Considering embarking on a New Adventure – moving from Canada to Europe? Bidding farewell to the Rocky Mountains of Canada and embracing the Mediterranean breeze of Europe is an extraordinary change and a new beginning that has much to offer.
Whether it’s the allure of Italian romance, the incredible views of the Alps, or the Mediterranean’s calming seascape, Europe has been a dream destination for many Canadians eager to experience a new lifestyle.
Europe, known for its picturesque scenery and vast historical landscape, offers a cultural mosaic, unlike any other place. With an irresistible cuisine that ranges from German schnitzel to Danish pastries, you might find your palate on a perpetual journey of discovery!
Transitioning to Europe is about enjoying stunning views or sampling exquisite food and diving headfirst into a culturally rich environment. But before you pack your bags, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with what to expect.
So, hold tight, because we’re about to take you on an enlightening tour before your big moving from Canada to Europe project!
Getting ready on moving from Canada to Europe? Hold your horses! There are a few initial steps to consider before you hop on that plane.
First things first, get in touch with both the Canadian embassy and the embassy of your soon-to-be European home country to secure proper documentation.
The cost usually hovers around $100 – less than a monthly phone subscription! Well at least likely less, unless you calling to your friends in Europe from Canada on a regular basis.
This step is crucial for any Canadian moving to a specific European country, whether it’s Baltic states or Scandinavian countries, south or west of European countries. The key takeaway here? Don’t ignore the paperwork and give enough time for it.
It’s less fun than packing your favorite Tim Hortons mug or hockey jersey, sure, but equally necessary!
Shipping your belongings from Canada to Europe can seem as challenging as a game of hockey against the Montreal Canadiens.
However, it doesn’t have to be! Choosing an international moving company is a significant step in the process. It’s like picking a team for dodgeball – you want the best players on your side.
Whether you want to ship your stuff via plane for a quick (but pricier) delivery or opt for the sea route for a budget-friendly (but slower) option, the choice is yours.
Do your homework, check out the rates, look for customer reviews, and make sure the moving company is licensed and insured. After all, you wouldn’t want your treasured ice skates or the autographed Wayne Gretzky jersey to get lost in transit, would you?
Here is a couple of moving companies that are considered experts in International Moving:
Are you emotionally attached to your car? Like, do you look at it and get all teary-eyed? If not, consider buying a new car in Europe. Why? Because it’s often cheaper than shipping your ride all the way from Canada!
If you’re still set on bringing your car, understand that the shipping cost can vary, with factors like shipment mode and distance playing a crucial role. Typically, it could be anywhere between $1,500-$6,000. That’s a lot of loonies and toonies!
Get quotes from various car shipping companies. Look for ones with insurance, good reviews, and customer service as smooth as a ride on the Trans-Canada Highway.
And remember, prepare your car by cleaning it and keeping the tank only 1/8 full to avoid any surprise fees. After all, nobody likes unwanted surprises, unless it’s a surprise poutine party!
So, you’re moving from Canada to Europe and staring at your worldly possessions, wondering, “Should I pack my entire collection of hockey sticks?” The trick is to pack smartly.
From essentials like your favorite maple syrup to important documents such as your passport, driver’s license, and medical records – these are your immediate necessities.
Also, remember to bring adapters for your electronics. Europe’s electrical outlets are as different from Canada’s as poutine is to pasta.
Consider packing some home comforts too. Homesickness is a real thing, and sometimes, hugging your favorite team’s jersey can make a difference.
Alright, you’ve landed in Europe and managed to navigate the airport without getting lost or speaking in a questionable European accent. What’s next?
One of your first steps after moving from Canada to Europe is getting acquainted with the healthcare system in your new home. Not every European country offers free healthcare like our beloved Canada, so make sure to research your options.
Next up is understanding your driving privileges. Your Canadian driver’s license may not hold the same power in Europe.
Inquire about its equivalence in your new home. It’s like translating “sorry” into different languages – you’ll need to know how it works in your new locale!
