I need some Canadian expertise, re PEI

[MADem]

I'm thinking about buying a bolt-hole/vacation cottage in PEI. Can any of you fill me in on what living there is like? What parts of the island are best/worst? Anything to look out for? Taxes? Fees?

Insights, thoughts, recommendations, advice all appreciated and will be carefully considered. Thanks in advance!

[Joel]

1. The island

is so small You can drive from one end to the other in an hour give or take some speeding. Charlottetown and Summerside are the major 'cities.' (They're more like really large towns.) I'm not really familiar with any bad parts of the island.

I'm fairly sure they have a sales tax on top of the GST, but I'm not sure on what it does and doesn't apply. Other than that I can't say much for tax.

You're never far from a beech so if you can't find water frontage it's not a big deal as long as you're willing to use public beeches.

I hope that's some help.

[HEyHEY]

2. The pop bottle RULE!

[NinetySix]

3. I live here on the Island.

If you're interested in beaches, the south shore is warmer than the north shore, but the beaches are typically red sand, that is, mixed with clay (don't wear a white bathing suit). The National Park on the north shore is overrun with tourists annually, and unless you like a crowded beach, you might like to find a quieter spot.

That being said, here are some of the best quiet beach spots, largely ignored by the tourists: Rustico beach, also known by some as Cymbria, on the way toward Cavendish; Tracadie Bay, close enough to the edge of the National Park that you can walk in without paying, but far enough from the booths to make it too far to walk for the tourists; Blooming Point, out route 2 to the east of Charlottetown; and Argyle Shore, which although on the south side, is a lovely spot, and situated roughly halfway between Charlottetown and Summerside. Don't let anyone rope you into going to Brackley Beach unless you just dig crowds.

There are also some spots that are just lovely in their own right. Souris is beautiful, and right near East Point and Basin Head, which are not to be missed. Savage Harbour and St. Peter's Bay, on the north shore in eastern Queens and Kings Counties. West Point, which although isolated from anything to do, is among the greatest places to be on the Island. And last and best, Cape Tryon, which despite being difficult to find the first time, must be seen to be believed, and should be seen very soon, before it erodes away entirely (too bad you missed Elephant Rock near North Cape already--it's gone now).

If beaches are not your thing, just take a drive anywhere in central Queens County. The rolling hills simply cannot be described because they cannot be imagined by anyone who has not seen them. Also, if you enjoy city life or small town life or both, Charlottetown is the perfect size to indulge in both. The downtown is a brilliant place to live, since everything you need to get to is within walking distance. Those who live in the suburbs on the outskirts of town have to get in the car to go anywhere, but those of us downtown know what a luxury it is to be able to walk to work (or to the bars, to see a show, to a restaurant for supper, anywhere without having to call a taxi).

Hope this helps. Get here. You'll love it.


***on edit***

Things to look out for? Nothing that in itself is enough to keep you away. Yeah, the PST is 10%, which is applied and added on top of the 7% GST, for a total of 17.7% sales tax on everything but necessities (if you buy a frozen pizza, you pay it, but if you buy the ingredients to make your own pizza, you don't). The Island drivers are the stuff of legend, considered proudly by Islanders to be the world's worst (e.g., the guy who just cut you off by rolling that stop sign back there is now leading you on a 20kph procession down the street). The winter is God. Damned. Cold. And the wind blows constantly, which is great in the summer, but....

Other things not to miss in Charlottetown:

Greco donairs. They'll kill you--SOON--but don't worry, you'll love it.
Victoria Park. Take a picnic lunch on Victoria Day, when they fire the cannons.
Churchill Arms pub on Queen Street. Best and hottest curry in town.
City Cinema. The best indy films, just like the big cities.
A skate park for the kids. Great if you love to skate, even better if you don't!
Confederation Court Mall. When's the last time you went shopping and walked home?
Confederation Centre of the Arts. Open year 'round; just avoid Anne like any Islander does.
The brilliant Island brogue: De oice is roight slippy oatside de hoase!

[MADem]

4. WOW, thanks for the advice!!!

I guess I would prefer the south to the north, something close to a few shops so I could walk or bike to get stuff in the good weather, and I'd rather be not TOO close to a ton of tourists (I know they are probably unavoidable in summer).

I always buy PEI potatoes. It's my way of expressing solidarity with a sane nation. Also, I really like Yukon Golds!!

I tend to make most of my food, I don't go much for the fast food. I prefer to know what I'm eating! So I guess I'd make out better on the tax in that respect.

So, the sales tax is applied to everything less food and non-luxury clothing? Homes, cars, and so on? How about utility bills, and property taxes? How onerous are they?

It's 20 degrees here, with a feel of ten, so I am used to cold weather. I have relatives who live in warmer climates, and I just may find a weakass excuse to visit if this keeps up!

It wouldn't surprise me if I end up spending most of my time up your way. We'll see!

[SidDithers]

5. I got flooded out of the Merchantman Pub a couple of years ago...

Vacationing with another family, we had rented a cottage in Rice Point for a week. Babysitting trade-off's allowed each couple to enjoy a nite out in Charlottetown. As my wife and I made ready to leave, the skies opened up.

