I want to move to Canada, how?

[Joeaksa]

Have very many of you guys been to Finland? Its not really worth comparing "cold, grey and wet" much of the winter as Finland is much worse than Canada.

Please look to other parts of Canada unless you speak French and really like French atmosphere. I have spent a lot of time in both Montreal and Q-City and while I like them, they want to turn the area into France and its just never going to fly.

The Western parts of Canada are beautiful as are other areas. Look around and give it a try. I have lived in 6 countries so far and its a very good experience.

[Christien]

Originally posted by Joeaksa

Please look to other parts of Canada unless you speak French and really like French atmosphere. I have spent a lot of time in both Montreal and Q-City and while I like them, they want to turn the area into France and its just never going to fly.

I don't think that's really accurate. I used to live in Montreal (still visit several times a year) so I have a pretty good feel for the city, and not just as a visitor. While there is definitely a group of people in French Canada that still want to split from the rest of Canada, the sovereignty movement is about at its lowest point in history these days. Montreal is one of the most (if not THE most) bilingual cities in the world - something like 85% of the city is fluent in both English and French. Quebec City is similar in the tourist areas, but I'm not sure about the rest of the city.

I believe Montreal is one of the greatest cities in the world. There's never a shortage of stuff to do, no matter what you're into, it's got the probably the best music scene in Canada, the cost of living is rock bottom (for a major urban centre > 1 million pop.) and the economy is finally getting back on its feet.

[Dottore]

I have to agree with Christien. Montreal is a great city. If city life is important to you I would consider Montreal or Vancouver - both great cities in very different ways. And they are the only great cities in Canada.

That said there are many, many very nice smaller towns and all over this country.

You have to think of rural Canada in four regions: "west", "east", "in between" and "French". If you are a masochist you might also add "North" to that list.

Each of these regions is very distinct, and has it's own charms. This merits some investigation on your part.

[AFC-911]

Has anyone lived in Ottawa?

I missed the chance to visit this city the last time I was in Canada, so I have no idea what it's like.