What I miss MOST About the UK (while I’m home in Canada)

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As a Canadian living in the UK, it always surprises me how much I truly miss Britain when I'm not there. Check out these British things I miss while I'm in home in Canada 🇨🇦🇬🇧
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Hey! I'm Alanna - a thirty-something documenting my life as a Canadian living in England.
I share the ups and downs of an expat living abroad and what it's really like living in the UK. It's not always easy, but there's been so many wonderful experiences, too. I post a KZbin video every Tuesday plus an additional video every Saturday on Patreon + YT Memberships. I also livestream every Wednesday and Sunday at 5:30pm GMT/BST on Twitch.
Alanna x

[@mikeriley6073]

You’re a natural presenter - you flow so interestingly freely. Well done!!

[@AdventuresAndNaps]

Thank you! 🙏🏻

[@skiptrailer7048]

Do you want a card machine?

[@hughtube5154]

That's why she's known in the music business as Adventures and Raps.

[@letun100]

You are absolutely right , this dunkey great freely 😆😆😆🤝

[@di7787]

​@@hughtube5154 Haha, I love this !

[@RachelLong-e7e]

The Brits totally love Canada too. My late husband and I were having problems paying for parking in Ottawa. The Canadian waiting behind paid for us. We pressed money on him as hard as we could, and he simply refused.

[@andrewfowler89]

I think you are amazing. Come back soon. Britain needs you!

[@perrin6]

While on an extended stay in Australia I missed decay ie old stone walls, ivy-covered buildings, ornate old structures, windy lanes, varied trees from all over the world ( which the UK has in abundance), and towns which dont have a grid structure and are each unique.

[@Joe_From_IT]

For all the Canadian drawbacks, that view from your back garden is AMAZING!

[@duncanward1718]

What your optician said about Canada being sterile reminds me of what my Dad said about New Zealand on one of the many times I tried to get an answer about why we returned to the UK. He said New Zealand is like a really good meal with first rate ingredients but the chef forgot to add the seasonings.

[@sarahbattysmith398]

I was born in Canada and came back to the UK when I was 4, that was 1961. The reason given by my Ma & Pa was that they too said Canada was sterile.

[@victorialovatt976]

The comment about our cheese….. brought a prideful tear to my eye! Hope you’re back home soon Alanna!

[@DerekLangdon]

So Cheese brought a prideful tear to your eye. You must be pretty pathetic!

[@davidberesford7009]

Hi Alanna! As you probably already know, in the UK there is such a variety of holiday destinations all within these isles. Not just one kind of place or landscape or even language, but lots to experience. You want variety? We've got it. Thanks for rising from your sickbed to give us an update. Bye now!

[@alecleamus3280]

You make such great points. There are certainly many things broken in the UK, but there are far more things that frankly, we just take for granted. The NHS is totally the jewel in the crown. Just a week ago, I had breathing problems, and called 999. An ambulance was called and arrived with two fantastic paramedics, who checked me out and also performed ECGs to check my heart. They decided I needed to go to hospital, and they took me straight to A&E. Within half an hour I had blood taken, and I had my blood pressure and oxygen levels tested every thirty minutes. I had chest X-rays taken an hour later, and then waited for the results of the blood tests, and a doctor to give me all the results. I was there for about four hours, before being given all the results from a consultant, and was told I could go home as my breathing was so much better. All the staff from the cleaners, porters, nurses to the doctors, were superb and were so professional and friendly. And as you can imagine, I didn’t pay a penny piece for all the amazing care that I was so grateful to receive. I think us Brits should complain a little less, and be grateful for what we already have, much of it being included on your list… especially the food! Hope you’re recovering well from your Covid, it’s a shame it blighted your visit. Safe journey back. x 🇬🇧 🇨🇦

[@aubreydrinkwater3236]

Generally what you say is true, but my experience was not too good. I collapsed with heart failure, and an ambulance arrived promptly and did an ECG on my heart, then informing me that I'd had an heart attack previously, which I wasn't aware of. Where our stories differ, is that I like you was taken to A&E where I then sat on a very uncomfortable chair for at least twenty hours before I was given a series of tests that informed the doctor's that I also had a blood clot in my heart. It then took awhile before they could find me a bed in the cardiothoracic ward. Once you're admitted things improve, but the admittance and discharge can be a nightmare! However; I'm grateful for the NHS though it is on its knees financially and operationally. The politicians are trying to ruin it in its present concept and bring in privatization through the back door!

[@WayneMyers-jn4gx]

Great to hear someone from abroad loving our great country. We need to appreciate it more ourselves

[@UnearthlyKiss]

What's great about it?

[@raymondporter2094]

Alanna, you are One of Us. I don't need to say any more. Enjoy your visit back to Ontario.

