Located at the confluence of the South and North Thompson rivers in BC’s semi-arid grasslands, Kamloops takes its name from the Shuswap word “Tk’emlups,” meaning “meeting place.” Today it is the junction of three highways, two national rail lines, and Rocky Mountaineer. Kamloops is bustling with activity and with more than 2000 hours of sunshine each year, Kamloops has one of the most desirable climates in Canada – dry, warm summers and short, mild winters with a touch of snow. Spend your year as an Au Pair discovering all Kamloops has to offer!
Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Kamloops’ early inhabitants
Kamloops takes pride in its First Nations culture, represented in various cultural sites throughout the city, and in music festivals and events held annually. The Shuswap of the Interior Salish Nation were the first inhabitants of the Kamloops area, nomadically traveling according to seasonal fishing and hunting. Today’s 1,000-member Tk’emlups te Secwepemc, direct descendants of these nomadic peoples, have a close and integrated relationship with the city and its residents. Experience this rich cultural relationship today at the Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park exploring its extensive photograph and artifact collection, at the annual Kamloopa Pow Wow enjoying traditional First Nations’ performances and art, or at St. Joseph’s Church, a national historic site.
Play hard in the summer sun!
Sandstone canyons, grasslands and evergreen timberlands play host to incredible hiking, mountain biking and camping. Get your host kids outside and soaking up the vitamin D as you bike/hike through the week; then on your days off, arrange a customized wildlife experience with the Au Pairs in your area at ACT Adventures: maybe you’d like a two-day hiking/camping adventure in the mountains to see majestic lakes, glaciers & waterfalls, a day trip in the forest in search of elusive wild animals, like bears & deer, or include zip lining and bungee jumping for an adrenaline infused adventure! Kamloops is also home to more than 100 lakes and two major rivers provide great fishing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting and tubing. For a more relaxing option, book a getaway at the Campbell Hill Guest Ranch and leave your worries behind as you bond with the horses, ride through the beautiful back country, and settle into perfect harmony with the rhythms of nature.
Check out the theatre scene at Western Canada Theatre Company
Through the efforts of committed volunteer Board members and dedicated, talented artists, Western Canada Theatre has developed into one of the largest producing theatres in British Columbia. The company produces a professional five play main stage season, a two play second stage series, and hosts one to two alternative pieces during the season. Their mandate is to provide the Kamloops community with challenging professional live theatre. To entertain, educate, enrich, and interact with the cultural mosaic of its community. Western Canada Theatre frequently supports Canadian material and for their 42nd season celebrated Canada’s 150th birthday with stories inspired by the people of Canada. Spend an evening lost in the majesty of theatre as you experience the Canadian culture through the art of performance.
Bundle up and celebrate the winter season!
Instead of taking part in the same yearly traditions, take advantage of this once-in-a-life-time opportunity and see how Canadians enjoy the Christmas holidays: make some noise at a Blazers hockey game – see what all the fuss is about Canada’s favourite sport, join your host family at the Santa Claus parade and visit the big man in red, celebrate the season at the Welcome Winter Block Party – this year’s theme is Flannel & Frost 😉 or check out the Holiday Kick-Off Weekend which boasts festive lights, ice-carving, gingerbread houses, an Artisan Market, and authentic maple taffy made right on the snow! Pick your favourite Canadian traditions and share them with your family when you return home.
With so much to see and do, Kamloops will keep you exploring the entire year round and find a special place in your heart as your home away from home. By the time your stay as an Au Pair reaches an end, you will have an abundance of stories to share and unbeatable memories of your amazing experience in Canada!
