Working Holiday Visas for Canadians

Mostly for those younger than age-30.

It’s EASY for Canadian gymnastics coaches under 30.

… comprehensive list of all of the countries in the world that offer working holiday visas for Canadians, so that you can choose where you want to work abroad and start planning your trip.

A working holiday visa allows you to work and travel in that country for a period of time, usually between 12-24 months. The idea is that you are working to support your travels, rather than coming there with any long term career prospects in mind – travel should be the main focus of your trip. You will need to show proof of having enough support funds in your bank account so that you can take care of your primary expenses until you start earning money from your job. …

read more – Which Countries Offer Working Holiday Visas for Canadians?

Canada passport

(via Facebook)

in JoBurg for the month

I’m a volunteer coach for the month of February.

Though Johannesburg is not considered a big tourist destination, over 4 weeks here I expect to become something of a local.

It’s sprawling, green, clean. A very attractive city at first glance.

Greater population almost 10 million.

JoBurg

Mountain biking the Cradle of Humankind on Sunday.

related – Why I Think Joburg Rocks

minimum wage?

A perfect world would not have socialism, unions nor minimum wage legislation.

But it seems to me that there is a time and place for each in the development of a society. Take CHINA, for example. Communism to Capitalism is the road map. En route the Chinese people would benefit from Unions and minimum wage laws.

At some point, they’d no longer be needed.

If I want to volunteer (as I am right now) — why should any Government stop me?

If I want to be an unpaid intern — why should any Government stop me?

Click PLAY or watch The Truth about the Minimum Wage on YouTube.

I don’t agree with everything in that propaganda edit. But it’s food for thought.

 

en route to South Africa

today I fly,
the reason why

weather JoBurg

I spent 3 weeks in South Africa last year. And I’m going back to southern Africa for at least 6 weeks this time. Hiking. And as a Gymnastics volunteer.

I’ll be based out of JoBurg. Visiting Lesotho and Mozambique.

Johannesburg claims the best climate in the world. 🙂

farewell Port Townsend

I was back once again in Port Townsend, WA just after Christmas. Stayed a couple of weeks. 🙂

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This time Carrie, James and I were videotaping Games & Activities for Tumbl Trak, based on a script I wrote 14yrs ago.

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James has moved to Port Townsend from freezing Michigan — for 3 months, at least.

He’s living in Doug and Diana’s new guest house dubbed “The Lodge“.

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The weather was far better than most anywhere else in North America. But it did rain.

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Actually, I spent more time on Doug’s Cycleops 200 Pro Indoor Cycle trainer than on that guest bike. Watching episodes of House of Cards.

Good food. Good fun. Good conversation.

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James is a member of the Wall Street Journal Wine Club. He gets a select collection every 3 months.

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January in Port Townsend is a time of Tumbl Trak brainstorming for the new year. We’ve hatched plans.

more photos

the LODGE at Port Townsend

Doug & Diana have so many guests visit them in Port Townsend, WA, they finally bought a second house. James moved in for 3 months!

The LODGE will be hosting many meetings & social events, as well. My second night in town we enjoyed a big dinner.

Salty provided smoked salmon.

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Chris made two giant lasagnas.

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Matt & Becca brought their NEW baby. 🙂

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mmmm …

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never say never …

Elaine was quite sure she’d not return to coaching Gymnastics.

But here she is. It could be 1990 all over again. :-).

ET coaching

Elaine coaching

related – Sandy was just as sure she’d never be a cycle commuter. 🙂

Sandy

farewell Port Townsend

I’ve been hanging around for WEEKS, seems. Gymming, hiking, biking

But today at 5am I’m off to Coeur d’Alene on a Tumbl Trak Ambassador visit.

Last night in town we celebrated my departure at Dos Okies Barbecue and the Pour House.

pork

THANKS once again to Doug and Diana for their kind hospitality. James stays on for another week or more.

doug diana Rick James

more LAST NIGHT photos