Blog Posts

Things to do in Kingston, ON, over Thanksgiving: A student's weekend guide

Canadian Thanksgiving falls on the second Monday of October, giving students a welcome long weekend right in the middle of fall. It’s a great opportunity to slow down, spend time with friends, and enjoy the season before colder weather settles in. If you’re staying in Kingston for the long weekend, you don’t need a packed itinerary to make it feel special. From sharing a meal with friends to taking in the fall scenery, there are plenty of simple ways to make the most of your time off. Things to do over Thanksgiving weekend Plan a Thanksgiving get-together with friends Create your own Thanksgiving celebration with friends. Sharing a meal is a simple way to bring everyone together, and each person can contribute a dish or snack instead of leaving all the preparation to one person. Add a few simple decorations, put together a playlist, and plan something fun for after the meal. Keeping things casual makes it easy to enjoy the holiday without spending too much time or money on planning. Spend an afternoon exploring local cafés and food spots Set aside an afternoon to meet friends at a café or try a restaurant you’ve been meaning to visit. Look for seasonal drinks, baked treats, comfort food, or something you haven’t tried before. Take your time, enjoy the change of scenery, and use the afternoon to catch up with friends without having to rush anywhere. Explore seasonal events and community activities Before the long weekend begins, check local event listings for exhibitions, community gatherings, and seasonal activities that interest you. Confirm opening hours and whether you need to book ahead. An event can be a fun reason to step outside your usual routine. Go with friends or explore on your own to get to know Kingston beyond your everyday campus surroundings. Plan a relaxed fall walk or bike ride Use the long weekend to spend some time outdoors and enjoy the fall scenery. Invite a friend for a casual walk or bike ride and take in the changing colours. Keep the outing as short or as long as you like. Pack a light snack, dress in layers, and check the weather before heading out. For some quiet time, go on your own and enjoy a break from screens and your usual routine. Enjoy a cozy fall evening at home You don't need to fill the entire Thanksgiving weekend with activities. After a busy few weeks, an evening at home may be just what you need. Put on a favourite film, cook a comforting meal, play board games with friends, or settle in with a warm drink and a good series. A quiet evening can also give you some downtime before classes and your usual routine pick up again. Make the most of your long weekend Whether you’re sharing a Thanksgiving meal with friends, exploring local cafés, or enjoying the changing colours, Kingston offers plenty of ways to spend the long weekend. Choose a few things you’ll enjoy, and leave room for downtime so you return to classes feeling refreshed. Having a comfortable place to call home can make it even easier to enjoy the season. If you’re looking for a room for rent in Kingston, ON , Foundry Princess offers fully furnished apartments with modern amenities and plenty of space to study, relax, cook, and spend time with friends. With a convenient and welcoming home base, Foundry Princess gives you a comfortable place to make the most of fall in Kingston and a home you can enjoy throughout the school year. Frequently asked questions What can you do over Thanksgiving weekend? You can enjoy the fall scenery, meet friends for a meal, attend seasonal events, or spend a cozy evening at home. If you’re staying in Kingston over the holiday, you can also host a Thanksgiving get-together with friends. What are some outdoor fall activities to enjoy? A casual walk, bike ride, or photography outing can be a great way to enjoy the fall colours and spend time outdoors. Dress in layers and check the weather before heading out. Are there seasonal events during Thanksgiving weekend? Seasonal markets, community gatherings, exhibitions, and other activities may take place over Thanksgiving weekend. Check local event listings, opening hours, and booking requirements before making plans. How can you make an apartment feel festive for Thanksgiving? Simple touches such as seasonal decorations, a shared meal, candles, music, or a fall-themed table setting can create a festive atmosphere. How can friends celebrate Thanksgiving together? Friends can celebrate Thanksgiving by sharing a meal, with everyone contributing a dish or snack. Games, music, decorations, or personal traditions can also make the gathering more fun and memorable.