We made it to the restuarant, after getting drenched walking from the car. When we saw the parking attendants at the Prince Edward hotel putting sandbags across the front of the underground parking, we should have figured something was up. When the water started running over the floor of the restuaruant, we put our feet up and had another beer. We were told that, because of the water, they were closing the kitchen, but we managed to finagle a couple of bowls of very good seafood chowder (it was already cooked, after all). After a couple of hours, the rains abated, and the waters subsided, and we headed back to the cottage, which was now without electricity.

It certainly made for a memorable evening

Sid

[MADem]

6. So, I guess I need to buy at a decent elevation, then!!

And a generator!!!

I haven't met a soul who hasn't loved the place, and I have relatives who swear by it, despite the tough weather at times.

It's starting to look very good to me, and I am still checking this thread regularly to hear the experiences of others....don't be shy, folks, I really appreciate any anecdotes, information, advice...!!!

The fact that the pub still served you, despite that flooding, tells me those are some nice people up that way.

[leftchick]

29. omg....

I want to live there!

[staticstopper]

66. great link in your sig

thanks, I always get so bummed out when I hear about them beaching themselves.

And that island sounds so cool.
I love Canada, I spent the day watching "Hockey Night in Canada" just because it makes me feel closer. Even though CBC is fuzzy and I'm pretty close anyway being in SW Michigan, I just like so much about Canada. They have an important election coming up.

[MADem]

7. I am shamelessly kicking my own thread

...in the hopes that I will get more input from PEI folks and visitors. What do you like about the place? What's the off season like? Much snow? I understand there is a lot of wind, most of the time. Anecdotes, information, any personal insights appreciated!!

[applegrove]

8. I don't know about costs and taxes - but you better buy now or never.

PEI is glorious!!! I don't know about costs and taxes - but you better buy now or never. The cottages are getting very popular. The water temperature is wonderful (as warm as the Carolinas). The people are lovely and you will often be able to rent out your place to make some money. They cater to tourist but the countryside is so gorgeous and they are on that isolated island that you wouldn't know what a tourist mecca you were in. But they have lots of theme parks for kids and such. And the beaches are beautiful. Also you can catch ferries to the mainland or other - even more isolated islands.

I did hear a rumour that because there is such intense farming there (the red earth is potato heaven) and they are so anti-blight (potato lobby is quite powerful so be careful on whose toes you step) that there are problems with cancers and such that rural and intensive farming communities often have. If you think of it - it makes sense. Such intense farming in such a small area, etc.etc. But as long as you are only vacationing there - it shouldn't be such a problem. Nevertheless, my recommendation would be to buy in PEI - and make sure you get a place on the coast or away from prevailing winds or whatnot. Or that you research it so you know which 'two week period' to avoid visiting in if they are "fertilizing" or whatever they are doing that would cause such problems. You would face the exact same problem if you bought a cottage in the middle or the corn fields in Iowa.

[MADem]

10. Where do they grow the potatoes?

I got the impression that the bulk of the farming was on the eastern end of the island. Would fertilizers really cause cancer? I always had the impression that the Canadians were a little bit more "eco" than Americans in that regard.

I don't really want to be near the Green Gables tourist stuff, I am just looking for a small home not too, too far from a population center. It could very well be where I hang my hat permanently in old age (like I'm not there already!!!) so I would want something that I could live in, say, ten months out of the year if I had to.

[applegrove]

20. You'll love it and if you do not have kids don't worry about the intensive

agriculture. Intensive agriculture is the same everywhere. Especially for a province that is so dependant on the potatoe - though I am sure cottaging is pretty intensive too.

The maritimes are all just lovely.

[auntAgonist]

9. We've been watching

this link re: cottages and year round homes.
There are some magnificent places / prices on PEI.

We vacationed there a few (many)years back. I would LIVE there in a heartbeat.

http://www.cottagelink.com/sale1.shtml

[MADem]

11. Tell me EVERYTHING about your holiday!!!

What did you like, particularly?

I have a relative that I trust completely, who ADORES the place. He is not especially articulate in saying why, but he is never wrong, ever...which is why I am heading that way. What he tells me, essentially, is that it is like the Cape (Cod) before it was ruined.

I'm hoping to head up that way in two months or so, depending on how quick I can unload my place in DC. I have a buyer, all ready to roll, but I have to arrange moving, storing and whatnot. Pain in the arse! I'm not the most organized person in the world!

[auntAgonist]

12. PEI is a very laid back sort of place.

We had made arrangements to rent a cottage from someone an aunt knew. Well, that was a huge mistake, the guy (not from PEI) was dishonest and we decided to just get there and find something LOL. So we did. We found a small cottage, part of a motel really, a motel with six little cottages off to the side. It was perfect for what we wanted. Anyway ... we spent our first day just driving around the Island and getting acquainted with where things are. We had taken the ferry from the mainland there was NO bridge at that time. We went to "Anne of Green Gables" home and thoroughly enjoyed the guided tour. Spent a fair bit of time on the grounds taking photos and relaxing. ( I have NO photos to share unfortunately my ex-husband has custody of ALL 'our' albums.) We also visited Lucy Maud Montgomery's resting place. Of course, being tourists we had to find a lobster dinner and find we did. I believe the restaurant we went to was called Fisherman's Wharf. All you can eat lobster and other seafood. We also found a local church that was having a lobster supper on a friday night so we horned right in lol.
We also took a deep sea fishing excursion, that was really a LOT of fun. They supply all the gear, raincoats etc and your out to see for about 4 hours if I remember correctly. One of the highlights of our trip was to Charlottetown PEI we had tickets to see the stage performance of Anne of Green Gables. If you're at all interested it's a must see.
No one moves fast on the Island, as I said it's very laid back. One thing though, when we were there the Green Gables homestead was VERY crowded with Chinese tourists. I guess "Anne" is quite a popular character in China. Something I didn't know.

