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Exploring Canadian City Life: Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal

Discover the charm of Canadian city life. Explore Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal with local tips, lifestyle insights, and practical guides.

Introduction

Canada’s urban centres are as diverse as its landscapes. From the bustling streets of Toronto to the coastal charm of Vancouver and the European-inspired flair of Montreal, each city offers a unique lifestyle and culture. Whether you’re planning to move, visit, or simply learn more about these cities, here’s a guide to help you navigate Canadian city life.

Toronto: Canada’s Urban Powerhouse

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and a global hub for business, culture, and diversity. Known as “the city of neighbourhoods,” Toronto offers everything from vibrant nightlife to family-friendly communities.

Highlights of Toronto Life:

  • Diversity: Over 50% of residents are foreign-born, making it one of the world’s most multicultural cities.
  • Arts & Entertainment: The CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, and TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) are must-sees.
  • Transit & Living: The TTC covers much of the city, but housing costs remain among the highest in Canada.

Local Tip: Explore neighbourhoods like Kensington Market and The Distillery District for a taste of authentic Toronto culture.

Vancouver: West Coast Living

Nestled between mountains and ocean, Vancouver blends urban sophistication with outdoor adventure. It’s ideal for those who love a balance of work, culture, and nature.

Highlights of Vancouver Life:

  • Scenery: Few cities in the world offer skiing, hiking, and beaches within 30 minutes of downtown.
  • Lifestyle: Vancouverites embrace a health-conscious, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
  • Housing & Costs: Real estate is among the most expensive in North America, but salaries are competitive in tech and film industries.

Local Tip: Take a seawall stroll around Stanley Park or ferry over to Granville Island for a true Vancouver experience.

Montreal: Culture & Creativity

Montreal is a city where European charm meets North American modernity. Known for its festivals, bilingual culture, and culinary scene, it offers a lifestyle unlike anywhere else in Canada.

Highlights of Montreal Life:

  • Culture & Language: French is dominant, but English is widely spoken, making the city a hub of bilingual culture.
  • Food & Nightlife: Poutine, bagels, and vibrant nightlife define the city’s character.
  • Affordability: Compared to Toronto and Vancouver, Montreal offers more affordable housing.

Local Tip: Visit during summer for world-famous festivals like Just for Laughs and the Montreal International Jazz Festival.

Final Thoughts

Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal each offer a distinct slice of Canadian city life. Toronto excels in diversity and opportunity, Vancouver in natural beauty and lifestyle, and Montreal in culture and affordability. Whether you’re considering relocation or planning a visit, these cities reflect the best of urban living in Canada.

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Ottawa Weighs Ending Tariffs on Chinese Electric Vehicles

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Ottawa Reviews Tariffs Amid EV Market Struggles

Ottawa is considering scrapping tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles as Canada’s EV market slows and farmers push for trade relief. A Nanos Research survey for CTV News found 62% of Canadians support or somewhat support removing the 100% tax on Chinese-made EVs. Many believe lifting tariffs could encourage China to ease restrictions on Canadian crops like canola.

Balancing Farmers and Industry Interests

Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald confirmed Tuesday the government is reviewing the tariffs. He emphasized support for Canadian farmers remains the top priority, but added that the decision must also weigh impacts on other industries. “We are in a fragile position, but we are here to support the farmer first and foremost,” MacDonald said.

EV Sales Face Steep Decline

Canada imposed tariffs in October 2024 to protect local automakers from what it described as China’s unfair trade practices. However, since then, EV sales have struggled. New data from Statistics Canada shows fully electric vehicle sales fell 39.2%, while plug-in hybrid sales dipped 2.2%. By contrast, hybrid electric vehicle registrations surged 60.7%. Analysts link the decline in zero-emission vehicles to the expiration of incentive programs across several provinces.

Shifting Federal EV Targets

Adding to the uncertainty, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced last week a pause on the federal EV sales target. The goal had been 20% of all new light-duty vehicles sold by 2026 to be zero-emission.

Simon Fraser University professor Jonn Axsen says the long-term direction remains clear: Canada is still moving toward electric mobility. He believes that stronger incentives, stricter mandates, and a more open market will be key to boosting sales.

