Edmonton is a bit of a bipolar city. Yes lots of sprawl and McMansions, quite blue collar, bleak winter weather, anemic nightlife. Deadmonton.
But also, a fantastically beautiful river valley runs through it with vast green parks all around. Summer festivals that are quite nice. Quite sunny, even when it's cold. Some neat corners and neighbourhoods. A distinct culture of its own, some good restaurants. And politically far more progressive than the rest of the province.
Honestly, if Alberta was just Edmonton, I'd move back. I grew to hate it in my 20s, but I miss a lot about it and in my 40s when I visit I quite enjoy myself.
But also, a fantastically beautiful river valley runs through it with vast green parks all around. Summer festivals that are quite nice. Quite sunny, even when it's cold. Some neat corners and neighbourhoods. A distinct culture of its own, some good restaurants. And politically far more progressive than the rest of the province.
Honestly, if Alberta was just Edmonton, I'd move back. I grew to hate it in my 20s, but I miss a lot about it and in my 40s when I visit I quite enjoy myself.