We’ve just had an annual event here at the hostel that’s a sure a sign that winter is finally over. It’s a harbinger of spring as sure and accurate as the return of the robin from it’s southern migration.
Eight work/travel visa backpackers were picked up at our hostels door for transport north from Toronto to Orillia, Ontario just a few hours north of the city. They are going to prepare a kid’s summer camp for the arrival of campers who are still in school until the end of June.
Camp Wahonowin is located on the shores of Lake Couchiching in close proximity to the Rama Native Reserve and Casino complex where big stars perform year round. This summers lineup includes Gloria Estafan, Don Rickles and Diana Ross.
The Camp has been closed and boarded up all winter so there is a lot to do to prepare the camp for opening. Painting, cleaning, repairs, landscaping – you name it!
A lot of summer camps in North America like to hire foreign backpacker’s with work visa’s as camp counselors as they are just as interested in the country/wilderness experience as the campers and wil work for room and board and a small stipend paid at the end of the summer.
They will spend a little over a month making the camp spic and span and read to receive Summer campers at the end of June or early August.
In the last few days, cooler weather has returned after a week of temperatures in the range of more than 20C! But not to worry, the departure of summer camp workers is a sure sign that summer is just around the corner.
..
“Happy Campers” checking out of the hostel.
About to board their luxury transport bus across the street from the hostels front door.