Calls for More Competition and Lower Prices

Axsen argues that opening Canada’s EV market would give buyers more choices. He believes fair competition would encourage Canadian automakers to innovate, potentially positioning them as global leaders. Importantly, he notes that wider access could make EVs more affordable. For example, Chinese automaker BYD sells the Seagull for around $13,800 before tariffs and import costs, while most Canadian EV models start at $45,000.

Concerns Over Industry Impact

Not everyone supports lifting the tariffs. Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, warned that allowing low-cost Chinese EVs could undermine Canada’s auto industry. “Giving away part of the market because enthusiasts want Chinese vehicles, well, we should also remember that these enthusiasts don’t employ anyone,” Volpe cautioned.

What Comes Next

The government’s review underscores the tension between protecting Canadian jobs and responding to consumer demand for cheaper EVs. With global automakers racing ahead, Ottawa’s decision could reshape the future of Canada’s electric mobility market.

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Freelancing in Canada: Embracing the Digital Nomad Life

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Discover freelancing in Canada: opportunities, challenges, and insights into the growing digital nomad lifestyle across the country.

Freelancing and Digital Nomad Lifestyle in Canada

The world of work is changing rapidly, and Canada is no exception. With the growth of remote work and online platforms, many Canadians are embracing freelancing as a primary career path. At the same time, the idea of a digital nomad lifestyle—working from anywhere with a reliable internet connection—has gained strong momentum.

Why Freelancing is Growing in Canada

Freelancing in Canada is supported by a mix of global opportunities and local infrastructure. From software development and graphic design to digital marketing and consulting, online freelancers have access to a wide range of industries. Major platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal have become gateways for Canadians to connect with both domestic and international clients.

For many, freelancing offers:

  • Flexibility: Freedom to choose projects and set schedules.
  • Geographic independence: Ability to live in urban hubs or smaller communities while working globally.
  • Entrepreneurial growth: Building a personal brand and client base.

The Digital Nomad Experience in Canada

Canada itself is an attractive destination for digital nomads. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal provide vibrant tech ecosystems, coworking spaces, and strong connectivity. Smaller cities and towns—such as Kelowna, Halifax, and Banff—offer a balance of natural beauty and lower living costs, making them appealing for remote workers seeking lifestyle diversity.

Globally, the Canadian government has also recognized this trend. In 2023, Canada announced a digital nomad strategy as part of its broader tech and talent initiatives. This strategy is designed to make it easier for international remote workers to stay and work in Canada for extended periods.

Key Challenges for Freelancers and Nomads

Despite the opportunities, freelancing and digital nomad life in Canada require careful planning.

  • Taxes and regulations: Freelancers are responsible for self-employment taxes and must follow provincial and federal guidelines.
  • Healthcare considerations: Access to provincial health coverage may depend on maintaining residency status.
  • Work-life balance: Flexibility can blur boundaries, making time management essential.

Tips for Success in Canada

  • Leverage digital tools: Use platforms like Notion, QuickBooks, or Asana for project and financial management.
  • Build networks: Join Canadian freelancer associations, attend coworking meetups, and engage in online communities.
  • Plan finances carefully: Maintain savings, plan for taxes, and secure long-term client relationships before adopting a fully nomadic lifestyle.

Conclusion

Freelancing and the digital nomad lifestyle are reshaping how Canadians work and live. With strong digital infrastructure, supportive policies, and diverse locations to choose from, Canada is becoming a leading hub for remote professionals. Success, however, depends on preparation—balancing flexibility with financial and legal responsibilities.

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Marco Arop Eyes 800m World Title Repeat in Tokyo

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Canadian runner Marco Arop looks to defend his 800m world title in Tokyo, relying on patience, race tactics, and confidence built from experience.

Rising Expectations Ahead of Tokyo

Canadian middle-distance star Marco Arop is preparing to defend his 800-metre crown at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The Edmonton native will line up at Japan National Stadium on Sept. 20, carrying the weight of national hopes and his coach’s firm belief that he can once again be world champion.

Athlete’s Belief Versus Coach’s Vision

Chris Woods, Arop’s longtime coach at Mississippi State University, describes him as one of the best 800m runners of his era. Woods insists Arop has the raw ability to repeat as champion — if the 26-year-old fully believes in his own talent. “If he saw his ability the way I do, he would 100 per cent be the world champion,” Woods said in a call ahead of the championships.

