Digital Nomad Life in Kelowna, Canada
Summary: Kelowna, Canada is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. The city is located in the Okanagan Valley, surrounded by mountains, lakes, and vineyards, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities. The best neighborhood to live in Kelowna is the downtown area, which is close to the city center and offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment. The approximate population of Kelowna, Canada is approximately 130,000 people. The weather in Kelowna, Canada (Farenheit) is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s in the winter to the mid-80s in the summer. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Kelowna is approximately $1,500 USD, including rent, utilities, food, and entertainment. The cost of renting a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Kelowna is approximately $1,000 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Kelowna?
When we asked people living in Kelowna about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Most things happen in, on or around Okanagan Lake which divides Kelowna and West Kelowna. There are two waterfronts with walkways. Music in the park on Friday evenings during summer. Festivals, street parades, wine tasting, cherry picking, beaches, parks, bears, hiking, mountain biking," said one expat who made the move to Kelowna.
"Expats in Kelowna can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as the Kelowna International Network, the Kelowna Women's Network, and the Kelowna Expat Club. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as farmers markets, art shows, and music festivals. Additionally, expats can join local sports teams, volunteer with local organizations, or take classes at the local college or university. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending church services, joining a book club, or attending meetups organized by local expat groups," explained one foreigner living in Kelowna, Canada.
What is life like in Kelowna?
When we asked people living in Kelowna what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Kelowna is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live. The city offers a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking, and biking. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in Canada, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The city is also home to a large international community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. Additionally, Kelowna is well-connected to the rest of Canada, with easy access to major cities like Vancouver and Calgary. All in all, Kelowna is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a great place to live and work," said one person in Kelowna.
"There are many young families and lots of activity on the water in summer and in the snow during winter. Lifestyle - paradise in summer," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Kelowna.
Where should I live in Kelowna?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Kelowna is a great place to live with plenty of housing options. You can find a place to live by searching online for rental listings, checking out local newspapers, or asking friends and family for recommendations. You can also contact a real estate agent to help you find a place that meets your needs. Additionally, there are many websites that offer listings of available rental properties in the area. Once you have narrowed down your search, you can visit the properties in person to get a better feel for the area and decide if it is the right fit for you," explained one person living in Kelowna, Canada.
What do I need to know before moving to Kelowna?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Kelowna, they said:
"Kelowna is a beautiful city located in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its stunning scenery, mild climate, and abundance of outdoor activities. Before retiring in Kelowna, expats should research the cost of living, healthcare options, and the availability of public transportation. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. Additionally, expats should consider the tax implications of retiring in Canada, as well as the availability of banking and financial services. Finally, expats should take the time to explore the city and its surrounding areas to ensure that it is the right fit for them," said one person in Kelowna.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Kelowna?
"Expatriates in Kelowna appreciate the city's laid-back atmosphere and the friendly locals. They also enjoy the abundance of outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking, and biking, that the area has to offer. The city's vibrant arts and culture scene is another draw, with a variety of galleries, theatres, and music venues. Expats also appreciate the city's proximity to the Okanagan Valley, which is known for its wineries and stunning scenery. Finally, the city's relatively low cost of living is another attractive feature for expats," said one expat who made the move to Kelowna.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Kelowna?
"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Kelowna is the weather. The city experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers. This can be difficult for those who are used to more temperate climates. Additionally, the city is quite spread out, making it difficult to get around without a car. This can be a challenge for those who are used to living in more densely populated areas. Finally, the local culture is quite conservative, which can be difficult for those who are used to more liberal environments," said one expat who made the move to Kelowna.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Kelowna for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Kelowna for a while, you will need to apply for a Canadian visa. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). You may also need to apply for a work permit if you plan to work in Canada. Additionally, you may need to apply for a study permit if you plan to study in Canada," remarked one member in Kelowna.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Kelowna?
We asked people in Kelowna if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be respectful of the local Indigenous peoples in Kelowna. Showing respect for their culture and history is essential. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette. For example, it is polite to greet people with a handshake or a nod of the head. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Finally, it is important to be mindful of the local language and to avoid using offensive language or making jokes about the local culture," remarked one member in Kelowna.
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What are healthcare services like in Kelowna?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Kelowna, they replied:
"Kelowna offers a wide range of healthcare services to its residents. The city is home to a number of hospitals, including Kelowna General Hospital, which provides acute care services, as well as specialized services such as cancer care, cardiac care, and mental health services. In addition, Kelowna has a number of walk-in clinics, family doctors, and specialists, providing a range of primary care services. The city also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to medications and other health-related products. Finally, Kelowna has a number of community health centers, offering a range of services such as health promotion, disease prevention, and health education," said one member in Kelowna.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Kelowna?
"Expats and digital nomads in Kelowna appreciate the city's stunning natural beauty, with its lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic mountains. They also enjoy the city's vibrant culture, with its many festivals, events, and activities. Additionally, the city's low cost of living and abundance of outdoor activities make it an attractive destination for those looking to live an active lifestyle. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the city's limited public transportation and lack of nightlife to be drawbacks," said one digital nomad in Kelowna.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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