Living away from home for the first time: A student's complete guide

Moving away from home for the first time can feel exciting and unfamiliar at the same time. Suddenly, you're the one deciding how your day runs, how your space looks, and how you spend your evenings. Along with that freedom comes a longer list of things you now have to handle on your own, from cooking dinner and remembering the laundry to keeping track of what you've spent that week. A few practical habits can help you settle into student housing, stay on top of college life, and feel more comfortable living independently. Tips for making your first experience away from home easier Make your new space feel like home Start by unpacking the things you use every day, including bedding, toiletries, chargers, and college supplies. Once the essentials are in place, add familiar touches such as photos, a favourite blanket, or artwork that makes the room feel more personal. Keep study materials within easy reach and give frequently used items a designated place. An organized room can make busy mornings, late study sessions, and everyday routines easier to manage. Build a routine that actually works for you Living away from home gives you plenty of freedom, but too little structure can make the week feel chaotic. Build a routine around your classes, study time, meals, laundry, exercise, and sleep. Pay attention to when you focus best rather than copying someone else's schedule. If mornings work for you, use them for assignments. If you're more productive in the evening, keep a few nights free for studying. Your routine should make your week easier without making every hour feel scheduled. Create a student budget you can actually follow Start with fixed costs such as rent, your phone bill, transportation, and regular subscriptions. Then estimate what you usually spend on groceries, school supplies, personal purchases, and social activities. Leave some room in your budget for unexpected expenses too. You may need extra course materials, household supplies, or a quick meal during a packed week. Checking your spending regularly can help you make adjustments before a small overspend turns into a bigger problem. Set clear expectations with your roommates Shared living works better when everyone understands the basics. Talk early about cleaning, garbage, shared groceries, guests, noise, and how common spaces should be used. A simple conversation at the beginning can prevent many small frustrations later. Agree on a practical system for chores and shared responsibilities, and speak up calmly if something stops working. Respecting each other's routines, space, and belongings can make the living space more comfortable for everyone. Cook for yourself without making it complicated You don't need complicated recipes to eat well. Start with a few simple meals you know you can make, such as pasta, stir-fries, wraps, or rice bowls. Keeping a few versatile ingredients on hand also gives you options when you're tired or short on time. Plan your grocery shopping around several meals rather than buying unrelated items. Making an extra portion can also give you an easy lunch or dinner for the next day. The goal is to make feeding yourself manageable so that takeout doesn't become the default every night. Give yourself time to adjust to being away from home Even if you're excited about moving out, you may still find yourself missing familiar people, places, and routines. Homesickness can surface during quiet evenings or particularly stressful weeks. Stay connected with family and friends while giving yourself time to build a life in your new surroundings. Spend time with roommates, get involved in college activities that interest you, and explore your new neighbourhood. Living independently often feels easier once everyday life starts to feel more familiar. Final thoughts Adjusting to life away from home takes time, but a few practical habits can help you feel more settled and assured. A comfortable room, workable routine, realistic budget, clear expectations with roommates, simple meals, and a little patience during the adjustment period can all help you feel more confident living independently. The right housing can support those habits from the beginning. Foundry Princess offers fully furnished apartments with modern amenities, helping you spend less time setting up your space and more time settling into your new routine. If you are comparing apartments near St. Lawrence College, Kingston , Foundry Princess gives you a practical home base for studying, cooking, relaxing, and managing college life. Frequently asked questions What should you bring when living away from home for the first time? Start with essentials such as bedding, toiletries, clothing, chargers, college supplies, and any kitchen items you need. Bring a few personal items too, so your room feels familiar without becoming cluttered. How can you make a student apartment feel more comfortable? Keep your space organized and add a few personal touches such as photos, cushions, artwork, or a favourite throw. How can you split chores fairly with roommates? Agree on who handles regular tasks such as garbage, kitchen cleaning, and common areas. Rotating responsibilities can work well if everyone follows the same schedule. How can you manage homesickness after moving away? Stay in touch with people from home while building routines and connections where you live. Homesickness often becomes easier as your new surroundings start to feel familiar. How can you stay organized during a busy college term? Keep classes, deadlines, appointments, and personal tasks in one calendar or planning system. Review the week ahead and break larger assignments into smaller tasks.

