gemanddave gemanddave:
Hi everyone!!
My wife and I and hoping to move to Edmonton in the next few months.
I'm going for a job interview over here, that means working for a Canadian Company in Edmonton. It's a 2 year contract minimum.
I was hoping that the kind people of Alberta province, could give me some pointers, if they could
I appreciate that some Canadians may resent foreign nationals coming over and pinching your jobs. I can fully appreciate that, but I'm not coming over to drain your community money pot. I have always worked and never claimed benefit... Ever.
The UK is full of scroungers from other Countries, I don't want to be labeled the same.
Thank you in advance for any help you may give.
Dave & Gem
Welcome to Edmonton! First and foremost - have a place to live lined up BEFORE you get here. Beware of scams! There are shady people who will take your first months rent for an apartment, and do the same from 10 others. Housing is a bit of a problem right now.
Consider living in one of the Suburbs - St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Beaumont, Leduc, Devon, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain. All are only 1/2 hour to 40 minutes from downtown, and many have bus service to downtown. Being a foreigner, you won't be able to get a mortgage from a bank. Renting an apartment or house may be your only option, unless you can come up with $290k - $350k.
Don't worry about being labelled a 'scrounger'. We know most 'imports' work harder than many born locals - but Albertans know we all work like dogs. We have too many jobs, and not enough warm bodies to fill them, so we don't mind those that want to step up and give us a hand getting things done.
One think to remember about Albertans - we value honesty. Be straight with us, and you'll fit in nicely.
And mind what everyone says about the winter. It's not as bad here in Edmonton as further north, like Peace River or Fort McMurray - but it has it's days. Depending on your arrival date, you may want to get some warm outerwear first. November to January can see daily <b>highs</b> in the -20C range.
You may not have need of a car where you live. You will need one here. Perhaps two - one for the wife and younglings if you have them. The entire UK can fit into Alberta. Twice, with room left over. And mass transit sucks. If you want to see anything, or just run for groceries - you'll need a car.
Anything else you want to know - just ask.