Lessons From Recent Races

Arop has endured a mixed 2025 season, highlighted by a close third-place finish at the Diamond League Final in Zürich, where Olympic champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi edged him by less than a metre. That race reinforced the importance of timing his finishing kick — a lesson Arop has taken into training as he fine-tunes his tactical approach.

The Health and Fitness Factor

After battling a minor Achilles issue earlier in the summer, Arop now says he is fully healthy and in peak form. Training stints at altitude in Switzerland and added speed work have left him fitter than ever. “Physically, my body wasn’t holding me back [in Zürich]. It was all about tactics,” Arop explained. His improved conditioning could prove decisive against the world’s top runners.

The Rivalry to Watch

The duel between Arop and Wanyonyi is expected to headline the men’s 800m. The Kenyan holds a 12–5 career advantage, but Arop has claimed key victories, including the 2023 world title and a win earlier this season in Kingston, Jamaica. Both athletes push each other to new heights, with Arop crediting the rivalry for elevating his performance.

Balancing Confidence and Execution

Despite a résumé that includes five Canadian titles and an Olympic silver medal, Arop admits his confidence sometimes fluctuates. He enters Tokyo mindful of staying composed — neither overconfident nor hesitant. “I think it’s going to be a great challenge,” he said. “I’m not shy about competition, so I’m looking forward to it.”

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Canada’s Submarine Deal: German-Norwegian Bid Advances

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Canada narrows submarine contenders, naming the German-Norwegian partnership a finalist. Learn what this means for defense and industry.

Canada’s Submarine Deal: German-Norwegian Team Named Finalist

Canada’s long-awaited plan to replace its aging Victoria-class submarines has taken a key step forward. The federal government has confirmed that a German-Norwegian partnership is now among the finalists competing to supply Canada’s next-generation submarine fleet.

The Partnership

The joint bid comes from Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (Germany) and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (Norway), two defense leaders with a track record of collaboration. Their design, based on the Type 212CD submarine, is already under development for the German and Norwegian navies. This positions the team as a strong contender, offering Canada access to proven technology and shared maintenance expertise within NATO.

Why It Matters

Canada’s submarine fleet is central to its ability to patrol vast coastlines, operate under Arctic ice, and support NATO missions. With the Victoria-class fleet nearing the end of its service life, Ottawa faces growing urgency to secure replacements. The new submarines will not only enhance Canada’s defense capabilities but also create opportunities for domestic industry partnerships and high-tech jobs.

The Competition

While details of other contenders remain limited, the shortlist signals that Canada is moving closer to a procurement decision expected to shape naval strategy for decades. The government has emphasized that technology transfer, cost-efficiency, and opportunities for Canadian industry will weigh heavily in the final decision.

What’s Next

Final evaluations and negotiations are expected to continue into 2025. The chosen design will need to balance advanced capabilities with Canada’s unique operational demands, including Arctic sovereignty and integration with NATO allies.

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Quebec Halts 1,200 LION Electric School Buses After Fire

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Quebec suspends 1,200 LION electric school buses after fire prompts safety inspections; student transport disrupted province-wide Friday.

Fire Triggers Immediate Safety Action

Quebec’s Education Ministry has suspended the operation of 1,200 LION electric school buses after a fire earlier this week raised concerns over passenger safety.

Incident in Montreal Leads to Evacuation

The fire occurred on a school bus in Montreal, where a driver quickly evacuated five children before flames spread. No injuries were reported, but the incident prompted urgent investigation.

Province Orders Preventive Suspension Friday

Starting Friday, all LION electric school buses across Quebec will be grounded. The Education Ministry said the measure is temporary and meant to allow inspections.

Ministers Announce Coordinated Response

In a joint statement Thursday, Education Minister Sonia Lebel and Transport Minister Jonatan Julien said student safety is the province’s “absolute priority.” They instructed school service centres to take measures to limit disruption.

Weekend Inspections Planned for Fleet

Transportation companies will conduct preventative inspections throughout the weekend. The government hopes to return buses to service as soon as they are cleared.

