Daily Life

1. Your first home
One of your first priorities when you arrive will be finding a place to live. Many newcomers rent an apartment as their first home. Renting a Place to Live has good advice. You can check local renting listings at Good Move London, the London Free Press daily newspaper and the Strathroy Age Dispatch weekly newspaper. You should understand your legal rights and obligations before entering into a rental agreement.

2. Finding a family doctor
Canada has a wonderful public health system that offers necessary services for free. You should apply for a health card through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) as soon as you arrive in London and Middlesex County.

Your next step is to find a family doctor. This can take a long time. You can start with the Find a Family Doctor service. Walk-in medical clinics and the Middlesex-London Health Unit can help you with treatment and information while you're waiting to get a family doctor.

3. Child care
Both parents work outside the home in many Ontario families. Finding reliable childcare is easy to do in London and Middlesex County. Licensed child care or day care centres are facilities where children from different families are cared for by qualified staff. There are many low-cost or part-time programs and services available. You can find comprehensive information about child care programs, services and resources in your area at Familyinfo.ca.

4. Using the bus system
London has a reliable, low-cost public transportation (bus) system that serves almost every area of the city. Many adults, students and children ride the bus to work, school or to activities. It's an economical and environmentally friendly way to get around. Each trip cost $2.75 although you can save money by purchasing tickets at convenience stores and many other locations. For more information about rates, bus routes and schedules, visit London Transit. Middlesex County does not have public transportation.

5. Maximizing your money
It can be difficult to adjust to a new currency and costs for day-to-day living. Your best strategy is to understand typical living expenses and develop a monthly budget. Many resources can help you do this. Help Yourself Through Hard Times gives practical advice on budgeting and trimming living expenses. Fact Sheet: Budgeting, Banking and Savings is another good resource.