BEST DECISION EVER

The SWAP 7 day welcome tour was incredible. Before leaving Canada they helped me obtain my visa, sort out flights and answered all my questions about spending a year abroad. I had someone pick me up at the airport and take me directly to my pre-booked amazing accommodation in Sydney. The next morning I met everyone in my group, there was about 50 of us. Bank accounts had already been opened for us, mobile SIM's were received the first day and our TNF was applied for as soon as we landed in Australia! Having those things done for me made everything so simple, and I knew I had someone to help if I had any issues. The 7 day tour was really worth it because we got to leave the city and go to Port Stephens. We went sand boarding which I wouldn't have had the opportunity to do otherwise. It was about 45 degrees that day so the sand just stuck to all of our sweat, gross but fun! Having the 7 day tour was really awesome because it helped me be comfortable and get my bearings before being completely alone. The travel staff helped us write our resumes, we got discounts on courses to serve alcohol, and they helped book all our future travels (with discounts)! Through the tour we were able to get a discount of a surf camp that was one of the highlights of my trip. Not only did I see a TON in my 7 day tour, I also made some amazing friends. I ended up living with a few of the people I met that first week and we already have plans to meet in England next year. Doing SWAP was the best decision and it really helped me love my time abroad. I would recommend it to anyone, especially those going alone!