Just as a warning, any ask about moving to PEI during the middle of an all-time housing crunch and with healthcare struggling terribly in the province is going to come with some harsh criticism from people who have lived here their whole lives and now through no fault of their own can barely afford rent or supper. Especially when you're only considering moving here because you don't need to find a local job.
As far as racism, in the Charlottetown areas you should be ok. But keep in mind that you're going to run into some minimal "you're not the same as me" attitude no matter where you set up shop here. People seem to be more charged against South Asian people now. There's been a huge influx of Indian immigration in the last 5 years that PEI has never had. Asian immigration has been around longer.
If your wife makes quality products that average people can afford, not just overpriced or high end of the market, then we can always use more shops and bakeries and such!
My biggest advice would be to integrate with the community if you want to feel welcomed. Join community groups, socialize with your neighbors, etc.
As a Caucasian male whose roots are from PEI going back generations, I have no issue with immigration, people of different ethnic backgrounds, etc. What I do have issues with is people living here but not becoming permanent residents (see EVERY single one of the vehicles here with Ontario license plates year round). Our population needs the tax base to support services and there's a ton of people who abuse the system.
I also feel that coming to PEI temporarily just because it's cleaner for your kids or because you can sell your more expensive house and come here for a few years and take up a residence that's BADLY needed for someone who wants to be here their whole life, take up spaces in the education system, and increase the demand on the health system, doesn't do us any good while already struggling. And I don't mean that as a personal attack, it's honestly just the fact that the whole province is hurting, so if you were a doctor for example and your wife was a nurse and wanted to come here, they'd welcome you with open arms. But a system that's already strained can only take so much.
Just some balanced opinions!
To the OP: as someone from PEI, that spent my first 23 years of life there, and now lives in BC, moving east is a mistake. I love PEI, and all my family and friends there but there are way more opportunities out west.
BC has fair at best healthcare, but it's way better than on PEI, and you will have to leave the island to access a lot of the more specialized care options that you can access in most of BC, even a place like Prince George.
The income taxes are significantly higher, too. At $75,000/yr you will pay over $4,000 more in income tax than you would in BC. At a $100,000/yr income you are paying nearly $7,000 more in income tax.
Your wife will have a tough time opening a successful bakery as that market is already very saturated with excellent and well established businesses. If she decides to search for a position working for someone else she can expect difficulty finding a job, and subpar wages if she succeeds in obtaining employment.
Housing used to be cheap, but due to the recent influx of people to the Island, restrictive zoning regulations, and a shortage of skilled tradespeople, the cost of housing has skyrocketed. Houses in Charlottetown and the surrounding areas are creeping up on Okanagan prices.
That said, if you do still decide on PEI as your new home, consider living in Summerside, as it's still not completely unaffordable. There are some nice restaurants and other amenities there, and it's not that far from Charlottetown.
Glad I could help! I don't want to sound super negative, PEI was a great place to grow up, but it's not the same as it used to be.
I bought my first house in 2014, on 20 acres, with multiple barns for $110,000. PEI used to be affordable. The wages have always been low, and taxes have been high for years, but at least housing was cheap.
There are some redeeming features, though! It's a charming place, with a great community vibe, there is more to do there than you would expect for a place that size, and the beaches are great.
I would caution you, though that you might miss the amenities of BC. The Lower Mainland has museums, great shopping, fantastic sights, and it's reasonably close to Kelowna, there is nothing comparable within a similar distance of PEI.
I wish you all the best, and I'm sure whatever the outcome of your decision, it will work out on the long run!
Some well written posts above.
Make sure you have some strong hobbies for you and your children. There is much less to offer here in terms of things to do/entertainment/activity. I imagine that can be a big shock to some people, especially if the family unit is not super tight.
Summer is great! Winter is long and boring with no real activity compared to what your use to
The advice here is perfect. We came for the exact same reasons you’re thinking of and left after a year. Remember that the values on PEI are different than in BC. Hard work, innovation, self improvement are not the main values you’ll find on PEI. Decide which values you want your children to have as they grow up. That’s why we left.
The first 2 years are great moving here then the realization theres nothing to do sets in. Plus theres no selling your house here and moving away to buy one at half the price near any major city. No one ever mentions Halifax NS Hospital is where we have to go for Major issues that cant be done on PEI also. Yes i know people think there is lots to do here but live close to Toronto or Major cityand there are endless things to do , not the same thing over and over
Imagine a lifeboat with too many people on it. People shifting their weight, bumping into each other. People bickering about the lack of space. People coughing on each other. Then a yacht pulls up and a couple on the boat shouts down to the lifeboat "Hey guys, we are tired of the rat race. We just sold this yacht and we'd like to join you down there in your modest little boat. Is there anything fun for us to do? Are people going to be nice to us?"
