With the Autumn season upon us, this means that winter is also just around the corner. By now, you should be familiar with the winter conditions in Canada…

A working holiday in Canada can involve working at a number of different types of jobs. One very popular choice is working at a ski resort. Obviously, this will be during the winter time and depending where you relocate to, the winter conditions will differ in terms of severity.

On a Canadian working holiday visa, you will want to prepare for the winter as soon as possible. Subjected to which type of Canadian work abroad programme you opt for, you may or may not be living with room mates. If you are living alone, being snowed in could be a lonely time. But, it doesn’t have to be!

In fact, this time can be used to focus on yourself and bring you some probably much-needed downtime! Let’s explore some ideas on what you can do during a snowy lock in.

Video call loved ones

Back home, your friends and family will also be experiencing winter. However, a UK winter doesn’t even compare to one in Canada. With a Canadian visa working holiday, you will note that there is a time difference between Canada and the UK.

By scheduling some time for video calls and three way calls, this is a great way to catch up with your relatives. During your working abroad program, you may find that you don’t always have the time to keep in touch. Working full time, travelling and time zones can definitely impact the amount of ‘checking in’ with loved ones.

Use this quiet time to catch up with your family.

Watch a box set

Do you have a box set in mind to watch that you just haven’t found the time to? Use the time when you are forced indoors because of the harsh weather to do so.

Re-watch an old favourite, or finally start that 8 season show you have been putting off due to lack of time.

If you unsure of what to watch, seek out recommendations from friends or even locals so that you are kept in the loop of what’s popular in Canada.

Don’t forget the hot cocoa and marshmallows!

Self-care

Face masks, self massage and fresh juices are what spring to mind when we think about self-care. During the busy and fast-paced working week, self-care often takes a back seat whilst we carry on with other important tasks throughout the day.

There is a saying that goes ‘if you do not make time for your wellness, make time for your illness’. Being stuck indoors is a good time to reset your self-care and kickstart a self-care schedule.

Start as you mean to go on and plan to incorporate self-care into your every day life – even once the snow calms down.

Organise your pantry

We all have those jobs and tasks around the house that probably need doing, but can usually wait as they are not super urgent.

One of those tasks is usually organising your pantries and cupboards. With a snow lock in, organising your cupboards can be a therapeutic and rewarding task.

There is a satisfying feeling afterward once you have completed it, and a well deserved pat on the back!

Go crazy, and alphabetise your seasonings and spices, re-familiarise yourself with the things that you have to plan new recipes, and separate the savoury from the sweet.

Want to apply for your Canadian working holiday today? Visit our page on Canadian working abroad programmes, and apply here.