Ben in Canada

Ben in Canada

This trip was the biggest adventure I’ve ever taken—both professionally and personally. It was a journey of firsts: my first long-haul flight, my first solo flight on the return leg, and most importantly, my first time flying with one of our touring groups.

That distinction brought a new level of responsibility, especially when it came to shepherding 79 enthusiastic Nantymoel RFC boys through Gatwick Airport. But with Tour Operator Ben Cooley by my side, we took it all in stride.

Getting onto the flight went smoothly, especially with the bonus of the lads breaking into song at the airport: a video that hit half a million views inside a week! After landing in Toronto, we guided the group to their coaches and on to their accommodation in the heart of Downtown. At that point, I had to break away to Union Station to catch a 90-minute coach to Niagara Falls for my next duties.

NIAGARA FALLS - TORONTO

In Niagara, I met MSG’s very own Canadian, Julia, and stayed one night at the Great Wolf Lodge. An early morning wake-up call allowed me just enough time for a whirlwind tour of the Falls – an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime sight that more than made up for the short visit. Afterward, Julia and I joined two school groups, assisting with their inbound airport check-ins, before returning to Toronto to reconnect with Ben and Nantymoel RFC.

The next four nights were spent soaking in everything Toronto had to offer. I explored the city, took in a Toronto Blue Jays game alongside both Nantymoel RFC and the newly arrived Ystradgynlais RFC. The highlight, though, was Nantymoel's first fixture against Crusaders Rugby Club. The match was a nail-biter, with the Welsh side edging out a 31–26 win. The post-match celebrations in the clubhouse – full of singing and players being arm in arm – truly embodied the spirit of rugby touring. Thankfully, my singing initiations didn't go viral.

OTTAWA & MONTREAL

On awakening, I boarded a coach for the journey to Ottawa, rejoining Julia in her hometown. My accommodation for the night was certainly unique – the Saintlo Jail Hostel. At least I got a cell to myself. Julia gave me a fascinating city tour before exploring some of the local hotels and sights that house our touring school groups each year.

I wrapped up the tour with a final night in Montreal, where I established a great taste of the city. A personal highlight was jet boating through the Lachine Rapids – a must for anyone visiting the area.

The next day, upon arriving at Gatwick, I reunited with Ben and the Nantymoel squad at baggage claim, helped them onto their transfers home and headed north to MSG offices, officially bringing this incredible tour to a close.

WHAT I LEARNT

I learned so much on this trip. First off – Canada is huge! I had no idea the journey to Ottawa would take over five hours.

But more than anything, I realised how special what we do really is. Seeing the faces, hearing the singing, and feeling the pure joy from the Nantymoel lads during that game is something I'll never forget.

I also grew a lot as a person. Being able to use my CPD budget to build travel confidence was a massive plus, and I'm so grateful to MSG Tours for giving me the chance.