Seven years ago today, I packed up my computer and all my clothes, got on a flight and landed in Vancouver where I was going to give it a try for 3 months. I have not looked back since.
The decision wasn’t an easy one as I would be leaving my family and friends behind in Toronto. I recall my mother saying that I would be back in 3 months, yet here I am. 
I’m not saying I don’t miss my family, as I do, but I think it was a time in my life when I needed a change. I don’t know if it had anything to do with September 11th or not, but I was determine to make this work.
I recall moving into my new place, a place that Russ had already be living in for a few months already. I went from a 2,500 sq ft home to a 400 sq ft apartment. You can just picture the two of us living in such a small space. Our place was so small that we didn’t even have a formal dining room and my computer desk was in the closet. We did of course live only 1 block away from English Bay and I always enjoyed walking home from work.
Two years One year later we left the apartment and bought ourselves a larger 584 sq ft. condo.
I have had some great times in Vancouver and I’m amazed at all the friends I have been able to get to know. It hasn’t been easy mind you as I find that it is harder to make friends here than anywhere else I have been.
I have created a home here in Vancouver and it feels great to be able to walk out and see the mountains (when it’s not raining), walk on the beach (when it’s warm), see the ocean, be able have a sushi at any corner, enjoy free wifi at all coffee shops, and the ability to wear shorts year round.
Ahh Vancouver, thanks for a wondeful 7 years!!!
A special thanks to Russ for making my move and stay in Vancouver for 7 years the best 7 years running!
Vancouver’s gain most DEFINITELY! I’m so glad you came out here. You went from being a ‘voice on the ITG phone’ to being a real person, and an awesome one to know.
Hugs my friend!
Hi Gus,
Nice read, I’m glad to hear a nice story like yours and it’s good to hear somone being successful in doing what they want to do. Had you been to Vancouver many times before you decided you wanted to live there? Why do you think it has been harder to make friends there than elsewhere?
Me and my partner are moving over next year from the UK, we are going to give it a year and see how it goes. We took a visit over in 2005 and loved every minute we were there.
Gus, that was a wonderful write up and to see you appreciate where you are, the people you have met and that you are loving life is great to see!!!
Thank you for sharing this with all of us
As I close in on my 5th anniversay in BC, I know just how you feel. Glad you’re here. Glad I’m here. And I am really glad we know each other.
Vancouver most certainly won big with you. I am SO happy you came here, as it gave me a chance to get to know you (and Russ too!)… you are amazing!