If I think of more stuff, I'll post again ..

hope that helps.

kesha

edit to add link:

http://www.vacationlandrv.pe.ca/local_attractions.htm

[MADem]

13. I've heard that the Japanese go mad for her as well!

In fact, way back when I lived in Japan, one of the most common movies on late night tv (aside from all of the titillating, and emphasis on the TIT, "exercise shows" of women working out in scanty clothes, with odd close up shots) was the Anne of Green Gables movies from way back in the 30's or 40's. The second most common one was (hugely humorous in Japanese, even if you cannot speak it) GONE WITH THE WIND (The 'birthing babies' line, said to Scarreto-san, was worth the wait!).

Were you there around the time the Brits were getting ready to give back Hong Kong? That might have accounted for all the Chinese. I know a ton of them emigrated to Canada as well as Australia when that business was looming.

How did you find the ferry trip? Did you go from Maine? I know the bridge makes for much easier access, and has probably greatly decreased the cost of goods, but I always enjoy a good ferry ride, and am interested in trying that out, just for the fun. I used to do the UK to Ireland run (from southern Wales, actually) every few months when I was in UK, simply to get back to the olde sod and visit with the small shreds of my family tree that didn't make it across the pond.

[auntAgonist]

14. We went from Nova Scotia to PEI via ferry

It wasn't too bad a trip although it was rain storming that day. The crossing was a tad rough. I was in PEI in the mid eighties.

[blue northern]

15. Another PEIslander reporting

Living here is great.
I never really appreciated it until I lived in a large city and returned home a year later.
For the most part people here are friendly and helpful.
The Island's divided up into three counties: Prince (west), Queens (central) and Kings (east).
PEI's two major cities Charlottetown and Summerside are clean and safe.
There is no bad part of PEI.
I would recommend Eastern PEI for the purchase of vacation property.
The land is generally cheaper and Kings County is less "touristed up".
(if you know what I mean).
The attractions of Cavandish and the capital city of Ch'town are only a relativly short drive away if you get the urge for such things.
Kings Co. has primarily farming and fishing as industries, but I would estimate that Prince and Queens Counties are more intensley farmed and less forested.
As well this place is very beautiful.
Utilities are a little steeper than other parts of Canada, but not prohibitivly so. Gasoline is often cheaper than the mainland as we have a regulatory body for utilities that some other places don't.
Feel free to ask any other questions. I'll help if I can.

[MADem]

16. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!

So, if King's County is the least touristy, which are the most? Is the western part where all the tourists go, or do they stick to the south or north coasts?

I can do without hoardes of tourists, but I have a tendency to prefer off-season delights, anyway. I never seem to end up in "tourist" places during the tourist season, and I usually have more fun that way!

How much does one pay for television and internet services?

I'm hoping to make this happen this year. Heck, the way things are going, I may apply for residency!

[Joel]

17. TV and Phone/net

http://www.eastlink.ca

That should cover just about everything.

[MADem]

18. Bookmarked!!! Thanks, Joel!!! n/t

[blue northern]

19. The north shore is the most commercially developed,

Cavandish in particular.
It's where Anne of Green gables authour Lucy Maud Montgomery grew up , taught school and eventually was buried.
In the summer there are literally tens of thousands of people in the area. There are the typical waterparks, a Ripley's Museam, etc.
There's also a championship golf course.
There's a national park as well with beautiful beaches.
It's a very nice area and the attractions are generally well run. I take my kids there from time to time in the summer and they have a ball.
Land values are at a premium in the Cavandish area and have been on an upward trend price-wise for awhile now.
As far as TV and internet services go, Eastlink is very competitivly priced. I use them myself and pay $104 CNDN / month for HSI, Phone and Cable TV service.
The downside is it's not generally available in rural areas.
Phone service is available almost everywhere through Aliant and satellite TV and dial up internet are offered in bundles or stand alone services as well.
Hope you can visit soon and you wouldn't be the first to decide to stay.

[MADem]

21. Blue Northern, I've already made up my mind!!

I like everything about Canada, and I love Canadians. be they English er French (they used to be thick as thieves in the ole days on Cape Cod)...and I love the fact that PEI is like Cape Cod before it was destroyed by overdevelopment. What I would like is to find a wee place (not new, something well lived in and loved, but not too big) that would suit me in very old age, as well as holiday making between now and total geezerdom (I am no spring chicken, as it is, but I won't admit to great age until I am on a walker!).

