After a season of continued pandemic challenges, unprecedented forest fires, global environmental alarms and the ongoing disruption of so many major industries–from airlines to tourism and hospitality–for many people, the world seems to be getting more difficult to navigate. Consequently, many have taken the time to reassess their lives and make major lifestyle changes.
For those looking for change, we have another great issue full of options and ideas for living in British Columbia.
I must admit, each issue we publish becomes more relevant for me, personally, and my family. And of course, change is constant in all our lives. My two grown kids have been traveling this summer, and are both potentially moving out for good. Our house is looking rather empty, feeling much quieter and has prompted thoughts of downsizing much more often lately. Of course, the thought of selling and moving to a smaller community has been something we have been exploring–along with so many of our friends, and so many of you readers–for a few years now. (I just need to 100 per cent sell my wife on the idea… Keep reading, honey!)
More personal relevancy in this issue comes from recently building (yes, during a pandemic) on some off-the-grid, boat-only access recreational property that we have. No electricity, no cell reception, no cars. Yes, it’s possible–even considering today’s modern lifestyle, and prices. You’ll find some great stories on all these trends, and more, within these pages.
My 21-year-old daughter, who is at a university in Sweden studying design with a focus on sustainability, will likely be quite intrigued by some of the B.C. communities that are embracing smart, future-looking choices; perhaps she’ll bring some of her newfound knowledge back to Canada to enhance our planet’s well-being even further. With an eye to affordability, it’s likely she’d end up moving to a smaller B.C. community, and in fact she has already explored the idea of living in a tiny home. Many of her generation will consider affordable but design- and often energy-conscious condo living, with new homes still available throughout the province around the $500,000 mark.
Having traveled throughout Europe extensively myself, what I notice more each time is that although there’s a large, dense population in each country, most Europeans actually live in smaller homes, in small communities that are quite affordable, sustainable and extremely civilized. B.C. is getting there, and with new sustainable building standards, community developments, local amenities and our amazing recreational options, we are still the envy of most countries in the world–European nations included.
We can certainly bring change and improvements to Canada, but not all parts of the world will enjoy the freedoms and quality of life we have in Canada. Stay healthy and embrace the current time to consider change as a potential positive force in your lives.
