Working Adventures is a weekly series of work 'n travel talks in which we will provide you with info, tips and advice on how to travel affordably. Travel is one of life's best learning experiences and we hope to make it part of your world. This week we hear the story of a young person who travelled and worked in Canada and then went on to explore the rest of the world. This could happen to you too! Remember to e-mail SASTS for more information about working adventures. Please feel free to email us and let us know which topics, in particular, you are interested in. Also, we would love to hear all about your travel and working adventure experiences - where you went, who you met, what you did and what you learnt. Lisa, travel editor

As Programme Coordinator at SASTS Working Adventures, I recently received the opportunity to go and work in Toronto, Canada at the Head Office of our partner organisation, Travel CUTS. Little did I know that this work exchange adventure would change my life forever...

When I found myself in Toronto, I could not believe 'cold' meant -20 degrees! This was a real temperature change, as I have never experienced anything colder than +5 degrees. The first day I experienced snow, I was too scared to even go outside, because I did not know what to expect. But I took the plunge and it was the best experience!

During my first weekend in Canada, I went with SWAP (Student Work Abroad Programme) to a resort on Lake Huron. I also went to the great Niagara Falls, the CN Tower, which is the highest tower in the city from where you can see the whole of Toronto, and Skydome (where all the games are held).

My first ski experience was in a tiny village near Toronto, called Barrie. It was not easy, but after a while, I got the hang of it and didn’t want to stop. And for those of you interested in the nightlife - the club scene in Toronto is really great too. There is a wide variety of music and clubs to choose from and loads of parties to attend.

The amazing thing about Toronto is that it is very multi-cultural. Here you will find all races and religions and people from all walks of life, which I found really amazing.

Another great thing I loved about Toronto was that their transportation system was so good, clean and user-friendly. The subway system would run north, south, east or west and if this didn't get you to where you wanted to be, you could get a transfer and then catch the bus or streetcar, all for only CAD$2. It is also very safe to use at night - we took the subway when going out at nights and survived!

There is also a Chinatown which is nice to walk through and browse - you might even find a thing or two for your money's worth.

After finishing my working and travelling experience in Canada, I took the Greyhound down to Boston and New York (got a good discount with my International student ID Card). In Boston, I met up with a friend with whom I visited the great Harvard University and did some touristy things.

After Boston, we made our way to New York, saw the awesome Statue of Liberty, went to Broadway, Times Square, etc. I really loved New York. It’s a very lively city and all it is said to be. On my way home I had a stopover in London and visited a couple of sites, i.e. Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square and the Big Ben, before I headed home.

Now that I am back at home in sunny South Africa, I am very glad to be here and see all my friends and family. I am also pleased that I have had this working adventure as it has opened my eyes to see that the world is out there to explore and that there is so much to learn about other countries and cultures. One should never limit oneself to just what is in front of one; one has to go out there and see the world. Also, when you are earning foreign currency, it makes it so much easier to travel and see other countries whilst abroad.

After having lived, worked and travelled in another country, I’ve been bitten by the ‘bug’ and will definitely travel again! Trust me, you will feel the same... The best experience is just to be in a foreign country, to meet new people and have the time of your life. I definitely recommend a trip to Canada to everyone!

For more information on working in Canada and experiencing this awesome country, contact SASTS’ Head Office at (021) 418 3794 or send mail to: info@sasts.org.za.

Book your own work 'n travel adventure For more information contact SASTS on (021) 418 3794 or email: info@sasts.org.za