Delia

Hi,

We are a young family (with two young kids, 18 months and 4yo) in the process of relocating to Victoria. We are gathering as much info as we can, but there are details only residents would know, so this is why I am reaching our for your help.

We plan, in the beginning, to rent an apt., with 1 or 2 bedrooms, to save money. It that acceptable by landlords? A lot of ads refer to one tenant, we'll be 4, downsizing a lot from the two storey house we currently live in.

Secondly, what would be a good area to live in, safe, with good options of daycare and schools, quiet and clean? Anything in the Great Victoria Capital Region would work. So far I understood Fernwood is the best in Victoria, but unfortunately not a lot of apartments are available. As for Langford or Esquimalt, it seems transit is quite painful, and with the upcoming construction, it will be even worse. What about North, Saanich and that area? Where would be better, community-wise and transit wise.

Thirdly, the job market. I read about a lot of pro and cons. We plan to arrive late Sept or Oct this year. Would that be a dead season? We would like to have full time jobs, I know part-time seasonal are quite popular. And office work. A job in government administration would be ideal, but I am sure they are very sought after. But with the federal gov and prov gov offices, there must be some availability, esp. for fully bilingual people, right? What would be the best way to start? Also, do you know if there are any (big company) call centers/client service located there?

Lastly, about daycare. I have seen the official sites and it seems the price varies widely, from 600 to 1500 per month for toddlers and pre-schoolers. Are there long waiting lists? It is difficult to find good affordable day care? I read about the YMCA 600/month 3to5 daycare. That seemed perfect, but is there a long waiting list?

Anyway, any advice on anything you feel we should know before coming here, is very welcome.

Thank you for your time!