I'm thinking about spending my gap year traveling around Canada, but I'm a bit overwhelmed with where to start. How do you plan an entire year out of school in another country? Any advice or tips?
Planning a gap year can be an exciting yet daunting endeavor. Here are a few steps to get you started on your adventure.
1. Research & Decide on Key Locations: The first step would be to decide where you specifically want to visit. Canada is the second-largest country in the world, and the experiences can vary greatly from place to place. Each province and territory has unique elements. You could explore the metropolitan cities of Vancouver and Toronto, hike in the Rockies, witness the stunning views of the Northern Lights in Yukon, or immerse yourself in the culture of Quebec.
2. Budget: It's crucial to create a realistic budget. Consider expenses like visas, insurances, flight tickets, accommodation, meals, transportation within the country, and entertainment costs.
3. Accommodation: Decide on the type of accommodations that suit your travel style and budget, such as hostels, Airbnb, hotels, or budget inns. Long-term accommodation like renting an apartment could be an option if you plan to stay in a location for a while.
4. Legal Requirements: Check what kind of visa you might need for a 1-year stay in Canada. You might also want to look into getting an International Driving Permit if you plan on driving while you're there.
5. Health and Insurance: Be sure to check if your current health insurance covers international travel. If not, you'll want to get travel insurance which can cover unexpected health issues, accidents, lost luggage, and even trip cancellations.
6. Connectivity: Investigate the best options for staying connected—will you need a new SIM card or a portable wifi device?
7. Transportation: Research Canada's transportation options—trains, buses, flights. If you'd like the freedom to go wherever whenever, buying or renting a car or van could be a great option.
8. Building an Itinerary: Outline a general route and timeline but allow for flexibility. You may discover places you want to explore more thoroughly once you're there. The goal isn't to schedule every minute, but having a plan will help ensure you cover all your must-see destinations.
9. Work and Volunteer: Consider if you would like to work or volunteer during your gap year. There are programs such as Workaway or WWOOF, and seasonal jobs that not only can help you save money but also give meaningful experiences and allow you to immerse in the local culture.
10. Prepare Yourself: Do a little study on Canada's culture, traditions and etiquette. It always helps to know some local customs and basic phrases in French (especially if you plan to visit Quebec).
Remember, the goal of a gap year is as much about personal growth and learning new things as it is about travel and adventure. Happy planning!
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