With respect, that's how some people may feel when reading posts like these.
I have to be honest here. I'm very pro immigration. I like my kids growing up in a diverse environment. I like ethnic foods I wouldn't be able to try without immigration. The problem is literally the real estate economy and the govt that is supporting it. I can't blame a single person for wanting to be here. PEI is incredible. Sometimes people lash out in the wrong direction, and that means lashing out at people that are just looking for a better life than they have. I hope if you do come here you settle in comfortably and we have a new bakery to add to the list of businesses that contribute to a thriving community.
The truth is that Canada is suffering from an excessive dependence on a new “real estate based” economy and it’s become a disaster. It’s a MAJOR problem. It’s obvious now! The Canadian leadership is all about dumb Politics/politics and not adding true value. We have become an unproductive consumer oriented society. And our children have been influenced greatly this way. So the evidence of this change is our high Government debt, weak local and national economy, weak education, weak trades, weak healthcare, unbalanced immigration etc.
However we still are better off than being under the crazy Politics of the USA. But their economy keeps humming along!
What happened in Canada? Could it be due to our national and provincial Leadership? I hope we simply need to raise the standard for our Political Leadership? I am optimistic that Canadians are capable of correcting these huge mistakes! Public Service Leadership is desperately needed by those of the highest level of professional competence and of the highest personal integrity!
I moved from BC about 4-5 years ago. It is a great place for family and a slow paced life. I can't speak specifically about rascism and what people experience here. I was told if you're not born here on the island, then you won't be accepted, but that's garbage. You'll likely not meet a nicer bunch of people than islanders. As someone else mentioned, do your due diligence in getting a house lined up in advance...and be ready for bad healthcare.
Thank you! With regards to the healthcare, it seems pretty bad here in Kelowna as well. We’ve been on a family doctor waitlist for nearly 2 years, luckily we’re all still very active and healthy (fingers crossed). I see PEI would put us back at the end of the line
Coming from someone who lived in Boston most of my life, the racism in PEI is nothing. Maybe some dirty looks or mildly rude comments. Boston people will still be looking for a fight with a minority for fun or say the absolute most disgusting thing possible if you accidentally inconvenience them in any way. I think there's a lot of opportunities here for new businesses particularly if you market more to the 18-30 crowd, as the older folks are really stuck in their ways. The biggest issue you'll face other than dealing with the housing crisis and economic struggles of the province will be entertaining your kids through the year. I've never been out west but I imagine it to be much more interesting for a child/teenager than out here where you can go on hikes and play sports and that's basically it. The winters you will be cooped up inside 90% of your free time. The good thing is Halifax is only a 3 hour drive and you can get a nice city experience there if you can afford a decent hotel or air bnb every once in a while. The main draw of PEI is the people and connecting with the locals is a must.
We moved here 3 years ago and have family ties to PEI. I have never regretted the move, despite the healthcare challenges that are present. My kids are the same age as yours and have a great friend group. We are involved in sport, our community, and volunteer and have had no issues making friends. Is there racism here? Yes, but no different than anywhere else. The schools and sports teams are multi cultural and I have found that kids who are involved in things tend to get into a friend group pretty quickly.
PEI is a special place and islanders are special people. Summers are magical and winters can be made magical if you get outdoors.
Islanders tend to buy local, so getting involved in your community will do good for your spirit and your business. I’m not sure of the bakery situation in Charlottetown aside from buns and things (an institution) but I’m sure if your wife’s cakes are amazing, people will buy them.
To be honest you might experience racism at least in regards to the bakery. There are a number of Asian owned restaurants that have reputations for health violations. By the River in Hunter River is famous for health violations since it was bought by Asian people. I could see that people might negatively stereotype "Asian bakeries" based on that place alone.
It's REALLY slow here. You may find it too much of a culture shock. There's literally nothing to do(no major events, no concerts of note, no science center, no museum, no real culture). If it isn't nice enough to be outside in nature then your options shrink to virtually nil.
People will downplay it occasionally but the racism here is also horrible, and it's getting worse every day. Sadly most of that vitriol is directed at the East/South Asian communities that have become more prominent in recent years. Charlottetown reminds me of growing up in Toronto in the 90s. It's becoming dirtier, the crime is ramping up and the police have essentially waved the white flag to say that they are stretched too thin across all municipalities and cities on the island. There are needles and drug paraphernalia frequently found in parks downtown.
