Across the Pond, Into the Peaks: A UK Woman’s Guide to Finding Community in Calgary

Written by Sherry Joyce

Boarding a one way flight from the UK to Calgary, was both equal parts brave and slightly unhinged, especially given the only person I knew was a friend I’d met two months prior via TikTok, but Calgary has a way of turning uncertainty into connection. This guide shares what it’s really like to move, find your people, and start over again in your 30s.

Boarding my one way flight to Calgary in February 2025 felt a mixture of both brave and somewhat unhinged. I had convinced myself and everyone back home that I'd last 8 weeks, nothing to see or worry about, I was certain I wouldn’t stay. That somehow dulled the pressure of realising I’d sold absolutely everything in the UK to board a flight with no job, no safety net, and no guaranteed place to stay. Only a plan that depended on the one friend I knew in Canada, someone I’d met two months earlier via TikTok. If it didn’t work, there was no backup.

They say if you’re going to do something, go all in. By the time the plane landed, I already had.

I arrived with my documents all neatly placed in a labelled folder, I’d watched and memorised the YouTube guides and endlessly scrolled the IEC immigration Facebook group. I had everything prepared but myself, but can you really be prepared for such a move? Looking back I really had no idea just the impact Canada would have on me. I vividly remember that out of body experience as we approached Banff for the first time, the snow covered mountains with an open road that spoke of promise and hope, which when you’ve lost that for a while, feels as though you’ve come back home to yourself.

One of the most daunting parts of moving to a new country however, isn't the paperwork or the weather, though I say this as if I didn't rock up without gloves or a toque in -26 weather. It's the quiet moments in between, when you're still looking for work, friends, and trying to fill out your days when the silence runs loud. This is a guide I wish existed when I was thinking of making the move. Not just the logistics, although you need those too, but the real and raw emotions you'll feel when making a life-altering change.

If you're a woman thinking of making the same leap this is for you.

YOUR SURVIVAL GUIDE:

1. Finding 'Your People' takes time, but Calgarians make it easier.

If you've ever heard that Canadians are the friendliest people, I can confirm this is true. Back home I would never have dreamt of just 'hanging out' with people I'd just met, but here, it's the norm. As a newcomer, finding your community can feel daunting, especially if you're not overly extroverted, but here are a few ways you can get yourself out there and start to build your life and connections. Remember to lean in and say yes to those small invitations, you never know where they may lead.

• Check Local Facebook Groups - Calgary Women Ask - Meet new friends. A welcoming space to start conversations, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and take the leap first.

• Search for Networking Events - RealRoots - It’s a local business that hosts networking events. You are paired with like-minded women based on pre-filled out questionnaires. The event runs at a local spot, with a complimentary beverage on arrival. Throughout the evening, you’ll be asked questions and paired with one another to begin forging connections.
  
  

2. A New Place to Belong: Neighbourhoods to Suit Every Personality.

Wandering through a new country and trying to soothe parts that miss home can be extremely tough. Calgary doesn't feel like a huge city, but more like dozens of small towns and independent businesses, all with big hearts that have their own personality that give you that community feel, with something to suit everyone. My favourite places so far are:

• Inglewood - Artsy, charismatic, quirky boutiques and live music that fills the streets in summer. 'The Vintage Shop' is a personal favourite, great if you're looking for unique pieces that are affordable and for figuring out your style.

• Marda Loop - The perfect blend of boutique shops and a relaxed vibe, the place for slow Sunday mornings. Not to mention 'Cobs Bakery' and 'Village Ice Cream' are a stone's throw away from each other, making a perfect day for a little sweet treat. 

• Kensington - If you love coffee, you'll love it here, it's also perfect for watching the world float by on a patio outside. 
  
  

3. Wellness, Connection, and Community - Rebuilding Your Sense of Self After Moving Abroad.

There's something comforting about stepping into a room full of people that are all trying to better themselves, in whatever way that looks for them. You're no longer the newcomer but another friendly face showing up to class to be better than you were yesterday. Wellness here isn't just about the body but connection, confidence and the quiet friendships formed between classes. Spaces I have loved since being here are:

• YYC Cycle - You can't beat a spin class, and this just may be the most empowering one I've been to. Teachers encourage you by name over the mic (which when you’ve moved thousands of miles away really is a comforting touch). Not to mention there’s an energy that you really can't get anywhere else, also there are themed cycles! Did someone say Disney?

• Run Calgary - I ran the half marathon back in May, the atmosphere was electric and the running of the event was seamless. A great way to connect with other runners and feel a part of something bigger than yourself, be sure to check out local Run Clubs in your area, often there’s a chance to go for coffee and a pastry after, and who can’t make friends over that?

In summary, if you feel the pull, follow it. Nothing worth having comes easy, and often it’s our own fear standing in our way.

You’ll find a million reasons to say no, all you need to listen to, is that quiet yes.

Moving countries is never a simple decision to make, it's messy, bold and brave, but somehow Calgary has a way of rewarding the leap and your courage. It’s in the moments you least expect, a stunning sunrise, a sudden glance up at the mountains, or the quiet gasp that catches you as you reach Lake Moraine, with its turquoise water glowing as cool air slips past you. It's in the quiet knowing that you've stepped into something greater than you ever anticipated you were ready for.

You are home.