I think I might like a place near where the "regular folk" live as opposed to the wealthy Japanese tourists--halfway close to things like the grocery and the shops and a hospital and whatnot that the regular folk patronize...somewhere where one can become a bit involved in the community, but not be sucked down the vortex, if you know what I mean. I'm a bit of a hermit at times, at other times social...if I could find a community where there's a bit of togetherness, but not TOO much, I would be quite pleased.

I've seen a few places in a town called, I think, TIGNISH, that caught my eye. Do you know anything about that neck o the woods?

I'd like something that is good for the odd holiday, and then better still for a nine or ten-month stay in my dotage (I'll head to the Carribean at the worst of the winter). I do think I will be heading north, I've just a bit more property to unload this side of the line!

I've looked into citizenship, and think I will follow that path. Nothing wrong with two passports; hell, my ancestors were immigrants as well...and I've a decent pension and would not be a drag on the economy, so I guess they just might take me!

[blue northern]

22. Tignish is near the Western tip of PEI

It's a village of about 600 people.
I've been there a few times and it's certainly off the beaten path.
The nearest city would be Summerside (PEI's 2nd largest community), about an hours drive away.
The capital, Charlottetown, would be about an hour and 45 minutes away.
Fishing is the main industry, and the population includes Francophones as well as folk of Celtic descent.
Tignish is a close knit community.
It's a pretty town and has one of the largest Churches on the Island, although the current population would have a hard time filling it.
Everybody's business is everybody's business.
It's like that in most smaller communities.
Kensington, in the geographic center of the Island, sounds like it could be right up your alley.
It's 15 minutes from Summerside, 30 minutes from Charlottetown and 20 minutes from Cavandish.
It's a genuine town (as opposed to the village of Tignish).
The Confederation Bridge, which joins the rest of Canada to PEI
is a short drive away as well.
I'll put another plug in for King's County here too.
It's the best kept secret on PEI.
Wherever you decide to settle here, you'll find decent people.

[MADem]

23. Thanks, yet again!

I don't like living on top of people, and I do like the odd comforts (a grocery store that one can get to without loading the dogsled with four days rations, e.g., and an ability to get on the ole internet!). Something not too too far from the bridge would be good as well.

But I will check out King's County--I saw some photos of lobtering and other adventures on the net in eastern King's County--one thing that stood out to me was how green everything seemed (I like that!) and the wonderful blue color of the sky with puffy clouds (I like that as well!). Reminded me of Wales on a good day (I'll bet it's a lot like Wales in the rough weather too!).

I've been talking up PEI to friends and family...I may be followed up there by a small crowd who also see the merits in relocating (don't worry, they are all easygoing, polite, cheerful liberals!).

[midnight]

67. Hi blue northern

My family is Cajun. I was told there is a village called Saulnier ville in Canada. It was developed by loggers that my family worked with. Thanks for the info.

[rambler_american]

37. Internet service on PEI

My wife and I have been looking at properties in Canada since bush got selected the first time. PEI was one of the places we are considering. Lovely lovely place and still a prime consideration. Anyway, internet service....there is a watertower on the island and if you can see it, I understand, you can have a high speed wireless internet connection that, I think, the province pays for. And the tower is visble from most of the (flat) island.
Just in case you needed more incentive.

[MADem]

39. Fascinating!!! Any idea where the tower is located? n/t

[rambler_american]

41. Internet service/water tower

I don't remember where it is, just that the realtor pointed it out to us from one of the homes we looked at. It was a long way off but just visible on the horizon. He assured me that as long as we could see it the service was available. 'course he was trying to sell us a house and may have been motivated to, shall we say, restructure the truth a little. We will probably go back sometime this summer for more exploration and will find out more. If you learn anything about it please let me know via this forum.
rambler

[Akela Ely]

25. PIE

Is the ferry still in operation in the winter? If not, is there an ice highway or what?
Thanks for the info in advance

[Hand]

26. There's now a bigass bridge.

The Confederation Bridge--also known as the Fixed Link--runs from New Brunswick (Province of Swine) to PEI. It's quite the engineering marvel--seven miles long and REALLY BIG.

I believe the ferry still runs as well.

welcome to DU, Akela Ely!

[rambler_american]

38. Confederation Bridge

The bridge is pretty amazing. We were there in March last year and there was so much ice below you'd think you were crossing Antarctica. It's pretty pricey to cross, though. $40 CA but they only charge one way. The ferry does run during the winter but when we were there the radio news had a story about the one of the ferries being ice bound. It's pretty effing cold.

[MADem]

40. That bridge is an architectural wonder

It probably is the best way to go off season.

I know it gets pretty bitter in winter, so I am thinking that the smart islanders have two sources of heat, just in case. I understand woodstoves are quite popular, and I have always liked them as the heat is quite warm and quick, too.

[MADem]

24. Do you guys know much about Souris?

I've seen a couple of very attractive looking properties in that area--really nice! I know there is a five acre rule for us furriners, though, and one that I really like has six, so I guess I'd have to get an exemption, if they even offer them!

[MADem]

27. BLUE NORTHERN, et. al.

I am getting closer to making my run up to the lovely island to the north and make my purchase...I simply must sell a house first to buy a house. Thus, I am again shamelessly and with forethought kicking this thread in the hopes of getting more info 'oooout' (is that the way to say it?) of you guys!

