Moving to Canada - Top destinations

Canada is an attractive destination for people that want to move abroad with its cosmopolitan cities, unblemished landscape and multicultural society. Canada is the second largest country by total area in the world and boasts the most lakes and longest coastline compared to any other nation. Canada has held a strong affinity to Europe in the past, with many British and French influences on the country. As many as five million Canadians claim to have ancestral links to Scotland, but in recent times there have been more entrants to the country from Asia than European nations. Comprising of ten provinces and three territories, read on for a guide to the most popular locations within the ‘True North Strong and Free’ if you are planning to live in Canada.

Toronto, Ontario

According to the 2006 Census, ‘Queen City’ was the most popular city for immigration from the UK. Intersected by both the Humber River and the Don River, Toronto has a moderate climate and often has warm, humid summers. Being the provincial capital of the Ontario province and largest city in Canada, there are many reasons why it attracts so many foreign nationals. With the prominent CB Tower overlooking the city, Toronto is the economic epicentre and cultural capital of the country. The city is the home to many theatres and performing arts companies, meaning that there is plenty of entertainment taking place throughout the year. In terms of sport, Toronto is the Canadian representative in each of the seven major league sports; with limited success.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Born from the settlement known as Gastown, Vancouver is based on the coast of British Columbia province and often scores highly in worldwide ‘liveable city’ rankings. The city is well known for its wonderful natural surroundings, including the beautiful mountain range. Vancouver is a popular destination for outdoor recreation-enthusiasts; whether your passion is in watersports, skiing or motorbikes, this is a great place to live. Vancouver has earned the nickname ‘Hollywood North’, due to the city film studios becoming the third largest in the whole of North America after Los Angeles and New York City. Hollywood North also provides a popular nightlife with many restaurants, bar and music venues in the local area.

Montreal, Quebec

The capital of Quebec, Montreal has many French influences in architecture, culture and its official language. If you can’t speak French, it is probably wise to learn a few choice phrases before moving to the city; although many people in the area also speak English. When you look round Montreal, it is clear to see that France has played an important part in they city’s past and present with many European styled buildings and Parisian pavement cafes and vibrant nightlife. If you decide to move to Montreal, it will be impossible to avoid the many arts festivals that take place in the city.

Ottawa, Gatineau

Perhaps surprisingly the capital city of Canada is not the most popular destinations for people from the UK for relocation, but this should not be a deterrent. Known for its high quality of living and cleanliness, Ottawa is a great city that offers great variety in terms of culture and education, with two internationally recognised universities. Ottawa is home to the public sector job opportunities in Canada and has many technology companies in the area.

Calgary, Alberta

Being the ‘Heart of the New West’, Calgary is a great place to experience the province of Alberta. With the city being adjacent to the Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park, it is easy to escape the thrills of city life all year round.

Submitted by Kirsty Collingwood, Marketing Manager at Crown Relocations. Crown Relocations is an
international relocation company and global mobility specialist that manages every step of the journey from visas to property management, finding schools to packing up. More tips on emigrating to Canada can be found at Crown Relocations.