Christmas Abroad: There's always a new adventure awaiting in Vancouver
Originally from Tubber, Moate, Helen Connor is now living on the Western coast of Canada.
How did your move to Canada come about?
I studied Agricultural Science in UCD, and soon after finishing my studies I was ready to fly the nest. I was stuck between three top contenders; Australia, New Zealand and Canada.
One of my good friends from secondary school, Claire Leonard, had made the move to Canada, and after seeing all of her stunning pictures and hearing all the wonderful things she had to say about life here, my decision was simple and I quickly followed in her footsteps.
It's hard to believe that it’s almost five years since I first waved goodbye to my family in Dublin Airport.
Where in Canada are you living?
I live in Vancouver, British Columbia. It's a unique city and really interesting place to live as we have gorgeous beaches and amazing mountains to explore all within 30 minutes of our front door.
What are the best and worst things about life in Canada?
The best thing is definitely the lifestyle. No matter what the season, there's always a new adventure awaiting; whether it's camping and hiking during the summer or heading up the mountains for some snowboarding during the winter.
The worst thing, of course, is being away from our nearest and dearest. Even on the best of days, it's hard not to miss a cup of tea and a slice of Mammy's apple tart!
What are your plans for Christmas Day this year?
I will be spending Christmas Day with my boyfriend, Micky, and a few close Irish friends. We will try our best to create a taste of home with turkey, ham and all the trimmings! We'll be sure to fit in a few video calls home, too, to see what Santy brought to Ireland.
What are some of the things you will miss about Christmas in Ireland?
I'll miss my sister Linda making her wonderful cocktails on Christmas morning, my Mammy Olive making her croquettes, and my brother Andrew making the trifle! Mainly I'll miss the food (haha!).
The atmosphere in Ireland at Christmas is almost impossible to recreate, so I'll be thinking of the craic in Egan's pub in Moate on Stephen's Night! It's always the best night of the year.
Is there any message you'd like to send to your friends or family reading this?
I'd like to say an extra special Happy Christmas to a young girl, Ella Reynolds! I'm sure she's been very good this year, and I can't wait to hear what Santy brings her!
I'd also like to say Happy Christmas to all my family and friends at home, I'll miss ye all so much and will be thinking of ye over the festive season! Hopefully I'll get back for a visit for Christmas next year.