Hello newbie here. I'm from the Philippines and my family and I will be moving to Canada sometime August. Our visas have already been approved. We are planning on living in Vancouver but landing in Toronto. We have little idea on what to expect when we get there. So I have a few questions.

• First off, how is the weather in Toronto on August?
• What kind of coats or winter gear should we buy to prepare for winter?
• What is the cost of living in both Toronto and Vancouver? Like how much will rent cost? Where can we find cheap apartments? How about the cost of electricity, water, transportation, clothing, and food?
• How much is the minimum wage?
• We can work any kind of jobs. My parents and I are all college grads, but we heard that it wouldn't matter in Canada. Is this true? My dad and I are both in the I.T. field. My mom is in the managerial field.
• When we land, we don't have any place to stay. So can anyone suggest cheap hostels,motels or something for us to stay until we can find an apartment. We also heard that we need to have a referral to apply for a lease. We don't know anyone there, is there a place that don't need any referrals? Or is there any other way to apply for an apartment lease?

Whew! lol just goes to show how unprepared I am.

Thanks in advance,

Filipina