Dummies' guide to Canadian winters

Canada is known for many things. Super friendly people, hockey, moose and of course freezing tempatures. Before I came to Canada I kept on joking about the winters. I thought I knew what cold weather is, I grew up near the alps, right? - I was wrong. Very, very wrong. The Canadian winter is in a league of its own. To quote my fellow exchange student: 

" It's fucking freezing "   ~ Sanne (20), Netherlands 

As time and winter went on I developed a mega master plan how to survive the good ol' Canadian winter. This is the beginner's guide to survive the Canadian cold and buckle up, this is going to be one hell of a ride. 

1-Dollar Hand warmers 

Oh my god. 1-Dollar hand warmers are the greatest invention since the first reality TV-show. For just one mere Dollar your hands will never freeze again. You know why? Because those tiny little pockets are on fire. Literally. I could not believe it when I first used those hand warmers. These small pockets light up like crazy and actually stay warm for a decent amount of time. They have saved my hands from a cold, cold death many times, so I constantly keep at least one in every coat pocket. Just in case.

Rainboots

Yes, I know what you are thinking. When did this turn into a guide to british weather? But hear me out! Not everyday is a -25° day in Canada. Once in a while tempatures can reach a high of +5 (!) degrees. When this spring weather hits the city, the snow turns to puddles. Huge puddles. So there are only two options to avoid stepping into the wetness. You either jump over it or you just wear your fancy rainboots. And believe me, even your inner olympic athlete gets tired with all that jumping. So keep in mind: next time your city turns into Antlantis, you better get those rainboots.  

VACAY 

If really nothing makes you feel better, there is an ultimative solution. Take a well-deserved vacation. Preferably somewhere warm. A nice break lifts even the dullest feelings. It is a welcome change to the monotony of the endless grey days. A little vacation makes you forget about the freezing weather for just a short period of time and makes the rest of the winter seem much more durable. If you don't have the cash or time to relax on a sunny beach in the Caribbian, go to a spa or a museum for a day. You will see how much a day of just relaxing can change your overall attitude. (For a little inspiration for the next vacation: see my blogpost about Cuba)

Stay optimistic

Of all the points above, the most important part is staying optimistic. I know it can be hard sometimes when all you can see is snow and a grey sky, but it is crucial to keep up a good spirit. The cold weather can provide the perfect opportunity to sip on a hot chocolate or binge watch your favourite Netflix series. Or you can j go out and actually appreciate the cold. Go ice-skating, skiing or sledging, or just build a snowman in your front yard. Find a way to love the snow and try not to long for the summer. 

As beloved American author John Steibeck once wrote, "What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness?" . So always keep in mind to find some sweetness in the quiet winter wonderland of Canada.