Close Reading

Most Canadians who live outside Toronto consider it to be the dirtiest, most violent, least friendly city in the country.

As a African living in Canada, l can only say that life is hard everywhere however, there has been an influx of Africans coming here as visitors and then claiming refugee status. The system is overwhelmed and these people, if they have no money or familial support, will end on streets. Secondly, most immigrant go Toronto, they do not consider other provinces where resources are not as strained hence the homeless situation. Be smart, do your research and consider other regions, NWT, Nova Scotia, Saskachewan etc. Ontario is flooded!!

Hollywood North is considered Vancouver NOT Toronto lol

Alina have you tried York Region? I agree Downtown Toronto prices are ridiculous. Richmond Hill, Oakridges, Aurora and Newmarket is still considered part of the GTA and the prices are pretty reasonable for now. Hopping on a GO Train downtown is only 40 mins. TTC is the worst.

Life has become very expensive worldwide. Whether in Kenya or in Canada, the cost of living hits you hard. I have lived in the US for the last more than twenty years. When I first came here $50 would be enough to buy food for a whole month. Today $50 cannot buy you food for even a week. A gallon of petrol today is over $5. The same thing is happening in Kenya, I believe. There are a number of problems when you land in Canada as a visitor. One: To covert a visitor's visor to a work permit is a process. Two; where do you want to land in Canada? If you land in Toronto, Ontario, you get stranded because everybody is landing there. People dont want to go to the north. All those pictures you are seeing are in Toronto. Because of the influx of people arriving there, the government has spent the budget for visitors and refugees. Three; the choice of jobs. When somebody promises you a job in Canada and helps to get a visitor's visa, think twice before you leave home. If somebody promises you a job in Canada, let him help you to get a work permit before you leave home. That way you are surered of a job. There are so many things to consider before you leave home.

I wouldnt even consider going back. After driving matatus, hustling as a transport driver na degree kenya cant even consider going back home. If you come through the right channels you will make it.

I always say, if you can make it work back home please consider saying home. I dont understand why one would part with millions to go to canada, you can make alot of money back home with such capital

Have you noticed most of these homless Africans are in Toronto. I have never heard news that they are stranded on the streets of Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Yellowknife etc etc. Why Toronto. People need to stop using agents and do some research before moving. Canadians moved away from Toronto during the pandemic they relocated to other smaller cities. Please leave Toronto and move to Nova Scotia or other provinces.\nOur people will not even learn to paint or tile or learn plumbing. They consider those trades for low class. So let those plumbers in Africa move to Canada and you will see how quickly they scoop up jobs.

I'm almost on the same boat as you, though I pay $2000 per month for my spacious 1 bedroom and it's downtown. I'm actually still considering leaving Toronto, if anybody wants to take over my rent, please feel free to comment.

Our house was mortgage to send my sister to Canada where she went in coma in Vancouver wasn't even able to recover coz of hopeless doctors ur country has! We brought her back. Though she is alive 2day but she hasn't completed her degree ? now even in India gap is considered

Same here in Montreal used to love this city still do but post C19 everything changed like everywhere housing crisis, politics, the cultural center it user to be changed maybe its just looking at it now at the start of my 30s compared to when i moved here from Europe and Central Africa at the start of my 20s. Met friends i have for life, got great professional opportunities lived in nice places great food in the city. Now everything is just super expensive now and i know toronto is must be ever crazier. Im considering moving back to France or Switzerland to be closer to my family and friends and also be close to Gabon easier to visit than here constantly taking 4 plains round trip everytime i go back home. After losing my father last year getting divorced 3 years ago i think my time here is done. 14yrs here i became an adult here had amazing experiences, became a canadian citizen but its just not the same anymore. Time for a new adventure somewhere else. We used to live well even back as a student on minimum wage, now with a better career good salary we’re struggling. Breaks my heart seeing this all over canada.

