Travelling to Canada and USA

A gap year in Canada or the USA is a guaranteed adventure. The saying goes that everything is bigger over there - the houses, the cars, the food - and the same goes for fun! Whether you want to bike cross-country, work at a summer camp or learn how to fly, you can find all of these opportunities and more during a gap year in the US or Canada.

North American Geography

North America is the third largest continent in terms of size, and covers almost 5% of the Earth's surface. Like Europe, definitions of the countries and territories that make up North America vary, but of any North American countries, the USA and Canada are by far the largest.

The United States of America is over twice as large as the European Union. It is a country made up of 50 states, 1 district (the capital, Washington D.C.) and a handful of territories and/or dependent areas. These are often divided into geographical regions including:

• New England/The Northeast
• Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island
• The Mid-Atlantic
• New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington D.C., Maryland
• The South
• Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas
• The Midwest
• Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, North Dakota, South Dakota
• The Southwest
• Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada
• The West
• Hawaii, Alaska, Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, Montana

Canada is a nation larger than the United States. The capital of Canada is Ottawa, and the country is divided into 10 providences and three territories, including:

• Alberta
• British Columbia
• Manitoba
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Nova Scotia
• Ontario
• Prince Edward Island
• Quebec
• Saskatchewan
• Northwest Territories
• Nunavut (Territory)
• Yukon Territory

Prepare for a North American Adventure

The climates across the United States and Canada vary considerably, from tropical to arctic, so prepare for any eventuality. Clothing and shoe sizes run differently in the US and Canada, so make sure to pack:

• Sturdy walking shoes, boots, and/or sandals.
• Raincoat or all-weather coat.
• Hat and gloves.
• Comfortable layers of clothing.
• Swimsuits.
• Comfortable backpack.

When your bags are packed, investigate:

• Arranging for the travel vaccinations recommended by your GP or local clinic.
• Registering for travel insurance.
• Obtaining travel and medical insurance claims forms.
• Filling needed prescriptions.
• Applying for visas (needed for stays longer than 90 days and for work or study).
• Check with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for travel advisories.
• Keep abreast of local news in the areas you plan to visit.

Unfortunately, the United States and Canada do not give discounts to young travellers quite as frequently as other parts of the world, but some savings can be had so check out:

• International Student Identity Card (ISIC) - must be a student.
• International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) - must be under 26 years of age.
• Youth Hostel Association - cheapest if you are under 26 years of age.

Create an Unforgettable Itinerary

An itinerary is a great way to create an efficient travel plan. Leave a copy of your itinerary with a family member and register with the local Embassy or High Commission in case of emergencies. If you are planning a gap year in the United States and/or Canada, then consider visiting:

• The Freedom Trail in Boston.
• The Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in New York.
• The White House, Capitol and Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
• Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee.
• The nightlife of Miami.
• The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas.
• Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.
• The bright lights and slot machines of Las Vegas.
• Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.
• Notre-Dame Basilica in Old Montreal.
• Stanley Park in Vancouver.
• Calgary Zoo.
• Chateau Frontenac in Quebec.

Another way to experience Canada and the United States is to join a structured work, study or volunteer programme. If this is of interest to you, be sure to check out BUNAC

Staying Safe in the United States and Canada

The United States and Canada do experience random crime, so use common sense to stay safe. Keep your valuables locked at your hotel or hostel and keep your wallet/purse on your person at all times. Do not wander in deserted areas alone, and stick to well lit avenues. Never watch bags or carry items for strangers and alert authorities to suspicious behaviour.

Good luck!


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