Quote Originally Posted by shootingstar View Post
So what is the appeal of Alberta?
Because of the climate, the economy was good (not so sure anymore with oil/gas issues), and being straight down to Arizona and places we'd like to hibernate in the winter. I have cousins living in B.C. so it would be closer to visit if we felt like it. Closer to California, Arizona, and places we love!

We are not going to purchase a house just yet (when we sell this one when retiring in 5 years). We may be nomads for a while trying to figure which province, then city we want to anchor ourselves too. I have family in BC, lived there for a little while when younger. I was born and raised in Ontario and stayed most of my younger life in Ottawa area. A city we also like. Our very best friends live in Whitby, Ontario. We also were looking to move there. It is no longer cheap as too close to Toronto area. We still have 5 years to think about where we'll set our new living quarters. We also have an office in Calgary. They all said to avoid that area due to high cost of living.

But one thing for sure, we will be moving west and where the economy and climate and politics are better than Quebec. Quebec being the largest taxed province of Canada. Cheap rent but the rest is too expensive, except for Vancouver who I think beat us in various fields. I just cannot stand the fight about languages either (and I'm French). It just tires me just hearing about separation, we are better than the rest of the planet, being over taxed, etc.

Note that we will only be in Canada 5/12th out of a year. We cannot really become Americans either as it is a bit too complex and it is not always greener on the other side of the fence.

But we need to make sure where we will land, we will have good neighbours. I don't want to have to live with wackos! We are quiet and keep to ourselves. We don't mind a chat now and then but on my grounds. hihi

As for living without stairs, when you already have major knee issues, you have to think further than today. If knees were not issues, it may not cross my mind. But living with damaged knees for so long now, and not improving, it is something to think about. If I want to stay in shape, I can have my own gym (like I do now), enjoy the outdoors...all on my own time/choice. Not something I have to do because I have to go up/down to get to bed or basement. Health issues change a lot of things we take for granted when not affected. I know...I'm into this big time!