Moving to a different country is a big undertaking that requires careful consideration and meticulous preparation.
There are several factors to look for when choosing a new place to call home, and for many, Canada ticks a lot of boxes.
The sense of community in Vancouver makes it one of the most welcoming spots for newcomers, with over 55,000 British expats estimated to be living there.
Alex, an expat who relocated to Vancouver from Manchester, England, in 2023 has offered advice to anyone considering the move.
Vancouver offers a wide range of benefits to expatriates
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Outdoor lifestyle
“Since moving to Vancouver, my lifestyle has become much more focused on outdoor activities,” the expat explained.
“There is a lot more sunshine than in a typical English summer, which is great, and it means you can enjoy the stunning scenery, hike around mountains, lakes, and trails or sit on a beach or on a bar’s outdoor patio enjoying the weather.”
Outdoor activities
Similarly, an aspect the expat has come to love about her new home is the emphasis locals put on exercising outdoors.
“People in the city are very active, and it’s infectious – I started running after the move, tried surfing, and learned to ski in winter because some of the world’s best mountains for skiing are so close!”
Community and relationships
Forging social connections is a core element of every community. Newcomers won’t struggle to find a sense of belonging in Vancouver, according to Alex.
“While I enjoy the outdoor activities, I do miss my old community and the irreplaceable connections with friends and family,” the expat said.
“Adjusting to a new social circle can be challenging despite the exciting lifestyle changes.”
Cost of living
Vancouver isn’t short of attributes but it can present some challenges to expats on a tight budget.
“Living in Vancouver comes with its challenges, notably the high cost of living,” explained Alex.
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Canada is deemed one of the most desirable countries to move to
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“Expenses can mount quickly and budgeting becomes crucial as money might not stretch as far as it did back home.
“Moving to Vancouver has enriched my life with outdoor adventures and new experiences, yet weighing these against the emotional and financial considerations of leaving behind a familiar community and adjusting to the higher cost of living is essential.”
It comes as relocation experts at 1st Move International analysed Google data putting Canada at the top of the list of ‘most desirable countries to move to’.
The research also revealed that UK residents moved to the USA more than any other country.