From dorm to apartment: 4 ways to ease your student’s transition

Moving from a dorm to an apartment is a significant step toward greater independence. Along with having more space and freedom, you’ll also have a few more responsibilities to manage on your own. Suddenly, there are groceries to buy, bills to keep track of, and household chores that don’t take care of themselves. The good news is that a little planning can make the transition much smoother. As you make the move from residence to your first off-campus apartment, these four tips can help you feel more at home from day one. 1. Make a list of what you’ll need Setting up a dorm room is usually pretty straightforward. An apartment can require a little more planning. Beyond your bedroom, you may need kitchen supplies, bathroom essentials, cleaning products, and items for your living space. Before you start shopping, find out what comes with your apartment. If it’s fully furnished, you may already have many of the larger items you need, saving you the hassle and expense of buying and moving furniture. Take a look at the building’s amenities, too, so you know what’s available and what you’ll need to provide yourself. Once you know what’s included, create a checklist for everything else. Having the basics ready before moving day will make it easier to unpack, settle in, and start enjoying your new space. 2. Read your lease carefully A lease may not be the most exciting part of getting your first apartment, but it’s important to know what you’re agreeing to. Before signing, review the rental period, monthly payment schedule, utilities and maintenance responsibilities. Check for rules about guests, noise, pets, parking, and shared spaces as well. If there’s anything you don’t understand, ask for clarification before you sign. Knowing what’s expected of you can help prevent surprises later and give you a more accurate picture of what apartment living will cost each month. 3. Plan a budget you can stick to Living in an apartment often comes with expenses that weren’t as noticeable when you lived in residence. Rent is only part of the picture. Depending on your living arrangement, you may also need to budget for groceries, utilities, transportation, household supplies, and other everyday costs. You don’t need a complicated budgeting system to stay organized. A simple spreadsheet can help you track the money you have coming in and divide it among essentials, savings, and extras. Checking your spending regularly can also help you catch small avoidable expenses before they start adding up. Try to leave a little room in your budget for the unexpected. Whether you need to replace something around the apartment or cover an unplanned expense, having a small financial cushion can make it much easier to manage. 4. Build a routine that works for you One of the best parts of apartment living is having more independence. But with that freedom comes the need to manage your own time and responsibilities. A simple weekly routine can help you find your rhythm. Start with your class and work schedules, then make time for studying, meals, grocery shopping, and household tasks. Remember to leave room for downtime and seeing friends, too. Living with roommates? Talk early on about how you’ll divide chores and take care of shared spaces. Clear expectations can help prevent misunderstandings and make living together easier. Your routine doesn’t have to be perfect from day one. Give yourself a few weeks to figure out what works, and adjust it as your schedule and priorities change. Final thoughts Moving from a dorm to an apartment comes with a learning curve, but a little preparation can go a long way. Knowing what you need, understanding your lease, keeping an eye on your budget, and building a manageable routine can help you enjoy your new independence without feeling overwhelmed. Finding the right place to live can make that transition easier, too. If you’re exploring off-campus housing near Queen’s University , Foundry Princess offers student apartments with modern conveniences and amenities designed for studying, relaxing and socializing. With a student-focused living environment and convenient access to campus and the surrounding community, Foundry Princess can help make everyday university life feel a little more comfortable and manageable. Frequently asked questions What should you bring when moving from a dorm to an apartment? You may need kitchenware, bathroom supplies, cleaning products, laundry essentials, storage items, and study materials. Check what your apartment already provides before making any purchases. What should you check in an apartment lease? Review the rental period, payment requirements, security deposit, utilities, maintenance responsibilities, and property rules. Ask about anything you do not understand before signing the lease. How can you create a realistic apartment budget? Start with fixed expenses, such as rent and regular housing costs, then add groceries, transportation, phone bills, and personal spending. Leave some room for unexpected expenses to keep your budget manageable. What should you look for in student accommodation? Consider the location, furnishings, amenities, study environment, shared spaces, and how well the accommodation suits your daily routine. Are furnished apartments useful when moving from a dorm? Yes. A furnished apartment can reduce the amount of furniture you need to purchase, transport, and set up. This can make the transition easier, particularly if you are moving with limited belongings.

