Suggestions for taking a gap year across Canada?

I'm considering spending my gap year traveling and working across Canada. Does anyone have experience with this? I'd love recommendations for places to explore and ways to find temporary work while traveling.

Sure, spending a gap year traveling and working across Canada is indeed an exciting prospect. While cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal usually garner all the attention, there are plenty of lesser-known gems that might enrich your gap year experience. For instance, cities like Victoria (BC), Quebec City (QC), and Winnipeg (MB) offer a unique cultural outlook coupled with ample job opportunities.

As for finding temporary work, you might want to consider seasonal jobs primarily during Canada's tourist rush in the summer. There is a bevy of positions—everything from camp counselors to retail associates in gift shops and national parks—that you could consider. The hospitality and tourism sectors usually have many openings, especially in areas with a high influx of tourists.

Alternatively, you could explore working on a farm or in fruit picking, which are usually in high demand, particularly during harvest season. Websites like Workaway or the Canadian government's official job bank website could be ideal for finding these sort of short-term jobs.

If you're more interested in the urban scene and have some barista or customer service experience, there are usually café or retail jobs available in big cities. LinkedIn, Indeed, or other job search platforms could have postings for this kind of work.

Speaking of places to explore, Banff and Jasper National Parks in Alberta are absolutely stunning and a must-visit for their breathtaking mountain landscapes. If you're more of an ocean person, the coastline of British Columbia is beautiful, with Tofino being a notable spot for its beaches and surfing. Culture and history enthusiasts might find Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island and St. John's in Newfoundland intriguing for their rich historical significance.

Remember, the experience of a gap year goes beyond just traveling—it's about immersing yourself in a new environment, meeting new people, and learning along the way. Proficiently managing your budget, ensuring your paperwork is always in order (especially if you're not a Canadian citizen), and being open to diverse experiences will play a crucial role in making this gap year memorable. Safe travels!