Active lifestyle, excellent walk-ability and vibrant, different culture, Vancouver is consistently rated as one of the top cities in the world to live. The combination of economic opportunity and the beautiful, natural environment draws people from around the world. These newcomers – like you – contribute to Vancouver’s diversity and livability.
If you’re considering a move to Vancouver, we have some tips to help you get acquainted with your new home.
MOVE IN TO THE WONDERFUL WEATHER
If you like mild, warm weather, Vancouver is the city for you. Unlike most Canadian cities, Vancouver only sees occasional snow. Instead, the winters are characterized primarily by cool days and plenty of rain. (You’ll want to invest in an umbrella!) The summers are wonderful with plenty of green, warm and sunny days.
WITH MULTIPLE CULTURE YOU CAN MAKE GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD
Vancouver’s size and diversity make it easy to find a great neighborhood. If you’re looking for a family home to raise a family in, check out West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Coquitlam and Burnaby a quiet neighborhood with historic homes, great mountain views and quick access to Downtown and the university area. For a youthful, laidback vibe and close proximity to the ocean, try Kitsilano. Downtown is the bustling heart of the city and offers easy access to nightlife and culture. If you don’t want an apartment or loft in the middle of Downtown, look at False Creek and Yaletown, which lie just outside of it. Chinatown, one of the most diverse neighborhoods in an already diverse city, is also a popular choice.
BE STUDENT
Vancouver’s public school system is inclusive, well-funded and well known in world so your kids can get a great education here. Two magnet schools, the Vancouver School of Arts and Academics and Vancouver iTech Preparatory, let high schoolers focus on specialized interests before college. There are also a wide variety of private schools to choose from. Vancouver is home to the University of British Columbia (UBC), one of Canada’s best universities.
WALKE AROUND THE CITY
When asked about the best parts of living in Vancouver, residents often cite the ease of getting around without a car. There are numerous bike and pedestrian paths winding through the city’s greenways and streets, so it’s easy to walk or ride almost anywhere in town.
For longer trips, there are plenty of buses, trains and rental company cars. The rapid transit system consists of automated trains that run frequently through the city, and several lines connect to the suburbs in case you wind up living a little outside of Vancouver proper. The bus system is also a popular way to get around, especially for destinations on the faster express routes. There are lots of rental car company which makes you more happy to get you anywhere you like around city.
WHAT TO DO
One of the best things about living in Vancouver is the easy access to nature. Stanley Park, which won TripAdvisor’s “best park in the entire world” title in 2014, is a popular recreation spot for locals and tourists alike. For a more strenuous hike, head up into the nearby mountains, or you can just relax, swim and play on one of Vancouver’s many beaches.
There’s always something going on in City. Live music is available at multiple venues every night, and the city is home to more than 50 professional theater groups so it’s easy to catch a world-class show. It also hosts some of the world’s best festivals, including the Vancouver International Film Festival, Vancouver Fringe Fest and several large music festivals.
KNOWLEDGE FOR MOVING
Vancouver’s popularity means that housing is at a premium, which some online scammers take advantage of. Never send money without seeing the home in person and don’t trust any on on emails, signing a lease and getting the keys. This high-demand housing market also means that you need to start looking well in advance and check the websites specialized for running and real-estate, as last-minute rentals can be difficult to find.
If you plan on using public transportation often, buy a Compass card. These inexpensive passes let you avoid the hassle of buying tickets every trip, and they’re cheaper to boot.
The City has an excellent website that includes new resident guides to help you learn about the city in more detail.
Whether you’re relocating for work, attending university or just enjoying a change of mood, Vancouver is a great place to live. When you’re ready to make the move, give Secure Moving a call. We can help you with everything, including packing and unpacking, and providing moving supplies. We’ve got a custom moving solution to suit everyone. After all, our mission is to move you in your new life, not just your move.
With a bit of planning and some help from your friendly local movers, you’ll be able to settle into your new home in no time.
These are just a few of the many moving tips our Moving Consultants can offer you as you plan your move! Give Secure Moving a call at 1-6047243432 today to see if we can help make your move easier or request a quote online.