[@grahammeaton4598]

Nice hear you miss kent We miss you come back soon

[@victor_dude]

I'm so sorry you're ill with Covid! I hope you feel better soon. As an American who's traveled to Europe for 8 weeks in total, I love how everything you need is walkable, and how unique and historical the buildings are! Don't even get me started on how amazing the food is, either. I would love to live somewhere in Europe someday if I ever get the opportunity. ☺️

[@aheat3036]

Europe (big differences between countries), in general, is expensive and highly overrated!… Besides, they are having race riots over immigration and Russia is moving westwards and China is coming soon after!… Stay in the U.S. It’s much better!

[@slytheringingerwitch]

We're old, we have great food and character. Basically, we're a little bit nuts and we welcome every horse of a different colour. So glad you miss us, come back soon. Don't make us come there and have to get you.

[@DerekLangdon]

In the meantime, the English are turning to fascism, thinking it will resolve the problems that were created by Brexit, and the years of wasted investment and austerity! You would be better off staying put in Canada!….It’s only the fact you are of white European heritage that makes you acceptable to the English. Had you been other than that, they would be howling for your blood!

[@nicjones7102]

You give us a short tour of your local town and area. I think people would enjoy that!

[@Dinadan993]

So sorry to hear you’re feeling Ill. hope you get better soon. Wishing you a wonderful time with your family.😊

[@markchapman1757]

Hi Alanna, I'm a Brit. Born in the city of Bath. We are a small island in the North Atlantic, but we have so much heritage here. Old pub's. , Castles. Area's of outstanding nature beauty. So much to see.

[@simhedgesrex7097]

Great Britain is the 9th largest island in the world.

[@philstabler]

I’ve live in the uk 53 years and it’s a load of doom and gloom and bankrupt.

[@desperadox7565]

@@philstabler I bet you're fun at parties.😎

[@philstabler]

@ I’ve every reason to be .im British .

[@alanparrish1669]

Get well soon and come back home soon ,miss adopted brit

[@johnorchin8567]

Hi Alanna, It’s good to remind us that there is a lot good about the UK, even though we Brits are always complaining, we do take a lot for granted.

[@John-Incatrekker]

You may not realise this Alanna, but your videos are more than entertaining & informative - they remind us Brits just how wonderful our little island nation is. Although I've been to 28 countries, the ones that made the biggest impression on me are those where you can just 'pop' out for a loaf of bread.

[@bobbyboko6317]

The NHS is bloody amazing and the people who have and are looking after me are wonderful 👍

[@ABrit-bt6ce]

Absolutely. An A&E wait here would end in a request for a credit card over there.

[@paulthomas8262]

@@ABrit-bt6ce that's not really accurate for Canada for the majority of cases. Their health insurance is government run, my like the tax that pays for the NHS. Canada has *universal healthcare* and is actually one of he better system in the world and currently is easily outperforming NHS for obvious reason (we need to fix this hole the NHS is in). It is a different system then the US. Note countries like Germany don't technically have universal healthcare and rely more on mandatory semi-private insurance. The haste at which people make cheap points on YT...

[@ABrit-bt6ce]

@@paulthomas8262 My bad, taring all of North America with the same brush.

[@cultfiction3865]

NHS is garbage. Only last week I heard someone saying they had a relative die cos they had a heart attack and it took the NHS over an hour to get an ambulance out to them. Please don't kid yourself about the NHS cos you know you are only deceiving yourself if you claim it's a great service. As for the point about prescription medicine costing more in Canada, the average wage is also a lot higher than UK so the point doesn't stand. Canada has an average salary of about $70k per year compared to UKs measley £29k. When you consider that £9:90 seems a lot for prescriptions

[@dvs21a]

Nobody who uses the NHS thinks it is amazing unless they are braindead. I've been on three waiting lists for longer than a year. It is, objectively, the worst health system in the developed world.

[@frankmelia3974]

Thanks

[@AdventuresAndNaps]

Thank you so much! ☺️

[@kab7044]

In reference to prescriptions, if you need medication to stay alive, then the medication in the UK is free. Also, it’s free if you’re 65. My wife and I came over to the UK and my wife is cancer survivor and all her medication has been free.

[@petew5289]

all meds are free from age 60 in uk

[@Woofersgalore]

Prescription costs are not free to the general public. The costs are high as they used to be one prescription for all items listed but are now per item. Not everyone can afford this. Getting to 60is the free marker…or cancer drugs as very specific.