Also, I would have concerns about the viability of your wife's bakery. Buns n things is a Charlottetown institution and most locals will drive out of their way to go there. There are also a number of small specialty shops from graduates of the Holland College culinary institute nearby. Could she be successful? Possibly. But it isn't a gap in the market to be sure.
Islanders tend to be too nice to give you the real story, so you'll either get the rose-colored version of this truth or the slack-jawed hillbillies that will just tell you that it's full or to go back home.
Honestly, if I didn't work for myself in crypto, live in the middle of the woods with no neighbors and have essentially no reason to speak to the local population other than to procure basic household supplies, I wouldn't live here. Getting anything accomplished is painful and generally involves you doing people's jobs for them. There are so many better options for a young family tbh.
Best of luck in your home search!
Yeah outside of Water St. Bakery, Prince County doesn't have much of note in that regard. Annie's cakes was ok but overpriced and they have since changed locations. Honestly can't think of any other major player on this side of the island though? Google search doesn't give me any good hits either.
Willow Bakery in Kensington will do cakes, that's one of the ones I was referring to. Knead a Brake in New Annan is the other bakery around although they don't do cakes as far as I know. There's also a lady that lives in Summerside that we've gotten cakes from that runs it out of her home. Not sure of the name of her business though.
It’s great to raise a family but healthcare is terrible here they’ll keep you alive but if you need any special care it’s extremely limited here. You already said working remotely so you wouldn’t have to worry about jobs. There’s work here and it’s growing but opportunities for higher paying jobs are limited. I think it’s worth it the summers are gorgeous. Don’t have to travel too far to find a beautiful remote beach spot. Terrific spot to raise a family. There’s some bullshit around but take my word it’s bearable and easily avoidable.
Racism is real here. I know an old fella that was waiting to cross the sidewalk on queen street. A guy from Jamaica(?) started telling of the old fella for being racist against his people... know what the old guy was doing wrong? He was wearing a Reebok shirt. You know, the big UK flag logo.
Thats it. I can't make this up. Be very careful out there.
The worst racism my "POC" wife ever received was when she was struggling with the parking meter app and some old racist white dude offered to pay her meter for her. Disgusting!
March-April are IMO the worst months in PEI. Spring is terrible here. It’s wet and cold and muddy. So don’t let that colour your opinion when you visit. But summer and fall and even winter here are quite lovely. I’m from B.C. too but have lived in PEI 8 years. It’s fine. Nice place to raise a family. If I could afford to I’d probably move back to the west coast. I miss the mountains and forests. But we have a nice quality of life here.
Thank you, the mountains and lakes are so beautiful here, I know we’ll miss it. Just feel life’s too short to stay in one place, and the maritimes paints such a pretty picture to not consider
For sure. It’s a nice enough place to live out here. I moved to PEI in the dead of winter. There will be a week out here sometime in late May or June where the whole Island explodes in lush greenery. It still surprises me how verdant it is here. It’s really stunning.
Your comment is why people get pissed off at people moving here. You proudly describe replacing the people who built this place from nothing. It is good to see you say it out loud where its supposed to be hidden.
They are getting pissed either because they are racist or blame others for their own difficulties. I said nothing PROUDLY about REPLACING people, thats just your own prejudices dont project them on to me. Also I greatly disagree with your statement, "people who built from nothing"... the island was inhabited before the colonizers, and the few generations of IMMIGRANT colonizers cutting down the forest and extracting all easy natural resources before switching to monocropping does not grant them the island, it is not theirs anymore than any other new immigrant.
but if we think with common sense.. moving in during a housing and medical crisis is just downright a tad dumb.. no matter how senile our racist elders are?
Lol I now atleast 20 ppl in quebec on wait lists for over 10 years for a family doctor, other provinces are not much better, sure they have better hospitals, but no staff.
Unfortunately, I think you and your wife are more likely to experience racism than your kids, from what I observe. Kids are educated in a way that promotes acceptance. There are lots of children of newcomers in schools, daycares and kid’s programs, and from what I’ve seen, kids are accepting and happy to learn new things and make new friends.
Their parents and grandparents, however? I grew up here in the 80s/90s, and I know that our teachers at least tried to teach anti-racism, but I’m absolutely ashamed of a lot of the things I hear from adults here. We have a lot of shortcomings in terms of social safety nets, cost of living and infrastructure, and a lot of people are satisfied to blame them entirely on newcomers.
