Canadian season advice...

Hi, I'm looking to fly out to Canada for my first season this winter (most likely Fernie or Kicking Horse) and securing work and accommodation is my main priority.

I just need some general advice from anyone who is familiar with Canadian ski resorts.

Which is likely to be more beneficial, applying for jobs online and waiting for a response, or flying out prior to the beginning of the season to talk to employers face to face? If so, when is the best time to fly out? I'm prepared to go as early as it takes to sort out a job and a place to stay. How likely are employers to provide accommodation in relation to a lower wage? Working full or part time isn't a concern as long as I can make enough to live, pay the rent and buy food.

Lot of questions but this is my first time out and any advice would be greatly appreciated. - Ali, UK.

Hi Ali,
Good luck with your quest!
But my point may stop you in your tracks.
What is the present situation with working in Canada for foreign nationals?
My info. is really out of date but I was blocked from taking seasonal work in Canada years and years ago by Visa requirements.
May be worth checking this before making any plans.
Of course, this assumes you are UK national and not Canadian.

I know they were kicking back a lot of work visas this year on account of the financial crisis and stating that locals could take the work.....

that's a good point. I'll look into it. Thanks.

~90% of the seasonal work in Whistler is carried out by foreign workers on open work permits (not an official stat!). Whistler couldn't operate without you guys!

If you are a UK national check out www.canadainternational.gc.ca for official information on applying for a work permit (visa) or take a look at the season guide on our website.

Excellent choice!

Please contact the canadian ski instructors alliance. (see site) for possible workshops in early season!
most serious Canadian certification is done in late March and April!
As note from previous post, level one is done at ski center!

The choice of ski center is up to your "expectations" !

What kind of year do you want?

Whistler would be the obvious choice for most,,but not for me! Mega ski center with tourist à la max!
The village is self enclosed with little real Canadian flavor!

I would pick smaller inner BC ski centers which have a community based social life and chance to "live" à la Canadian!

The serious powder skiers all flock to Fernie! Small niche expert level powder skiers there!

Panorama was just bought from Interwest by the community. It is a special place that few touristy skiers know. great new powder ski are opening! Great life and sit down for this,,,,,,you can do some serious heli skiing since the pad is right at base! Ski instructors get special deals when "free' seats are opened! My first pick would be there!

The selkirks also have some great ski areas. Yes smaller but again chance for some heli skiing!
Also skiing with Canadians!!!! Some are great!

Get there early!


Get fit since skiing is serious there!

Get some good,,,no great high level cold ski wear!

Get some boot heaters from Caframo! A serious Canadian digital controlled boot warmer for 4 boots, gloves etc,,,! All ski instructors should have one! Very cheap since not sold to skiers but to hunters and fisherman, woodsman etc,,,,,!!

Good luck!

Pavel