With the difficult time we are experiencing, it is easy for many to get lost in their daydreams, longing for a change of scenery. This is the best time to plan long trips in advance or that big change you’ve been thinking about for a long time, especially if you decide to move to study in Vancouver .
This beautiful Canadian city is really good for the soul because it offers a lively atmosphere and endless opportunities both from a cultural point of view and for outdoor activities. Vancouver attracts travelers of all kinds, as well as those who have already traveled around the world. Are you thinking of taking the plunge? Here are 10 things you should know before moving to Vancouver.
1. New city vibe
Although there are no ancient monuments in Vancouver like you might find in Rome or long boulevards rich in culture like Paris or Madrid, I can say without a doubt that its ace in the hole is its young city vibe. Here people are always willing to try new experiences; be it new business, new foods or ideas in general. You will see that you will adapt immediately to this way of life and you will never want to stop!
2. App for driving mobility
Don’t feel like buying a car? In vancouver this is absolutely not a problem. Download the Evo or Car2Go apps to rent a car by the hour. You will pay a small amount to be able to use the service, but from then on you will only be charged the amount corresponding to your rentals. Remember that after 90 days of living in Vancouver you must obtain a Canadian license and you will no longer be able to use yours.
3. Public transport
Even those who do not drive will be at ease in moving around the city thanks to the Sky Train trains and buses. You will need to buy a Compass card to be able to get on the vehicles and remember to also stamp it when exiting the trains. Do the means seem too demanding? Then grab a bike and start pedaling! With more than 800 miles of bike paths, Vancouver is the city of choice for cyclists across North America.
4. It is inclusive
Vancouverites are extremely inclusive of everyone’s diverse cultural backgrounds and lifestyle choices. In fact, the city is one of the most gay-friendly on the planet, with the largest Pride festival in the world. But that’s not all, Vancouver also boasts a great mix of cultures and ethnicities – almost 52% of the population doesn’t speak English as their first language, even some say Vancouver is the most Asian city outside of Asia!
5. There is a fantastic balance between work and private life
We are talking about a big city that offers a quiet and intimate environment, while offering at the same time night and cultural activities worthy of a metropolis, you will always find something to do and you will no longer have to ask yourself “what do I do tonight after I leave the office?” .
6. Tips
Depending on your country of origin, you may find it difficult to adapt to the tipping system, but I assure you that in no time you will master it without problems. When paying by card you can add a standard 10-20% tip, just before entering your pin. Also, if you are looking for a part-time job to finance your move to Vancouver, remember that many jobs like waitering, babysitting, and many others, even if they don’t get paid much, bounce back with tips!
7. Ice hockey
Get into the spirit of Canada’s most famous sport by becoming a true Vancouver Canuck and Vancouver Giants fan. Ice hockey is a very athletic sport, but above all fast: you will have a hard time believing how fast the players are! If skates have always fascinated you, then you’ve come to the right place: Vancouver has such a thing as ice rinks to practice your skills !
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8. You are close to the USA
Once set in Vancouver , you will realize that you are practically marginalized from the rest of Canada. In fact, Calgary is the closest major city and is about 8 hours away. It will be easier to visit the United States: Washington state is very close to the border with Canada, you can reach Seattle in 3 hours, as well as Orgon (although Portland, its most touristic city, is slightly further away),
9. Rentals
Usually apartment affections start on the 1st or 15th of each month, which is why you will have to find accommodation within one of these two deadlines. Most likely, you will find yourself signing a 6-12 month contract and you will have to look for furniture to furnish the house (usually furnished apartments are not rented). As for the deposit, remember that the security deposit cannot be more than half of the first month’s rent.
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10. Remember the BCID card!
Are you planning to stay in Vancouver for more than 6 months? The British Columbia ID card (BCID card, in fact) will take away the burden of having to protect your passport or identity card at all costs every time you go out at night. Ideal for those who choose to attend English courses in Vancouver for months or even study at a university in Canada . You can use your BCID card in pubs or nightclubs, because it is recognized by the government as a real identity document – you can also use it to open a bank account (although it’s not the only way to do it). To obtain the BCID card you will need your work or residence permit, your passport and another type of document that recognizes your identity (such as your driving license)