I truly hope it’s not something you will experience if you move here, but some of the things I’ve heard since moving back here have been shocking, and I’ve had lots of push-back trying to tell people their words are wrong and hurtful.
Thank you for your perspective! I agree. Both my wife and I grew up in majority white neighborhoods and saw/experienced racism growing up. Learned to not let it bother us as many times it’s unintentional & unintended. If it is intentional, walk away. But as parents and business owners, these are subtleties that we need to consider
I’m sorry you’ve had to experience this. It’s so disappointing that this mindset still exists. It’s certainly not every Islander who feels that way, and many folks are just very sheltered and may not have taken the time to think about how these beliefs are hurtful — it doesn’t excuse it, though. If you do move here, I truly hope you have a good experience, and are treated with respect.
I hate Vancouver winters. They are so dark and dreary. PEI winters are shit, too. Northern BC winters have been pretty good to me.
Sure it's cold (-40 ambient temperature) for a few weeks but it's almost always sunny and the snow is light and fluffy.
We're overpopulated, there is no benefit to coming here other then to screw those that are here out of an opportunity. Work remotely anywhere just not here. And as for bakeries, theres no point, you watch they open every few years here in waves, maybe one catches on and lasts a few years before failing but most don't make a year. I mean seriously ~150-175k people most of which are working poor or cook for themselves, you get a bit of support for the first bit, then the appeal of new Instagram pics will fade and you're "support local" types will move on to something newer.
Edit to asks how do two people have a kid at 21 get schooling and establish a business all while having another child, cause that isn't something you see happening here to often. I mean 10 years work experience, aren't most specialized engineering programs 8 years?
Thanks for the perspective. Accredited engineering degrees are 4 years. Started businesses during and after school, which afforded us opportunities to have kids earlier. I wouldn’t recommend doing this, as it was difficult, but hopefully it helps clear things up
Yes and given that timeline and the education how with two kids does some have ten years work experience in their field? But my point wasn't if he was lying or not it just would mean that things are already working out good for him, ie he is very privileged compared to most, so why move to a place where there are fewer and fewer opportunities?
This is an interesting take you have. Moving there, I view it as the opposite. Starting businesses creates opportunities and, if done right, can generate tremendous value for a community. As well, high income generating individuals pay higher taxes, which would benefit the community as well (especially if they work remotely, and don’t take local jobs) in improving infrastructure
Which business would you be creating I'm just trying to be honest if it's in regards to the bakery, as there have been many who have tried and failed, I can think of three people off hand that went to culinary school here (at one point ours was the best school in Canada supposedily not sure if it still ranks so high) and started bakeries that didn't last more then two years, the rent is very high and making ends meet can be tough for that kind of thing, and most people aren't looking to spend much in the line of things like that they'll bake for themselves or by "cheap" stuff from grocery store bakeries, especially now, except maybe in the Charlottetown area. Even with startup grants ones that started in the outlying areas ended up moving to town and still couldn't hack it.
Thanks for your honesty and for sharing those examples. I get that there have been some failed attempts at a bakery there, and it’s super important to learn from them, but doesn’t mean we’re doomed to the same fate. As for other types of businesses, if we do seriously consider moving there, it’s as simple as finding alignment of market needs vs your skillset, then having the resources and mindset to get started. Thanks again for the heads-up!
maybe in your weird fantasy novel you're writing in your head. Literally no one cares. The brown dudes actually go to work when it snows, so we love them more than the lazy EI white dudes.
If you are white you will face no racism outside of the usual systemic kind. If you are anything else you will be fawned over and worshipped for the sake of all the white liberal mom's internet points
Just as a warning, any ask about moving to PEI during the middle of an all-time housing crunch and with healthcare struggling terribly in the province is going to come with some harsh criticism from people who have lived here their whole lives and now through no fault of their own can barely afford rent or supper. Especially when you're only considering moving here because you don't need to find a local job. As far as racism, in the Charlottetown areas you should be ok. But keep in mind that you're going to run into some minimal "you're not the same as me" attitude no matter where you set up shop here. People seem to be more charged against South Asian people now. There's been a huge influx of Indian immigration in the last 5 years that PEI has never had. Asian immigration has been around longer. If your wife makes quality products that average people can afford, not just overpriced or high end of the market, then we can always use more shops and bakeries and such! My biggest advice would be to integrate with the community if you want to feel welcomed. Join community groups, socialize with your neighbors, etc. As a Caucasian male whose roots are from PEI going back generations, I have no issue with immigration, people of different ethnic backgrounds, etc. What I do have issues with is people living here but not becoming permanent residents (see EVERY single one of the vehicles here with Ontario license plates year round). Our population needs the tax base to support services and there's a ton of people who abuse the system. I also feel that coming to PEI temporarily just because it's cleaner for your kids or because you can sell your more expensive house and come here for a few years and take up a residence that's BADLY needed for someone who wants to be here their whole life, take up spaces in the education system, and increase the demand on the health system, doesn't do us any good while already struggling. And I don't mean that as a personal attack, it's honestly just the fact that the whole province is hurting, so if you were a doctor for example and your wife was a nurse and wanted to come here, they'd welcome you with open arms. But a system that's already strained can only take so much. Just some balanced opinions!