I see what you mean about King's County--masses of house for the price, and beautiful properties, as well. I like old homes, I like a bit of wild land, I will put up with quirky crap to enjoy character. Also, I figure that if it lasted for a hundred years, why can't it go on for a hundred more?

Can I persuade you to tell me a bit about King's County? Where is the shopping, the nearest hospital, how tough is it to handle in the winter? Is it a total drag to get to "civilization?" You know, a place to have dinner, do a bit of hardware shopping, buy some clothes, that sort of stuff? What do people do for fun up that way? How much snow, are roads plowed regularly, can you get someone to dig you out if you are inundated?

Odds are, I won't be wintering there for now (the Carribbean beckons), but who knows, down the road? I'm looking into dual citizenship, I am a good candidate, as I've no criminal record, a steady pension, and could expect to contribute to the economy. But for now, I want to be a polite, no fuss, vacationer from anytime between April and November.

So any info anyone can give me, is, as always, gratefully received!

[iverglas]

33. just a note about "dual citizenship"

Canadian citizenship can be acquired only one of two ways:

- birth (you lose!)
- application -- after at least 3 years of permanent residence

Permanent residence can be acquired only by those who apply (normally from outside Canada, except in special circumstances) and are accepted. To be accepted, one must meet the selection criteria (and even though one meets the criteria, one will not necessarily be selected).

It used to be possible to immigrate as a retiree (i.e. someone with some connection to Canada who does not plan to work and who has sufficient income to live on without working). That category was cancelled some years ago, and a "steady pension" will not likely weigh in your favour now.

Here's your info about immigrating:
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/index.html

I don't think there's much possibility of you being accepted as a permanent resident (i.e. of ever acquiring Canadian citizenship). That leaves you being a visitor. A US visitor may remain in Canada for six months at a time without obtaining an extension. Crossing the border re-starts the six months -- but at any time you could be questioned at the border about your intentions, and could possibly be determined to be intending to live permanently, rather than to visit, and that would make you ineligible to enter Canada. You probably wouldn't encounter problems, but it's always a possibility.

So I advise that to be realistic, you not expect to be acquiring Canadian permanent residence, let alone citizenship.

What you might also need to consider is the benefits that you might lose by living outside the US; I'm not at all familiar with US rules about social security, medicare coverage, benefits under private pension plans, and so on, for people travelling outside the US or living a majority of the time outside the US. You would *not* be eligible for any Canadian benefits if you were here as a visitor (e.g. provincial health plan, old age security payments, etc.). You would need to arrange health insurance before you left the US, to cover you while on extended stays outside the US, for example. I'm not conversant with the income tax rules, but that's something else you'd need to look into; "actual" residence (time spent in a place) rather than residence for immigration status purposes may be relevant there.

Hope I'm not raining on your parade, but it's wise to be forewarned!

[MADem]

34. Push come to shove, I'll buy a business

..and employ a couple of people, then I would be in like Flynn. Or invest in an existing business, which would be less onerous in terms of having to actually have to WORK.

I have a comfortable pension, with health insurance too. I would certainly not be a drain on local services, in fact, I would contribute greatly to the economy.

Down the line, I would expect to be spending APR-NOV up that way, the remainder of the time following the sun!

[iverglas]

35. well, no harm in trying

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/business/index.html

There are three classes of business immigrants:

Investors

The Immigrant Investor Program seeks to attract experienced persons and capital to Canada. Investors must demonstrate business experience, a minimum net worth of CDN $800,000 and make an investment of CDN $400,000.

Entrepreneurs

The Entrepreneur Program seeks to attract experienced persons that will own and actively manage businesses in Canada that will contribute to the economy and create jobs. Entrepreneurs must demonstrate business experience, a minimum net worth of CDN $300,000 and are subject to conditions upon arrival in Canada.

Self-employed persons

Self-employed persons must have the intention and ability to create their own employment. They are expected to contribute to the cultural or athletic life of Canada. They may create their own employment by purchasing and managing a farm in Canada.

April to November, with a short trip home in the middle, wouldn't likely raise many eyebrows in terms of visitor status.

My dad spent a few winters in Florida, but had to come back a little earlier than he'd have preferred in order to maintain his 6 months/year residence in the province for provincial health plan purposes. He also had to make a quick trip home in mid-winter because of his private extra insurance to cover him at US health care rates while in the US, which was only good for so many weeks in one stint. I'd be sure that your health care plan doesn't have similar requirements before you actually spend long periods outside your own jurisdiction, if you're in another country as a "visitor", or as a permanent resident. Just unsolicited advice!

I would certainly not be a drain on local services, in fact, I would contribute greatly to the economy.

The thing is, there are hundreds of millions of people in the world to whom the same statement would apply. Contributing to the economy as a consumer/taxpayer alone, or even "investing" in a way that doesn't actually generate extra net jobs, for instance (e.g. in real estate, or by acquiring an existing small business), isn't what's wanted.

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/business/invest-1.html

As an investor, you must make a prescribed investment of CDN $400,000. This investment is placed with the Receiver General of Canada.

