Find out the phenomenal study abroad experiences that await you when you choose to study at Royal Roads University in Greater Victoria, Vancouver Island.

Uprooting yourself from your home country and moving halfway around the world can be exciting and scary at the same time. As a student, getting the sought-after Letter of Acceptance and Student Permit is just the beginning. The next major thing to planning for the new life you will have in a new country and how to make the most out of every moment. Fortunately, for students who chose Royal Roads University, the move will be a smooth one and the experience will be beyond phenomenal.

Royal Roads University offers a wide range of programs that are catered to address both the changing labour market needs and the inclination and interests of students. The University is located in the Greater Victoria area, in Vancouver Island, which can be reached via a quick ferry ride from downtown Vancouver. Royal Roads University has been welcoming international students for several years now and has well-established support services to make sure that your move is hassle-free so that you can focus on what matters – acing your academic goals and living the best international student experience.

Speaking of the best international student experience, moving to Victoria to study at Royal Roads University means you get the best of the big city experience and island life. There is so much to do, explore, and experience in Victoria and this article provides a glimpse of why is it such a great place to live and study.

1. The Perfect Weather

You may be asking why the weather made it on the list. Once you move to Canada, you will very much understand. Victoria has the mildest climate in Canada and one of the sunniest places in British Columbia. If you love exploring and going out, but not a fan of rain for half a year or snow in the winter months, Victoria is a perfect fit for you.

2. Better Prices of Accommodation

Students can opt to stay in-campus in one of Royal Roads University dormitory. However, if you are planning to live off-campus, there are several affordable options around. A one-bedroom apartment outside downtown costs $1,340 per month. It may sound expensive, but Victoria's rent rates are almost 20% less than that of Vancouver. You get the same big city vibe but with better rental rates. And in the event you want to stay longer after your studies and invest in real estate, buying an apartment in Victoria costs 50% less than buying one in Vancouver.

3. Everything You Need is Within Reach

If you live close to campus, a 5-minute walk will lead you to a grocery store, restaurants and cafes are located inside the campus and even in the residential area nearby. The campus offers a unique tour experience on its own, starting with the Hatley Park National Historic Site, a 1910 Elizabethan-style castle with a museum and gardens. Royal Roads has several trails covered by luscious greeneries within the campus vicinity that is perfect for walks and breaks from academic work. The campus is also next to the Esquimalt Lagoon Migratory Bird Sanctuary where you can sit in the sand while basking in the sun and feeling the breeze.

Downtown Victoria is only a 30-minute bus ride from the campus. There you can find a variety of highly-rated restaurants, pubs, and cafes. Big shopping centres, museums, art galleries, and beaches can fill up your weekend plans.

Studying at Royal Roads University and living at Greater Victoria offers an exhilarating international student experience. Go see for yourself. Start by choosing one of the high-calibre programs of Royal Roads University and applying through Global Study Guide.