So far, the list of snafus for moving from Vancouver to Chicago is smaller than the list from Chicago to Vancouver. Some things, though, are on both lists.
Banking
I knew I had to setup a different bank account in Canada in order to get paid in Canadian dollars. I choose the bank I did because it also has ties to Chicago, and logic dictates that transferring funds, if I were to ever move back to Chicago, would be simple. I had setup US accounts before leaving and figured that was all well and good. I have other accounts to fall back on, which is good as the exchange rate has been crap.
Easier banking though? Nope.
Though they are branded the same, the banks run on different systems that do not talk to each other. While I understand banking regulations vary by country and what not, I do not quite understand why I need two different accounts with the same bank. Except that they are, in fact, not the same bank. False advertising?
Something Will Take Longer than Expected
In this move, the three boxes I shipped via Canada post, which cleared and have been in the US since January 11, have not arrived. Estimated arrival time was January 14. Here it is, January 18. All either site will tell me is that it cleared the San Francisco distribution center.
Re-Acclimating/Adjusting. To the Weather.
True, I am an American. True, I am a Chicagoan. True, I have missed Chicago. However, I have not missed Chicago winters. Apparently another Polar Vortex is on its way, too, so I’ll get that experience, too.
The thing about Chicago winters is the wind. And, well, now, the cold! Where the dampness in Vancouver seeps into your bones, the cold in Chicago drills into your bones, decides that doesn’t do enough and thus continues to infiltrate your bloodstream so it can circulate from your head to your toes.
Cost and Abundance
America really is a consumerist culture. Americans like choice, lots of choices. After being in Vancouver, it’s mind boggling. There’s even stuff in America for a dollar! Granted there is choice in Vancouver, too. Mostly when it comes to restaurants, especially Asian restaurants. Grocery shopping was a pretty simple task, once I figured out the branding. Back in Chicago, though, it is an overwhelming task. I’m sure it’ll ease up, I’ll become accustomed to it again, but it strikes as interesting that there are so many options, for everything, not just toothpaste.
All in all, it’s been an easier move to Chicago than it was to Vancouver. There are a number of reasons why, of course, some obvious, some less so. I know what I’m getting into this time though, which makes a difference. I had no idea what I was getting into in Vancouver, be it job, lifestyle, all of it. Had no idea.
Quite an experience, though, and a fantastic personal experience. If you ever get the chance to live somewhere else, even for a year, take it.