A Brit who moved to the world’s most desirable place to live has revealed the soaring unexpected costs of relocating.
Alex made the move from Manchester to Vancouver, Canada, and found herself facing extortionate prices.
‘Many expats are drawn here for skiing, and it’s stunning, but the costs are staggering,’ Alex told 1st Move International.
She has enjoyed being outdoors more since relocating and taking in the landscapes, but it comes with a high price tag.
‘A day pass to Whistler is $300, before even factoring in ski rentals and travel,’ the Brit explained.
‘It’s a huge privilege to be so close to one of the best resorts in the world, and the price definitely reflects that.’
What’s more, there isn’t free health care available in Canada in the same was as the UK, which can soon get expensive too.
‘Canada doesn’t have the NHS,’ Alex added.
Alex made the move from Manchester to Vancouver, Canada, and found herself facing extortionate prices
She has enjoyed being outdoors more since relocating and taking in the landscapes, but it comes with a high price tag
She revealed that she found herself hit with a huge dental bill shortly after moving to the country.
‘A month after arriving, I had to pay $700 for a dental filling out of pocket. Even with insurance through my partner’s job, coverage is limited, and more complex procedures can cost thousands,’ Alex shared.
‘It was a real eye-opener; money I had set aside for travel and exploring ended up going on unexpected medical costs.’
Research by 1st Move International revealed the countries people are most interested in relocating to, and Canada came out top.
Analysis of Google search data found 269,220 relocation searches were for Canada.
Australia came second with 207,900, followed by Ireland with 179,400 and New Zealand with 177,700.
Meanwhile, Japan ranked fifth and attracted 172,880 searches.
Despite the high costs, Alex has been making the most of living in Canada and particularly enjoys the weather.
What’s more, there isn’t free health care available in Canada in the same was as the UK, which can soon get expensive too
She said: ‘Since moving to Vancouver, my life has completely shifted towards the outdoors.
‘There’s far more sunshine than a typical English summer, which makes it easy to enjoy hiking through mountains, exploring lakes and forest trails, or simply relaxing on a beach or a bar’s outdoor patio. Everyday life feels so much more connected to nature.’
Since moving, the Brit has started running and tried skiing and surfing.
Alex explained how everyone is ‘incredibly active’ and the ‘energy is infectious’.
She has, however, struggled with some adjustments since her move – particularly the time difference.
‘The time difference hits hardest,’ Alex admitted. ‘Vancouver is eight hours behind the UK, so often when I want to message friends or family, they’re asleep.’
There are certain days that are more difficult than others for Alex.
She explained: ‘Most days, it’s fine, but at Christmas or on tough days, it can feel incredibly isolating. I miss the comfort of being surrounded by loved ones during special occasions.’
Research by 1st Move International revealed the countries people are most interested in relocating to, and Canada came out top
But the Brit still enjoys her time in Canada and described the ‘magical moments’ she’s experienced.
Alex said: ‘There are countless magical moments here, waking up to mountain views, watching three baby bears swimming in a river, and even spotting a pod of killer whales playing in the sea.
‘These are moments I simply wouldn’t have in Manchester.’
‘Moving to Vancouver has enriched my life with outdoor adventures and incredible experiences, but it’s important to balance those against the emotional cost of leaving behind a familiar community and the financial realities of life here.’
