I know places like Portugal and Spain are going through serious housing crunches right new and I know expats often exaggerate those problems. So where can an American flee oppression without just oppressing someone else?
For context: I’m a progressive lefty, thinking about long term relocation options cause the fash is getting pretty thick around here.
I moved to Canada and have only felt welcomed. The trick is to not be an asshole, give people a reason to want to be your friend.
How cold is it? Native Texan and lived in Ohio for a few years but the winter was brutal, thinking about CO though I know winter is pretty rough there too.
Last winter was pretty brutal. It didn’t stop snowing for like two months. There would be an extra 2" (5cm) of snow every time I opened the door. Temperatures vary depending on where you are but can get pretty cold. Parts of Quebec are infamously cold. Toronto has been chilling around 20F (-6C) but can drop close to 0F (-17C) at times. Overall weather in Toronto is closest to Buffalo or parts of the northeast. Buffalo is only 2 hours away, for reference.
That said, the cities are absolutely prepared for winter. Many of them even have sprawling underground pedestrian networks, like the PATH in Toronto or the RÉSO in Montreal. Most people have winter tires. Outside the cities it’s a bit harsher though
Interesting, I probably won’t move there then lol, but appreciate the info!
I would prefer suburbs vs big city, too many people for my liking :p
Honestly the city is very good when it’s actually properly designed, unlike most north american cities.
TLDR is that living somewhere with good density (2-3 floor condos being the norm) while still having space so it’s not crowded, like most places having backyards that connect to the alley sounds like a compromise, but the upside is that you can walk to literally everywhere you could possibly need to go except maybe your job, which is a suprisingly big boon to qol.
I say this because I used to have a similar attitude, but moving from moncton to montreal really changed my mindset.
If you want an example of what I’m talking about you can see the “le plateau” neighborhood in google street view.
What was the process like?
Very difficult and full of unprocessed grief
First take time to listen to people. Engage in their conversation. Whilst your opinions are valid take some time to listen to others instead of coming in hot with views that Canadians might feel upset about. After that build friendships from mutual acceptance. Sports is a good way to bond. If you can volunteer around your neighbourhood. You’ll find the transition easier if you try a little at the beginning. It will go a long way. You’ll soon forget the person you used to be.
I think they meant the immigration process