Furnished vs unfurnished housing: Which is better for students?

Furnished vs unfurnished housing: Which one is better for students? Moving to Kingston for college involves some planning, and finding a place to live is usually one of the first things to consider. As you explore your housing options, one important decision is whether to choose a furnished or unfurnished rental. A lower monthly rent doesn’t always mean a lower overall cost. Furniture, moving expenses, transportation, and how long you plan to stay in Kingston can all affect how much you spend. Looking at the bigger picture can help you decide which type of student housing makes the most sense for your needs and budget. What is furnished student housing? Furnished student housing comes with essential furniture already included in your accommodation. The exact furnishings vary by property, but you can generally expect the main pieces needed for everyday living without having to buy everything yourself. Pros of furnished housing Ready when you move in A furnished suite allows you to settle in without spending your first few days shopping for essential items. This can make your arrival easier when you are already preparing for classes, orientation, and a new routine. Fewer upfront furniture costs Furnishing a bedroom and living area can involve several purchases at once. With a furnished option, you can avoid having to set aside additional money for the main pieces already included with your accommodation. Convenient when moving from farther away Bringing bulky items to Kingston can be difficult if you are travelling from another province or country. A furnished space allows you to focus on bringing your clothing, supplies, and personal belongings instead. Less to manage when you move out When it is time to leave, the furniture provided with your accommodation stays behind. You do not have to arrange storage, transportation, resale, or donation for larger items. Cons of furnished housing Monthly rent may be higher Furnished accommodation can sometimes have a higher monthly rent than a comparable unfurnished option. However, it may also help you avoid extra costs for buying and moving furniture. Less choice over major furnishings The main pieces have already been selected for the space, so you have less control over their style or layout. However, you can still add decor and personal touches to make the room feel like your own. What is unfurnished student housing? Unfurnished housing usually comes without the main furniture needed for everyday living. Depending on the property, you may need to bring or buy items such as a bed, desk, seating, and storage. This option may work well if you already own the essentials or prefer to choose how your space is furnished. Pros of unfurnished housing Potentially lower rent Unfurnished housing may sometimes come with a lower monthly rent because furniture is not included. This can be useful if you already have what you need and can bring it with you. Freedom to choose your own setup Starting with an empty space gives you more control over the furniture you choose and how you arrange it. You can set up the room according to your preferences, available space, and budget. Practical if you already own furniture If you are moving from nearby, you may already have the main items you need. Reusing them can reduce the amount you need to buy and make an unfurnished option more practical. Cons of unfurnished housing More to spend when you first move in An empty apartment may require several purchases before it is ready for everyday use. Even when you shop carefully or choose second-hand items, buying multiple pieces at the start of the college year can increase your initial costs. More preparation before you settle in You may need to spend time choosing furniture, comparing prices, arranging delivery or pickup, and getting everything set up. If you arrive shortly before classes begin, managing these tasks can add extra pressure to an already busy schedule. Moving and storage are your responsibility Once you own the furniture, you also need to decide what happens to it when you move. Depending on your plans, you may need to transport, store, sell, or donate items you no longer need. Furnished or unfurnished housing: Which is right for you? The right choice depends on your situation and what matters most for your move. Choose furnished housing if: You are an international or out-of-town student and do not want to transport large items to Kingston. You are staying for a shorter period and do not want to buy furniture you may not need later. You want a simpler move with less shopping, delivery, and setup to organize. Choose unfurnished housing if: You plan to stay in Kingston for several years and expect to keep using your furniture. You already own the main items you need and can bring them with you. You want more freedom to choose your furnishings and arrange the space your way. Make moving to Kingston simpler with Foundry Princess If furnished student housing suits your plans, Foundry Princess offers rooms for rent near St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ontario . The property also features in-suite laundry, Bell Fibre internet, study rooms, a fitness centre, an outdoor swimming pool, and other community amenities. Explore the available floor plans at Foundry Princess to compare your options and find a furnished student space that suits your plans for the upcoming academic year. Frequently asked questions Is furnished student housing more expensive than unfurnished housing? Furnished housing can have a higher monthly rent, but it may reduce other costs such as buying furniture, arranging delivery, and transporting larger items. What is usually included in furnished student housing? Inclusions vary by property, but furnished housing generally provides the main furniture needed for everyday living, including bedroom and living area essentials. Is furnished housing a good option for international students? Yes, it can be practical because you do not need to transport bulky furniture or spend your first few days in Kingston setting up an empty space. Is unfurnished housing better for students staying in Kingston longer? It may be, especially if you already own furniture or plan to remain in Kingston for several years and continue using the same items. What should I compare before choosing furnished or unfurnished housing? Compare monthly rent, furniture needs, moving costs, included utilities, and how long you plan to stay before deciding which option suits you best.

