Comming up to decision time!! Ontario v Alberta v British Columbia..wh

Hi!
Well, you and your family are going to make a big decision. Canada is a huge country and it's cities are certainly very different and each place definitely has its own pros and cons. I have been living in Edmonton, Alberta for three years and my husband and I have travelled to many places within Canada. We are born and raised in Germany and since we are "Expats" we will have to leave the country within the next few months in order to move to Brazil. However, what's our favorite city?

I guess we would both agree that Vancouver is a great place to live and then maybe Toronto. But let me first tell you something about Calgary and Edmonton in Alberta. Calgary is more a "business city" than Edmonton. Edmonton is more a "blue collar" city with lots of trucks on the streets. The overall pace of living is certainly much slower and relaxed in Edmonton than in Calgary, and actually that's what we like about living in Edmonton. The quality of live in Edmonton is really good. It's more about life than about working and making money. People are friendly, it's a very safe place to live, and they offer many interesting events throughout the year, especially in the summer. And here comes the big downside of Edmonton (and Calgary as well): the fricking long and very looooong winter! Winter started at least within the last three years in the beginning of October with snow and minus 15 degree (Celsius). During December, January and February temperatures can easily drop down to -30 or even -35 degree celsius. The plus of Calgary is definitely it's closeness to the Rocky Mountains. Within only 1 hour drive you are in right in the mountains, so in case you love hiking and skiing: this is the place to be.

Vancoucer offers everything: a big, modern and vibrant city, right at the sea, close to the mountains, close to the beautiful Vancouver Island and close to the USA and Seattle. There is actually nothing more to say about this city. It's a great place, especially for young people, because this place offers everything including good travel options. But of course, as most big cities: Vancouver is certainly a very expensive place in regard to buying or renting a house/condo and in regard to the overall cost of living. Unfortunately I can't say anything about the labour market.

Toronto is another big, modern and vibrant city and it's location right at Lake Ontario is really nice too. Again: you need to spent a little bit more money here for almost everything. Toronto offers a lot of entertainment and events and it is certainly an interesting spot for young people.

I think all in all Canada is a great country to live in - with it's own pros and cons. And the question what's the best place in Canada can only be answered by yourself, depending on your personal interests and desires. I'm 43 years old and meanwhile I love nature more than a big city. So therefore I would love to live in Vancouver, because there I would have everything: beautiful nature in Whistler Mountains and on Vancouver Island and the vibrant city of Vancouver.

I loved our life in Edmonton too, because I learned to relax and to enjoy life more than I was used to do in Germany. And I learned to be more patient.

The overall downside of Canada for me is definitely their health-care system. It's not only difficult to find a family doctor, but I still don't get it that one have to wait between six to 12 months in order to see an specialist. In case your family doctor doesn't see the reason to refer you to a specialist, well, than good luck! But of course you can always go to the Emergency Room at your local hospital.

I know, there might be a lot of other questions you might have. In case I can you help you with anything else: just ask! Good luck!