Moving to Canada? Here Are Its 10 Friendliest Cities

Google reports a 350 percent increase in people researching a northern relocation after Super Tuesday, the speculation being that Americans are growing more fearful of a Trump presidency. In fact, Canada even offered up an entire island just for U.S. citizens looking to escape The Donald. If you're serious about crossing the border, consider calling one of these ten cities your new home, all voted the friendliest in the country in the latest Readers' Choice Awards.
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    Montréal

    Montréal has that Quebecois joie de vivre— a home for culture vultures and food lovers alike, without the snobbery of some larger cities. "Fine dining is a hallmark of the experience," says one reader; St-Viateur Bagel, Le Bremner, and Restaurant Europea are all highly recommended. When you're ready for a break from all that eating, embrace Montreal's bike-friendly side, or just set out on foot to admire architecture like the Notre-Dame Basilica.

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    Winnipeg

    Don't let the -18.3 degrees Celsius temps deter you from Winnipeg just yet. The "humble prairie province north of North Dakota," quote The New York Times, has long been welcoming waves of immigrants, who all commiserate good-naturedly together in this "hub of parka-clad diversity." Our readers love the city's restaurants, though the "the walk along the Red River to the Forks and the Assiniboine to Osborne shows Winnipeg at its best, with many interesting monuments and sculptures en route."

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    Toronto

    Toronto has the appeal of a big city without many of the common downsides—it's clean, safe, easy to get around, and extremely friendly. "I can't get over how nice the people were," said one reader. "Everyone spoke as they passed walking along the streets." Downtown Toronto has a vibrant arts and theater district and great restaurants, plus waterfront views that will make you forget about that last place you lived (what was it...New York?).

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    Ottawa

    Canada's capital is a "beautiful city with an obvious French influence," but it also benefits from all the conveniences of a national government center and cultural hub. There are numerous festivals— Winterlude, the Canadian Tulip Festival, and Canada Day celebrations on the lawns of Parliament Hill—and a shared experience that locals cherish: On Rideau Canal Skateway, people skate recreationally or as part of their commute to work during the winter.

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    Calgary

    Here's what one Calgary native had to say about his hometown: "The city has been very good to us. We love that the mountains can be seen from anywhere in the city. New Calgarians make this their home, too, a place to respect and work in harmony with our varied cultural and social diversity. The restaurant, entertainment, and cultural events thrive. [And there's an] exceptional education system." Other readers raved about the Calgary Stampede, an annual rodeo, as well as the city's proximity to Lake Louise and Banff National Park.

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    Saint John

    Coastal Saint John in New Brunswick is a popular port for cruise excursions, but it's well-worth an extended stay or repeat visit. "We were treated great and enjoyed every minute we were there," said one reader. The city is made for meandering: "We enjoyed walking around—there is some fun street art, as well as sites like the Old Burial Ground," Reversing Falls, and even just the ebbing tides on the beaches.

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    Québec City

    Visiting Québec City is like being in Europe without having to cross the Atlantic. "The city is historic and attractive, and its 'Frenchness' is reflected in the food" (and its charm). Old Québec, a UNESCO-protected area of the city, exudes romance with its cobblestone streets and charming cafes. "Local people were the friendliest and most helpful of all of the cities that I ever visited."

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    Halifax

    "The province is so clean, natural, and unspoiled," says a reader about Halifax, an oceanfront city in Nova Scotia that has natural beauty and fresh seafood in spades. "The natives are friendly, and we have discovered excellent food in some out-of-the-way places." Sample fresh fish at the sprawling indoor farmers' market or at restaurants like The Five Fishermen, and you may never want to leave.

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    Vancouver

    "Vancouver is a perfect mix of natural beauty and sophistication," says a reader, and we can't help but agree. The city feels cosmopolitan, but it's still easy to get outdoors within city limits and embrace that active Northwest lifestyle. The Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver is always a popular attraction, as is Stanley Park (for locals and visitors alike). Most important: "The people of Vancouver are so friendly and welcoming, and I am not just talking about the ones that work in tourism/restaurant industries. The local people are just plain nice."

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    Victoria

    Victoria is a "friendly, smaller city on the ocean with a charming British atmosphere," says one reader. You can easily tour the downtown area on foot, ducking into the many museums, art galleries, and bookstores. Our readers had overwhelming praise for two attractions in particular: the Butchart Gardens and High Tea at the Empress Hotel. All in all, the city is safe with a friendly vibe. "A great place to bring the family for a holiday." Or maybe relocate?