Halifax, NS
Halifax, the capital of the Nova Scotia and a major economic centre in Atlantic Canada, is known to offer an excellent quality of life and this Halifax Livability guide will give you all the reasons why. With booming employment opportunities in the fishing, mining, forestry and energy sectors, ease of setting up businesses and its close proximity to the great outdoors, it’s easy to see the reason behind Halifax’s steady immigration rates.
The majority of Halifax residents are young professionals working in one of the many industries in private sector companies or government services. The city is also popular with for families raising young children, as there is a well-developed network of public and private schools as well as institutes for higher education. The city is divided into 18 community areas, which are in turn divided into neighbourhoods. Clayton Park, with easy access to shops, schools and parks is one of the cities most coveted neighbourhoods. The areas of Cole Harbour and Woodlawn located further away from the city centre are popular with families and those who prefer a quieter residential environment. The South End and Downtown areas are the hubs of activity and although more expensive, are located within convenient distance of amenities and hubs of commercial activities. Halifax Transit provides bus and ferry services to the urban area of Halifax, which makes it easy to get around the whole of this beautiful city.
Dartmouth was once an independent city in Nova Scotia that has since been amalgamated into the Halifax municipality. Lying right across from Halifax, Dartmouth has a unique identity and has undergone revitalization in recent years. If you’re thinking of moving there, check out this Dartmouth Livability guide for the best of what this lovely suburban city offers.
Favourite recreational spot for residents include the Dartmouth area, which provides a range of options all year round, from swimming, kayaking and windsurfing in the summer, to skating on the frozen lakes in the winter. The waterfront is another popular area with a variety of historical buildings, shops, restaurants and entertainment options. During the summer months, you should catch one of the many harbour boat tours and take visiting friends and family along. The Seaport Farmers’ Market is sure to become a mainstay on your weekend itinerary because of the availability of fresh produce, ethnic food, plants, artwork and clothing.
No Halifax guide is complete without a mention of this coastal city’s famous seafood. Many restaurants in Halifax specialise in local Nova Scotia cuisine as well as delicacies such as scallops and seafood chowder. Halifax is also famous for its lobsters, however as these are quite pricey at restaurants, locals prefer to buy from fishermen who often sell street side, where you’re sure to get the best deal.