If you love SWAP, social media, and having a stand-out resume

Posted on May 9, 2012 by SWAP

This is our wonderful intern Claire!

Are you a past or current SWAP participant?  Did working abroad change your life and blow your mind?  Do you think other people who think about going for it should walk the walk and go for it?  If you would recommend that others go for their working holiday adventure with SWAP- we want your help.

We are looking for past and current SWAPPERS who can work remotely (anywhere in the world) as content contributors and social media champions.  If you use any social media outlets and love travel we want you on our team.  We love bloggers, tweeters, facebookers, and people who use forums and communication tools we have never heard of.

You can do as much or as little as you like.  We want to work with you to see what you are interested in doing, and target your contributions so that the experience can be an
enjoyable and useful opportunity for you (in your career etc.)

We are also looking for one in-office marketing intern for SWAP’s Toronto office, so if this is something you are interested in please do let us know!

Note:  As a small not-for-profit, we are unable to pay interns and contributors in $$$.  However, we are definitely more than happy to help you get experience that could benefit you, as being part of a marketing team for an international travel organization.
We make very enthusiastic references!

Please don’t hesitate to contact us at swapinfo@swap.ca if you are at all interested, or have any questions or concerns.

Cheers,

Sarah swapinfo@swap.ca

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Bird’s Eye View: New Zealand

Posted on May 2, 2012 by SWAP

Hanging out with the Kiwi’s these days? Here are some ideas of how to catch a good view of this scenic country.

What better to begin with than skydiving. Definitely seems like the ‘in’ thing to do in this country, considering how many places there are to choose from. If you enjoy your first dive, try another venue for some different scenery.

Introducing the World’s Largest Swing: The Nevis Swing. Be warned that this is not your traditional type of swing, but if you’ve been graced with an adventurous and fearless spirit this is right up your alley. Can only be described as similar to bungee jumping, check out the video on the website to see how this works.

In Auckland check out the chance for a double adventure at the Auckland Sky Tower. You can go for a walk along the tower’s edge, or jump off (or both if you feel so inclined). **Please sign up for these activities with the people working there and don’t attempt them yourself, we don’t mean for you to get that crazy.

Wellington seems to be the place to hike to your view. Some popular places include Mount Kau Kau and Mount Victoria, but explore around to find some others. Don’t forget your walking shoes!

Happy SWAPPING!
The SWAP Team
www.swap.ca

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Festivals All Over the World

Posted on May 1, 2012 by SWAP

Australia: The Melbourne Jazz Festival –  You’ll want to make your plans to attend this festival this month, as it runs from June 1 – 10 in – you guessed it – Melbourne.
Running for over 10 years now, be sure to check this out if you feel like snapping your fingers along to some smooth sounds.

Austria Spring Festival – Taking place from May 16 – 20 this year, this festival focuses on electronic art and music. Head down to Graz in Southern Austria to take in the European festival.

France Night of the Museums – On May 19, Museums across Paris will stay open through the night for you to explore exhibits and learn something new. Don’t miss out on this free event.

Germany Stuttgarter Frühlingsfest – Which translates to the Stuttgart Spring Festival, takes place from April 21 – May 13 and celebrates the end of winter. Check this festival out for beer tents, oompah bands, and lots of fun.

Ireland Connemara Mussel Festival – From May 4-6 taste some local seafood cuisine in Connemara, Galway. The combination of music and mussels promises to be good craic.

Japan Shunki Reitaisai – The Grand Festival of Spring takes place in Sannai, Nikko City from May 16-17. Watch the parade of people dressed like Samurai and dancers around the shrine Nikko Toshogu, a recognized World Heritage Site.

New Zealand New Zealand International Comedy Festival – Running in Auckland and Wellington from April 27 – May 20, this festival features comedians from all over the world. Go on and a have a laugh, you’ll need a sense of humour as winter begins to set in.

South Africa Good Food & Wine Show – Check out this event in Cape Town from May 24 – 27 to rub shoulders with celebrity chefs and taste some delicious cuisine.

Thailand Yasothon Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival – This takes place in Phya Thaen Park from May 5 – 9, and it sure to be explosive. This ancient festival originated on the origins of bringing good luck for the upcoming rice farming season.

United Kingdom Brighton Festival – From May 5 – 27 there will be a combination of music, theatre, dance, art and much more in Brighton, England.

 

 

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Bird’s Eye View: Japan

Posted on April 30, 2012 by SWAP

So you’re calling Japan your new home and you want to see it from another angle. Here are a few ideas for you.

Go for a Glider Experience in Takikawa and feel the freedom of flying without an engine. A plane pulls your glider up into the air and then lets you (and your pilot) coast through the air. Bravery required.

