Congratulations! You’ve worked hard, you’ve raised a family, and now you are ready for a little R & R. And, perhaps, you are wondering, “where is the best place in Canada for retirees.”
Welcome to the Okanagan valley; the top destination for retirees and for good reason. Not only does it have the best weather in Canada, but it also has all of the world-class amenities that most people can only access when they are on vacation.
Top-tier golf courses, restaurants, and wineries; a vibrant arts community and a world-renowned ski hill. The Okanagan has it all.
Many people who want to retire to the Okanagan can be a discouraged when they look at the house prices in the main city of Kelowna; however, they should look a little further from the city limits to explore the many wonderful the neighbouring communities of Keremeos, Oliver, and even Grand Forks, where there are many real estate listings at reasonable rates.
The dry weather of the Okanagan valley is one of the major draws for many retirees who want to relocate to BC. But good weather aside, Canadian citizens who want to relocate for their retirement should consider a number of important details in addition to the recreational activities available.
Is there senior housing?
Is there a hospital or health clinic nearby?
How far is the nearest airport?
Is there a decent public transit system?
Are there vacancies in retirement communities?
Check, check, and check. The Okanagan offers all of these amenities and more. If shopping is high on your list of fun things to do, residents can shop till they drop in one of the unique boutiques in the downtown areas or any of the big brand names in the malls.
The retirement communities in the Okanagan are thriving in this four season playground. The lifestyle is healthy with plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Whether a high-speed sea doo or a pleasurable paddle round the lake is your watersport of choice, recreation and relaxation on the lakes is accessible and affordable. And where else in the world could you buy an affordable townhome on a world-class ski hill?
Many boomers attracted to the Okanagan are only too happy to swap rush hour for red wine, and, boy, do we have some wonderful reds in BC’s wine country. Perk up the palate with a pinot noir from one of the many boutique wineries.
Are you heading into your swinging sixties? Then it’s high time to perfect that swing on one of the many (over twenty) picturesque greens. And with the longest golf season in Canada, why wouldn’t you pack up your clubs and head west.
Until recently, the Okanagan valley was a well-kept and much treasured secret. The clean lakes, amazing views, and pristine environment made it a favourite destination of tourists and travellers. The recent development in business has allowed the Okanagan to grow, and in addition to the natural beauty, it now offers all the amenities of the major cities.
So, instead of asking if you should be moving to the Okanagan – you should be asking, when?
