Any move abroad is a huge decision to make, so it pays to know both the good and bad aspects of your chosen new home.

View of Toronto

The good

Canada is the second largest nation on Earth and one of the most sparsely populated. There is plenty of free space and land, ideal for someone who is fed up of the crowded towns and cities in the UK. Canada is often ranked highly on the global safety charts. Despite the countries enormous size the population is relatively small and concentrated in the main urban areas. This leaves vast tracks of wilderness for an intrepid adventurer to explore and enjoy and you are never far from being able to witness one of nature’s most spectacular sites, the northern lights.

Canadian wilderness

Canada is often praised for high quality of health care and often ranks in the top 20 best countries list. The cities are clean and the people are friendly making it a comfortable place to live. Where the United States is often seen as the rowdy neighbour, Canada is the strong silent type and a place for a slower pace of life.  According to the United Nations Human development index Canada ranks in the top three places to live alongside Australia and Denmark.

Oh yeah, and we have Niagara Falls

The Bad

The Canadian winter is famous for its freezing sub-zero temperatures. Temperatures regularly plummet to minus 20C, which can be a huge shock for the unprepared expat. Snowfall can be measured in meters rather than the centimetres or inches seen in the UK sometimes. Where snow is relatively rare in most of England, it is a guarantee in Canada.

Northampton, UK..normal amount of snow

Versus:

Average day in winter in Canada (this is considered minimal snow)

Wind chill can make the already bitter temperatures even more; the lowest recorded temperature in Canada was measured at a toe numbing -63C. If you immigrate to Canada, be prepared for the cold and the harsh winters, they are ten times worse than the winters we moan about in the UK. The summers are often hot and very enjoyable. Canada is a country of two extremes in terms of its weather. Mosquitoes can be a menace in the summer time (outside of the city) so it’s a good idea to have some repellent.

Just like any country Canada has its negative points but if you don’t let your fear of the extremely cold winters and hot summers it is a place of wonderful opportunities.

Summer in Canada, Waterford Ontario

If you’ve already moved abroad, if you’re in the process of moving abroad or if you’re only thinking about it, the Expat Hub is here for you. For expatriates looking for advice, support and information, we’re the number one online stop. Our extensive expat country guides will provide you with all the essential information you’ll need on your new home, from the build 

K & K would like to note that we see a lot more of the 'good' than the bad featured in this post. Our experience so far of Canada has been wonderful, and so far have not experienced too bad of a winter in Toronto, you just need to be prepared for it! Read our other posts about life in Canada to find out more!