Participating provinces then use your investment to create jobs and help their economies grow. Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) will return your investment to you, without interest, in approximately five years after you become a permanent resident.

(I'm making no comment on whether we should have that program, or whether that's how it should work, of course.)

And immigrating as an entrepreneur -- "buy a small business and employ a couple of people" -- has its own rules:

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/business/entrep-1.html

[MADem]

36. I've looked at it all pretty carefully

...and of course there is the Provincial Nomination angle, as well, where the Province can weigh in on who they want to get fast tracked. PEI seems to be losing residents, not gaining them. Can't see why, it is a lovely spot, even though the winters can be a bit fierce.

I have many skills, as well, along with a nice pile of advanced degrees, and if they really wanted me to put my shoulder to the wheel at my stage, I surely could.

[wakeme2008]

28. Sorry I know nothing about PEI But

I followed your link from another thread.

MMMMmmm doing some reseach I read this

Lobsters are plentiful enough here in the Maritimes that the McDonalds' offer yummy "McLobster" sandwiches in the summer months. I'll bet Ronald McDonald thought he died and went to heaven! They are so popular here that apparently some New England McDonalds thought it was a good idea and now also offer them. If you want a recipe so you can clone them at home try this link.

I think I could like this place.......

[MADem]

30. Some say it is like Cape Cod, back in the day

before it turned into an overpriced paved nightmare of McMansions and strip malls. I am looking for something older rather than newer, classic rather than modern, smaller as opposed to larger...though if I find a good sized old home I might be tempted (large family, need to put them somewhere). I like a little character and history in a house, and I figure if the thing has stood for fifty or a hundred years, it was probably fairly well built. I would like to be able to get at least DSL access where I end up, though, because if I do winter over, the internet is a good way to while away a coldass snowy day. I suppose one can get a satellite dish pretty near everywhere for the TV fix (I know some people hate TV, but I like it--it may feed me crap at times, but I can yell at it all I want and it won't pull out a gun and shoot me in a drunken rampage!). I'm a good neighbor, not nosy, very 'live and let live'--I don't want to crawl up anyone's pant leg, but will help out if they are in a bind. It does seem to me that there ARE no bad places on the island, and what with rivers and the shore all round, you are never far from water (which has been the reason I could never live in 'flyover country'--I have to be near ocean, it is in the blood, you see!).

I've had one of those McLobsters--they aren't bad, for Mickey D's. Not quite like a roll from the Lobster Claw, but hey, it's fast food!

[GreenPartyVoter]

31. I will be going there for 2 days in August.. Will that be too late to help

you out?

[MADem]

32. Nope, that would be PERFECT, in fact, and THANKS for the offer

I won't be going up there until AFTER Canadian Thanksgiving...yeah, I know, it isn't the best time of year for vacationing, but in my experience, it IS the best time for househunting. I especially like looking for houses on the crappiest day of the year. If you like it then, odds are you will love it in the fine weather.

So anything you can tell me from a summer perspective will be especially valuable in the near term, as I won't have much to go on in the off season!!

I'm finding Murray Harbour to be an interesting place (on the net, anyway)--I'd love some first hand info on that place, if you happen to go through there. I'm going with an open mind, so I am not married to any particular location...guess I will know it when I see it! Have fun while you are there, and take notes if you feel like it!!!

Thanks again!

[NinetySix]

43. Wow, this thread can't be killed!

I haven't looked at Country: Canada since I posted on this thread last year, and I must say, I'm astonished at all of the responses you've received, not to mention your tenacious kicking.

I've just returned from a trip home to the States. I enjoyed it, but it really brought the differences between the US and Canada into sharp focus for me. GOD I'm glad I don't live there anymore! It's really amazing to note the sheer mass of the vehicles people drive just over the border, and with gas climbing toward $2.50, too! Around here, the Chevy Suburban is just comically huge, and typically finds itself surrounded by sensible Hondas.

I read in the thread that you've been leaning toward Kings County for your projected purchase. It's hard to go wrong there. Murray Harbour is lovely, if a bit small. Another lovely town in Kings, Montague, is a bit larger and might provide more of the amenities, but I've never lived in either, so I can't compare their residential aspects. Another suggestion I might make if you're thinking about the eastern end, though, is southeastern Queens County, near Belfast. It's small and very rural, formerly tobacco country, but right by the TransCanada highway and only about 20-25 minutes from Charlottetown (making it accessible for a quick jaunt, even in the winter).

Summer up here is brief, relatively mild (in the low 80s all this week, but that's warm with no air conditioning), and polluted with tourists. When you've been here long enough, the Americans are as easy to spot as the Japanese, only more plentiful. AVOID touristy areas until after the Gold Cup and Saucer Parade in mid-August when Summer officially ends. Just don't confuse 'touristy' with 'cultural' and you'll be doing well; the Highland Festival and the Rollo Bay Fiddle Festival (both weeks past now) are just some of the highlights of the Island Summer, when its culture is spread out like a banquet for all to enjoy. Oh, remember I said avoid all things touristy? I take it back with regard to one possible tourist destination: the Olde Dublin Pub on Sydney St. in Charlottetown. The food is only fair and I don't drink Guiness myself, but the entertainment is second to none among the bar venues in town. Look for Sons of Maxwell and Jar O' Comfort for a really worthwhile evening out.