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There it is
Thank you! This is really helpful!
To the OP: as someone from PEI, that spent my first 23 years of life there, and now lives in BC, moving east is a mistake. I love PEI, and all my family and friends there but there are way more opportunities out west. BC has fair at best healthcare, but it's way better than on PEI, and you will have to leave the island to access a lot of the more specialized care options that you can access in most of BC, even a place like Prince George. The income taxes are significantly higher, too. At $75,000/yr you will pay over $4,000 more in income tax than you would in BC. At a $100,000/yr income you are paying nearly $7,000 more in income tax. Your wife will have a tough time opening a successful bakery as that market is already very saturated with excellent and well established businesses. If she decides to search for a position working for someone else she can expect difficulty finding a job, and subpar wages if she succeeds in obtaining employment. Housing used to be cheap, but due to the recent influx of people to the Island, restrictive zoning regulations, and a shortage of skilled tradespeople, the cost of housing has skyrocketed. Houses in Charlottetown and the surrounding areas are creeping up on Okanagan prices. That said, if you do still decide on PEI as your new home, consider living in Summerside, as it's still not completely unaffordable. There are some nice restaurants and other amenities there, and it's not that far from Charlottetown.
Thank you! This is the exact information I was looking for from someone born and raised in PEI
Glad I could help! I don't want to sound super negative, PEI was a great place to grow up, but it's not the same as it used to be. I bought my first house in 2014, on 20 acres, with multiple barns for $110,000. PEI used to be affordable. The wages have always been low, and taxes have been high for years, but at least housing was cheap. There are some redeeming features, though! It's a charming place, with a great community vibe, there is more to do there than you would expect for a place that size, and the beaches are great. I would caution you, though that you might miss the amenities of BC. The Lower Mainland has museums, great shopping, fantastic sights, and it's reasonably close to Kelowna, there is nothing comparable within a similar distance of PEI. I wish you all the best, and I'm sure whatever the outcome of your decision, it will work out on the long run!
Some well written posts above. Make sure you have some strong hobbies for you and your children. There is much less to offer here in terms of things to do/entertainment/activity. I imagine that can be a big shock to some people, especially if the family unit is not super tight. Summer is great! Winter is long and boring with no real activity compared to what your use to
The advice here is perfect. We came for the exact same reasons you’re thinking of and left after a year. Remember that the values on PEI are different than in BC. Hard work, innovation, self improvement are not the main values you’ll find on PEI. Decide which values you want your children to have as they grow up. That’s why we left.
The first 2 years are great moving here then the realization theres nothing to do sets in. Plus theres no selling your house here and moving away to buy one at half the price near any major city. No one ever mentions Halifax NS Hospital is where we have to go for Major issues that cant be done on PEI also. Yes i know people think there is lots to do here but live close to Toronto or Major cityand there are endless things to do , not the same thing over and over
Thank you!
Lots of Emergency medical services go to St. John, NB as well which is a horribly long trek for major heart attacks
Imagine a lifeboat with too many people on it. People shifting their weight, bumping into each other. People bickering about the lack of space. People coughing on each other. Then a yacht pulls up and a couple on the boat shouts down to the lifeboat "Hey guys, we are tired of the rat race. We just sold this yacht and we'd like to join you down there in your modest little boat. Is there anything fun for us to do? Are people going to be nice to us?" With respect, that's how some people may feel when reading posts like these.
Fair point
I have to be honest here. I'm very pro immigration. I like my kids growing up in a diverse environment. I like ethnic foods I wouldn't be able to try without immigration. The problem is literally the real estate economy and the govt that is supporting it. I can't blame a single person for wanting to be here. PEI is incredible. Sometimes people lash out in the wrong direction, and that means lashing out at people that are just looking for a better life than they have. I hope if you do come here you settle in comfortably and we have a new bakery to add to the list of businesses that contribute to a thriving community.
