An Expat Talks about Moving to Calgary, Canada

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Calgary

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

1. My childhood books

2. My dolls

3. A different perspective

1. My glass and china

2. Some of my clothing

3. My notions of their school system!

William Russell
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Find one in an older neighbourhood close to a school, as there is tremendous growth here due to Alberta's Oil economy, and new schools are at a premium. Children have to be bussed from the new suburbs because of the lack of schools.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

I live in a manufactured home retirement park now in a very beautiful part of this city. It is typical for some retired expats from many different countries as we live a very mobile life style. By the way, the average age for this city is 32 years of age.It as grown from less than 200,000 to more than 900,000 since I came here.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

I came here 54 years ago and was married to a Canadian and so the house was chosen for me due to a housing shortage. Subsequently, my husband died and I came to the North West part of this city

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Lower. A 3 bedroom 1,500 square foot home sells for $200,000 plus. Condo apts and townhouses are less.