Been stuck in a winter rut? Parasailing over the snow should help disperse your blues. Let a snow mobile pull you as you sail up above. Don’t forget to dress warmly!

If you’re going to Tokyo (which seems like a must in Japan) go to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office for a panoramic view of the city. The viewing is free and on a clear day you can see Mount Fuji.

In Kyoto check out the Kiyomizu Temple for a view of Kyoto city and numerous cherry and maple trees. Best time to go is the spring or the fall to see the trees in their true beauty. But seeing as the temple was founded in 780, it guarantees to be interesting at any time.

Enjoy a mixture of gardens and a view? Head to Osaka’s Umeda Sky Building for this combination then. The building consists of two towers that are joined by a floating garden on the 39th floor, giving you a chance to smell the roses and take in the views of the city.

Happy SWAPPING!
The SWAP Team
www.swap.ca

 

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“When you get no news, make your own”

Posted on April 25, 2012 by SWAP

Waiting around to hear if you got that job? Have you been told that a raise is coming five months ago? Have you been telling yourself that there will be time to travel later?

If you’ve answered yes to the questions but have a feeling that you should stop waiting and start doing, then now is the time! Check out Elise’s blog for some inspiration on taking a big leap. If she can do it, why can’t you?

Happy SWAPPING,
The SWAP Team
www.swap.ca

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Bird’s Eye View: Ireland

Posted on April 23, 2012 by SWAP

What better way to see this country’s famous 40 Shades of Green than from above?

One way to get yourself off the ground is rock climbing. This website suggests all sorts of places for you to go for this type of adventure. Rookie rock climber? Have no fear, there’s also a link for where to go for lessons.

On the west coast, head to The Cliffs of Moher to gain some height on the country’s edge. On a clear day you can see the Aran Islands, but as it’s not clear that often in Ireland, don’t go solely for that view. Enjoy the walk, the photo opps and the waves crashing against the cliffs below.

Down south in County Cork? Try zip lining through River Valley on a guided tour with your friends. A combination of zip lines, rope bridges, obstacles and forest trails is sure to provide a new view, and it is only a 30 minute drive from Cork City.

Want to see Dublin City from higher ground? Head up to The Gravity Bar as the last stop of your tour of the Guinness Brewery. Enjoy a pint of Guinness while you take in the 360° views.

Put your walking shoes on for this next adventure. Follow the trail in Connemara National Park to the top (or choose one of the less daunting trails if you were experiencing the Irish nightlife the night before) to see rolling hills in every direction.

Connemara National Park

Happy SWAPPING,
The SWAP Team
www.swap.ca

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Bird’s Eye View: Germany

Posted on April 19, 2012 by SWAP

Here are some ways to catch a great view of Germany.

In Munich, stop by St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche) to see a church that has been rebuilt after fires, war and maintained after general wear and tear. What does this have to do with a bird’s eye view? If you climb the 306 steps you can have an incredible panoramic view of the city, that’s what.

The Main Tower in Frankfurt is another building with a great view. This one has 56 stories, and thankfully an elevator. The TV station that uses the building as an office does its weather reports from the roof – perhaps that could be your big break! **Note: we mean break into the television, not break a bone.

And how could you resist checking out the views from atop a mountain? Plan a ski trip (or multiple) adventures in the snow. With places to go throughout the country, you won’t have to travel far from your German home base to check out some of these slopes.

This last one isn’t exactly about a view, but it does relate to channeling your inner bird and defying gravity. With anti-gravity yoga, hammocks are used to help you get your feet off the ground. Go hang out at one of the sessions and see if you were a bird in a past life.

Happy SWAPPING,
The SWAP Team
www.swap.ca

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Bird’s Eye View: France

Posted on April 16, 2012 by SWAP

One of the amazing things about France is the diversity in the landscapes across the country. This means you’ll probably be tempted to try quite a few of our suggestions though.

Care for a view of the Alps? Paragliding could be just the thing for you then. With Fly Chamonix you can go tandem, when a pilot takes you out and down all the work while you enjoy the view, or you have the option to have a lesson to be a pilot. Located in Chamonix, which is a mere 5-day walk from Paris. Or you could fly or bus if you really thought it was necessary.

Parasailing in Nice, France

Down in the South of France? Wouldn’t it be nice to see Nice from above? Why don’t you try parasailing? Just head down to the beach and find one of the many adventure sports stands and sign up (and pay of course). Depending on the winds you may have to wait a little bit for them to be strong enough. Oh, and hold onto those bathing suits when they dip you in the water.

And what is a more iconic way to see Paris from above than the Eiffel Tower (you didn’t think we could leave this out, did you?). Try to buy your tickets ahead of time to avoid line-ups, but even if you do have to wait the atmosphere there is unbelievable. No matter how touristy this is, it is a must.

