I came from a city where the coldest temperature was 18 degrees and when I landed here in Prince George, BC, the first thing that was a shock to me was the -30 temperature.
But quickly I learnt that while the air might be cold, the hearts of Prince Georgians are warm, and the people are what make you feel loved and, in the end, get attached to the community.
The city’s vibrant character attracts people from all over the world, offering opportunities to learn from diverse cultures and connect with remarkable individuals. The culture and history speak a lot about the warmth that reflects out of the people of PG. The city that connects Northern BC to the world, also bonds the community together.
The four key pillars that I observed in the city of Prince George are education, healthcare, forestry, and the location in itself. The two educational institutions are as important as the two intersecting rivers that made the city survive and will help it keep growing.
The University Hospital of Northern BC helps keep the beautiful people of the north safe and healthy, and forestry is what became the backbone industry to put the city on the map. Additionally, the geography, with its protective mountains, makes Prince George an ideal place in Northern BC.
The city has many opportunities to offer, as the multinational companies are recognizing the value of Prince George and the talent that is residing within the city. I didn’t face any barriers when trying to find a job, as I believe if you have something interesting to offer, you will always find something you love to do.
I am currently attending CNC to obtain a post-diploma in tourism and hotel management, and while trying to juggle school and life, I also work at a renowned hotel in the city, as well as a seasonal job at Tourism PG. My work and education are opening up more experiences for me, and I am excited to see where they lead me next!
Prince George is a haven for nature lovers, offering a wide range of recreational activities, adventures, sports, and cultural experiences. Although I have enjoyed horse-riding, fishing, and museum tours, I look forward to exploring more during the summer months. Winter activities like snowboarding had to be postponed due to exam priorities, but more fishing and biking are awaiting in the meantime.
For food lovers, Prince George is a paradise with over 60 restaurants, each offering something unique. From poutine to Paronthe, sushi to steak, the city has a diverse culinary scene. The options are abundant, exceeding your appetite, and the prices are more affordable. Every month, I eagerly search for new food places to try something different. Recently, I had the pleasure of experiencing Korean fried chicken and corn dogs for the first time, and next on my list is an Italian pizza place nearby. While choosing from the plethora of options can be overwhelming, dining with loved ones is therapeutic. The city boasts more cafes than bears and moose in the forest, making it a haven for coffee enthusiasts. So, if you’re planning to move to Prince George, food is one thing you don’t need to worry about.
The city in itself is multicultural and respects every aspect of each-other’s religion and beliefs. I was surprised when people greeted me with my religious greeting, which motivated me to learn about other cultures and try my best to understand and respect their beliefs. During college, I got the chance to exchange my experiences and beliefs that I have from my home country with others. The thing I noticed the most was that every culture respects their elders and that family is the most important thing in one’s life. In the limited time I have been in Prince George, I have built a new family in one of the most beautiful cities in Canada.
Prince George is my first destination outside my hometown Chandigarh, India. Moving here has become the best adventure of my life, and the ancestral land of the Lheidli T’enneh Nation has become home to me.
