Mark, from prison officer in the UK to Working Holiday Maker in Canada

Hi, I’m Mark. I’m 29 years old from York, UK.

My WHV began on the 26 June 2025 when I flew from Manchester to Vancouver!

So I’m a prison officer, officially. I’ve been in the job over the last few years until I managed to secure a two year career break. I’ll return to the job after my WHV comes to an end.

A few reasons really, as well as gut instinct. The catalyst was when a long term relationship ended and I realised I suddenly had the freedom to pursue something I wanted without having to compromise for anyone else. I was 28 when I made the decision and I was aware that I’d be 30 before I knew it. I wanted to go on one last adventure before inevitably settling down, whenever that happens.

As for why Canada, this is the gut instinct part. Canada was always somewhere I wanted to visit. I can’t exactly say why, but it felt like the right place for me to go to. The wild bears are appealing also.

Ideally I want to see a lot of it via a motorcycle since that’s a big passion of mine. I’ve already bought one so I’m making the ideal vision a reality. I’m keen to see the wildlife which you don’t typically see in Europe as well. I imagine a lot of my time will be spent in the Rockies. I’m quite a sociable person as well so I hope to meet some people along the way whom I can keep in touch with after I return to the UK.

Nothing in the material sense. I just want to have an enjoyable experience and to bring home some cool stories.

Finances is probably the biggest worry. I’ve been here for 3 weeks and I’m still looking for work. Luckily I saved up enough to keep me going for quite a while, but ideally I’d like to start working sooner so I don’t have to rinse my savings.

I was aware of the high cost of living, so I adjusted my savings goal for that. However, I’m also quite a frugal person so I feel like I spend less than the average person. I secured accommodation outside of the city centre, which resulted in cheaper monthly rent.

It’s known amongst some younger people, mostly to those who go on gap years. Australia is definitely the number one destination, with New Zealand coming close. Canada is less travelled to, but a lot of people do express how much they would love to visit.

Everyone has reacted positively. I was quite surprised, as I expected some colleagues to be a little bit critical, and I thought my mum might have her objections. However I’ve only received support and encouragement amongst my family and peers. That in particular was a really highlight to this experience – it’s wonderful when people can be happy for others.

Gut instinct often goes without credit. If it feels right, do your research and start making some plans. Organising the trip can be a little overwhelming at times but it’s also incredibly exciting. On the contrary, don’t get too caught up making things watertight. It usually works out regardless. As John Lennon said, “life is what happens when you’re busy making plans.”