In 2020 and 2021, the pandemic caused a significant increase in migration from Montreal to the regions, totaling 48,300 people. Some discovered a new area, while others returned to their hometowns or permanently settled in what was once their vacation home. However, the end of the COVID-19 pandemic marked a noticeable effect on interregional migration in Quebec, which decreased by 15.4%. Only 25,600 people left the city in the past two years. This article aims to explore the reasons that would encourage Montreal residents to move to the regions, specifically in the Bas-Saint-Laurent. I was raised in the greater Montreal area. My parents moved to the city for my father's job and spent 40 years away from their hometown, Rivière-du-Loup, before returning for retirement. I set out to find reasons why it's good to live in the regions beyond just nostalgia for one's childhood town.

Firstly, living near water seems to make people happier. Rivière-du-Loup is situated on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River.  The city's undulating topography offers several elevated viewpoints up to 200 meters above the river. Moreover, according to National Geographic, Rivière-du-Loup boasts the second most beautiful sunset in the world, just after Hawaii.

Additionally, another great reason to live near the river is the accessibility of fresh fish and seafood. The Saint Lawrence offers more than just lobster or snow crab; in this region, you can find sea urchins, whelks, common crab, and various fish species. La Griffe, the restaurant at Hotel Lévesque, is worth a visit if you want a gourmet meal with local seafood.

Finally, the city's slogan, "Take the time," reflects the different pace of life in the regions compared to big cities. There, people follow the seasons, the sun, in other words, nature. Being surrounded by nature also allows us to adopt its rhythm.

In conclusion, whether it's for a fulfilling retirement or to embrace the rhythm of nature, Bas-Saint-Laurent is a region where life is good.