My fiancé and I moved from Belgium to Calgary, and our lives are about to change. Settling into Calgary’s beautiful landscapes and lively communities is a step toward finding a new sense of purpose and a deeper connection with nature. This move fulfilled a long-standing dream. Here’s a glimpse into our journey and what inspired us to embrace this new chapter.
Finding Peace in the Outdoors
One of the first reasons to move to Western Canada was its breathtaking natural beauty. The region has everything from stunning mountains to beautiful forests and lakes, making it perfect for nature lovers like us. Calgary’s closeness to these natural wonders has allowed us to pursue our love for outdoor activities. In the first months, we already had terrific experiences like hiking and kayaking in Kananaskis and reaching the summit of multiple mountains like Ha Ling Peak in Canmore. Spending time in the great outdoors provides the energy to appreciate life truly. Being subject to natural elements such as storms and forest fires is also part of this. In the grandeur of nature, humans are but a small part.
A Different Pace of Life
The lifestyle in (Western) Canada is a refreshing departure from the fast-paced European lifestyle we were accustomed to. Together with the previous reason, the emphasis is on balance and community. People take the time to appreciate and respect their surroundings. This change will allow us to slow down during our free time and prioritize our mental and physical health.
For the critical Europeans reading this, yes, you are right; Canada has less PTO than most European countries, but this is not the only thing that matters. It’s all about finding balance.
Experiencing all four seasons
Moving to Canada offers the chance to embrace all four seasons, unlike the typical mild Belgian weather (read: rainy weather). In Canada, you can witness the colorful yellow/orange leaves in autumn, enjoy (lots of) snow in winter, witness flowers bloom in spring and sunny days in summer. Each season brings various fun activities, from skiing in winter to hiking in summer. This change in weather not only makes life more exciting but also allows you to experience many seasonal traditions and lifestyles that are part of Canadian life.
Embracing New Opportunities
Definitely, not the reason for relocating to Calgary, but it has also opened up new professional opportunities. North America’s dynamic economy, especially in IT and the tech industry, aligns perfectly with my current career goals. The chance to work closely with innovative minds and be part of a thriving community will be incredibly rewarding. Additionally, the supportive network of professionals here has made the transition smooth and enriching. I am immensely grateful to everyone who connected me with a company or an individual. This generosity is never taken for granted and reflects a deep respect and a strong sense of community.
Conclusion
Our journey to the western part of Canada is all about discovering, growing, and forming a deep bond with ourselves and nature. It shows how much we can change and thrive by embracing change and finding places that support our goals. We are excited to continue this journey, exploring new things and making a difference in our new community.
Over the following months and years, I hope to keep you updated about this journey.
Thank you for reading about our adventure. If you have any questions or would like to share your experiences of relocation and personal growth, feel free to reach out. Here’s to new beginnings and the beauty of embracing change!
If you wish to follow us, be free to follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northbound.memories/
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Feel free to share your thoughts or reach out to me on LinkedIn. Let’s inspire each other on our respective journeys!