Happy SWAPPING,
The Swap Team
www.swap.ca

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Superstitions Around the Globe

Posted on April 13, 2012 by SWAP

Happy Friday the 13th! This ancient superstition stems from the combination of the least lucky day of the week and an unlucky number. In honour of this superstitious holiday we’ve found some superstitions from around the world.

In many parts of East Asia the number 4 is considered to be unlucky. This is because the number sounds a lot like the word death in Mandarin and Japanese. This is why in many hotels they skip the fourth floor and don’t have any rooms with the number four. In China it is also unlucky to place your chopsticks in a V-shape sticking up, because it is similar to how incense is burned at a funeral.

In Germany it is said that if a stork builds a nest on your roof it will bring a lifetime of wealth and good fortune.

In the UK it is said that two women should not pour from the same teapot, or else it will lead to a fight. Black cats are also considered lucky whenever you meet them.

In Ireland beware of the magpies. If you see one or three it is a sign of bad luck, but seeing a pair is a good omen.  It is also considered very bad luck to cut down a fairy tree (a tree that is alone in the middle of a field) because the fairies will curse your family. If a chair falls when you stand up, it is unlucky. And of course a four-leaf clover is good luck and will ward off curses.

And some common superstitions around the world are 7 years of bad luck if you break a mirror, bad luck if you open an umbrella inside, bad luck to walk under a ladder, and good luck if a black cat walks towards you but if it walks away it takes the luck with it. To ward off bad luck you can touch or knock on wood. Lots to remember, isn’t there?

Want to read some more? Check out this full list of superstitions or these 20 wacky ones.

Happy SWAPPING!
The SWAP Team
www.swap.ca

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Bird’s Eye View: Austria

Posted on April 11, 2012 by SWAP

The easiest way to catch some air in Austria is on the mountains (with your skis or snowboard of course, we don’t want you to jump). But with the Alps standing throughout Austria, you are sure to have more than enough scenery to choose from.

Though you might not be able to pronounce the mountains you’re cruising down, you’ll be able to appreciate the incredible views they provide. Not a skier or snowboarder? The resorts have activities for you as well!

Some of the more popular mountain ranges include:

  • The Arlberg – Hotspot for Europe’s Royal Families and the birthplace of modern Alpine skiing
  • Kitzbuehel – A place that has helped define winter sports in the industry, as it should since they can all be done here
  • Innsbruck & the Stubai Glacier – Has earned its reputation as the world’s winter sport capitol and has over 50 km of ski runs – better bring your energy
  • Montafon – Don’t let the relaxed atmosphere or the idea of it being a valley fool you, there is a lot of ski-ground to cover here

For more information on these areas, click here.

If you don’t feel like zipping down one of these hills, try going cross-country skiing or going on a hike. Or a leisurely stroll. Or take a bus tour. Just don’t miss the opportunity to see all of Austria’s beauty from up above. And don’t forget, if it’s an overcast day you could end up in the clouds!

Happy SWAPPING!
The SWAP Team
www.swap.ca

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Bird’s Eye View: Australia

Posted on April 9, 2012 by SWAP

Welcome to SWAP’s new blog series Bird’s Eye View! Each entry we will focus on one of our destinations and ways to see it from above. To get things started we’re going to take a look from above at the land Down Under.

Why not start off with a hot air balloon ride over the nation’s capitol? Balloon Aloft Canberra has been around for over 25 years and will provide you with a view of the city you wouldn’t have dreamed possible. Save your pennies if this has just been added to your bucket list, these aren’t any dollarstore balloons.

If you’re in Melbourne, go to the Eureka Skydeck 88. The only skydeck in the world that has a glass cube that projects out 3 meters from the building with tourists inside, this is not for the faint of heart. Not keen on going out on such a limb? No worries, it is
optional and we’re sure you’ll enjoy the view from the security of the 88th floor.

Venturing to Tasmania? Hollybank Treetop Adventures allow you glide through the forest on wires (attached by a harness of course) and truly live the life of a bird soaring above the
ground. Don’t worry though, you’re not expected to adopt a bird diet.

How could we leave skydiving out of this article? With Skydive Australia they offer five different locations for you to do your free-falling, so if you really like it you can change up your scenery the next time.

This one isn’t exactly seeing things from above but it does involve the sky. If you want to keep your feet on the ground but feel closer to the stars, check out the Sydney Observatory. Admission to the gardens and the observatory are free during the day, but there is a fee
for the 3D theatre and telescope viewing.