Transport Canada Investigates Possible Defect

Transport Canada has launched a formal investigation into the fire. Authorities suspect a technical defect may be to blame but have not confirmed details. Findings will determine next steps for the fleet.

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Darlington’s nuclear project fast-tracked by Ottawa

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Ottawa adds Darlington’s small modular reactors to its fast-track list, drawing praise from Ontario’s premier and concern from environmental advocates.

Darlington nuclear project fast-tracked by Ottawa

Federal push for ‘nation-building’ energy

Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled Thursday a shortlist of five “nation-building” projects that will move through a newly created Major Projects Office (MPO). Among them is the Darlington New Nuclear Project in Clarington, Ont., east of Toronto, where Ontario Power Generation (OPG) is building Canada’s first small modular reactors (SMRs).

Ontario premier welcomes inclusion

Ontario Premier Doug Ford applauded Ottawa’s decision, calling it critical to accelerating energy independence. “Shovels are already in the ground building the first SMRs in the G7 at Darlington,” Ford said, adding that streamlined approvals should also extend to Ontario’s planned large-scale nuclear facilities.

What the reactors will deliver

The first reactor, already under construction, is expected to generate 300 megawatts—enough electricity to power roughly 300,000 homes. Federal officials estimate the project will create 1,600 construction jobs and sustain 200 permanent positions. Ottawa says the initiative positions Canada as a global leader in SMR technology, with export potential as early as 2030.

Local leaders see opportunity

Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster described the announcement as transformative for the community. “For the nuclear industry, which is based in Ontario for Canada and globally, this is huge,” he said, noting growing international interest. Foster highlighted a Dutch delegation visiting this week as evidence of worldwide attention.

Environmental advocates raise concerns

Not everyone is convinced. Tim Gray, executive director of Environmental Defence, criticized the inclusion of SMRs on the priority list. He argued the technology is costly, slow to deliver, and comes with safety risks. “There are much cheaper alternatives for the people of Ontario,” Gray said, pointing to clean energy solutions already available.

Next steps under Ottawa’s plan

Carney said all projects on the fast-track list will undergo approvals within two years at most. For Darlington, that could mean Canada becomes the first G7 country to operate an SMR, a milestone federal officials say would redefine the country’s role in global nuclear innovation.

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Canada Faces Israel in Davis Cup Under Empty Halifax Stands

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Canada opens Davis Cup tie vs Israel in Halifax with no fans allowed due to safety concerns as protests mount over conflict in Gaza and West Bank.

High-Stakes Match in Unusual Setting

Canada’s Davis Cup tennis team begins its World Group I tie against Israel on Friday in Halifax, but fans won’t be in the stands. Security concerns prompted organizers to close the event to spectators and media, creating an empty-arena backdrop for one of the most politically charged matches Canadian tennis has hosted in years.

Why Fans Are Absent

Tennis Canada announced earlier this week that Scotiabank Centre would remain closed during the two-day event, citing “escalating safety concerns” flagged by local authorities and national security officials. Activist groups had planned demonstrations outside the venue to protest Israel’s military actions in Gaza and the West Bank, raising fears of disruption and security risks.

Players Respond to the Challenge

Montreal’s Gabriel Diallo, Canada’s top-ranked singles player at No. 35, said the absence of fans will not alter the team’s focus. “Regardless of who we have in front of us, we’re going to compete the same way,” Diallo told reporters via video conference. Team captain Frank Dancevic echoed that sentiment, noting his players had experience competing without crowds during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Political Pressure Surrounding the Tie

Calls to cancel the event intensified in August when more than 400 Canadian athletes and academics, including Olympic runner Moh Ahmed, urged Tennis Canada to withdraw from the tie. Palestinian activists have also pushed for the CBC to cancel its livestream of the matches, while Jewish advocacy groups criticized the restrictions, arguing that fan closures reward disruptive protests.

Israel’s Perspective

Israel’s captain Jonathan Erlich said his team feels safe in Halifax, praising Tennis Canada’s security measures. However, he declined to comment on the broader conflict, stating, “I have a lot to say, but this is not the time or the place.”

