Link to original video by Should We Live Here

Top 5 Reasons NOT to Move to OTTAWA Ontario Canada

Summary of "Top 5 Reasons NOT to Move to OTTAWA Ontario Canada"

Short Summary:

This video presents five reasons why someone might not want to live in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The video focuses on the challenges of living in Ottawa, particularly for those who are not bilingual in English and French, those who dislike cold weather, those who rely on public transportation, those seeking affordable housing, and those who prefer a more vibrant nightlife. The video highlights the challenges of the city's public transportation system, the high cost of housing, and the relatively quiet atmosphere, especially compared to other major Canadian cities.

Detailed Summary:

Section 1: Bilingualism

• The video highlights the importance of speaking both English and French in Ottawa, as many jobs require bilingualism, especially in senior positions.
• The speaker mentions that signs and public announcements are often in both languages, which can be frustrating for unilingual individuals.
• The speaker shares their personal experience of struggling to learn French, emphasizing the difficulty of acquiring a second language.

Section 2: Extreme Cold

• The speaker identifies the extreme cold and harsh winters as the primary reason for their departure from Ottawa.
• They describe the long duration of cold weather, lasting from late October to April, and the significant number of days with below-freezing temperatures.
• The speaker expresses their dislike for the challenges of winter, including heavy clothing, snow removal, and the risk of falling on ice.
• They mention the prevalence of extreme cold advisories and the potential for frostbite.
• The speaker emphasizes their preference for warmer climates and activities like swimming and enjoying the ocean breeze.

Section 3: Public Transportation

• The speaker acknowledges the recent introduction of a light rail system in Ottawa but criticizes its numerous problems and delays.
• They mention the lawsuits, construction issues, and ongoing operational challenges, including train stoppages, sewage smells, and wheel problems.
• The speaker highlights the unreliable nature of the bus system, particularly for those living outside the main bus lines.
• They describe the frustration of buses being full and unable to pick up passengers, especially when services are infrequent.

Section 4: Housing

• The speaker acknowledges that housing costs in Ottawa are lower than in Toronto or Vancouver but still high compared to the Canadian average.
• They mention the recent stabilization of housing prices and the decline in bidding wars but point out the rising interest rates, which increase mortgage costs.
• The speaker suggests that many people leave Ottawa for more affordable housing options in cities like Calgary and Halifax.
• They highlight the rapid increase in rental costs, particularly for apartments built after November 2018, which are not subject to rent control.

Section 5: Sleepy Town

• The speaker describes Ottawa as a relatively quiet city, especially after 5 PM, due to its large government employee population.
• They mention the early closing times of stores and restaurants, particularly noticeable since the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The speaker contrasts Ottawa's nightlife with other cities, highlighting the lack of vibrant entertainment options.
• They conclude by acknowledging Ottawa's positive aspects, such as its beauty and suitability for French speakers and winter sports enthusiasts.