Japan isn’t just about sushi, samurai, and skyscrapers — it’s also one of the top powder skiing destinations in the world. With more ski resorts than even Austria, every mountain region offers something distinct. While Niseko is the best-known area, attracting a global crowd with its variety of resorts, the entire country is a goldmine for snow enthusiasts. Thanks to its natural geography, you’re likely to find untouched powder wherever you go.

Many Japanese ski resorts receive up to 16 metres of snowfall each season. This is due to a unique weather pattern: icy winds from Siberia move across the Sea of Japan, collecting moisture that turns into dense clouds and results in frequent, fluffy snowfalls. The outcome? Perfect powder — light, dry, and ideal for both skiing and snowboarding.

Join an international team of volunteers who are working together to care for rescued elephants in an inspirational sanctuary. Together you will be helping these elephants to have a life as close to the wild as possible, a far cry from their previous lives working on the streets or in tourist camps. Highlights of this elephant volunteering project in Thailand include bathing and walking the elephants, allowing you to really get to know these gentle giants.

Join an expert team on a ‘Big 5’ reserve, situated on the edge of the beautifully wild Kruger National Park. With over 400 baboons in various stages of rehabilitation, you’ll get to learn so much about these amazing primates during your time at this bespoke centre.

Qualify as a CSIA Level 1 ski instructor in Whistler Blackcomb and join a world-renowned ski school, teaching children how to ski for the season. You get a job and staff accommodation for the whole season and get to enjoy the breath-taking scenery  and diverse cultural scene of Whistler Village.

This is the perfect opportunity to spend every day on some of the best slopes in the world suitable for all skill levels. While others typically require a Level 2 CSIA qualification to apply for Whistler Blackcomb positions, with Oyster, you’ll leap straight into an instructor role as a freshly qualified CSIA Level 1 graduate!

Bring a group of 10-12 to our Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand! Experience a life-changing opportunity to work closely with rescued Asian elephants at this renowned elephant sanctuary. This impactful project has successfully liberated many elephants from the harsh conditions of begging on the streets of Bangkok, offering them a safe and loving environment to thrive in.

Additionally, the sanctuary is home to a remarkable wildlife sanctuary that shelters sun bears, primates, and various other wildlife species. We can arrange for you to participate in wildlife conservation activities for at least one week of your stay, enriching your experience while making a positive contribution to Thailand’s diverse ecosystems. Age 16+

Step into a pre-arranged paid groom role at one of Australia’s leading stud farms. This programme is a rare opportunity for confident, experienced horse lovers to live and work on a prestigious yard — all organised before you leave home. Positions are full-time, paid, and include hands-on work with horses at top-class facilities.

You’ll start with 8 nights in Sydney for orientation, giving you time to recover from jet lag, get your admin sorted (including bank accounts, SIM cards and tax numbers), and make friends with other solo travellers. There’s also the option to take on casual city work before or after your stud placement — and you’ll benefit from 12 months of job-finding support across Australia.