Moving to Canada: A Guide for British Residents

Moving to Canada is an exciting adventure, but it comes with its own set of challenges and surprises. As a British expat, you'll find that Canada has its unique aspects that differ significantly from your home country. This guide is designed to help you prepare for your move and ensure a smooth transition.

Understanding the Local Culture and Customs

First and foremost, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs. In Canada, people are proud of where they come from and take great pride in their country. You may encounter a sense of nationalism that is quite distinct from what you're used to in the UK. Remember that making derogatory comments about your home country can be seen as deeply offensive. Instead, focus on embracing the Canadian way of life and its differences.

The Cost of Living

One of the first things you'll notice is that many everyday products are priced differently, especially when it comes to sales tax. Unlike in the UK, where VAT is automatically added, sales tax (GST/HST) is often added at checkout in Canada. Only restaurant meals over certain values tend to include sales tax.

Housing costs can also be a surprise. In larger cities, the cost of rent, especially in certain areas, can be comparable to the UK. However, it's important to read the fine print, as rent typically includes realty taxes and heating, unless otherwise agreed upon by the landlord and tenant.

Embracing the Canadian Lifestyle

The UK and Canada share a lot in common, but the lifestyle can be quite different. Canadians generally do not engage in the same level of work-life mix that you might expect in the UK. After work, interactions with colleagues are much more casual, and social gatherings are usually kept professional. Instead, you may find that people spend more time with their families and communities.

Another key difference is the pub culture. The pub style of socializing is not as prominent in Canada. You'll find plenty of bars and taverns, but the atmosphere and social dynamics are different. If you miss the pub culture, consider joining clubs, sports teams, or participating in community events.

Transportation

Transportation is another area where you'll notice a significant difference. Public transit in larger cities, such as Toronto and Vancouver, is available but doesn't always match the extensive network you might be used to in the UK. It's much more common for people to rely on private vehicles. While driving can be a great way to explore the countryside, it also means that you'll need to adapt to longer distances.

Winter and Summer Seasons

Seasons in Canada can be quite different from what you're used to in the UK. Winter can be extremely cold, especially in areas east of Vancouver. However, Canadians tend to have a more robust sense of comfort when it comes to cold weather. Even when the temperature drops to 10°C, most Canadians would be quick to ensure that it returns to a more comfortable range of 16-20°C. Conversely, summers are warm and humid, but buildings are well-insulated, making it relatively easy to stay cool even in temperatures of 30°C.

When it comes to winter, don't stay indoors. The Canadian winter also offers a wealth of activities, from skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and winter camping. Layer up in appropriate winter gear and venture out to enjoy the season. Summers, on the other hand, are perfect for water activities, and many people enjoy having summer homes and boats.

Driving and Distance

Another aspect to consider is the vast distances between places in Canada. Unless you live in a city, you'll likely need a car. While distances might not be as vast as in the US, they can still seem daunting. Small trips to visit friends can involve lengthy drives, and long-distance travel, such as from Toronto to Vancouver, can take several days.

During the pandemic, you might have noticed less frequent driving, but the need for a car is still prevalent. Embrace the freedom that comes with driving and use it to explore the beautiful Canadian countryside.

Conclusion

Moving to Canada is a new journey, and it's important to approach it with an open mind. Embrace the differences and find joy in the unique aspects of Canadian life. With some preparation and an understanding of the local customs, your move to Canada can be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.