The Guide to a Gap Year Get-Away
In the modern world we live in the world feels as though it’s becoming a much smaller place, and thanks to the technology and innovations in transport you can go anywhere and see anything. The world is quite literally your oyster.
So it’s no surprise that more students are choosing to take a gap year and take advantage of this time to see what the world has to offer.
Whether you’re taking your gap year before you start your degree or during, it’s the perfect opportunity to gain some new experiences and discover something special.
The truth is, whilst it may look like it’s one big holiday, there are many elements that you need to consider before you take the plunge.
Why Do It
I’m sure there are many ex-students who can claim that they believed that it was one big holiday but gained far more than a golden tan from their experience.
Being completely independent in a different country is a massive responsibility to take on, and you soon learn essential life lessons.
Building friendships and learning another language, can give you connections that last a lifetime and a skill that will glow on your CV.
However, it can also be a very rewarding time, as gap year volunteer projects can give you a sense of achievement and a deeper understanding of the world around us.
You can go and make a real difference to peoples lives.
The Money Question
Finance will no doubt play a big part in your decision to hop around the globe.
After all, you don’t want to go away and come back with a mountain of debt.
Raising funds for your time away will be essential to your financial plan as travelling can cost thousands of pounds.
It’s also ideal for you to take a part-time job and any work whilst you’re away to help give you an income throughout your travels. This will also look great for when you return and need work in the UK.
Where to Go
There are no set destinations for your travels but there are many companies who can organise it all for you, so that you don’t have to do so much research.
From looking at where you want to go look at the opportunities available to you, and ensure there will be work available.
By far the most popular destination is Australia, as many are lured in by the beach parties, endless beaches and the easy going way of life.
But Indian and African destinations are also becoming popular as many of these places are a ‘once-in-a-life-time’ experience that can give you a chance to take part in a local project as well as learn about a different culture.
No matter the destination you decide upon it’s essential that you read up on any safety tips for travelling, as there may be areas that are at war or have life-threatening diseases.
If you’re considering a gap year, start a list of the destinations you wish to visit and what they have to offer. 12 months is quite a lengthy period of time to be away from home, so ensure it’s what you really want to do and ask advice from anyone you know that’s done the same.
Category: Travel
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