Northbound: A Solo Year in the Canadian Wilds

A journey from 2017, memories for a lifetime.


My route during this year of travel: Starting in Sherbrooke, QC, ending in Alaska, USA.

Arrival in Sherbrooke

Short-term job and acclimatization

Heading to Vancouver

Jumping feet first into the unknown

Road trip to Alaska

Hundreds of kilometers on icy roads with bison as travel companions

Discovering Montreal

After the wild, some relaxation

​    Travelling alone has helped me develop many skills:


  • Adaptability and Flexibility: Traveling across various regions of Canada allowed me to quickly adapt to new environments and cultures, showcasing my ability to handle change with ease.

  • Project Management: Planning and organizing my journey, from booking accommodations to managing the budget, provided me with hands-on experience in project management and decision-making.

  • Intercultural Skills: Interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures allowed me to develop a deep understanding of cultural differences, enhancing my ability to work in multicultural teams.

  • Problem Solving: Facing unexpected challenges, whether they were language barriers or logistical situations, taught me to think creatively and find effective solutions.

  • Communication Skills: Whether asking for directions, negotiating prices, or building relationships with locals, I honed both my verbal and non-verbal communication skills.

  • Autonomy and Initiative: Traveling solo required me to be self-reliant and proactive, demonstrating my capability to work independently and take initiatives.

  • Stress Management: Navigating unfamiliar and sometimes stressful situations taught me to remain calm under pressure and effectively manage stress.

  • Appreciation of Diversity: My experience in Canada gave me a unique perspective on diversity and inclusion, strengthening my ability to value and respect individual differences.