Looking through options for gap year programs in Banff was difficult due to amount of programs there were, eventually I settled on the Timberline 12 week program and I can safely say its has been the best decision of my life and worth every penny. I have gain life long friends from all around the world, friends who I hope to visit in future. I have grown as a person as a result of the program, being able to independently live with some of the best roommates I could of asked for in accommodation that so much better than other programs. Timberline facilitates a locally operated program with staff that know you by name as soon as you meet them, the support team they have is fabulous and I can't thank them enough, they go out of their way to make you feel comfortable and enjoy your stay in Banff. The social aspects of the program are awesome, you meet like minded individuals who all have a passion for skiing and snowboarding, go out most nights or just spending time at others apartment for a movie night or steak dinner was so much fun. You ski almost everyday both with Timberline students on your off days for fun and with the trainings. I progressed so much as a skier learning to ski through trees and mogul terrain (we don't have that in New Zealand) from highly qualified instructors that's are friendly and passionate about what they do. For Skiers I would suggest to get the SkiBig3 pass as it allows you access to Sunshine and Norquay, with Sunshine being a big resort with great terrain and a park that is closer to Banff, and Norquay for park night skiing with your friends. In addition to the skiing trainings you also have trips to other resorts and activities such as a ice climbing, curling, bowling which are so much fun and a good laugh. Overall the experience I've had has been 11/10 and been the best spend of money, I'm sad to have left, but will hopefully be able to return and meet up with some of the great friends I made there. There are a lot of options available for winter program in Banff but Timberline is easily clear of any of the others with better accommodation, better staff who are all locals of the area, a better diversity of people from all over the world, and just in general a good program that is locally operated in Banff Canada. Chose Timberline you will NOT be disappointed.
Now with the level 1 and 2 CSIA qualification that I got during the Timberline program I've been able to get a job as a ski instructor in Australia this season which I'm looking forward too.
What was your funniest moment?
Going out one time to the Banff Ave brewery with several friends from Timberline, and rocking up a hefty tab only have I paid off by one of the friends there who had a little to much to drink. Thanks Charlie will get you back in the next one.