Although Canadians and Brits share a similar language, there are many changes Canadians don’t expect when they move overseas to England or anywhere else in the UK. From food to transport to housing, you’ll experience some level of a culture shock. That’s why the professionals at Focus Moving Services Inc. have listed some differences between the Canadian and British cultures to prepare you for the move:
The Climate
Canadians may be strong enough to withstand the cold, but not a perpetual dampness that seeps into your bones. You’ll have to dress in several layers before venturing outside, but you’ll also have to practice new dressing habits inside the house, as well, because central heating is not very common, at least not in the older English buildings. They have radiators and they are located only in certain rooms, so remember to close the door if you want to keep the heat in.
Canadians will need to remember to bring their umbrella almost every time they leave the house— although some parts of the UK, like England and Scotland, do have some heat waves in the summers. During these times, Canadians will probably feel right at home (warning: their cars don’t typically have air conditioning!).
The Driving Conditions
Roundabouts, circular intersections with an island in the middle, are common in the UK, but to a Canadian, they can seem like a disorderly way for drivers to self-conduct themselves on the road. It’s like being in a school of fish and following the flow of traffic, but you must frequently yield to the traffic. Don’t be surprised or embarrassed if you find yourself going around the circle more than once. Many people new to the UK have experienced that—it’s practically a rite of passage!
The Reduction in Size
Many a Canadian will find they need to constantly repair their car’s side windows because they aren’t used to driving on smaller roads or on the “wrong” side of the road and car. Whatever you do, don’t close your eyes as you squeeze past the oncoming cars.
Canadians are probably used to double-doored fridges that are taller than themselves in their apartment or house. You’ll find the opposite in the UK, with a much smaller fridge to house your cold supplies. So don’t go buying too much beer, eh?
Preparing for Your Move
It’s important to always have your papers in order, as well as a home and job lined up before moving overseas from Toronto. Focus Moving Services Inc. provides a bonded and insured staff to work with you on clarifying your moving needs. Whether you’re moving internationally from Toronto or within Canada, Focus Moving Services Inc. is your go-to moving company in Toronto. Get in touch with us today at 1-905-426-4299 and if you can’t come in to see us, we’ll have one of our professionals visit your home for a no-obligation service evaluation.
