British man names expat 'paradise' where people are 'open and welcoming' - 'it's not just a rumour'

Expat in Spain shares the worst thing about moving to the European hotspot
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Anna Barry

By Anna Barry


Published: 14/04/2025

- 13:54

GB News is talking to expats across Europe and the world who have exclusively revealed the best places to live, tips and tricks for moving abroad, and the potential pitfalls to avoid. This week, an expat in Canada revealed what makes the locals so special

Whether it's new career opportunities, more picturesque scenery, better weather or a slower pace of life, moving abroad can be an attractive option for many reasons.

European expat havens such as Spain, France and Portugal prove popular among Britons who want to stay relatively close to their family and friends in the UK.


But for those who are not tied to Europe, there are countless possibilities for adventurers, professionals and retirees alike.

GB News spoke exclusively to Rich Maw, founder of Hostel Gigs, about his decision to move to Banff, Canada.

Rich Maw in Banff, Alberta, Canada

Rich fell in love with Canada but admitted that 'paradise comes with a price tag'

Rich Maw

He previously spoke about his two-year stint Down Under, praising Australia's "relaxed and enjoyable" lifestyle.

This time, he revealed his favourite things about living in a beautiful North American nation, although he did admit one downside.

Banff is known for its incredible natural beauty - think towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes and lush forests.

As a resort town located within Banff National Park, Alberta, it provides opportunities for skiing, hiking, wildlife spotting, and camping.

But while its spectacular landscapes were certainly a highlight for Rich, what really amazed the expat about Canada was the locals.

"Banff was a revelation," he said. "The skiing culture there was amazing, but what really struck me was the people.

"They were incredibly open and welcoming, with a sense of community that felt genuine and warm.

"Unlike my experiences in the UK, there was this beautiful approach to multiculturalism; people didn't just tolerate differences, they actively celebrated them.

"In the UK, I often felt like other cultures were misunderstood, but in Canada, it was the opposite. Everyone was welcomed with open arms and respected."

Canada is hailed as one of the friendliest countries in the world, with locals known for their impeccable manners and kindness. It is also a nation that prioritises multiculturalism, inclusivity and progressiveness.

According to Rich, Canada definitely deserves its reputation. Indeed, what "surprised him most" about the North American country was that the welcoming nature of locals is "not just a rumour".

"It felt like everyone was happy to help or welcome you; no matter where you came from, you were always welcome to any event," he said.


But no place is perfect, and naturally, there were some drawbacks to life in Canada.

The expat said: "Beautiful? Absolutely. Affordable? Not even close. It costs £20 for three measly chicken breasts? Are you kidding me?

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Rich Maw skiing in Banff, Alberta, Canada

'The skiing culture was amazing'

Rich Maw

"I became a budgeting ninja overnight. Every grocery trip was like a strategic military operation - comparing prices, hunting for deals, and cutting corners wherever I could. Paradise comes with a price tag, and in Canada, that price tag is steep."

Rich admitted that the sheer expense of the move was something he wasn't prepared for.

"It's an amazing place, but the cost of living can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared," he said.

According to the experts at Moneycorp, rental prices in the UK are 10.2 per cent lower than in Canada. As for consumer prices, UK costs - not including rent - are 8.6 per cent lower than in Canada.

For Britons looking to relocate but a little closer to home, an unlikely European destination made one expat fall in love.