[@blotski]

@@Woofersgalore I totally agree with you that prescriptions to the general public are far too high. Presently it's £9.90 per item. But this is only England. Prescriptions are free in Wales and Scotland and in England if prescribed in hospital. BUT - the list of exemptions to charges in England is quite long. You don't pay anything if you are: - under 16 - aged 16-18 and in full time education - aged 60 or over - on a low income receiving tax credits - pregnant or have given birth within the previous 12 months - on income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Income-related Employment and Support Allowance - you have a major or long term condition such as cancer, diabetes, epilepsy etc Another thing is that if you require regular medication but it doesn't fall under the last group mentioned above you can buy a 'PPC' (a prescription prepayment certificate). I used to have three lots of tablets a month for high blood pressure. I bought a PPC, which are now about £114 pounds for a year, and you just show them that and you don't pay any more no matter how many items are on your prescription or how many prescriptions you get. It can be a huge saving.

[@AndrewMcgill-j5c]

​@Woofersgalore prescriptions are free in Scotland ,Wales and Northern Ireland.

[@barlow2976]

@@petew5289 In Wales (part of the U.K) all meds (prescriptions) are free, to everybody. I believe Scotland is the same- a sign of a civilised society. In England 16-60 year olds pay per prescription, but if they require several drugs, repeatedly, they can buy a pre-paid certificate, then all items are free.

[@JulieTurner-z1e]

Thank you, I so enjoyed meeting you for the first time. I lived in the UK for 4 years and am now living back in the US. I loved the UK and your comments here really resonated with me.😊

[@markcity10]

Ah man that pool looks lush! Sorry to hear you have Covid, hope you feel better soon 🤗

[@heatherbiver5931]

Canadian born, raised in Quebec, went to England after 12 years of living in Vancouver, BC. I wasn’t crazy about living in London but slowly adapted and then fell in love with life in a town in the Surrey countryside. After 6 years in the UK I was really unhappy to be back in Vancouver. Definitely not “quirky” enough 😂. Fortunately moved to one of the Gulf Islands amazingly similar to rural England but with residents from everywhere and also amazing farmers. So food selection is excellent but oh so pricey. If I were to move again it would be to Scotland after last summers visit😊🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇨🇦🇬🇧. Get well soon.

[@brucewilson4350]

Always welcome here in Scotland. Fàilte gu Alba!

[@neilmorrison7356]

We welcome all good people to Scotland🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🦄🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🦄

[@gdok6088]

Vancouver has natural beauty but the city and architecture is featureless and bland. Enjoyed visiting, but living there would make me feel culturally deprived.

[@heatherbiver5931]

@@gdok6088 I dare to say that’s why North Americans love to travel to the UK and Europe 😊

[@Adam-zh4hm]

Remember Scotland only gets sunlight 1 month a year

[@systemofapwn]

While your urban areas may not be as interesting as in the UK, I'm jealous of how beautiful the natural landscape is. And what a lovely garden you're sitting in - wouldn't be missing home too much with that kind of luxury!

[@cultfiction3865]

I think she compliments UK more than what she genuinely believes because this channel is her income and 90% of her viewership is British. So she knows the cash cow will dry up if she doesn't keep buttering UK up with compliments. But only recently I travelled down south to London and looked out at the British countryside and thought that the majority of it is rubbish. It's just flat land with slight inclines here and there. No mountains or anything remotely like them apart from in the lake district. Anyone that thinks that's more beautiful than mountainous Canada is delusional

[@DaveDunford]

@@cultfiction3865 Have you been to Ontario? Much flatter (on average) than the UK.

[@cultfiction3865]

@@DaveDunford I've not been but I know Canada has loads of mountains. But when I hear people saying England is beautiful I feel like anyone can say that about anywhere. A flat empty field of green grass can seem beautiful to some people. But your feelings change how it looks. But go to the Alps in Switzerland and the scenery changes how you feel. That's the difference

[@Wyrdsister2008]

Hi Alana, poor you always getting sick when you return to Canada for a visit. I'm a Brit living in Canada Manitoba. So I love watching your videos they make me chuckle and I agree with most of your comparisons. I've been here 12 yrs and I still get surprised by the added tax at the till. I live in a rural area here and yes the sunshine is usually much hotter and more abundant than in UK but I struggle to enjoy much of it because of the mosquitoes and ticks they just seem much more prolific here. At least I can enjoy retreating from the heat to a nice air conditioned house which I would miss in UK. Thanks for all you're videos they a fun to watch. 😜😜😜

[@NZExperience]

Prescriptions are capped at 5 dollars in NZ, even cheaper than UK :) Kettle slow because of the voltage.

[@sticklebacksummer]

They are free in Wales

[@Duchess_of_Cadishead]

They are $7.60 in Australia for low income, unemployed & pensioners.