Say goodbye to the long, snowy Canadian winters and hello to a more varied climate. Europe’s weather varies drastically from the North’s cooler climes to the Mediterranean’s sunny beaches.
While you might still need your winter gear for countries like Norway or Sweden, you might also need a swimsuit for Spain’s sunny coasts.
Be ready to adjust your wardrobe and your attitude to these changes. After all, variety is the spice of life and European weather offers plenty of that!
It’s time for some window shopping…for cities! Europe is full of diverse and beautiful locations, making it tricky to decide where to plant your maple tree.
From France’s picturesque cities of Paris, Nice, and Marseille to Poland’s popular old-town in Krakow, each offers its unique charm and lifestyle.
The cherry on top? The mesmerizing city of Copenhagen in Denmark, oh leave it the last, because you gonna want to stay there for the rest of your days.
Each city is like a different flavor of poutine – all delicious, all worth trying, and all promising to satisfy your European living fantasy.
Are you moving with your family or planning to study in Europe? Good news! Europe boasts some of the world’s best education systems. Countries like Finland and the Netherlands consistently rank highly for education quality.
Universities in Europe also hold high international standing. From the UK’s Oxford and Cambridge to Switzerland’s ETH Zurich, there’s no shortage of prestigious institutions.
Healthcare in Europe can range from “free as the Canadian wilderness” to “Why does this cost more than maple syrup?”. It’s crucial to get your medical insurance sorted out before your big move from Canada to Europe. After all, falling ill without a safety net is as much fun as a beaver without a tail.
In the case of an emergency, remember this number: 112. Some countries also use 911, just like back home. And if you’re in a not-so-serious health pickle, visit a local pharmacy – they’re often open 24/7 and can prescribe medicines for simple ailments.
From the prices of croissants to renting an apartment, the cost of living in Europe is as diverse as its languages. Some areas, like the suburbs of major cities, can be more affordable, much like choosing a staycation over a trip to Banff National Park.
Ukraine or Moldovia, for instance, is one of the least expensive countries in Europe. On the other end of the spectrum, all Scandinavian countries will make you question your financial abilities, but at the same time offers a high standard of living, which reflects in its costs. But hey, who wouldn’t want to pay for Swedish life quality?
Canada ranks 30th on the list of most expensive places to live, so you may find some European countries more affordable. Remember, there’s a Europe for every budget!
Income and Expense Table: Canada vs Europe (Average Values)
| Canada | Europe | |
|---|---|---|
| Average Monthly Income (After Tax) | $2,800 | $2,400 |
| Average Rent (1 Bedroom, City Centre) | $1,200 | $900 |
| Average Cost of Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) | $150 | $170 |
| Average Monthly Cost for Groceries | $300 | $200 |
| Average Cost for a Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant | $15 | $12 |
Europe is a cultural mosaic and social etiquette varies widely. For instance, punctuality is highly valued in Germany, while in Spain is more relaxed about time. Also, while cheek-kissing is common in France, it’s less so in the Nordic countries.
Remember, part of the fun of moving from Canada to Europe is learning about these differences and experiencing them first-hand!
Once you’ve settled down and unpacked your last suitcase, a new chapter of your life begins in Europe. You can now fully immerse yourself in your new European home’s diverse historical, cultural, and culinary landscapes.
With your decision on moving from Canada to Europe, you’ve opened the door to countless sceneries, architectural masterpieces, and a broad range of delectable cuisine.
While every European country offers unique experiences, they all share an undeniable charm that makes them irresistibly appealing. From breathtaking views to mouth-watering foods, Europe has something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of different cultures.
Just remember, no matter how meticulously you plan, moving countries can have their fair share of hiccups. Yet, overcoming these small hurdles is what makes the experience of relocation a fulfilling and enriching journey.
So, as you embark on this exciting chapter of your life, remember to embrace the new, cherish the old, and enjoy every moment of your European adventure. After all, every day is a new chance to create unforgettable memories in your new home!
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