In a Foreign Land – Kicking horse
Under Blue Skies – Kicking horse The sky is clear today, and as I open my window, I see that far off, the peak of Kicking horse Mountain remains cloaked in an unyielding blanket of white snow, its surface dazzling…
Tag working holiday
Still frozen Lake Louise
Go to Lake Louise The wheels gently rolled over the winding mountain road, and our journey through Banff had become a thing of the past, yet its echoes lingered deeply in our hearts. As we made our way west toward…
As spring began to awaken Banff
In late April, as Banff awakened to spring, I took the gondola up Sulphur Mountain, marveling at the panoramic views of the Bow River, Cascade Mountain, and Banff Springs Hotel. The melting snow revealed stunning contrasts of color, creating an unmatched natural palette. Venturing beyond town, I explored the serene lakes and trails, embracing Banff’s breathtaking beauty. However, I regretted not choosing to stay and experience life in this remarkable place. Banff is not only a scenic destination but a paradise for working holiday travelers. For those seeking adventure, don’t hesitate—seize the opportunity before it slips away.
Spring Thaw Journey to Kelowna
As spring arrives, I travel to Kelowna, witnessing thawing lakes and migratory birds heading north. At a winery, I taste young white wine, still carrying a hint of acidity. The lakefront is lined with quiet luxury homes, seamlessly blending with nature. In the evening, I enjoy lamb sausages and visit an antique shop owned by a retired German veteran, where I acquire a vintage bellows camera. The next day, I have fresh oysters by the lake and learn about experimental freshwater farming. With my new camera, I capture Kelowna’s tranquil landscapes, then write a letter of thanks to the shopkeeper, cherishing this serendipitous encounter.
Meeting the Aurora
On a routine night, I looked up to find the sky illuminated by flowing, silent lights—an aurora, unexpectedly appearing. Capturing the moment with my camera, I called a friend, and together we drove to a remote valley, free from city lights. The aurora shimmered in blue, green, and purple, a cosmic dance caused by solar storms and Earth's magnetic embrace. Though fleeting, this night felt eternal, a rare miracle etched in memory. The light, like time itself, drifted and scattered, yet remained—an everlasting glow in the vast, silent sky.
Ski at Kicking Horse
A story about a ski trip to Kicking Horse Mountain in Golden, Canada. The protagonist, a beginner skier, repeatedly falls but learns to enjoy the process, embracing the essence of travel. From gazing at the snowy landscape from the gondola to savoring hot chocolate and poutine at the mountaintop, every moment becomes a cherished memory. Capturing the breathtaking scenery with a large-format film camera, they realize that some emotions cannot be recorded. As winter nears its end, they reflect on how travel mirrors life—filled with challenges and discoveries—and wonder what the next journey will bring.
Living in Golden Town
Winter in Golden is enveloped in silence, with only the calls of ravens and the distant rumble of freight trains breaking the stillness. Beneath the frozen Kicking Horse River, water continues to flow, just as the town’s history persists beneath the snow. A century ago, amidst the Qing Empire’s turmoil, displaced laborers arrived, building railways and bridges, only to be buried in the frozen ground. Without tombstones, their stories survive in the sound of passing trains. As spring melts the snow, hidden memories emerge once more, reminding us that history, though covered, is never truly erased.
Go to Golden Town
I traveled to Golden, Canada, for a restaurant job, lured by promises of free meals, housing, and beautiful scenery. Reality differed—unpaid overtime, labor law violations, and poor transportation. Yet, amidst the hardships, the breathtaking snow-covered landscapes and quiet nights brought moments of peace, making the experience deeply memorable.
Seven Days at an Alpaca Farm – Winter Diary
During a week-long stay at an alpaca farm in Evansburg, Canada, I experienced the harsh winter while caring for the animals—feeding, cleaning, and maintaining their living environment. Despite the physical demands, I found joy in observing the alpacas' behavior and capturing the beauty of the snowy landscape and wildlife through photography. The German-Canadian farm owner’s simple yet disciplined lifestyle left a strong impression. As I bid farewell and boarded a train to Edmonton, I reflected on the invaluable lessons learned—appreciating nature, adapting to extreme conditions, and cherishing small moments of beauty in daily life.