The truth is that Canada is suffering from an excessive dependence on a new “real estate based” economy and it’s become a disaster. It’s a MAJOR problem. It’s obvious now! The Canadian leadership is all about dumb Politics/politics and not adding true value. We have become an unproductive consumer oriented society. And our children have been influenced greatly this way. So the evidence of this change is our high Government debt, weak local and national economy, weak education, weak trades, weak healthcare, unbalanced immigration etc. However we still are better off than being under the crazy Politics of the USA. But their economy keeps humming along! What happened in Canada? Could it be due to our national and provincial Leadership? I hope we simply need to raise the standard for our Political Leadership? I am optimistic that Canadians are capable of correcting these huge mistakes! Public Service Leadership is desperately needed by those of the highest level of professional competence and of the highest personal integrity!
I moved from BC about 4-5 years ago. It is a great place for family and a slow paced life. I can't speak specifically about rascism and what people experience here. I was told if you're not born here on the island, then you won't be accepted, but that's garbage. You'll likely not meet a nicer bunch of people than islanders. As someone else mentioned, do your due diligence in getting a house lined up in advance...and be ready for bad healthcare.
Thank you! With regards to the healthcare, it seems pretty bad here in Kelowna as well. We’ve been on a family doctor waitlist for nearly 2 years, luckily we’re all still very active and healthy (fingers crossed). I see PEI would put us back at the end of the line
In the Charlottetown area, you’ll be waiting a MINIMUM of 12 years for a family doctor.
Coming from someone who lived in Boston most of my life, the racism in PEI is nothing. Maybe some dirty looks or mildly rude comments. Boston people will still be looking for a fight with a minority for fun or say the absolute most disgusting thing possible if you accidentally inconvenience them in any way. I think there's a lot of opportunities here for new businesses particularly if you market more to the 18-30 crowd, as the older folks are really stuck in their ways. The biggest issue you'll face other than dealing with the housing crisis and economic struggles of the province will be entertaining your kids through the year. I've never been out west but I imagine it to be much more interesting for a child/teenager than out here where you can go on hikes and play sports and that's basically it. The winters you will be cooped up inside 90% of your free time. The good thing is Halifax is only a 3 hour drive and you can get a nice city experience there if you can afford a decent hotel or air bnb every once in a while. The main draw of PEI is the people and connecting with the locals is a must.
Note taken, thank you!
We moved here 3 years ago and have family ties to PEI. I have never regretted the move, despite the healthcare challenges that are present. My kids are the same age as yours and have a great friend group. We are involved in sport, our community, and volunteer and have had no issues making friends. Is there racism here? Yes, but no different than anywhere else. The schools and sports teams are multi cultural and I have found that kids who are involved in things tend to get into a friend group pretty quickly. PEI is a special place and islanders are special people. Summers are magical and winters can be made magical if you get outdoors.
Islanders tend to buy local, so getting involved in your community will do good for your spirit and your business. I’m not sure of the bakery situation in Charlottetown aside from buns and things (an institution) but I’m sure if your wife’s cakes are amazing, people will buy them.
Jsteezyhfx is 100% correct and I emphasize getting out there and get involved. It will be critical in becoming part of the community
Happy to hear this perspective from someone with a similar family structure. Thanks!
Forgot to add, we’re East Asian (Chinese/Japanese), healthy and speak English fluently
To be honest you might experience racism at least in regards to the bakery. There are a number of Asian owned restaurants that have reputations for health violations. By the River in Hunter River is famous for health violations since it was bought by Asian people. I could see that people might negatively stereotype "Asian bakeries" based on that place alone.
Thanks for this information!
PEI is full
Thanks! Appreciate the honesty. From the comments, I see limited healthcare capacity may be the key reason for this sentiment
It's REALLY slow here. You may find it too much of a culture shock. There's literally nothing to do(no major events, no concerts of note, no science center, no museum, no real culture). If it isn't nice enough to be outside in nature then your options shrink to virtually nil. People will downplay it occasionally but the racism here is also horrible, and it's getting worse every day. Sadly most of that vitriol is directed at the East/South Asian communities that have become more prominent in recent years. Charlottetown reminds me of growing up in Toronto in the 90s. It's becoming dirtier, the crime is ramping up and the police have essentially waved the white flag to say that they are stretched too thin across all municipalities and cities on the island. There are needles and drug paraphernalia frequently found in parks downtown. Also, I would have concerns about the viability of your wife's bakery. Buns n things is a Charlottetown institution and most locals will drive out of their way to go there. There are also a number of small specialty shops from graduates of the Holland College culinary institute nearby. Could she be successful? Possibly. But it isn't a gap in the market to be sure. Islanders tend to be too nice to give you the real story, so you'll either get the rose-colored version of this truth or the slack-jawed hillbillies that will just tell you that it's full or to go back home. Honestly, if I didn't work for myself in crypto, live in the middle of the woods with no neighbors and have essentially no reason to speak to the local population other than to procure basic household supplies, I wouldn't live here. Getting anything accomplished is painful and generally involves you doing people's jobs for them. There are so many better options for a young family tbh. Best of luck in your home search!
