Congratulations to everyone with one update or the other.
We land safely to the glory of God in YYZ. It was a smooth journey via Ethiopian Airlines. Great flights, great rates, great service.
I almost did not post this (cos I was like what is new to say) but for the fact that I learnt a great deal from previous people's posts. So maybe this post would benefit just one person.
Before leaving, I had gotten various lists of what I would need from friends who were in CA. So I had a combined list which resulted in 12 bags = 4 extra luggages for my family size.
Landing was seamless. Our friends picked us from the airport and took us to the temporary accommodation we got through Airbnb. (www.airbnb.ca) Our friends checked the environment before we paid. The host was great and we were reluctant to leave.
1. My personal advise (which may be full of bias) is that as much as possible, try get a place -temporary or permanent- before landing. kijiji, craigslist etc would help. Getting a place reduces the strain on friendships/relationships and makes you settle down fast. People here usually have their budgets fixed so having an extra presence especially hosting a family = extra utility bills and all what not. I'd suggest we reserve placing much demands on those friendships/relationships till when they will really be needed.
2. This section is for those of us who stay in basic accommodation in Naija (your regular flat on Lagos mainland). When u get a place here, temporary or permanent - Always remember to 1) turn on your hood while cooking 2) turn on the bath fan while bathing and leave it on for a couple of mins thereafter.
3. For those of us landing in winter and do not mind buying used winter clothes you may send me PMs.
4. Bring all the naija food you can if you are a fan of naija food. Not much screening. Dried ugwu, peppersoup ingredients, seasoning, garri beans, dried fish et al.
5. I read one of the Senior's posts about pots so I carried tower pots. Very useful.
In all carry all you can. Not because you wont find them here but because you want to minimise your spending in the initial months. We got accommodation through kijiji. If you dont mind you would get used furniture on kijiji, good quality and cheap. You will even find free items if you go to the free section. The sales are usually from people who are moving houses. It is cheaper for them to sell off and buy than try carry to a new location.
6. Families with small children - please focus on getting full houses or apartments on the lowest floors. The houses here are made of wood. All those jumping and somersaulting may result in having calls or quit notice if you have neighbours downstairs. High rise buildings are not usually encouraged - crime rates seem higher there
If I remember anything, I will post it.
Canada is beautiful I must say.