[@howie8582]

So glad I came across this. My sister is just back from Ontario, basically saying the exact opposite of Naps, especially on the cost and quality of food. But as my sister is generally full of s**t, it’s encouraging to know that yet again she talks c**p. Thank you

[@AdventuresAndNaps]

😂

[@joshbrailsford]

I'm guessing a potential reason food is more expensive in Canada is the same reason you can't walk to the grocery store to buy said food: distance. The farms that produce the food are further away from the point of sale in Canada than in the UK, so transport costs are higher (same goes for supplies going into farms like, say, chicken feed), just like how sprawling suburbia in Canada presumably sprawls a lot further than it does in the UK, hence why you can't walk to a supermarket from where you're staying in Canada

[@dougb100]

I live on Vancouver Island but from the UK, what I miss is not having black bears in my back garden! LOL

[@suzannehawkins383]

Im in Canada, southern Ontario too! I frequently go over the pond to the UK and just returned from a 6-week solo adventure traipsing around Europe. In regard to architecture, what caught my eye the most was the use of imagination and colour in UK and Europe, and the lack of it here, in Highrise commercial and residential buildings. Our buildings are boxes, all square or rectangular, they might have the occasional protrusion but all boxes with straight lines. The buildings in Europe, anything built probably in the last 40 years, have at least splashes or colour, if not whole solid coloured sides, they have wonky shapes, wild shapes, curves rounds, etc, I love it!

[@duncancallum]

I was in Winnipeg 20 years ago and yes the buildings have no character especially high rise units , just boxes after boxes and the verandah or whatever they are called are about 8ft by 6ft if that and totally useless.I live in Queensland bags of colour there in the buildings .

[@NTL578]

That's all been happening here (UK) post WW2. And it will continue while we accept new modernist buildings.

[@grampstin9375]

Things being louder in North America, who would have guessed 🤣 Hope you get better soon, you need to get back home to Kent, we miss you already 😭

[@klondikechris]

In Ontario, those cicadas are amazingly loud! A we tiny bug, but man they are noisy!

[@grampstin9375]

@@klondikechris I’ve heard them in Africa & Borneo but I never realised they would be in Ontario, I guess I just thought the winters would be too cold for them to survive, so many things I don’t know about Canada

[@NeoNitro]

Get Well soon Alana

[@paulwhite3237]

I must say that you were brilliant in your interactions with the local wildlife and with the noise distractions. And I found your observations and sentiments about the UK, my country, very enlightening. Loved it!

[@wessexdruid7598]

The trouble with filter coffee is that those paper filters take out all the oils - that contain the coffee flavours. Use a french press and taste the difference between the same beans?

[@daftirishmarej1827]

Or espresso as a basis. Vetrino 👌

[@terryvallis1436]

That’s why I use a Kerege machine

[@wessexdruid7598]

@@terryvallis1436 I presume you mean Keurig? The US, lower pressure, version of a Nespresso machine. A french press is a LOT cheaper and you can use your own beans/grounds.

[@terryvallis1436]

@@wessexdruid7598 I do, thanks. I use my own beans as well

[@wessexdruid7598]

@@terryvallis1436 But the reusable K-cup uses a paper filter - so we're back where we started...

[@coloneljackmustard]

I always look forward to your commentary on the U.K., from the state of Minnesota. Lived and worked in Canada back in the day and was astounded at the differences in culture from just across the border.

[@BooBaddyBig]

You can actually have a faster kettle in your kitchen in Canada. There's 220v power circuit already in basically any Canadian kitchen for the oven and you can import a European kettle and change the plug on the lead or use an adapter. You need a NEMA 6-20 outlet installed by an electrician to make it work, but it should be relatively cheap.

[@petegarnett7731]

The ultimate proof of civilisation-- the ability to make a quick quality cup of tea!

[@chippydogwoofwoof]

Sending prayers and wishes to all those affected by the fires. Hope you & yours are safe and well Alanna 🙏

[@christineharding4190]

The word 'quirky' is perfectly fine.

[@saultrue]

Ah Alana - (Hope you're Ok soon) Just want you to know, your video's always make me feel better... You're my therapy!

[@DennisHalifax]

You live in a weird area in Canada. I am in Montreal. I can bike or walk if needed anywhere. You are instilling my love of Montreal. I noticed that the small towns in Canada are car centric.

[@francespettigrew9646]

Your cheese is probably a lot better too.

[@shaungillingham4689]

I spent some time in BC & French Canada the thing that used to bother me is when you drive into the north American countryside you don't find old things, ancient monuments, old castles, thatched cottages ect ect. I always found that odd.

[@peterotoole12]

I live in Kent too and, of course, it is always nice to hear good things about your home from a newcomers (8 years is a good innings; most don't last half that), point of view. What I like most though about Alanna's vids is that she not only points out the good but the bad and the ugly, too. Get better soon.

[@rolanddunk5054]

Hi Alanna,get well soon and enjoy as much of your holiday that you can.I am just pleased that you were able to post a video at all,thank you.💐cheers,Roly🇬🇧.P.S.I have been watching your channel for so long that I never think of you (unless you mention it)as Canadian but as a very interesting,intelligent and entertaining person,cheers again.

