New Digs Near Chinatown

Posted on Apr 19, 2026

I’m out of the Airbnb and into a hotel. I’ll be here two weeks, then I get the keys to the new lease. It’s been an exciting but difficult couple of weeks, and things are looking up!

I can’t say thank you enough to my Airbnb host. It’s actually the same host I stayed with a year ago, during the scouting expedition to Ottawa. She immigrated to Canada herself, and she loves to help new arrivals get settled. She connected me with someone who would like to get rid of some furniture, which is a blessing since I’d be otherwise without furniture until my partner joins me. I intend to return this spring and offer help with her gardening as a thank-you.

All the same, I’m glad to have space to spread out finally. The shared-suite was a good idea when the housing timeline was uncertain, but the revolving door of vacationing guests made it hard to take care of my basic needs, experience the city, meet new people, and deliver at work.

My new temporary space is basically a furnished apartment (private kitchen, living room, laundry) on the top floor of a 12-storey apartment building. I’ve un-packed pretty thoroughly. I’ve stocked the fridge, filled the dresser, hung up my shirts, organized all my makeup, set up my PC, and even bought a laundry basket. I think a place to retreat will be good for my mental state. I’ve pretty much just stayed in for today, for the first time since I landed. I don’t plan to make a habit of it, but wow, it’s nice to recharge.

The weather this weekend has been phenomenal. For the first time since I landed, I’ve walked outside without a coat. I’ve got my balcony door open as I draft this. Unfortunately, I think the sun-break is ending, and I feel bad for not making the most of it, but there’ll be more sunny days ahead.

Just a few photos to share today. Short post. I’ve barely explored this part of town so far, and I’ll have more to report soon! I’m going to try to meet some people at the games pub tonight.