New Montrealers: An Iranian appreciates 'lively' Montreal

Every year, people from around the world choose to make Montreal their new home. For the second straight year, CBC's Daybreak is asking some of these new Montrealers about their motives and aspirations.

Name

Mohammad Esmail Bitarafan

Where he's from

Iran, but lived in northern Cyprus for almost three years.

Why he chose to make Montreal home

I have some of my friends living here in Montreal, which is the biggest reason of mecoming here. Besides, searching through theinternet and talking to my friends, I found thathere is livelier and less hectic in comparison to Toronto or Vancouver. Ialsohave abasic knowledge of French, which I would like to develop it into advanced level.

What surprised him the most when he got here?

I liked the city being clean. However, there are many points I was disappointed by so far.The public transportation system is far better and more efficient than Toronto, which Ihave heard my friends, who are living there, complaining about all the time.

The best part about being here so far

I almost came here to see what Canada is like. I like the pace of life here as it is fast, making you feel active.

The biggest challenge about being here so far

I have difficulty adapting to, digesting and understanding French. However, I do notfeel bad about the weather being cold or wet here.

What he can't wait to do in 2016

I am looking forward to having a lot of snow here so we can go skiing. I love snow.