Feels the same.. Immigrated to Canada - GTA(Oakville) 10 years ago. I'm considering my self as successful person, but Toronto and Canada in general are in decline..... ?

Consider it an act of terrorism to invade a country and start firing. They will think twice about crossing. The majority of those people are from central and South America, not Mexico.

You may not fully considered the amount of tax you have to pay on your earnings and the cost to maintain yourself in Canada.

Toronto is a dump and ill never set foot back in toronto especially since they are considering municipal sales tax on top of ontarios rediculous pst

In light of the ongoing global economic crisis, it is crucial for everyone to prioritize investing in diverse sources of income that are not reliant on the government. This includes exploring opportunities in stocks, gold, silver, and digital currencies. Despite the challenging economic situation, it remains a favorable time to consider these investments.

Unless you have a net worth of over $100 M and an additional annual income of at least $5M, don’t even consider moving to Toronto (in which case, why would you want to live there in the first place?) — except, of course, for the fine year-round weather, the bracing mountain air, the breathtaking sea views, and the plethora of Old World antiquities, all of which are truly lovely...

Inform mexico if it happens again it will be considered a act of war.

Healthcare, Behaviour of police, roads, quality of life, commuting convenience, No power cuts/ water shortage, Hygiene, no density of population, and as you can see in this video, there is nature. These are some important factors considering while working abroad. However, it isnt worth if you are away from your parents, and best friends. After all, no money can buy the love of your parents. Also, for your own selfishness to move your old parents to a country where they feel lonely is not worth.

You have to gain over 100k to afford a living here… Infrastructure is very bad with long commuting hours and transit worst in Canada. It’s very widespread and there is nothing to see in the city itself expect if you love skyscrapers… The only reason people move here is due to job and salary if you are really an indispensable professional with a career, more welcoming and open to immigrants and apart from that nothing to do there… very crowded.. unsafe.. and you don’t really experience the vibe of the city like maybe Montreal that has its own downsides as well!! But its worth a try if you have that desire for some change in your life considering those caveats above.

Not for nothing but consider this plz..mexicans had a 2000 year head start on america and how was it spent? Mass sacrifices and temple building and now they have nothing but what they created for themselves......savages!

Toronto shouldn't be considered canadian ppl there are a holes!

Yes actually I do have a comment or two. I think that Toronto has become the victim of either its own success as a multicultural, diverse and growing metropolis or the perceived idea that Toronto is the place to be. And what that brings with it? Yes, people who are interested in living the life and those who can afford it pay it. You said it very well, the city has become unaffordable to most people but the wealthy or at least those who are getting paid the best salaries and those who bank on real estate take advantage of this, be it the hype or reality since also, most job opportunities are still there. So to me the problem is with the lack of contro of the real estate market. And people who cant pay but for whatever reason live there just have to pay the price. The refugee situation is not surprising to me at all. We are struggling with affordable housing for crying out loud but we are also advertising to the world that we are that welcoming and peaceful society that those people can be part of. But at what cost. Toronto cannot continue like this if it will still be considered as a city for the people and not the wealthy and chronically increasing poor. No wonder they chose a progressive for a mayor and not a conservative or hard line liberal because people want change but not radically. People want to live in the best city they can having all necessary services and in peace and safety. So, there are so maby layers to pill here but again, the main reason why things have gotten the way they are is because they let real estate run unleashed. All the best, Alina.

While I identify and agree with the overall sentiment of this video, here is the problem Alina. As a somewhat successful tech person who came from nothing, I refuse to move out of a city to a culturally or globally lacking city due to “budget”. I tried spending time in BC and Nova Scotia in the capital cities. I could not spend more than a week in Saskatchewan. I can assure you that someone with decent skills and lifestyle would not be able to sustain their social and personal life, and mental health anywhere in Canada other than Toronto. If I spoke decent French, I’d say Montreal is a decent option. Vancouver is too lopsided as an international real estate haven, even though beautiful. So the problem is that Toronto is honestly the only city someone like me (and most my friends) would consider living in Canada, and we are all unfortunately being forced to move to the US. We are in our very early 30s so it’s still not too late to have a big move but none of us wanted to try out NYC or SFO much later than now. I hope things improve and we are able to move back to Toronto. But right now, unless you make $300k+, it’s impossible. And we are only able to make that money in the US (most of us). Cheers and keep it up.