Happy SWAPPING!
The SWAP Team
www.swap.ca

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Worlds Collide! SWAP pub night on Sat. March 31st in Toronto

Posted on March 21, 2012 by SWAP

Cheers!

Fun Fact: SWAP hosts inbound foreign participants in Canada as well as helping Canadians world abroad.
Who are the best people to talk to about the joys, the challenges, and the low-down on working abroad?  People living the working holiday lifestyle of course!  Luckily, we have these awesome people happy to talk to you- right here in Toronto.

If you are able to come to Toronto on Saturday March 31st- you are invited to join us for drinks, games, Irish jokes, Australian shots, and prizes.  This is your chance to talk to people from all over the world who are having a ball working abroad.
These accented partyers will inevitably be happy to tell you why you might like a working holiday is their home country.  They can give you in inside scoop on where to go and what to do when you arrive abroad.  SWAP staff will also be happy to answer any other q’s you have on our programs, jobs, etc. Have a great night out while doing some ‘field-research’ on working abroad!
Who: Canadians who are thinking of working abroad, young foreigners working in Canada, and SWAP staff.
What: Worlds Collide!  A very special pub night for inbound and outbound SWAPPERS.
When: Saturday March 31st, 8pm- late (come anytime)
Where: Molly Bloom’s, 191 College St., Toronto

If you have any questions or can RSVP (not required but appreciated) please email swapinfo@swap.ca

 

 

 

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Summer Fun USA Style

Posted on March 14, 2012 by SWAP

Photograph by Kevin Kerr, Aurora Photos

Thinking of going to the USA for the summer? Make time to stop by some of the best boardwalks in the world. Check them out here

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Important SWAP UK / Olympics update

Posted on March 1, 2012 by SWAP

We have had an overwhelming amount of emails regarding jobs in the UK.  We are very happy that so many of you are intereted in working in the UK-  but we want to caution you against only wanting to go to the UK if you can work at the Olympics.

Remember- we can’t guarantee you a job at the Olympics but our partner, BUNAC in London, does have lots of job postings in many different fields.  These resources normally kick-in when you arrive, but it’s a special case where one of the employers for the Olympics is recruiting now for people who are not yet in the country.

 Also, the work permit that you need to work in the UK is a two year YMS visa and you can only have one in your life. If you want to go to the UK ONLY to work at the Olympics, remember that you might not get a job at the games and you will need to be open to working at other jobs.

Also pre-plan your long term accommodation since there will be a shortage of accommodation in London during this time.

The UK is fantastic all times of year and we hope you commit to spending some time to get the working holiday experience with SWAP UK.

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Work for the London Olympics this Summer!

Posted on February 9, 2012 by SWAP

One of the companies who take on a lot of UK SWAPPERS is ramping up their recruitment for the Olympics! Our partners BUNAC in the UK can put SWAPPERS in touch with one of the top recruiters who will be sending out staff to all sorts of events over the Olympic period, but they also take on many people throughout the year. This a great opportunity to be involved with all manner of events associated with the Olympics.  We can send you instructions on the application process specifically for the Olympics which means that SWAPPERS can apply and be accepted from Canada, so they can arrive with a job arranged.  Email us at swapinfo@swap.ca if you are interested.

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Happy Australia Day!

Posted on January 26, 2012 by SWAP

Happy Australia Day, everybody!

If you’re not currently on a SWAP Australia working holiday adventure, here are a few fun sites to help you celebrate from your computer:
1- Colourful Brisbane
2- Josh’s 1-minute video
3- Lauren’s awesome blog: Lateral Movements
4- Matthew’s SWAP adventure blog
Enjoy!

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12 Unique Stewardess Uniforms

Posted on January 18, 2012 by SWAP

So many original ways to look professionally fablous while flying, check out the looks to crib here 

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12 Of The Funniest Road Signs Around The World

Posted on January 18, 2012 by SWAP

There are more …

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Paris is weird and wonderful

Posted on January 13, 2012 by SWAP

Think Paris is only café crème and romantic walks along the Seine?  Think again!

From the Cool Stuff in Paris blog by Manning Leonard Krull

Paris is all about strange street art, creepy dog cemeteries, and taxidermied rats.  I especially love this skeleton/sewer grate painting.  Check out Cool Stuff in Paris, a truly cool and unique blog! 

And, hey, SWAPPERS: send in your own cool discoveries in your destinations and we’ll post them here!  swapinfo@swap.ca

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Postcards without postage

Posted on January 9, 2012 by SWAP

Melanie discovers unique and amazing London

Check out Melanie’s blog about her working holiday in London!  Postcards Without Postage features her amazing pictures of all the nooks and crannies around town. 

And she’s really taking advantage of her SWAP experience to discover Bruges and Milan and we’re just a tad jealous.

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