The Working Holiday Permit (WHP) is an extraordinary opportunity for young adults wishing to combine travel and work in a foreign country. Each experience is unique and enriching in its own way, and the testimonials of PVT participants reflect this diversity of adventures. Whether in Argentina, Australia, Canada or elsewhere, these trips offer unforgettable challenges, discoveries and lessons. Here are the stories of three PVTists who share their experiences, the challenges they faced, and the advice they'd like to give to those considering following in their footsteps.
Pauline chose Argentina for her Working Holiday Permit, specifically Mendoza, a city surrounded by magnificent mountains. She began by working in a youth hostel while taking Spanish lessons.
"I love Mendoza, its atmosphere and the magnificent mountains that surround us. My internship with an NGO during my gap year got off to a great start."
Pauline explains that, despite the sometimes difficult start, she has found a good balance between work and free time. She particularly enjoys meeting people from all over the world and improving her Spanish thanks to her classes. In addition to her administrative work at the hostel, she enjoys the peace and quiet of the region, relaxing and exploring the mountains.
"I work about 3, 4 or 5 days a week, 8 hours a day, which leaves me time to go for walks, go to the mountains and get out! My colleagues are lovely and I've made friends here."
Pauline's advice for those considering a WHP in Argentina: "Come to Mendoza from November onwards to enjoy the summer and the lively atmosphere of the hostel. And above all, take Spanish classes - they're essential if you want to get the most out of the experience."
Cyrielle chose to go on a WHP in Australia for a unique experience with animals. She had the chance to work with iconic animals like kangaroos and koalas, as well as exotic birds and other rare animals.
"This international experience opened me up to the world and enabled me to discover Australia far from the big cities. It also gave me lots of experiences that I'll never forget."
Her fondest memories are closely linked to the bonds she forged with her other colleagues. Together, they formed a close-knit group, sharing every moment of their stay. She also recalls striking experiences with animals, including her first day at work surrounded by kangaroos.
"I'll always remember my first day when I had to clean the huge kangaroo enclosure. They were everywhere, some following me. It was magical to be on the other side of the world and surrounded by kangaroos."
Cyrielle's advice: "You need to be aware of the tropical climate, which can be hard to bear, but the experience is more than worth it!"
She recommends this project to all those who wish to experience a unique adventure in contact with animals seen nowhere else but in Australia.
"Contact with Real Step was very easy, the whole process was well explained in detail. I would recommend!"
Pauline decided to go to Canada to improve her English. On her return, she considers herself bilingual and has lasting memories of her adventure.
"This WHP program in Canada was incredible and gave me so much more than just being bilingual. I learned to be 100% independent, assertive and open to the world."
Pauline says that at first, she was reluctant to make new friends. But little by little, she gained confidence and opened up to others, taking full advantage of Canadian culture and breathtaking scenery.
"The sunsets on the beach that we went to see every weekend with the friends I'd made at school are unforgettable memories. The weekend we spent on Vancouver Island will remain etched in my memory."
Pauline highly recommends this experience for those who want to become bilingual and live an international adventure. A PVT testimonial that makes you want to go for it!
"I would totally recommend this project because I was clearly able to see my progress and meet some amazing people and teachers. I would also recommend Real Step for the ease of enrolment and the support throughout the process."
Each of these testimonials shows that the Working Holiday Permit is much more than just an opportunity to work abroad. It's a life experience that can have a profound personal and professional impact.
Common lessons learned by WHPers include:
- The importance of communication : Whether it's expressing your needs to your employer, or making connections with locals and other travelers, good communication is essential.
- Adapting to change : Every environment is different, and situations can change rapidly. Knowing how to adjust to these changes is crucial.
- Dare to step out of your comfort zone: As Pauline demonstrated in Canada, stepping out of your comfort zone is essential to getting the most out of the experience. Whether it's making new friends or venturing into unfamiliar landscapes, the rewards are immense.
- Give yourself time to learn: Improving your language and professional skills takes time and patience. All testimonials show that perseverance and open-mindedness lead to significant progress.
The practical advice given by PVT participants can be a great help to those considering a PVT:
1. Be prepared to be flexible: Working and living abroad can sometimes take you by surprise. Accept these changes with an open mind.
2. Learn the local language: Even if you're going to an English-speaking country, having a grounding in the local language (like Pauline's Spanish in Argentina) will make your interactions much easier.
3. Don't underestimate the importance of meeting new people: The relationships you forge during your WHP can be incredibly enriching, both personally and professionally.
4. Take advantage of local activities: Integrating local activities, such as language courses or cultural outings, can make your stay richer and give you a better understanding of the local culture.
5. Take time to travel: Don't forget that a WHP is also an opportunity to travel and discover different landscapes and cultures. Cyrielle and Pauline both took advantage of their free time to explore the surrounding regions.
PVT testimonials reveal just how much an experience abroad can transform a person. Whether in Argentina, New Zealand, Australia, Canada or elsewhere, each adventure is unique, full of challenges and discoveries. By following the advice of those who have already had the experience, you can better prepare for your own adventure and reap the maximum benefits, both personally and professionally.
If you're considering a WHP, keep in mind that this experience can offer you much more than just work abroad. It can open up new perspectives, help you gain independence and create unforgettable memories. As the 2 Pauline and Cyrielle have shown, PVT is an opportunity worth taking full advantage of.
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