You’re both right. When I first found out about Canadian immigration, I was fascinated by the big cities like Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto like everyone else. Now I know it might be a much better bargain to go where most immigrants don’t! Somewhere the crowding isn’t too much, but opportunity isn’t too little, either.
Good idea. Always helps to prepare and evaluate for these things. Plans can change a lot and with an unfront research it isn't as mentally taxing when these plans change at the last moment.