In this First Person narrative, Caitlyn Moony shares her journey of relocating to Vancouver and her evolving perspective on the city. For additional insights into CBC’s First Person stories, refer to the FAQ.
A former partner once shared a song by British indie artist Passenger with Caitlyn Moony, featuring lyrics, “Only know you love her when you let her go,” in a bid to rekindle their relationship. Displeased by the sentiment of only valuing someone after parting ways, Caitlyn deleted the message.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Caitlyn now finds herself reminiscing about her initial impressions of Vancouver when she relocated from Johannesburg in 2018.
Before her move, Caitlyn, having worked as a freelance social researcher in South Africa, faced limited career prospects and meager pay, prompting her to seek better opportunities in Vancouver, where her sister and family already resided. Seduced by Vancouver’s reputation as one of the top cities to live in, Caitlyn envisioned a smooth transition to Canada, anticipating a vibrant lifestyle blending outdoor activities and urban indulgences.
Upon her arrival, Caitlyn was captivated by Vancouver’s natural beauty, from the majestic North Shore mountains visible even from the city center to the serene rain showers in Pacific Spirit Park. However, as time passed, Caitlyn’s initial infatuation with the city waned as she confronted challenges.
Struggling to establish professional connections and lacking the elusive “Canadian experience” sought by employers, Caitlyn settled for a demanding administrative role at a startup. Balancing exhausting work hours with high living costs in a cramped basement apartment, she grappled with feelings of isolation and disillusionment.
Her discontentment grew as she scrutinized Vancouver’s shortcomings, comparing its amenities unfavorably to those of her previous residences. The city’s slower pace and limited social connections left her yearning for the sense of community she once enjoyed elsewhere.
Ultimately, the isolation exacerbated by the pandemic prompted Caitlyn to leave for London, seeking the bustling energy and familiarity of a city she had lived in before.
While London offered an exciting array of cultural experiences, Caitlyn felt like an outsider in a city she once called home. Her time in Vancouver had subtly transformed her, instilling a sense of tranquility and self-discovery that she had not expected. Despite its imperfections, Vancouver had become a place where she found solace and a deeper connection.
In a heartfelt plea to Vancouver, Caitlyn expresses her desire to return, acknowledging