Answer this simple question: Do you like it cold? Do you enjoy snow and -35C temperatures? If yes, then definitely consider Canada. There is ALWAYS some snow, even in the warmest areas, Victoria, and = Vancouver, on the west coast. High temperatures are rarely above 25C. There are many hydroelectric dams in the British Columbia interior. As well as in Manitoba, Quebec and Labrador (East coast). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydroelectric_power_in_Canada Hydro-Qu=E9bec's extensive network of 59 hydroelectric Our economy has done better than most during this downturn. Healthcare is over stressed and waiting lists are long for surgeries like heart bypasses and joint replacements. I don't know if Australia is any better on healthcare. They seem to have the same issues of underfunding and excessive demand. How are they for hydropower? http://www.industcards.com/hydro-australia.htm I would suggest contacting the various power plants and see if you can get a job offer from them. Makes the immigration process MUCH easier. R -- = http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist