I do not write very often, but I am hoping that people on here can help me.

I am a residential care home owner in West Yorkshire. I have wished to emigrate to vancouver for some time now. I have now booked a visit to vancouver in september.

The purpose of the visit is to do a recon visit on areas in vancouver in view to settling down, and also research the elderly care home industry there.

From the experience of other expats, is there anything specific that I can do while in vancouver which can help me later? i.e. set up a bank account?

I want to research housing. Is it better for me to buy or go the self build route?

Are there any websites where I can make contacts with people involved in elderly care in vancouver?

Thanks for help in advance

Can't really help you, but just thought I'd point out that "the elderly" are known as "seniors" here.

I think it sounds much more respectful!

Good luck, there is a growing seniors population so I'm sure you'll be successful.

ps In Calgary anway, "residential care homes" are known as "lodges" if that helps your research any.

I would buy rather than build. If you search the Lifestyle & Culture - Canada forum, you'll find horror stories about building delays. Admittedly that's in Alberta's over-heated economy, but Vancouver's building industry is going full throttle too, what with preparations for the 2010 Winter Olympics and all.

Sue and Frank Gerryts of Relocation 2 BC may be able to help you during your reccie trip. All I know about them is what their website says. I don't know them in "real life." However, since they are British expats, they may be able to understand your needs more than most. If nothing else, their website has good moving checklists.