Emigrating to Vancouver
Vancouver is the largest city in the province of British Columbia, surrounded by water on three sides and nestled along a beautiful coastal mountain range. It is home to some of the bluest skies, spectacular natural scenery, a bustling metropolitan core, and boasts one of the mildest climates in Canada. Vancouver is consistently ranked one of the three most liveable cities in the world. More than two million people in 21 municipalities call Greater Vancouver home.
The majority of people living in Vancouver speak English as either a first or second language, but many departments of the government provide services in both English and French. The city is quite cosmopolitan and is home to a mix of many groups. Because of this, it's also multilingual on an unofficial level; people speak many different languages and follow traditions from their native lands. After English and Chinese, the most common mother tongues spoken, are Punjabi, German, Italian, French, Tagalog and Spanish.
Vancouver enjoys mild temperatures all year-round because of cool Pacific Ocean currents and the protection of a range of mountains. From high 70's Fahrenheit (low 20's Celsius) in summer to a mild mid-40s Fahrenheit (0º to 5º Celsius) in winter, the climate is always hospitable. The winters are wet but it rarely snows in Vancouver, except on the local hills, which makes skiing an attractive activity.
Living in the city
The most desirable neighbourhoods for expats in Vancouver are Kerrisdale, Southlands and the West End. The latter is particularly attractive because it's a high-rise neighbourhood situated downtown, close to parks, entertainment, shopping and the beach. There are even suburb-style houses which makes a great escape from the hustle and bustle of living downtown. Southlands has huge mansions, boasting the highest costs in the area, and Kerrisdale has more of a British feel.
Typically, expats rent their homes when first arriving or if their stay in Canada will be short, but those staying for longer periods will sometimes decide to buy. When renting a house, utilities are not typically included in your tenant's contract. However, in condominiums and apartments, some utilities are included so check with your estate agent before signing on the dotted line.
Vancouver is a very safe city with low crime rates; however you, and especially your children, will want to avoid the downtown East Side.
Some expats choose private schools and others choose public schools for their children. The quality of education is good in both. The typical school year is from September till the middle of June and school hours are usually between 8.30 or 9.00am, to 3.30 or 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.
Canada has one of the finest health care systems in the world. Excellent hospitals, clinics and doctor's offices are available in most communities and services are usually free of charge to all residents of Canada registered under the national health insurance program.
Typically, banking services are offered in English, but they are also available in French at certain branches, as well as on many bank websites. Because Vancouver is home to many different nationalities, there is a good chance that a representative at your bank will speak your native language if this is not English. Banks are normally open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. At some banks there may be extended opening hours one day a week.
Getting around
It won't be necessary to have your own vehicle in Vancouver, but, if you prefer this option, you must obtain a valid driver's licence and vehicle insurance. Parking is not difficult in Vancouver because there are more than 350 above- and below-ground parking facilities. However, they are hard to spot since they are often located under or behind buildings. You will need to apply for a Vancouver driver's licenses within 90 days of moving to British Columbia.
BC Transit is one very affordable method of transportation in Vancouver and the surrounding areas. Vancouver's public transportation includes regular buses, sea buses and a sky train. You'll have the option of purchasing day passes, a book of 10 Faresaver tickets or a monthly bus pass. These are all available for purchase wherever you see a FareDealer sign or you can use ticket vending machines (TVM) as well.