How shared living spaces are transforming student life today

Starting university is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with plenty of change. You're adjusting to new classes, meeting new people, managing more responsibilities, and finding your place in a new environment. Where you choose to live can have a big impact on that experience. A shared living space can influence how comfortable you feel, how quickly you settle into university life, and how easily you build meaningful connections. When your home is welcoming and thoughtfully designed, everyday life becomes easier, more enjoyable, and far less overwhelming. Why shared living fits university life so well University life is a balance of lectures, assignments, social activities, and personal responsibilities. Shared living naturally brings these parts of your life together in a way that feels both practical and rewarding. Instead of returning to an empty apartment after class, you come home to a community where casual conversations, shared meals, and everyday interactions help you feel connected. Living with people who share similar goals also creates opportunities to exchange ideas, motivate one another, and enjoy the university experience together. These everyday moments often become the memories you look back on long after graduation. How shared accommodation enhances the student experience Friendships start with ordinary moments Some of the best friendships start over nothing much at all: breakfast before a 9 a.m. lecture, a movie after a long day, or a random kitchen chat that turns into an hour-long conversation. Housemates can become close friends without anyone having to try very hard. Living with people who understand the demands of university life also makes it easier to share experiences, celebrate achievements, and support one another through challenging times. A support system when you're far from home Moving away from home can feel overwhelming, especially during the first few weeks of university. Being surrounded by people who are going through a similar adjustment can help reduce feelings of isolation. Living with other students also means there is always someone around to share a laugh, swap stories from the day, or complain about deadlines. These everyday interactions help make university life feel more relaxed and social. Stay motivated and study better Your living environment can directly affect your ability to focus and stay productive. Shared accommodation often includes comfortable areas where you can study independently or work alongside housemates who are also preparing for exams and completing assignments. Seeing others follow productive routines can motivate you to stay organized, manage your time more effectively, and remain on track throughout the semester. Develop independence and life skills University is a great time to develop skills that will stay with you throughout your life. Living in shared accommodation gives you daily opportunities to take responsibility for everyday tasks while learning how to live respectfully with others. You learn to organize your schedule, manage household responsibilities, communicate openly, and handle minor disagreements maturely. These experiences build confidence and prepare you for future workplaces and shared living arrangements after graduation. Conclusion Choosing shared accommodation can shape your university experience in meaningful ways. From forming lasting friendships and building a supportive community to becoming more independent and maintaining a balanced routine, your living environment can influence both your academic success and personal growth. As you explore off-campus housing near Queen's University , choosing accommodation that fits your lifestyle can make settling into university much easier. Foundry Princess offers fully furnished apartments with modern amenities designed to support comfortable studying and a balanced student lifestyle. Whether you're starting your first semester or continuing your academic journey, Foundry Princess offers a welcoming place to call home. Frequently asked questions Is shared accommodation a good choice during university? Shared accommodation allows you to build friendships, share responsibilities, and enjoy a supportive environment while completing your studies. How do shared living spaces help with academic success? Living alongside people with similar academic goals can encourage productive study routines and create opportunities for collaborative learning. What are the advantages of living with roommates? Sharing accommodation helps you develop communication, teamwork, and time management skills while creating meaningful social connections. How can shared accommodation improve daily wellbeing? A welcoming shared environment encourages social interaction, balanced routines, and opportunities to relax after classes. What should be considered when choosing off-campus housing? Look for accommodation that offers furnished living spaces, modern amenities, comfortable study areas, and a supportive community.

