Gap year in Canada: 'Endless' things to do in Vancouver

Those planning a gap year in Canada have been urged to undertake their voluntary work or career experience in Vancouver, where they will find countless gap year activities "at their doorstep".

Amber Sessions, manager of travel and trade media relations at Tourism Vancouver, said that the city was a leading gap year destination for the same reasons that it is popular with tourists and immigrants.

"Gap year travellers find a wealth of outdoor activities at their doorstep. For example, skiing within 15 minutes of the city centre, kayaking, sailing and water sports, world class rock climbing and mountain biking," she explained.

Ms Sessions also highlighted the fact that commonwealth citizens, including gappers from the UK, can "easily" get work permits to follow up their gap year adventure pursuits with a stint of employment.

For the coming winter season, Year Out Group member NONSTOP has joined forces with Vancouver's Whistler Blackcomb resort to offer ski instructor courses that promise guaranteed instructor jobs as part of a gap year experience.

See the different gap year destinations on offer