. Art flourishes on every corner of the city, making it an integral part of London's spirit.
The city of London offers opportunities to engage in diverse art exhibitions and lively music festivals. With a focus on essential fields like education, medical research, and information technology, the city's economy has been thriving.
Cost-Effective living
Compared to many other major cities in Canada like Toronto or Vancouver, London has a relatively lower cost of living and education. This favorable situation benefits both residents and international students. Affordable rent, balanced food and goods prices make it easy to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. According to statistics, the cost of living in this city is about 35% cheaper than Toronto. International students might spend around $550-$650 for rent and about $300 for monthly food expenses.
Local markets with fresh and affordable produce
With its rich and serene natural landscape, London hosts a variety of farms producing fresh products such as vegetables, fruits, meat, and seafood. Local markets here often open on weekends. Particularly, the prices of local produce are reasonable while ensuring the quality of food. This enables you to enjoy excellent meals in an environmentally friendly "farm-to-table" trend.
Prominent markets: Covent Garden Market, Western Fair Farmers' and Artisans' Market…
Convenient shopping centers
The two largest shopping centers in London are Masonville and White Oaks Mall. These places host various stores, from fashion brands, shoe stores to cosmetics shops, jewelry stores, and a plethora of dining options. Moreover, these shopping areas frequently organize events, promotions, and entertainment activities for an engaging shopping experience.
QUALITY EDUCATION SYSTEM
As part of the world's top-tier education system, the city of London houses colleges and universities that offer a wide range of diverse learning opportunities.
Some prominent colleges and universities in London:
Fanshawe College: The largest public college in Ontario, it excels in mechanical engineering and industry-related programs. According to surveys, 90.3% of students find employment within 6 months of graduation. The college also offers direct transfer programs to Western University.
Western University: Ranking within the top 1% of the world's best universities, it specializes in economics. Western University of Ontario has 12 faculties, providing over 400 undergraduate programs and 120 postgraduate programs.
DEVELOPING INDUSTRIES IN THE CITY OF LONDON, ONTARIO
Construction Industry
London experiences growth in construction projects including housing, commercial buildings, and public infrastructure to meet the increasing demands of immigrants and international students. However, there's a shortage of workforce in this field.
Woodworking Industry
The woodworking sector involves designing, crafting, and installing wood products such as furniture, windows, doors, wooden floors, and other wood-based items. London has a diverse range of wood manufacturing facilities contributing to quality products for construction and interiors. Particularly, Fanshawe College has dedicated workshops for international students pursuing this field to enhance skills and craftsmanship.
Plumbing Industry
Plumbing services are crucial for maintaining the city's water supply and drainage systems. London's plumbing experts handle troubleshooting, maintenance, and installation of plumbing systems for construction and residential projects.
Manufacturing and Engineering
London has a long history in manufacturing and engineering with numerous operational factories. Industries such as automotive, equipment manufacturing, and machinery have significantly contributed to the city's development.
CONCLUSION
London, Canada offers not only a favorable geographical location and beautiful natural environment but also opportunities for convenient living and learning with reasonable costs. It's an ideal destination for international students who appreciate a gentle and down-to-earth lifestyle.