Match Lineup and Outlook

Diallo opens the tie Friday against Daniel Cukierman, ranked No. 142, followed by Newmarket’s Liam Draxl facing Israel’s Orel Kimhi in his Davis Cup singles debut. On Saturday, Draxl and Calgary’s Cleeve Harper will team up for doubles before the reverse singles close out the series. Despite the tense atmosphere, Canada enters as the favourite, with Diallo leading the field as the highest-ranked competitor.

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Sask. accused of overpaying $100M for firefighting planes

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Coulson Aircrane claims Sask. paid $187M for planes worth half, asks court to overturn sole-sourced deal with Conair.

Sask. accused of overpaying $100M for firefighting planes

Court challenge filed over aircraft deal

A B.C.-based aviation company is taking the Saskatchewan government to court, alleging taxpayers are being overcharged by more than $100 million for new firefighting planes. Coulson Aircrane, a global leader in retrofitted airtankers, says the province improperly awarded a $187-million contract to competitor Conair Group without a fair bidding process.

Allegations of flawed procurement

In an affidavit filed with the Court of King’s Bench, Coulson president Britt Coulson argues Saskatchewan bypassed normal procurement rules when approving the purchase of four Q400 planes from Conair. He claims his company could have supplied comparable aircraft for less than half the cost, saving the province millions.

Government defends decision

The province approved the purchase in February 2024, after widespread criticism that aging aircraft were sidelined during a severe spring wildfire season. Saskatchewan maintains its process was “fair, open and transparent,” and insists Conair’s planes were the only ones that met technical requirements set by the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA).

Dispute over cost and design

Coulson contends a Q400 can be bought and retrofitted for about $10 million per plane, far below Conair’s $46.7-million price tag. He also argues that Saskatchewan’s size and tank-capacity requirements were tailored to favour Conair. His affidavit estimates Conair stands to earn $147 million in profit from the deal.

Claims of bias raised

The court filing highlights potential conflicts of interest. Coulson points to SPSA executive director of air operations, Peter Boniface, who previously worked for Conair, as a factor that may have influenced the sole-sourced contract. The government rejects the allegation, saying Boniface’s past role had no bearing on the decision.

Next steps in court

Coulson is asking the court to quash the contract and order a competitive tender. Saskatchewan has pushed back, arguing Coulson’s challenge is late and that cancelling the agreement would disrupt wildfire response, given that one aircraft has already been delivered. The case is expected to return to court later this fall.

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Canada Eyes Five Medals at Track Worlds in Tokyo

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Canada’s top athletes, including Camryn Rogers and Ethan Katzberg, are favoured to bring home five medals at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

Canada Sets Medal Expectations

With the World Athletics Championships beginning this week in Tokyo, Canadian athletes are aiming to match recent success on the global stage. Based on statistical forecasts and current form, Canada is projected to win around five medals, consistent with its Olympic and world championship performances over the past four years.

Star Athletes to Watch

The Canadian roster features five reigning global champions: hammer throwers Ethan Katzberg and Camryn Rogers, 800m world champion Marco Arop, decathlon champion Pierce LePage, and the men’s 4x100m relay squad anchored by Andre De Grasse. All will compete in Tokyo, making Canada a legitimate contender across multiple disciplines.

Statistical Forecasts

Analytics firm Shoreview Sports simulated the championships 10,000 times to project medal outcomes. The model predicts Canada will claim three golds and five medals overall. Katzberg leads the list with an 89% chance of reaching the podium, while Rogers and veteran race walker Evan Dunfee are also favoured to capture gold.

Veteran Contenders and Rising Pressure

Shot putter Sarah Mitton, who earned silver at the 2023 world championships, is projected for another podium finish. LePage’s medal chances, however, remain uncertain due to recent injuries, while fellow decathlete Damian Warner is ranked just outside medal position. The men’s 4x100m relay team, Olympic champions in Paris, face tougher odds this time but remain a dark horse given their proven chemistry.

Why Projections Matter

For Canada, consistent podium results at world events signal the country’s growth in track and field, a sport long dominated by powerhouse nations like the United States and Jamaica. Medal predictions help shape expectations, guide media focus, and build fan anticipation ahead of marquee events.

What Comes Next

Competition begins in Tokyo later this week, with finals scheduled daily through the closing weekend. Canada’s medal hopes will hinge on whether its proven champions can maintain form under pressure — and whether rising stars can seize the global spotlight.

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