[@katje2154]

*lol* Does one preclude the other??

[@cashtimevideo1501]

You're such a star Alanna, hope you feel better soon! 😷. Luv ya!! 💖

[@pelfking]

I just love this stream of consciousness approach. Could listen all day.

[@robertgrimsted877]

Hope you feel better soon god bless I hope you’re family doesn’t get sick 😀

[@johnbaxter8569]

Get well soon, Alana... and have a lovely flight home.

[@Spiritof1955]

Hi Alanna, I've heard of Brits that have moved to North America have had a US style 240v power socket fitted in their kitchen, and have then brought a UK 240v kettle to use in the kitchen. Obviously they'd have to change the plug on the lead, but that shouldn't be a problem with someone of your talents. It's all about the need for speed when it comes to a cuppa 😊

[@scoops0406]

Except NA 240v is 2 phase 120v whereas UK is nominal 230v single phase.

[@Spiritof1955]

​@@scoops0406Yes, I believe NA uses 240v for their electric cookers and dryers? please correct me if I'm wrong.👍🏻

[@scoops0406]

@@Spiritof1955 No, that is correct.

[@HDRW]

@@scoops0406 True, but only matters if you're an electrician. Plug a UK kettle into an American 240V socket (as used for washing machines etc) and it will work perfectly!

[@scoops0406]

@@HDRW well yeah sure a kettle doesn't "know" about phases.

[@lenfox5598]

Alana ,we know our country (UK) has problems as well ,but life is so much more relaxed ,let’s hope your well soon ,and we would miss you if you did not come back Home

[@jasonandreoli4135]

So right about the cheese. It's so frustrating when I order a cheeseboard in British restaurants and they load it with french cheeses. Yep french cheese is great but British cheese is fantastic and we don't celebrate it enough.

[@Brian3989]

Only about 400 varieties of Cheese from United Kingdom.

[@Alcogod]

​@@Brian3989"only".

[@valeriedavidson2785]

​@@Brian3989 I understood that there about 800 cheese varieties in the U.K.

[@user-zp4ge3yp2o]

@@valeriedavidson2785 All those cheeses and the only one you need is extra mature cheddar

[@meesterbundy]

Canada actually has a great deal of good cheese…but you have to live closer to (within 500km) from the dairies. Eastern Ontario and Quebec have some great cheddars and goudas.

[@SteveDonaldson-r5k]

Hi, years ago when I was in the RAF, I flew to Canada to work for a week at a place called Goose Bay in Labrador. We didn't get any time to mooch about (nothing to see apparently, just a big NATO base). It was May and there was still a fair bit of snow around. I asked one of the Canadian servicemen why all the buildings were so far apart and he said "they're not". Flying over from the direction of Iceland we marvelled at just how gigantic Canada is. We were doing about 500 mph and we saw nothing but trees and snow the whole time. It occurred to me that you would have to drive everywhere. There was even a local law on the base that you were not allowed to walk from place to place in the winter because you would freeze to death. I suppose this explains why there is no walking about, even where you are in the south; it's just a general rule that everyone grows up with? I must say the weather even that far north was actually quite pleasant, it didn't rain once!🇨🇦

[@4TheRecord]

Regarding prescription costs in the UK, it's free for anyone who is on Universal Credit (DWP) or anyone with certain types of medical conditions. So if you can't afford it then it's free.

[@brigidsingleton1596]

Prescriptions here in the UK (England, at least (as Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own versions of the NHS) babies and children up to the age of sixteen receive free prescriptions, and pensioners - retired citizens) from the age sixty also receive free prescriptions. (Plus, those in receipt of social security benefit payments, also receive their prescriptions freely). Ages in-between, if in work who can pay, do pay, but can apply for _prepaid prescription certificates_ to last say, for up to three to six months at a time, if on long-term (prescribed by their hospital or general practitioner doctors) medications, for ongoing health conditions. 🤔🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿♥️🇬🇧🙂🖖

[@supergran1000]

@@brigidsingleton1596 I worked in a pharmacy for 19 years before retiring. I was always trying to persuade customers to take out prepayment certificates. Could be a huge saving. Of course, people on lots of medication could qualify for free prescriptions if they have certain medical conditions. They need to check with their pharmacy or surgery.

[@AndrewMcgill-j5c]

It's only in England that there are prescription charges.

[@brigidsingleton1596]

@@AndrewMcgill-j5cyes, aren't we lucky... (said with tongue firmly planted in cheek!) Well, I am, because I'm nearly eleven years past the cut-off age for "pensioners" to pay for prescriptions, despite _not becoming a pensioner_ til four years later!! That's as much the problem as any re funding essential services in England. All the systems dates, ages etc are a mismatch of 'what's right for who:, 'who's eligible for what', 'who takes up which benefits', or 'who is deemed eligible to receive certain benefits' etc etc etc! 🤔😳😠🤨

[@AndrewMcgill-j5c]

@brigidsingleton1596 where I lived in England the free bus pass was 60 then went up to 65.I live in Wales now bus pass 60 free prescriptions.