5 ways to feel comfortable and connected in student housing

Moving into student housing is an exciting step, but it can also bring a mix of emotions. You're settling into a new environment, meeting new people, adjusting to a different routine, and managing college responsibilities all at once. During the first few weeks, it is completely normal to miss the familiarity of home while adapting to a new way of living. The transition may take a little time, but there are plenty of ways to make settling in easier. Below are five simple tips to help you feel comfortable, connected, and at home in your student housing. Five simple ways to settle into student housing 1. Personalize your living space to make it feel comfortable Your room is where you'll study, relax, and recharge, so making it feel like your own can have a positive impact on your day-to-day life. Even if your accommodation is already furnished, adding a few personal touches, such as photos, plants, artwork, or cozy bedding, can make the space feel more welcoming without requiring permanent changes. A space that feels organized and inviting can also help you stay productive while giving you somewhere comfortable to unwind. 2. Get to know your roommates and neighbours Building connections often starts with simple conversations. Introducing yourself early can make shared living feel more comfortable and help break the ice during the first few weeks. You don't need to become best friends overnight. Small gestures like saying hello, sharing a meal, or chatting in common areas create natural opportunities to get to know one another. Getting to know the people around you can make everyday life easier. After all, you're all navigating similar challenges, from balancing classes and assignments to managing day-to-day responsibilities. 3. Create a healthy balance between college and personal time College life gets busy fast. Between lectures, assignments, part-time work, and social commitments, it's easy to feel overwhelmed if your schedule becomes too packed. Creating a realistic routine can help you stay productive while protecting your well-being. Set aside time each week for studying, preparing meals, exercising, relaxing, and catching up with friends. A balanced routine helps you manage your responsibilities without feeling like every day revolves around academics and coursework. 4. Join social activities you actually enjoy Meeting new people is often easier when you get involved in activities that genuinely interest you. Whether it's joining a club, attending campus events, or participating in residence activities, shared interests make conversations feel more natural and help you connect with like-minded people. Over time, those connections can grow into lasting friendships that make college life more enjoyable. Having a supportive group of friends can make challenging times feel more manageable while creating fun, memorable experiences outside the classroom. 5. Choose student housing that supports your lifestyle Feeling comfortable often starts before move-in day. Choosing accommodation that matches your lifestyle can make a noticeable difference throughout the academic year. When comparing housing options, look for features that support your daily routine, such as furnished living spaces, modern amenities like a fitness centre, games room, or study lounge, high-speed internet, and welcoming common spaces where residents can connect. When your accommodation is designed to support your lifestyle, settling into college life becomes a much smoother experience. Conclusion Feeling comfortable and connected in student housing takes time, but a few simple habits can make a big difference. Personalizing your space, getting to know your roommates, maintaining a balanced routine, getting involved with activities you enjoy, and choosing accommodation that fits your lifestyle can all help you settle in with confidence. If you're looking for rooms for rent near St. Lawrence College, Kingston, Ontario , Foundry Princess offers fully furnished apartments with modern amenities and welcoming community spaces. With everything you need to settle in quickly, Foundry Princess provides a comfortable environment where you can feel at home while making the most of your college years. Frequently asked questions How can a new living space feel comfortable more quickly? A new living space starts to feel more welcoming when it reflects your personality and supports your daily routine. What is the best way to build friendships in student housing? Friendly conversations, participating in community events, and spending time in shared spaces are great ways to meet new people. Why is it important to maintain a daily routine while living away from home? A consistent routine helps you organize your time between classes, studying, relaxation, and social activities. What should be considered when choosing off-campus student housing? Look for accommodation that offers comfort, safety, reliable amenities, furnished living spaces, and a convenient location. Why does choosing the right student housing matter? The right accommodation supports your lifestyle by providing a comfortable place to study, relax, and connect with others.