When Eileen Espinoza Camacho and her family boarded a plane from Peru to Canada during a global pandemic, they weren’t just changing countries – they were stepping into a life they had envisioned for years.
Originally from Lima, Eileen had been planting the seeds of immigration since 2016. What began as exploratory trips to cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver became a full-fledged family plan because in 2019, Vancouver stole their hearts.
“We wanted to move to a new country and discovered Canada was one of the most immigrant-friendly options.”
– Eileen
In 2020, after serious research and reflection, the family made the leap.
Backed by the love and support of her extended family, Eileen arrived with hope and excitement – but also some concern. She shares that not knowing how her husband and sons would adapt caused stress, voicing a feeling every parent who’s moved countries knows well.
Like many newcomers, Eileen found herself navigating a whirlwind: settling in a new home, working in a new culture, and raising a family in unfamiliar territory. In the midst of all this, a friend told her about Canoo: an app offering newcomers free and discounted access to cultural experiences across Canada.
“Canoo is a jewel for immigrants. When you move, there are so many plates to keep spinning – where to live, finding a job, learning the language. Culture and entertainment often fall to the bottom of the list. But connecting with art and activities is essential for a healthy transition.”
– Eileen
For Eileen, Canoo was more than a ticket to museums and parks – it was a bridge to belonging. It meant quality time with her family, memories made in nature, and feeling cared for by a country she was still getting to know.
“It makes me feel there are people that care about new permanent residents. I have tools to connect with Canadian culture, and that helps me connect with my new home.”
– Eileen
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What are her favourite memories? Visiting the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish with her husband before joining Canoo. Now that she’s a Canoo member, she’s planning to return with her sons while using her Canoo membership. And next on the list? Cultus Lake Park this summer.
But Eileen’s journey is not just about adjusting – it’s also been about growing. She’s already working in her field of fashion retail. At the same time, she’s building something new: a consulting business that blends her leadership experience with astrology to help other newcomers find clarity and purpose.
What started as friends asking for support during their own settlement journeys turned into a deeper calling – one she’s now turning into a practice.
And while Canada is home, Eileen speaks of Peru with warmth and pride. From Machu Picchu to the top-rated restaurants in Lima and from deserts to beaches to jungle, her homeland offers something for everyone.
To new Canoo members, Eileen’s message is simple: don’t wait.
“The sooner you join, the more time you have to discover those special places around you that help you understand Canada. Don’t forget about your mental health. Always make time for yourself and for enjoying the city you’re in. Canoo is a great way to start.” – Eileen
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