[@Poppygirl64]

moved back from NS Canada a few months ago.....don't miss the bugs or humidity but do miss the great electrical storms, less people/cars and a lot less rain in Canada!!! Food is cheaper in UK but clothes, shoes, home stuff etc is cheaper in Canada. Canadian cheese is like rubber but you can get good cheese in Sobeys, just more costly. We really missed UK history and character.

[@DougBrown-h1n]

Hope you get well soon, Alanna. Engaging as ever.

[@StaciePrangnell]

My partner and I are moving back to the UK after living in Canada for almost a year and a half! CANNOT WAIT to be home and get back to all the things I’ve missed 🥹

[@DerekLangdon]

You would have missed the price rises etc, Oh, and fascist doctrine, with its accompanying racism!

[@kodietg]

I love seeing the comparison between British groceries and Canadian. We're in a cost of living crisis and the more eyes on it the better! I've stopped taking medication because I couldn't afford them.

[@mr.mmarkham9014]

You know what Alanna, it sounds a lot like you are homesick. :)

[@carolineskipper6976]

Hope you are back to full strength in time to really enjoy the rest of your holiday! I can't get over (given the size of Canada) how near your hometown is to my one Canadian friend - she is not far from Owen Sound, and incidentally, when she lived in the UK, was based in Kent!

[@mikestarkey7989]

Christ I'll never complain about the cost of cheese in the UK again. I like food that's got cheese in it!

[@rogerwitte]

Wishing you a complete and rapid recovery. I hope you get some healthy time with your family and friends before you have to leave.

[@AdventuresAndNaps]

Thank you, I appreciate that ☺️

[@angelique_cs]

Food costs in North America are absolutely ridiculous right now! I budgeted with that in mind when I went to the UK a few weeks ago and it was shocking how little I spent. Right now, I'm missing the cheese so much 😭

[@DerekLangdon]

Have you not noticed the price of food in the UK since Brexit? If you haven’t, then lucky you!

[@angelique_cs]

@@DerekLangdon I definitely have! Though it's still far less expensive than where I live

[@agharries]

Regarding boiling water, we have replaced our electric kettle with one that you heat up on the induction top. When it comes to coffee we use the v-filter but in a machine that boils the water for you and then lets it drip through the filter. We also have Nespresso pods if you need a quick coffee for one.

[@skiptrailer7048]

Britain misses you more than you could ever realise

[@DerekLangdon]

Britain misses her, really?

[@skiptrailer7048]

@@DerekLangdon we don't do sarcasm

[@JenniferRussell-qw2co]

Poor you, get well soon, Covid can be horrible, I remember it all too well😢 It must be lovely seeing your family. My daughter lives in Australia, I did too for a while but my heart was here, so I came home 🥰 We will be happy to have you back home again. Forget the accent, you are one of us 🤗 💖🙋‍♀️🇬🇧🇨🇦

[@cruachan1191]

We love a good moan about prices here in the UK, but I was watching Chef Jack Ovens who's started a new budget meals series. He's a Brit in Australia and the "budget" prices there are scary compared to the UK. I'm also very glad of the free prescriptions in Scotland, I have a thyroid condition so will always have to take medication for it and thankfully even before we got universal free prescriptions medication for chronic conditions was free.

[@cultfiction3865]

What you are missing though is the average salary in Australia when compared to the average Salary in UK. The references I can find say that it's around $98k per year in Australia compared with UKs measley £29k per year. When considered in that context it makes UK prices far worse. You cannot just compare prices in two countries that have completely different average salaries. It's self deceit as well as deceit of others that agree with you.

[@cruachan1191]

@@cultfiction3865 No one visiting a country or place would consider average salary, they'd just compare prices to their home. Exactly as almost all Brits who visit London do, to the point that comedians like Kevin Bridges have told jokes based on the "guess how much a pint costs in London" conversations that people have.

[@cultfiction3865]

@@cruachan1191 They ought to consider average salary though since it's relative to disposable income. If everything is cheap but average salaries are low then the ratio of expense to salary will still translate as expense. If everything is expensive but average salaries are very high, the ratio of expense to salaries may favor salaries. It is bound to be a key factor in these arguments

[@DerekLangdon]

You think Brits love a good moan about UK prices? No, they don’t!!! They do it because many are living on the breadline! Kids in many cases are having to go to school without having a proper breakfast! Stop your obnoxious middle class banter.