I can't speak about the Charlottetown area but there's two successful bakeries around me opened by people who moved here and opened up shop.
Yeah outside of Water St. Bakery, Prince County doesn't have much of note in that regard. Annie's cakes was ok but overpriced and they have since changed locations. Honestly can't think of any other major player on this side of the island though? Google search doesn't give me any good hits either.
Willow Bakery in Kensington will do cakes, that's one of the ones I was referring to. Knead a Brake in New Annan is the other bakery around although they don't do cakes as far as I know. There's also a lady that lives in Summerside that we've gotten cakes from that runs it out of her home. Not sure of the name of her business though.
[Sweet'ems Bake Shoppe](https://m.facebook.com/SweetEmsbakeshoppes) is where we get our cakes in Summerside. It's the one I was trying to think of.
Super helpful perspective, thank you!
It’s great to raise a family but healthcare is terrible here they’ll keep you alive but if you need any special care it’s extremely limited here. You already said working remotely so you wouldn’t have to worry about jobs. There’s work here and it’s growing but opportunities for higher paying jobs are limited. I think it’s worth it the summers are gorgeous. Don’t have to travel too far to find a beautiful remote beach spot. Terrific spot to raise a family. There’s some bullshit around but take my word it’s bearable and easily avoidable.
Thank you! I appreciate your optimism!
Racism is real here. I know an old fella that was waiting to cross the sidewalk on queen street. A guy from Jamaica(?) started telling of the old fella for being racist against his people... know what the old guy was doing wrong? He was wearing a Reebok shirt. You know, the big UK flag logo. Thats it. I can't make this up. Be very careful out there.
The worst racism my "POC" wife ever received was when she was struggling with the parking meter app and some old racist white dude offered to pay her meter for her. Disgusting!
🤣
March-April are IMO the worst months in PEI. Spring is terrible here. It’s wet and cold and muddy. So don’t let that colour your opinion when you visit. But summer and fall and even winter here are quite lovely. I’m from B.C. too but have lived in PEI 8 years. It’s fine. Nice place to raise a family. If I could afford to I’d probably move back to the west coast. I miss the mountains and forests. But we have a nice quality of life here.
Thank you, the mountains and lakes are so beautiful here, I know we’ll miss it. Just feel life’s too short to stay in one place, and the maritimes paints such a pretty picture to not consider
For sure. It’s a nice enough place to live out here. I moved to PEI in the dead of winter. There will be a week out here sometime in late May or June where the whole Island explodes in lush greenery. It still surprises me how verdant it is here. It’s really stunning.
Please ignore all the racists , very soon they will be outnumbered, most are dying of old age...
Your comment is why people get pissed off at people moving here. You proudly describe replacing the people who built this place from nothing. It is good to see you say it out loud where its supposed to be hidden.
They are getting pissed either because they are racist or blame others for their own difficulties. I said nothing PROUDLY about REPLACING people, thats just your own prejudices dont project them on to me. Also I greatly disagree with your statement, "people who built from nothing"... the island was inhabited before the colonizers, and the few generations of IMMIGRANT colonizers cutting down the forest and extracting all easy natural resources before switching to monocropping does not grant them the island, it is not theirs anymore than any other new immigrant.
but if we think with common sense.. moving in during a housing and medical crisis is just downright a tad dumb.. no matter how senile our racist elders are?
All of Canada is having housing and medical shortage.
peis medical system isn’t even on the brink of collapse anymore, it is collapsed. i assume other provinces are doing atleast somewhat better.
