DarkKnight2 wrote:
My wife and I have been talking seriously about moving out of the US. Since we live in NY we have been talking about Kingston Ontario. Which would still be close enough for me to come to get my VA health care if necessary.
Not sure though and have not explored the things necessary to completely move to Canada. Had a friend that lived in Kingston, which I could find her again.
DarkKnight2,
I am in the same day/rush messenger business. Since 1987. I deliver time sensitive documents for law firms and small packages for businesses like architects, construction companies ( big part of business now ), and some government organizations as well. We even have a major food supplier to restaurants as a major account. All very time specific deliveries. We like to deliver things on time and that is our policy in our company. But, it is hard to do now with increased traffic and construction. Almost impossible most of the time now. My geographic area is about 60 miles from downtown Vancouver all the way out to Chilliwack. See map here:
http://www.britishcolumbia.com/Maps/?id=6
I was born in Vancouver. I am one of the few originals here. That is not a joke. There is a lot of immigration here. It is very pleasant weather here generally, except for the rainy season starting tomorrow and ending in the Spring, maybe in March or April.
The cost of living has always considered to be high here, especially as a result of the high degree of unionization in previous times. Things are starting to even out now though. Housing has always been expensive and demand is very strong now. There has recently been an upsurge in house pricing as well. The economy is more diversified.
Many people have good jobs and live well and have nice houses. Like eveywhere else, I suppose, more than one family member contributes to the cause. Taxes are seen to be high, but the social benefits are alive and well. There are pocket of poverty and homelessness as well. This really surprises me because the economy is so strong now, especially housing. These unskilled people now have an opportunity of a life time to make things happen. I am surprised the government is not more active here.
Health care is never a worry in Canada , except delivery sometimes. But, no one loses their home because of sickness, unlike in the US. Everybody is guranteed some king of coverage. LIke myself. Recently my Medicare costs were zip. But, I just filed my income tax and got the statement back which the Medicare system monitors and now I am really being hit with a big bill. My monthly medical premiums are now $10.80 per month. Can you imagine that?
Hope this helps
