I have lived in Toronto and Vancouver (and a couple of smaller places) and would have to agree that West is much nicer than East for me - now even for job prospects which is new.

I lived in Vancouver for 5 years and am about to move back to Canada (though a few hours away in a small town). I am currently living in the UK, just outside Lancaster.

I have no idea about visas (though with English and a degree your wife is unlikely to have too many problems), or work as a TA, but feel free to PM me if you have specific questions.

Dr. PITUK