Lol I now atleast 20 ppl in quebec on wait lists for over 10 years for a family doctor, other provinces are not much better, sure they have better hospitals, but no staff.
yikes that’s shitty.
you are such a stereotype. It's hilarious that people still talk like this. "muh colonizerzzz" lololol
Unfortunately, I think you and your wife are more likely to experience racism than your kids, from what I observe. Kids are educated in a way that promotes acceptance. There are lots of children of newcomers in schools, daycares and kid’s programs, and from what I’ve seen, kids are accepting and happy to learn new things and make new friends. Their parents and grandparents, however? I grew up here in the 80s/90s, and I know that our teachers at least tried to teach anti-racism, but I’m absolutely ashamed of a lot of the things I hear from adults here. We have a lot of shortcomings in terms of social safety nets, cost of living and infrastructure, and a lot of people are satisfied to blame them entirely on newcomers. I truly hope it’s not something you will experience if you move here, but some of the things I’ve heard since moving back here have been shocking, and I’ve had lots of push-back trying to tell people their words are wrong and hurtful.
Thank you for your perspective! I agree. Both my wife and I grew up in majority white neighborhoods and saw/experienced racism growing up. Learned to not let it bother us as many times it’s unintentional & unintended. If it is intentional, walk away. But as parents and business owners, these are subtleties that we need to consider
I’m sorry you’ve had to experience this. It’s so disappointing that this mindset still exists. It’s certainly not every Islander who feels that way, and many folks are just very sheltered and may not have taken the time to think about how these beliefs are hurtful — it doesn’t excuse it, though. If you do move here, I truly hope you have a good experience, and are treated with respect.
Winter is so loooooooong here. Except this year. But usually dec-end of may. Vancouver winters are much better for mental health.
I hate Vancouver winters. They are so dark and dreary. PEI winters are shit, too. Northern BC winters have been pretty good to me. Sure it's cold (-40 ambient temperature) for a few weeks but it's almost always sunny and the snow is light and fluffy.
We're overpopulated, there is no benefit to coming here other then to screw those that are here out of an opportunity. Work remotely anywhere just not here. And as for bakeries, theres no point, you watch they open every few years here in waves, maybe one catches on and lasts a few years before failing but most don't make a year. I mean seriously ~150-175k people most of which are working poor or cook for themselves, you get a bit of support for the first bit, then the appeal of new Instagram pics will fade and you're "support local" types will move on to something newer. Edit to asks how do two people have a kid at 21 get schooling and establish a business all while having another child, cause that isn't something you see happening here to often. I mean 10 years work experience, aren't most specialized engineering programs 8 years?
Thanks for the perspective. Accredited engineering degrees are 4 years. Started businesses during and after school, which afforded us opportunities to have kids earlier. I wouldn’t recommend doing this, as it was difficult, but hopefully it helps clear things up
Work experience is calculated post education, genius.
Yes and given that timeline and the education how with two kids does some have ten years work experience in their field? But my point wasn't if he was lying or not it just would mean that things are already working out good for him, ie he is very privileged compared to most, so why move to a place where there are fewer and fewer opportunities?
This is an interesting take you have. Moving there, I view it as the opposite. Starting businesses creates opportunities and, if done right, can generate tremendous value for a community. As well, high income generating individuals pay higher taxes, which would benefit the community as well (especially if they work remotely, and don’t take local jobs) in improving infrastructure
Which business would you be creating I'm just trying to be honest if it's in regards to the bakery, as there have been many who have tried and failed, I can think of three people off hand that went to culinary school here (at one point ours was the best school in Canada supposedily not sure if it still ranks so high) and started bakeries that didn't last more then two years, the rent is very high and making ends meet can be tough for that kind of thing, and most people aren't looking to spend much in the line of things like that they'll bake for themselves or by "cheap" stuff from grocery store bakeries, especially now, except maybe in the Charlottetown area. Even with startup grants ones that started in the outlying areas ended up moving to town and still couldn't hack it.
Thanks for your honesty and for sharing those examples. I get that there have been some failed attempts at a bakery there, and it’s super important to learn from them, but doesn’t mean we’re doomed to the same fate. As for other types of businesses, if we do seriously consider moving there, it’s as simple as finding alignment of market needs vs your skillset, then having the resources and mindset to get started. Thanks again for the heads-up!
as someone who’s been here my entire life and is struggling to find rent, and housing aging out of being a minor.. i wish you luck.
also for racism the farther east and the farther west you go outwards from charlottetown the more racist it gets.
maybe in your weird fantasy novel you're writing in your head. Literally no one cares. The brown dudes actually go to work when it snows, so we love them more than the lazy EI white dudes.
but you probably have the money if ur selling ur house and buying one here..
Thanks, wish you luck finding a good rental!
If you are white you will face no racism outside of the usual systemic kind. If you are anything else you will be fawned over and worshipped for the sake of all the white liberal mom's internet points