About half an hour ago (8pm on 15 May), I received my visa allowing me to live and work in Canada for 2 years.
Everyone: I am officially moving to Canada!
So… Why Canada?
The story of why Canada is a long one, which I’ll go into deeper another time, but the core of it is this: I have an American boyfriend and for various reasons (again, I’ll go into them in another post) I couldn’t move to America, and he couldn’t move to the UK. So naturally, our thoughts turned to… Canada. I mean, why wouldn’t they…?
All at once the crazy idea seemed perhaps, the slightest bit, possible: I could get a working holiday visa. His job has an office in Toronto. Somehow, after months of secret conversations at work, planning, waiting (OH, the waiting!), a few setbacks and some more waiting (did I mention the waiting?), it’s worked out.
Plus, we really liked Canada the two times we’ve visited together, so we’re happy with the country choice. It all just seemed ideal.
So now, my boyfriend has a job in Canada, I have a working holiday visa for Canada, and we’re moving there in July.
JULY!
In just two months I will be moving to Toronto, navigating my way around a new city (read: getting lost), taking trips to IKEA to put together a Pinterest board worthy apartment (I hope) and soaking up all the Canadian culture I can. By drowning myself in maple syrup, probably.
It’s an exciting few months coming up, which look a little like this:
June-July
I don’t want to jinx it yet, but in this period I’ll be doing some solo travel. Once I book flights, all will be revealed!
12-19 July
Norway on a cruise with the family to celebrate my dad’s birthday. There’s a slim chance it could be the south of France instead but time will tell.
29 July
Fly to Toronto.
30 July-2 August
Montreal for Osheaga Music Festival (where I’ll see the likes of Florence and the Machine and Father John Misty – yay) with my boyfriend and a couple of his friends.
2-9 August
Boston – a big itinerary with lots of food and drink, typical Boston sights and generally saying bye to the city.
9 August onwards
Back to Toronto – y’know, to live for the next 2 years.
It’s an exciting move, but scary too. It’s starting to sink in how much I’ll miss my family, friends and cats (my cats, not just any cats. I’m sure there are cats in Canada. If there aren’t, I’m going to have to seriously reconsider). Of course I’ll be back to visit here and there, but a massive change anyway!
It’s starting to feel a lot like when I was preparing to move to Australia, and I kind of love that feeling.
I’ve been to Toronto once before, so I know I like the city – but if you have any tips then let me know! And the rest of Canada too – there’s a lot to see! :)
Ahhh, this is so exciting! I think living and working in Canada will be an awesome experience as well as finally being back with your boyfriend. Also the redesign is looking good :)
Jodie Young recently posted…How Much Does Five Days in Barcelona Cost?
Good luck! How exciting. Can’t wait to read all about how it’s going :) x
Woohoo! Congrats! That’s so exciting!
Sarah Elizabeth recently posted…A Dash of Gratitude
I recently returned to Australia after my Canadian working holiday. I lived in Vancouver and fell in love with the city. Definitely visit if you can, particularly in summer when the city comes alive. A Rockies road trip is also necessary. Enjoy! :)
I grew up and went to university in Toronto so you’re certainly in for an adventure. I’m going back this summer to start a masters! If you’re looking for a flat, use Padmapper! And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to email ;)
Also, yay for love + travel!
Alyssa recently posted…Surfing in Fuerteventura with Planet Surf Camp
Congrat-u-freakin-lations! This is SUPER exciting news! I’m so happy for you and cannot wait to follow your adventures, especially as I’ve never been to Canada.
Love your new header btw x
Taylor Hearts Travel recently posted…Whatâs Your Travel Evolution?
Wish I could get working holiday visa in Canada. It’s my dream destination. Congrats for you and hope you had great life ahead in Canada. Have fun !
http://www.littlenomadid.com
Velysia Zhang recently posted…Fun Facts About HARRIS Hotel
So excited for you! And a bit jealous about Osheaga – I want to go there. And of the whole moving to Canada thing of course. So glad you guys get to be together, and Canada is an awesome place to do it!
VickyFlipFlop recently posted…Exhausted, But Loving Life and Off to Russia
Yay – SO excited for you my dear :) Can’t wait to follow your Canadian adventures x
Jessi (Two Feet, One World) recently posted…Eating My Way Around… Reykjavik
Congrats on the move and good luck with getting settled in! Canada is an awesome place and I’m sure you’ll have a great time there!
Great post! I hope you are loving life here in Canada.
A great article! Finding a job here can be challenging but do your research and be prepared before you arrive.
Check out – http://worksauce.ca/new-to-canada/
David recently posted…The Best Place for Tea
This sounds really exciting! I have a sister who have moved to Canada and I feel this country as a second home! Wish you to have amazing time there! Greets!