Don't concern yourself over the prospect of coming after Thanksgiving. Indian Summer lingers mercifully into the Fall around these parts, and the show put on by the trees around that time will make it an ideal visit for you. The hiking is spectacular and thoroughly satisfying in the Fall, so if that's your thing, find a spot close to the Rails to Trails, formerly the railroad before all of the tracks were taken up.

If you want to know anything more specific (wasn't all that specific enough for ya?!?), feel free to PM me -- God knows when I'll check this forum again!

[MADem]

44. Hey, THANKS!!!

I've been offline for a bit on business, but I do try to get back to this thread regularly to see if anyone has added on. I know there may be some folks who say "why is this bozo not just getting in the car and going UP THERE and DOING IT, instead of researching endlessly and kicking this doggone thread yet AGAIN?" but I do like to be well informed before I go, because my time will be limited and I will want to make a decision about where to buy in fairly short order.

Quite frankly, I feel more at home with "Canadian values" (as they come across to me, anyway, at a distance) than some of the greed and consumerism and cutthroat attitudes that I see in the US. I hate gas hog cars, I like people who reuse and recycle, who are interested in the world around them, who don't have a chip on their shoulder, and I subscribe to the "Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without" philosophy as much as I can. I also like mild summers, and do not mind winters at all, though I know they can be rough up there. And the people seem so nice--there's way less of that snarky, cynical meanness you see way too much of in the US nowadays.

And I love being near the sea. It just seems like paradise to me!!

[WinkyDink]

42. PEI

LOVE it!!!!
I've been there 3 Autumns in a row, and will go back this Fall.
The "Evangeline" and "Anne of Green Gables" areas are bee-yootiful!! Rugged, wind-swept, red-cliffed beaches; blue herons; lobster dinners with all-you-can-eat mussels; quaint and walkable capital city; and if you golf (which I don't), there are courses galore!
Just totally picturesque and a very peaceful get-away.

[MADem]

45. I golf..........BADLY

I golf with friends who also golf badly. It's not for want of good equipment, we all have very expensive clubs and bags, which makes us look like we know what the hell we are doing. We have fantastic conversations about all sorts of world events, from politics to films to nonsensical subjects, while we hack away. We solve the world's problems in 18 holes or less, share jokes, and banter like mad.

I will not golf with good golfers--they are more concerned with the game and their score than the social aspect, which is what I enjoy--I consider golf as a good walk with friends, not a good walk ruined. We frequently play "best ball" so that we don't hold others up (even though we stink, we aren't rude, and we do observe the niceties, if not the actual RULES). We never keep score--we might note that someone actually got par on a hole, but there's no pencil or paper involved during the round at all. We have a blast, we return to the clubhouse, enjoy a few beverages, we boast about our fabulous shots (hey, even the worst golfer can get lucky once in 18 holes) and everyone around us is of the impression that we are total sharks and hyper-good. We often get people who ARE good golfers who desperately want to join us if one drops out, because we are clearly enjoying ourselves to the hilt, but we always turn them down. Can't let our secret out!!! We suck, DECISIVELY, but we have fun at it!

Hopefully I will be able to find three bad golfers up that way, otherwise I will simply have to invite my bad golfer pals for a nice holiday...!

[Cha]

46. Just wanted to say..I've

enjoyed reading this thread immeasurably! I linked on from your sig line cause my friend and I are going to Nova Scotia in September to a concert and I know Prince Edward Island is very close.

We're driving from New York and camping out along the way. I've never been to Maine, either, and am looking forward to seeing things I've only read about and seen pictures of(Lighthouses!)

I love Canada, too..last September my sister and I went to Niagara Falls, Canada..gotta see these things while I'm still in the Northeast.

Good Luck with all your endeavors in your Canadian adventure, MADem!

[MADem]

47. Let me know how your trip went

With the exception of the BFEE at Walker's Point, Maine is great too. You might want to hop over to PEI by way of the bridge--it is said to be a remarkable architectural wonder. And the island is small enough so that you could see a good deal in a day or so, as the tourists will have thinned out by then! Thanks for your good wishes!

[MADem]

64. Thanks!

http://www.salty-towers.com /

If you decide you want a roof over your head during your wandering, and pass through New Brunswick on your way as opposed to ferrying straight over from ME, you may want to check out the above place (seeing as you are camping, I am betting you have a sense of adventure!)...I myself have not gone there yet, but I intend to--it sounds quirky and fun, AND they take pets, too. I like the way they describe it...

Excerpt: SALTY TOWERS is a unique and somewhat eclectic accommodation facility. Architecturally it is a building within a building within a building. The original structure was constructed circa 1840, renovated in the early 1900's and added to in the 1940's. In addition, attached to the main building is a "Penny School" dating from 1825. The Inn was first established as the Seaside Inn in 1921 and was operated continuously by Marjorie Richardson (nee Clarke) until 1986. In 1994 Jamie Steel purchased the property with the aim of creating something a little different, a "Chateau Alternatato".

