How To Live Frugally in Victoria

Living in Victoria

Its been 7 years since I moved in Victoria. When I first arrived here, I used to go window shopping when I'm bored. But well, it's a very costly hobby, even if I initially did not plan to purchase anything. There's always temptation on the windows. That was the time when I was not thinking much about the future. I got tons of clothes that does not fit into my closet, lots of bags and shoes. Those days are way behind me. Everytime I think about it, I was like the money that I had purchased all those stuff could have earn a lot had I invested it in stocks back then. I had regrets but its not too late yet to change my habit. So, here I am living frugally but not cheaply since 4 years ago.

Living frugally does not mean that you just sulk at home. There are lots of ways to enjoy life without having to spend some money. Victoria is very beautiful city. I think this is the most beautiful city that I had been to or lived. But for some reason, I did not see its beauty before, I thought this was the most boring city ever! To those new immigrants who feel the same way. Here are some frugal hobby tips below.

Frugal living in Victoria

• In grocery shopping, Shop at Walmart. It's way cheaper than other grocery stores. A Roma tomato in walmart that only cost 99 cents/lb is double the price in other grocery stores. 
• If you shop at walmart, get a Walmart Credit Card. For every purchase you do, you get points that has an equivalent dollar amount. In our case, we always get 5 dollars every other week. Given, that it is already cheap in price, and you get an additional discount. That's a lot of savings. In a year, we save 120 dollars just in credit card points.
• Bike or Walk To Work. A monthly bus pass cost  85 dollars. If you live in Victoria or even in Langford and work in Victoria, there are lots of bike lanes and trails. That saves you 1020 dollars a year. Hmmm... that will be several units of stocks! On my case, when I'm on a marathon training, I just run to and from work. Or walk to and from work. 
• For the hobby part, if you are very sociable. You can Join a Cycling Group that meet every weekend. There are a lot to choose from, there are some that is only women's group or some are mix men and women group. Some groups are free, some you have to pay a minimal registration. After a bike, you all have coffee socializing. Instead of socializing in a pub, this is way healthier option. People in Victoria are very friendly in general.
• If you just want to be on your own. You can Go to Mt. Douglas Beach bring a book and read. I even see some people meditating in there.
• You can Go for a Hike with your dog or friends. There are lots of hiking trails here from easy, moderate and difficult trails. 
• There are also lots of recreation centers. For about 30/month you get to use the gym facilities and attend some fitness classes.

I'm just glad that I choose not to leave Victoria. This is the best city to have an active lifestyle and living frugally.