Until recently I had never had a real Canadian experience, however that changed in late January when I found myself traveling to Vancouver for a YouthWorks marketing trip. To my surprise when I crossed the border I no longer knew how fast I could drive because everything instantly was converted into the metric system. It was the little things like that, that made me remember that I was now in a different country. After my 5 days in Vancouver I had a grown an appreciation for the Canadian culture and even made a few good friends along the way. Most importantly I came to appreciate our Canadian YouthWorks sites and am now a firm believer in why everyone should take a trip to Canada.

1. Diversity/International Experience

Canada provides a great international and diverse experience without traveling across the world. There are a variety of people groups in Canada, especially in the major cities. This gives you and your students the chance to interact with others cross-culturally. This also gives your group an international experience. Even though Canada is a neighbor there are many differences (currency, metric system, history, etc.). It also provides you with a chance to use the word “Eh” in your everyday language.

2. Experience God’s Beautiful Creation

Canada sure does have some beautiful breathtaking landscape. When I crossed the border into Canada from Washington you wouldn’t believe some of the sights. On one side you have the Pacific Ocean and on the other you have snow-capped mountains. I have seen some pretty amazing sights in my life but the Canadian countryside is near the top of the list. Not to mention if your perfect temperature is sunny with a high of 75, Canada is the place for you. The weather is perfect in the summer, not too hot and not too cold, excellent mission trip weather.

 3. The People

Canada is a very welcoming country. I can personally say I was received with open arms during my recent trip. We have some amazing community partners in Canada and work alongside some great organizations in each of our Canadian sites. I can guarantee that you will walk away with a handful of new Canadian friends. After all, there is nothing better than an international pen pal. 

Other Things Not to Forget:

To get ready for your trip to Canada there are a few things you can do. Canada is very proud of their hockey tradition. Maybe you can get your students to play a game of hockey. If you are in an area that doesn’t have snow or ice street hockey is a great option. Poutine is another Canadian classic. The dish contains French fries topped with gravy and cheese curds. If you are up for it this would be a great dish to make for your next mission trip meeting to give your students a taste of Canada. Lastly take some time to study the metric system so you know how fast you can drive once you cross the border, how long is left until you reach your destination, and most importantly, how warm it is outside.

I hope that you will consider taking a trip to Canada for your next mission trip and enjoy the beautiful Canadian culture as much as I did.

Click for more information on each of our Canadian sites below. 

Thunder Bay     Toronto     Vancouver

In high school Kryn was a student on many different YouthWorks trips and served as summer staff starting in 2008, when she spent her first summer in Booneville. Kryn has been working in the YouthWorks office since 2011, and currently helps manage YouthWorks’ social media and marketing campaigns. When she isn’t at the office you can usually find her at a coffee shop with a friend or at home with her cat Cupcake.