8 things that shocked me about Calgary as a small-town transplant
Moving from a small town to a big city like Calgary was definitely an eye-opener. From the endless city streets to the people, food, and culture, there were plenty of things that took me by surprise.
Even after living here for a while, some things still catch me off guard. Here are eight things that shocked me about Calgary as a small-town transplant.
Traffic is wild
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In my small town, it takes a total of 10 minutes to get across town, but in Calgary, that feels like a dream. I’ve unfortunately learned the hard way that taking Deerfoot at 5 p.m. is basically a test of patience and a real-life game of Mario Kart.Â
The endless neighbourhoods
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Did you know Calgary has over 200 neighbourhoods? Coming from a town I could easily navigate blindfolded, it was a shocking reminder of just how big Calgary really is. Even after some time here, I’m still discovering corners of the city I didn’t know existed.
Cyclists are everywhere
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I didn’t realize how serious Calgary is about biking until I saw cyclists zooming down the street in all kinds of weather: rain, wind, snow, or shine. You quickly learn to look both ways, twice, and if you hear a bell ring, it’s time to move or get run over.Â
The weather swings
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Before coming to Calgary, people would always talk about the unpredictable weather, but I didn’t really get what the big deal was… until I moved here. One morning, it could be 15°C, and by the afternoon, a massive snowstorm is rolling in. Now I always keep a jacket and sunglasses on hand.
Patio life
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I’ve always loved a good patio, but Calgary takes it to a whole new level. In the warmer months, every cafe and restaurant has outdoor seating, and I’m not complaining. I quickly learned that claiming a sunny spot on a Stephen Avenue patio is basically a sport. Â
The massive malls
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The mall in my small town has maybe six stores. In Calgary, one shopping centre feels like a small city. Dozens of stores, multiple floors, restaurants, services, entertainment — you name it, it’s probably in the mall.Â
There are quiet moments
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Don’t get me wrong, the city is full of hustle and bustle, which is what I fully expected when moving to Calgary. What shocked me, though, is that you can still find pockets of calm. Quaint streets, peaceful parks, and tranquil walks are scattered throughout the city, making it feel almost quiet.Â
Crowds are everywhere
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Even on a regular weekday, downtown streets are alive with people hustling, meeting friends, or rushing to work. Coming from a place where you wave at everyone you see, it’s a lot to take in.Â