“Without them, my trip to the UK would have remained just a dream! With Yeosong's help I could see it gradually taking shape. She was there every step of the way, couldn't have asked for better service”
Chief Experience Officer
France, Canada, Ireland.
When I land in a new country, I usually go straight to the local market, and check out the type of produce they have, pay attention to the way people communicate and what they eat. Then I usually proceed to the nearest food stall and order whatever people around me seem to be eating and enjoying. Best way to get an immediate shot of local culture!
I was sitting at this tiny elbow to elbow yakitori place in Tokyo. I started ordering whatever people around me were eating. This was a very local joint, and after a while the table next to me proceeded to send me a round of sake, to avoid a diplomatic incident I immediately returned the favour. After a few exchanges of “courtesy”, we ended up bringing the two tables together where they introduced me to an array of dishes I had never heard of before. They were all colleagues, office workers decompressing after a long day at work. This was my first night in Japan, and it could not have been a better introduction to what it is to be a Tokyoite!
Program Lead
Sri Lanka, China, United States, South Korea, Mexico, Canada
Arrange to meet or make an effort to meet locals during your first week of arrival! Starting out at a hostel is great as you can meet other travellers and quickly learn about the best spots, but meeting and living like a local is another level of travelling – it doesn’t get any better. For example, find a local roommate or stay at a cute bed and breakfast place owned by locals.
In Dubai, my friends and I went on an impromptu tour to the ‘ghost town’ after our car wheels sank into the sand. Two camel farm owners from Saudi Arabia greeted us with their beautiful Jeep Gladiator and drove us seamlessly to the ghost town. I know that there are professional and organized safari tours that go there, but we did it at a much cheaper price. Plus, we got the unforgettable experience of holding dearly onto a rope as we were not able to sit properly on the super hot Jeep trunk surface. This is when I learned the meaning of interacting with locals to get the most unforgettable experiences, as well as the fun of spontaneity during travels.
Travel Coordinator
The United Kingdom, Australia, The Netherlands, Ireland and now Canada!
Australia was my first ever working holiday experience abroad and I was able to visit all states (Western Australia, South Australia, Northern Territory, Victoria, ACT and New South Wales) and take in all their very unique natural beauty. I took 6 days to explore and understand the Indigenous culture in Uluru and I will never forget camping underneath the stars and waking up at 4am to watch the sunrise.
Travel Program Specialist
United Kingdom, Singapore, Australia, Canada
My rule when I arrive in a new country is never say no to a social event. Step out of your comfort zone and do things you wouldn’t usually do in your home country. It’s also important to start on a clean slate! Your new country will have different behaviours, customs and expectations that you will learn as you go. It’s important to observe and learn how you can fit into your new environment, but not lose what makes you you.
Travelling from Montreal to London in 2017 for 3 days to see my favourite band in concert. I was so jet lagged the whole time, I ended up sleeping up until my 8:45pm alarm. Two days later, I was back on a plane home for finals week at uni!
VP of Programs
Spain, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, United States and Canada.
It does not matter if you don’t speak the language, you will be surprised by how many conversations you can get started just saying where you are from. I think everyone should experience a journey like this at least once in their lifetime!
South Tyrol and the Dolomites will always have a special place in my heart! Vienna, Munich, Lago Di Garda, … are all wonderful. Italian lakes and german castles are a top combination and if you are heading to Europe, you should not miss it, what about a road trip?
Chief Security Officer
France, Canada
Sniff out the food scene.
Meeting sea dogs for the first time!