SALTY TOWERS offers a variety of accommodation at reasonable rates in an exceptionally interesting setting. It has been highlighted in the New York Times and described by Frommers Travel Guide as a cross between a Victorian home, a 1950's seaside resort and a 1960's commune!! The Lonely Planet Guide boasts there is no other place like it in St. Andrews and perhaps Canada!!

Lodgings vary from single cottage style rooms to large formal Victorian suites, to small apartment efficiencies. Guests are encouraged to use the house and its large formal living room, the wonderful morning room, roam the gallery or gardens and spend time on "the best veranda in town" while enjoying a glass of wine or quaffing a pint or two!

[jilln]

48. Something to look out for

Isn't that one of the places where they beat baby seals and skin them alive? That would keep me from going anywhere near ... can't believe any decent human being could do such a thing. Would't make for good neighbors.

[MADem]

49. Huh??? In PEI??? Surely they wouldn't do that--any islanders know?

I thought the main industries were fishing and tayties, not clubbing seals...do they even have seals on the island?

[CHIMO]

50. Well

In the wintertime, when they get tired from being in their Igloos all the time they put on their skies, take their snow shoes along and their water walking boots(know in canada as jesus shoes) and chase seals. After they are done with their exercises they take a few off the ice flow and then shove the ice flow back out to get a few more seals for the next day.

Now probably tomorrow I will have a better one. I know you are familiar with the area and so this is nothing new for you but this is really for the other poster. And you should hear someone from NL tell about it.

[CHIMO]

55. For The Record

I am not an Islander. As far as I know there is no sealing done there.

Found this item googling. Make of it what one wishes.

10. Where are seals hunted?
There are subsistence hunts in the Canadian Arctic and Greenland, but the majority of the commercial seal hunt occurs on the Front - an area off the north and east coasts of Newfoundland and off southern Labrador. About one third of the migrating population is found in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, where a small number of animals is taken near the Magdalen Islands.

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/seal-phoque/faq_e.htm

With reference to the topic brought up(a post or two back) - Lucky that my real name is not Bernie Ward.

Hope that you have an enjoyable time.

(PS NL now stands for Newfoundland & Labrador)

[MADem]

56. I know the government allows a very limited amount of culling

up in that general region...and while it would be nice if that wasn't necessary, it is, unless they are going to start spaying and neutering to keep the numbers down, and can find another source of income for some of the people who rely on the practice for subsistence. But I didn't think there was any sort of wholesale slaughter going on.

[CHIMO]

57. To The Best

Of my knowledge there isn't a "wholesale slaughter" going on. As I remember this year they had bad weather and I didn't hear the final numbers taken. Not that I would especially be looking for them either.

I was doing some googling and came up with the the government site that has some information. They had the max harvest, or quota, this year at 320,000 harp seals.

If interested here is the link:
http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/misc/seal_briefing_e.htm

[achtung_circus]

51. Why

is this the thread that will not die?

[MADem]

52. Because PEI is a place worth learning about! n/t

[achtung_circus]

53. Ok,

but 8 months?

[MADem]

54. I am one of those people that not only does the essential

research, but also seeks out anecdotal stories that can tell you about the flavor of a place. Sometimes when you hear personal stories from people who know a certain town, city, state/province, or country, it gives you a new way to look at that place. This is a long-term proposition for me, I want to do the research, do it right, find a place that is pleasing, and enjoy the hell out it...

[SeveneightyWhoa]

59. Well, I'm going to kick this thread..

..just to piss you off.

[achtung_circus]

60. It won't piss me off.

I quite like PEI. I'me just mildly curious why this thred, among so many, is the one thqat goes on and on.

[Hand]

61. Insh'Allah... nt

[MADem]

62. It's like Celine Dion's heart, I guess!!!

Hope I haven't given you an earworm, or TITANIC flashbacks!

[MADem]

65. Geez, I feel kinda bad

I really don't want to piss folks off, I'm just trying to get as much info and anecdotal impressions as I can. I hope people who cannot stand this thread will put it on ignore, or hide, or whatever! I really don't want to be a bad visitor! Truly!

[intheflow]

58. I vacationed there a lot as a child.

My family took the pop-up trailer up every summer during the '70's. I have very fond memories of the island.

A friend of mine from high school in Massachusetts bought a summer cottage up there a couple of years ago. She's renovating it, and hopes to use it during the summer and retire to it eventually.

I say, buy now. You can't even look at land or houses on islands off the coast of northern Maine anymore. So I'd buy while the buyin' is good. It's my dream to live on an island up there.

*Edited to add: I understand the winters are cold, but you don't get whacked with as much snow as inland because the salt in the sea air supposedly keeps the snow from forming. Not sure if that's true, but that's what I've heard of islands off northern coasts.

**Edited a second time because this thread has inspired me to scour the web for beautiful imags of PEI. Here are a few:

[MADem]

63. Those are beautiful pictures

Thanks for putting them up!

I just think PEI is as close to paradise on earth as one can get. Of course, I favor the sea--there are some people who prefer the plains or the mountains, but I think PEI has it all. Nice people, too, which makes all the difference.

Do you recall what part of the island you stayed at in your popup? Or did you make the rounds? What area did you like best?