[@eightiesmusic1984]

@@DerekLangdon Three million children in poverty up 700,000 due to needless and cruel austerity, including the two child benefit cap brought in by Osborne in 2017 to target the poor. It is as if Victorian times never ended with the undeserving poor narrative peddled by the Tories. Exponential rise in food bank use since 2010 due to the Tories, with families in France and Germany £8,000 a year better off than in Britain. Socialism for the rich, capitalism for the rest in one of the wealthiest and most unequal countries on the planet.

[@EvaBee-n3w]

I live in Toronto and yes, groceries are probably more expensive than in UK, but the quality in our city is superb with an international choice of products. Local produce is obviously the tastiest. Maybe you should explore food supermarkets other than Walmart.

[@martinpay3812]

Old buildings… we say this of your southern neighbours, and it applies to Canada as well: in North America 100 years is a long time, in the UK 100 miles is a long way…

[@dlittlester]

I used to live in Ontario. Yes, I remember the bugs... mosquitoes, black flies, horse flies, and the humidity in summer with the heat. Also cold long winters. I moved to the west coast about 50 years ago, and never looked back. The weather here is similar to England, and I haven't seen more than about five mosquitoes in a year. I'm on the Island.

[@russellpetrie119]

im so glad i heard this from a canadian after living in bc for ten years i missed the uk on these points

[@jang3412]

Thanks for the fun ride. Considering you don't feel 100%, you did really well. I enjoyed hearing the comparisons and I have a friend in Canada I knew when we were kids in England; I'll send him your link and see if he agrees with you. Must say though the scenery where you are is absolutely gorgeous so I think many over here will envy you. Get well and just jolly well enjoy yourself - to the max!

[@Rbourk252]

Popping out is a wonderful thing. People in Canada need to set up places to pop to. Set up a cheese shop. Get the milk in and make the cheese. The moth thought you were a big flower 😂

[@pammoore3447]

Sadly, popping out just cannot exist in Canada. Everything is far too spread out and inaccessible without a car.

[@Rbourk252]

😔 never mind. Pop back as soon as you can.

[@pammoore3447]

I'm in Nova Scotia. Grew up in the UK, and my partner lives there still. I cannot wait to move back - for so many of these reasons.

[@Chriscross55425]

I grew up in the UK, but emigrated to Ontario years ago. The thing I notice most when returning home to visit family in London is that everything is squished together and close. Canada is huge and things are spaced out. I guess I’ve got used to that. I don’t understand why they can’t include tax in the price here. It’s a simple thing surely. Also the yearly ‘doing your taxes’. It’s just a ruse to make more money. The government already knows all about you. Also fruits and vegetables are nowhere near as tasty as in the UK. I think you pick up germs from the plane.

[@robertewalt7789]

I have done US federal and state taxes for many years. Yes, the federal government knows most of your income, including salary, stock dividends, bond interest, capital gains, etc. So they could prepare a preliminary return for us. But many federal personal income tax payers can itemize deductions such as local income and real estate taxes, medical expenses, charitable contributions, with limits. The IRS doesn’t know about this unless we tell them.

[@MrSimbo65]

I have Covid, and it is not good. Water shortage in the UK has affected the way it is used. It is good to hear comparisons with other countries. I much appreciate your content. Thanks, get better soon.

[@danielblyth2841]

Water shortage? 😂

[@EdwardThatch-ee7yx]

Oh dear. Hope you feel better soon. You made me grin when you mentioned how much you don’t plan meals and that you stop daily. This made me think about one of your earliest vlogs, when you mentioned how small our fridge/freezers are😂 I think you finally understand why. We shop everyday for the freshest food money can buy. No need for massive American fridges. Take care and hope you get to enjoy your holiday.

[@richard_ager]

Hi Alanna! Loved your video, but maybe that's because I'm British. Not sure all Canadians will be so enthusiastic about it... Bless you and hope you recover soon!

[@evertonshorts9376]

You know British people are obsessed with the weather, show us the thunderstorm, and get well soon!

[@cultfiction3865]

It's more of a stereotype. I go abroad and mix with foreign people on apps and they talk about the weather the same amount as British do.Its just that they aren't associated with that same stereotype so everyone imagines it's just us that do it

[@mothmagic1]

It's very humid in UK at the moment too. My eldest met and married a Canadian in England then went to live in Canada. You came to live here. I think Britain got the best of the exchange. When it's humid there's nothing better than a good thunderstorm to clear the air.

[@Judgles]

The sun will come up, the seasons will change, Alanna will get sick in Canada! It was probably the plane - imagine being stuck in a metal box with hundreds of people for hours on end for any other reason. At least you seem to be on the mend and will get to enjoy the rest of your time there. Thanks for another great video!

[@tessakulik6710]

Perhaps you could use ‘charming’ as a change to quirky for things that you find pleasing? Your comments about good things I take for granted here has really cheered me up!

