The move to Loch Lomond has been a wonderful experience for us. From the very beginning, we were welcomed with open arms, and we quickly developed a sense of home and belonging. Surprisingly, the five-hour time difference after the long journey didn’t give us any trouble. Our sleep schedule was already disrupted from the trip, so we were able to adjust to the new time zone right away.
Friendly Neighbors
Our kind landlords introduced us to several neighbors within the first few days. These encounters were incredibly positive, as the neighbors immediately shared their contact information and offered their help. It was so comforting to know that we weren’t alone in case of questions or problems and that there was always someone we could turn to. One particularly nice gesture was an invitation to the weekly darts gatherings at the local event hall. They also invited us to drop by their homes anytime. These first connections made us feel welcomed and like part of a community.
On the board in front of the assembly hall, you can always find information about upcoming events.
A Special Dinner with Our Landlords
A real highlight of our first week was dinner with our landlords. Their daughter had followed a mostly plant-based diet, but the parents had little experience with vegan meals. Still, they went out of their way to research a great recipe using ingredients available locally and prepared a delicious lasagna.
I have to admit, I didn’t take a picture of the lasagna that evening, but we made one ourselves shortly afterward. The other pictures show our first grocery shopping experience.
During dinner, we learned a lot about their personal stories, the house, and the surrounding area. They gave us valuable tips on the best places to shop, gas stations, and the only laundromat, as well as advice on local attractions worth visiting. These conversations helped us quickly get oriented and better understand our new surroundings.
Our first shopping trip in Canada, visiting the garden center and laundromat in Saint Peters, the Walmart in Sydney – and of course, picking up some of the iconic Canadian caps, a must-have!
Successful Car Registration in Port Hawkesbury
Another important step was registering our car. For this, we drove to Port Hawkesbury to the „Access Nova Scotia Centre„. The process was straightforward, and we received our new license plates. In Nova Scotia, the registration stickers on the plates need to be renewed every two years. These stickers confirm that the vehicle is properly insured and registered, ensuring that all vehicles are regularly inspected. It’s important to note that when registering a car for the first time, all individuals listed on the purchase contract or insurance policy must be present, otherwise it’s not possible.
A Day in Port Hawkesbury
Port Hawkesbury is a charming town of about 3,200 residents. It serves as a regional hub, offering plenty of amenities and cultural experiences. The Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre is a key meeting point, hosting numerous events and activities throughout the year. The locals recommended the Grist Mill Museum Park and the LeNoir Forge Museum as must-see attractions. The Grist Mill Museum Park showcases historical milling technology and agriculture, while the LeNoir Forge Museum offers insights into blacksmithing and life in the 19th century. However, we haven’t yet visited these places as we didn’t want to leave Diana in the car for too long after the journey, and our cats were still adjusting to the new home.
Diana’s New Friend, Mia
Our dog Diana quickly made a new friend – Mia, a beautiful white husky (mix?). In Austria, Diana had several dog friends that she loved meeting up with regularly.
Old Friendships
Many of our friends were a big part of our lives, and Diana always greeted them enthusiastically. We were worried about how she would cope with the loss of this „extended pack.“ We knew there would be other dogs here, but in Canada, it’s not common to walk dogs as many of them are kept as guard dogs on large properties where they get plenty of exercise. We were all the more pleased that Diana immediately bonded with Mia, and her owner warmly welcomed us as well. We now meet them regularly on our daily walks, which has greatly helped us feel at home in this new environment. These encounters showed us that we have found a wonderful place not just for ourselves, but also for our beloved Diana.
Our first days in Loch Lomond were filled with joy, new friendships, and valuable experiences. We are so grateful for the warmth and support we’ve received here and are looking forward to many more adventures in this beautiful region. Stay tuned for more updates!
With these stories, we hope to inspire others and show that moving to a new place can be an opportunity for personal growth and new connections. With the right support and an open mind, it can be an incredibly enriching experience that enhances your life in wonderful ways.
Your Thoughts?
Have you emigrated before and have a story to tell? We’d love to hear it! Are you planning to move? What are your hopes and fears about starting fresh? We look forward to your messages!
