Join Canoo member, Shabana, as she shares her experiences and the changes in her life since moving to Canada.

My first thought when I landed in Ottawa almost 6 years ago was, “Where are all the people?”

Born and raised in Mumbai, then living for a few years in London, United Kingdom, I was used to the hustle and bustle of big cities. At first, I couldn’t believe how peaceful Canada’s National Capital Region was. But then I slowly started appreciating the unhurried pace and laidback vibe of Ottawa. The city is in stark contrast to lively Mumbai, with its pulsating energy and mixture of sights, sounds and smells. Where everyone is always in a rush, but there is still time for a warm greeting or a quick check-in over a shared cup of masala chai.

As someone who loves to travel and hopes to visit as many countries as possible in my lifetime, moving to Canada felt like ticking off one more country on my bucket list.

Parliament Hill in Ottawa — Credit: Shabana Ansari

However, starting over in a new country is never easy. There are risks associated with leaving the security of our social and professional networks and the support of friends and extended family. But in my case, the wanderlust was more powerful than any other consideration.

I stumbled upon the Canoo app while looking for information on historical monuments in and around Ottawa. The fact that the app provided discounts and freebies was the icing on the cake! So far, I’ve used Canoo at museums and art galleries in Ottawa and parks in Ontario, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. These days, every time I travel to a new city or region, I check Canoo to see if there are any places that I had not considered before. Or if there are any offers or discounts for the places I am planning to visit.

My favourite Canoo memory is of the time when I visited beautiful Wasaga Beach in Ontario. Canoo and Ontario Parks gave me a day pass for free access to the beaches.

I strongly feel that all newcomers to Canada should consider signing up for Canoo since it has a good deal of information about landmarks, historic sites and parks across the country. Plus, the special offers! In my experience the best way to use the app is to check it before reaching the destination or even asking questions at the ticket counters. People working at these tourist sites know what Canoo is and can help you check-in.

The Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa — Credit: Shabana Ansari

The Rocky Mountains, turquoise waters and wildlife at the gorgeous Banff National Park are making me excited for my next Canadian adventure with Canoo. Another activity on my Canoo list is Cirque du Soleil, a show known for its colourful and jaw dropping performances. 

I hope more and more newcomers will explore Canada, especially since life in the early days of immigrating is full of challenges. Getting out in nature or visiting a landmark is not only a good distraction from the struggles of trying to settle in but is also very therapeutic.

While Canada is a welcoming country, there is still so much work that needs to be done for the economic integration of immigrants and refugees. First generation Canadians continue to face prejudice and systemic barriers despite being highly qualified for many jobs. It is heartbreaking to see internationally trained professionals taking up low-paying jobs just to survive. Since many employers are yet to create inclusive and equitable workplaces where opportunities are accessible to everyone, irrespective of their ability/disability, background, gender race or sexual orientation.  

As far as my own aspirations are concerned, I want to expand the work we do at Peacock Press, an independent publishing company that I co-founded in 2019, to support the voices of Indigenous and Black peoples, women of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ folks, and those living with disabilities. I’m very proud of how far I have come and the person I have become along the way. And I hope to continue to do my bit to make the world a better place where everyone not just survives but thrives as well. 