Bears, Canadian Adventures, and France

From Palm Trees to Ontario Wildlife

Hey, wanderers! Welcome, and we’re thrilled with our first official guest: Olivia from France! This impromptu chat dives into her journey from near Nice and Marseille to bear-filled Ontario. Buckle up for wildlife tips, cultural contrasts, and vegan twists.

Olivia, a forestry and wildlife management pro, moved to Canada in 2017 at 18 for the bears. “You guys have a lot we don’t in France!” She’s spotted 40-50 black bears this summer alone. Pro tip: Black bears aren’t aggressive unless cubs are involved. If charged, back away slowly, avoid eye contact – don’t run or climb! She compares: Grizzlies eat fish and might attack more; polar bears are pure carnivores; pandas munch bamboo.

Working as a research and biodiversity technologist in Sudbury, she’s handled greenhouses, fish hatcheries, and more. Sudbury is booming, but worlds apart from beaches and palm trees. “Minus 25 here vs. 15 there!” French-Canadian accents threw her – easier learning English than chatting with locals. 

Food chat: France favors light salads, fish in the south; Canada loves heavy meals. She showed off her fridge: vegan feta, parmesan, mozzarella. Favorites? Beaver tails (not real ones!) Travel tips while in France; avoid Paris for Brittany or the coasts – cheaper, more beautiful.

Olivia’s story highlights the beauty of cultural bridges – from Mediterranean shores to snowy trails. It’s a reminder that adventure often starts with a leap, like chasing bears across continents. Her passion for outdoors shines through, contrasting France’s indoor vibes. Surprises? Friendly Canadians live up to the hype; wildlife and snow exceed expectations, she’s basically Canadian now! Thanks, Olivia! Watchers share your wildlife stories. Subscribe for more great content…

Until then, embrace the wild – cheers!

Interview

Name: Olivia Baudet – Occupation: Bear researcher-conservation

Location: Sudbury, Ontario , Canada – From: Marseille, France