Biden needs to be charged with MANSLAUGHTER!!!! If someone dies due to your decisions and actions, isn't it considered manslaughter?

The composure by this gentlemen is commendable. I am sure he was smart enough to know that not everybody in this world are aware of every culture and gave the cops the benefit of doubt. I am sure police will also consider his religious rights and take necessary action. Educate and move on would be the ideal scenario.

Say, consider Montreal! Lots of work for models. Inexpensive housing. Very cosmopolitan. Excellent night life. Great social services. An entire entertainment industry. My wife (who is English and doesn't speak fluent french,) was an actress here for many years. Lots of opportunity and much less competition. We'd love to have you!!!!

VERY INTELLIGENT ADVISE........UNDERSTAND AND DONT GO TO CANADA WITHOUT CONSIDERING ALL FACTS.

How much should someone have in his account to be considered?

Since you have travelled to so many cities in Canada, which city is the best place to live? (consider work opportunity and affordable)

I live in Regina Saskatchewan. I visited Toronto recently and I have to say I don't like it at all. Even though, I have already saved up enough money while working in Saskatchewan to buy an apartment in Toronto without mortgage, I won't consider moving to Toronto at all. The traffic drive me crazy. There are so many vehicle on Hwy 401 and all other roads even at mid night, going to work will be more or as stressful as your work. I am surprised to find out most of my friend who has better or same qualification as me only get about less than 70% as I get paid. Life quality must be terrible compare live in a more afford city like Regina Saskatchewan.

Canada has always been a safe haven for criminals protecting them from extradition. And Trudeau seems to identify with them and harbors them not considering the safety of Canadians.

Trudeau started something that is spiraling out of control. Things are only going to get worse considering this is not the norm; imagine if this drama makes it all the way to the United Nations.

Alina: Flip the story on its head. If not Toronto, and relying on your very extensive experience in so many places, make up a list of where you think people should come. Now Canadians might not consider anywhere but Canada, so it could be a Canadian list. But a more interesting list would pit Canadian locations against the world. Realizing you haven't been just everywhere, it would be an interesting list within your experience. You said good things about Singapore and Bali. If you have the time or energy, rate the top places (including Japan) you've stayed in.

lol. Canadians may wish to consider that a competent government takes it national security and life of its citizens seriously. Trudeau and Jagmeet are incompetent which is why no Khalistani hidin in Canada is safe

Lawrence Bishnoi gang has already claimed responsibility. It’s insane to consider the number of gangs operating in Canada involved in terrorism, drug n human trafficking n organised crime! Seems like a Joke when these Canadian Leaders rant about Rule of law! Is there any?? ???

Im a Canadian and im seriously considering leaving.

So why isn't this being considered an invasion? Majority of the people coming over are single males....

So sorry to hear and see this. So many hard working people are being negatively effected by all this.\n\nEventhough I am American I spent a lot of time in Toronto and always considered it it my closest big city and can remember it being the cleanest, safest big city in North America. In addition to that working families could afford to live there.\n\nStill a great place and plan to bring my family up for a visit sometime this year.

I live in Edm but have been to TO many times and was just there 2 wks ago visiting family. It’s a super fun and exciting city that I love. However your points are valid but I think these things are happening in all the bigger Cdn cities right now. Inflation is ridiculous, the cost of living is untenable considering wages aren’t going up at the rate they should for people to reasonably pay their bills, resources and social services are being cut, our govt is a shit show and isn’t managing any of these issues appropriately ?. All of that leads to people being frustrated and disillusioned, homeless, having mental health issues w no access to help bc it’s unaffordable… it’s a mess. You’re def lucky to have the option to flee

Costs and crimes have been going up in many cities, but right now I consider Toronto to be an overpriced copy of Chicago.

