Hey, everyone. So, the political situation in Brazil has really gone downhill in the past few years. Even though our current president is from the left, extreme right-wing politics and religious influences are growing fast. On top of that, unemployment is high, and the minimum wage is barely over 300 Canadian dollars—it’s getting harder and harder to get by.

I'm 31 and I’ve been making a living as a translator (Portuguese, Spanish, and English), but with AI tools like ChatGPT, translation work is drying up. Paying rent has become a struggle, and honestly, I’m fed up.

Canada has always been a dream of mine, but I was held back by family after I finished college. Now, after a few years of therapy, I’m realizing I don’t need their approval to live my life the way I want. It’s time to plan my way out of Brazil.

I’m good at planning, so I know this will take some time, but I need your advice: Vancouver or Toronto? Or maybe somewhere else entirely? I love living in big cities—having grown up in a small rural town, I appreciate the healthcare, stores, cultural events, and movie theaters that big cities offer.

But… from what I’m seeing, the housing market in Canada is pretty wild right now. Is it even worth it, or should I be looking at another LGBTQIA friendly country that offers a better wage and quality of life?

About 10 years ago, when I first researched moving to Canada, I was drawn to Vancouver because of the more balanced climate—not too extreme, with both warm and cold weather.

On the other hand, Toronto seems to have an incredible cultural scene, and as a movie geek, attending the Toronto International Film Festival has always been on my bucket list.

Anyway, I’m rambling, but I’d love to hear your thoughts and advice on moving to either Vancouver or Toronto. And if I’m overlooking some better options, feel free to suggest them. I’m really fed up with the situation here, and I might be missing some good alternatives.

Thanks so much for reading my rant and helping out. Love you all!