[@55tranquility]

Interesting video, I lived and worked in Canada for around 2 years in the mid 2000s and loved it. In fact my wife and I nearly emigrated and stayed , as our profession was right at the top of the most desirable professions at the time (we're both nurses) so we immediately got the maximum points for immigration. we even completed the paperwork, but then we had a family emergency and had to return home to the UK and then after that, life kind of happened and we ended up staying in the UK. Funny how life turns out - but I still like to visit Canada, I love the wide open spaces.

[@danielblyth2841]

Glad you mentioned the food. Most (americans) still think we eat like ww2

[@thecrimsonlip53]

It’s about time this stereotype got squashed 😂

[@gdok6088]

A NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) costs £32.05 for 3 months and £114.50 for 12 months. After that you pay nothing regardless of how many prescriptions you need.

[@StellaDuchessofLondon]

The very end is the only time I heard a cicada. I grew up in the midwest US and remember those well. If it weren't for family, I could definitely see myself living in the UK. We visit twice a year though! FEEL BETTER!!

[@thomasfrancis5747]

My experience of Canadians/Canada is that in part it can be more traditionally British than Britain, eg all the old pub songs are known and pale ale is still sold on draught! It annoys me that all the focus in the UK is on the "special relationship" with the US and we owe a huge debt to Canadians who helped to fight in the war and supply arms, aircraft, food etc and nowadays seem to be unfairly overlooked.

[@terryomalley1974]

Thanks, but we Canadians are used to being overlooked. It comes with the territory of being beside the dominant global power. Probably much like Ireland or Scotland felt back in the days of the height of the British Empire abd England was always the focus.

[@elizabethheatley22]

I’m Scottish and have made Canada my home for a very long time. It’s interesting to hear you talk about the things you miss now that you’re back in Canada. I too miss the food from home, but I live midtown Toronto, and have my choice of dozens and dozens of shops and restaurants that represent every country in the world. As a city dweller I also walk to my grocery stores, and pretty well any other store I may need for daily living. It is every bit as multicultural as London. I can even get many of my favourite Scottish foods. I too have a job that provides all the healthcare and drug benefits that a UK firm would provide to its employees. You can’t generalize and by doing so you give your audience the wrong impression about your home country. Most Brits who have never visited here can fully grasp the sheer size of Canada, and a much smaller population than the UK too. As countries go they are almost incomparable. Many small towns in Canada are hundreds and hundreds of miles from a major centre. It is totally the opposite in the UK, unless you live in the north of Scotland, or the Scottish isles. Last year when I was home we went on a road trip to Skye, and I loved being able to get M&S food from the large chain of food shops they now have across the UK. Certainly couldn’t do that here, but of course once I was home I adapted to city life where there’s plenty of other choices. I hope you feel better soon, and you don’t find your time spent at home too lacking.

[@jimcounter4945]

Hope you're back on your feet and enjoying your time back with family 🤞

[@geoffh2560]

the way you so naturally pronounce "Mum" now makes me very happy.

[@sandrajewitt6050]

A lot of Canadians say mum. We spell mom but say mum.

[@NTL578]

​@@sandrajewitt6050Interesting. I didn't know that.

[@jenniferjane2252]

@@sandrajewitt6050 You are not alone. In Uk too, I have friends who say mom, but spell mum. It’s one of their quirks in that area.

[@kurtcraig3421]

i can picture alanna ranting at her family "it's not like this in the uk having to wait 6 mins for boiling bloody water" and the twist being "well if you don't like it, sod off back to the uk"

[@chanchito4401]

Can we do some kind of reverse ban on Alanna from ever leaving the UK? I almost have heart palpitations when she threatens to move back to Canada! xD

[@sandrabeaumont3111]

Alanna,lovely to hearyou praise almost all things British. but what do your parents and siblings think of you doing that. I'm sure they must have asked you 'Is there anything you like about Canadian stuff?'

[@heskeyisgod8039]

Great video Alanna! Hope you enjoyed your break back home.

[@AdventuresAndNaps]

Thank you!! 😊

[@gert8439]

Amazing garden! Hope you feel better soon and enjoy your hols.. Btw The British Cheese Market is slumping and hopes you're back soon.

[@craftyclaira]

Also in England the pharmacist and or doctor will often tell you if you should just get the item off the shelf if it's cheaper than a prescription charge. We also get free mental health counselling/courses, HRT 3 mths for just £9.90!, fre alcohol/smoking medication or programs.

[@AndyK6868]

The UK has charm. Love it.

[@neilspiers4317]

Get well soon. 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@AdventuresAndNaps]

Thank you!

[@isaacplaysbass8568]

Noooooooo, sorry to hear that you're ill. Listening to your descriptions about food, buildings, etc. I think that you and Mr. Alana should treat yourself to is a driving holiday around France, the fresh food is awesome, the architecture fascinating, and the landscape different again.