Q: What? You're leaving?
A: Yup.
Q: Where are you going?
A: We're moving to Vancouver, south Vancouver near Burnaby to be more exact.
Q: Holy crap.
A: I don't think that's a question, but yes.
Q: Do you have another job?
A: Yes. It's at a software company that makes CRM solutions. It is located in downtown Vancouver.
Q: What about a place to live?
A: What about it? Yes, we have an apartment all set up.
Q: Why are you going?
A: Have you looked at the Montreal weather lately? Seriously, it's a change of lifestyle thing, better climate and lifestyle. Before we really settle down and buy a house and all that we really want to be in a place we really like and Montreal is not doing it for us anymore.
Q: Do you have family there?
A: One cousin who is married with two kids.
Q: Don't you have lots of family/friends in Montreal?
A: My parents are here and some cousins and friends but we have to do what's best for us. My parents will come and visit us, and maybe they'll want to move when they retire. Who knows.
Q: What about your furniture and car?
A: The car is going to be shipped by train on March 10th, the furniture on the 12th.
Q: Why didn't you drive?
A: As much as I like the idea of driving across Canada, I estimate the price difference between driving vs. shipping the car and flying is about $600. That includes food, gas and hotels etc. However it does not include added mileage on the car and unexpected delays like snowstorms in the mountains or something. I'd rather fly there and be car less for a week. That way we're in Vancouver in five hours (thanks Showcase, er Westjet).
Plus, have you ever had a cat in the backseat of your car for four days? Me neither but it doesn't sound pretty.
Q: I heard Vancouver is expensive.
A: You heard right. Real estate is expensive and I've also heard that car insurance is bad (I'll update you when I get the bill), but the income tax difference between Quebec and BC is about 10%, so that is a big bonus. The cost of other things seems to be about the same.
Q: So, are you packing your stuff?
A: Yup, my lovely wife is doing most of the packing and organizing while I'm at work but we have a ton of little things to do so these past two weeks have been crazy. We're almost done though.
Q: Aren't you going to miss us?
A: Of course we will. We won't miss the winter however and yes, we know it rains alot out west and we're ready for it.
Q: When do you leave?
A: Friday is my last day of work; I'll be the one taking all the pictures. We leave on Monday morning, Saturday is moving day.
Q: Well, good luck, all the best.
A: Thanks. Watch the blog for updates and e-mail if you want. That’s the best way to reach me.
Q: Are you drinking hot water with sugar? (Frequently asked at the coffee station).
A: Yes I am. Actually, I have tea bags back at my desk. But thanks for asking.