Would you please consider a video on the pros and cons of living in Halifax specifically the cost of living compared to Toronto?

To Everyone bad mouthing Toronto I got a few thoughts to share. First off I’ve lived in Edmonton all my life. But growing up there were two constants in my life almost every summer. 2 places where I could get away have fun not come back for weeks or even months on end. One of them was Toronto . That trend has continued into my 40s.\nSecond I don’t consider Edmonton home. I consider Toronto and my other favourite place my homes always have always will.\nThird Toronto like Every other city has bad and great things about it. But the great things far outweigh the bad things. Yes Toronto is big. But it’s also beautiful vibrant majestic lovely a sight to behold once you visited it long enough. You got the blue jays you got the cn tower you got a lot of stuff no other city has. Toronto is my dream city. It’s where dreams can actually turn into big dreams That result in major success. Toronto is for me. I love it I always will and to be honest it’s way better than Edmonton.❤️❤️❤️????.

Such a shame that weak excessive immigration policies has ruined Toronto. Its not really considered Canadian anymore.

I live in Toronto. I am seriously considering leaving, even though I have a job downtown. Things have gone downhill a lot in the past 4 years.

Alina this story is playing out in many cities in the world consider yourself lucky you can get away from these circumstances.

Thanks Alina, that was very informative. I've never been to Toronto before, but it was a place I am considering visiting someday. So far, where are some places in Canada would you recommend to live?

If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor BetterHelp. Click\nhttps://betterhelp.com/alinamcleod for a 10% discount on your first month of therapy with a licensed professional specific to your needs.

I am an immigrant from South Africa here in Edmonton since June of 2023. What the brother is saying is true. Canadians make no room for the human element in the workplace/environment. Everything is based on productivity at the expense of your humanity. They also treat workers as very expendable and disposable. The fact that they import so many foreign workers to do certain jobs is perhaps a reason why born Canadians no longer want to put up with the exploitation (I don't know if this is the true reason though).\n\nCanada is very convenient, and public services and infrastructure are amazing compared with South Africa. But the rest of the culture is very sterile. Tim Hortons, Starbucks, and Ice Hockey are considered cultural identities. Maybe the older generations had a distinctive culture, but most Canadians of today's are only interested in consumerism and the car lifestyle. If you are looking for people with warmth and depth, you will most likely find it with fellow immigrants (and maybe the poor and marginalized communities of Canada).\n\nCanada is a very safe country, and South Africa may not be worth it for me to return to. But the strongest element I thought for coming to Canada was that people here appreciated life and each other. This is not true. Canada is 'stable and happy' because the people are intoxicated by the comfort that material wealth provides the individual (despite all their complaints and problems, most Canadians still lead very comfortable and easy lives). Take away their comfort and materialism, and they won't know who they are. They won't know how to stand together either since they have been so strongly conditioned to live for themselves as individuals.\n\nCanadians are known for their politeness and friendliness, and this is true. But there is a big difference between politeness and kindness (and being genuine). Canadians are not kind.\n\nMy opinion is obviously limited and biased. I am sure there are wonderful and pleasant exceptions. But I will still limit these as exceptions. \n\nThink hard before choosing Canada (and perhaps also the USA). Unless you have a strong community to support you here, it will be a lonely and alienating experience.

If anyone (specially in their 20's and well educated) in India planning to move out of India for better opportunities then they can consider East Asia.\nPros: Safety, Stable economy, less competition (among foreigners for jobs), opportunity to learn new language, Comparatively closer to India both geographically and culture wise (predominantly collectivistic culture compared to individualistic in west)\nCons: Need to learn language (Must) to get the best opportunities and move up the ladder, Food (if you don't know how to cook or adjustment issues with different kind of foods), at start may feel socially isolated due to language and culture barriers.