Get to know your community

Take advantage of walkable neighbourhoods by hitting the pavement and exploring. If you're in a city, find local transit stops, community centres, corner stores and other hidden gems near your apartment.

If you want to find some green spaces, look for nearby walking paths, trails and parks. If you have kids or a dog, finding a good park within walking distance of your apartment is crucial!

Find a local cafe, sandwich shop, pub, bakery or restaurant and make it your home away from home. Get to know the owners and staff, and meet your neighbours to better connect to your new community.

By supporting local establishments and building relationships with local business owners, you can really find out what makes your neighborhood special. By finding a place that feels right, you can create a community within your community with like-minded folks.

Does your rental building have a tenants' association? Is there a local group, charity or cause you want to be involved in? If you want to be active in your community, do some research to learn about local issues and find out how you can get involved.

There are family groups, business groups, environmental groups and so on. Find a cause that aligns with your personal values and get involved. Not only can you make a difference in the community, but you can also meet new people. As a newcomer to the area, it can be hard to find your place, so be proactive and educate yourself.

In addition to eating and drinking local, you should make a point of shopping local. Local stores often carry unique, one-of-a-kind items that you just won't find in chain stores. Try to buy some holiday gifts from local businesses to show your support. Small businesses are the backbone of any vibrant and successful neighborhood, so do what you can to keep them going.

When you shop local, you are helping people in your own community thrive.

If you are looking to move into a new neighborhood or community, check out Gottarent.com to find rental apartments in your chosen city. Look for a place that's close to amenities in a vibrant community.