Year out, sabbatical, Gap Year, running away from “real life”; whatever you call it and whenever you take it, a big trip is good for the mind, the soul and even the CV.
To some though, months of travelling can seem like a daunting prospect. Where do you start? How can you make the most of your time? What do people even DO on a gap year?
Well fear not. I’ve got 10 amazing experiences to inspire you for your next great adventure.
Although it can be a challenge to fit all of these into one trip (though internet kudos for anyone who has!), but hopefully they will spark your imagination and give you an insight into some of the incredible options out there in the world.
Before I get started if you are looking to research a trip visit Gap Year World which is one of the best companies gap year companies.
Now, check out my list of the best things to do on a gap year and remember, it’s your adventure – follow your own course.
1. Round the World
Let’s start big. I’m not saying you need to go round the world to see the world (in fact there are some amazing multi-stop routes which focus on one or two areas in more detail), but you may never again have the time and energy to take on such an epic adventure.
Don’t think you have to stick to the “standard” stops either, how does UK > Dubai > Japan > Australia > Chile > Peru > NYC sound? That’s just one of the of options out there, research more itineraries and get planning the most amazing RTW adventure!
2. Working Holidays
There’s nothing more appealing than earning while you travel. If you’re between 18 and 30 and have no dependants or criminal convictions, you’re likely to be accepted for a working visa in Australia, New Zealand or Canada.
They all have different conditions which you have to adhere to, but a visa will allow you to work for up 12 months in your chosen country with the possibility of extending. And what kind of job you can do? Anything from bar work to office jobs to nature guiding! To find jobs and recruiters visit a site like Seasonal Jobs Abroad.
3. Backpacking Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is a big place. Bare minimum I’m talking Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia and Singapore along with Indonesia, The Philippines, Taiwan and Papua New Guinea for the slightly more adventurous among you.
In order to really get to grips with this region you should dedicate some proper time to it and explore slowly. Take the train, stay longer than you expected, go off on an unexpected detour, eat food you never thought you would. You’re unlikely to regret it!
4. TEFL
Learning how to teach English as a foreign language can literally open up the world to you. It’s a great way to plan a long term stay in a culture totally different to your own, and and even save a few quid in the process.
If you’ve got your heart set on a certain country be sure to check their policies on English teachers (Japan and Korea are quite strict, China and Thailand less so). If you’re after shorter term options take a look at internships which often guarantee you a qualification and a placement for a certain number of weeks.
For more information about teaching abroad check out Book My TEFL Course.
5. Volunteer
Volunteering on a gap year might seem a bit of a cliche, but it really is a special way to do something rewarding, meet like-minded people and make a difference. There are opportunities all around the world with short and long duration programs available.
Here are few ideas to get you started:
• Help at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand
• Work with sloths in Costa Rica
• Coach sports in South Africa
• Teach in Kenya
• Help communities in Brazil
• Marine conservation in Mexico
• Help refugees in Greece
Lots of organisations offer these types go projects and a site I recommend is One World 365.
6. Tours
From exploring historical cities in Europe, travelling overland in north America, island hopping in Thailand or discovering the highlights of Australia, there are thousands of tours available to book all around the world.
There are so many incredible trips, your only issue will be choosing which one to go for! Whether it’s discovering famous locations in the USA, going on safari in Africa, trekking the ancient paths of the Inca Trail, heading deep into the jungle to visit the Lost City in Colombia or hiking the trails of Yosemite National Park, wherever you’re heading in the world you’ll find something to appeal.
View my list of the best travel operators to book a trip.
7. Learn to Scuba Dive
Now, I’m not saying that a reservoir in Scunthorpe isn’t a great place to learn to dive. I’m merely suggesting that, given the choice between the cold, grey, waters of the UK and, say, the crystal blue seas of the Thai Islands, Egypt, Philippines, Honduras or Costa Rica, you might JUST swing for the latter. Just. Maybe.
8. Adrenalin Rush
There’s no better way to celebrate the feeling of freedom you get from long term travel than throwing yourself off something high. Did you know you can sky dive over the Great Barrier Reef? Or zipline over the gorge at Vic Falls? Or take on the tallest abseil in the world in Tasmania? Or go bungee jumping in New Zealand?
Have I inspired you to take on a big trip? Whether it’s a no matter your age, your destination or your future plans, there’s an adventure out there for you. Time to go find it.
9. Study a Language
Learning a new language is a really recommend thing to do whether you are travelling or not. You’ll increase your knowledge, and it can be really benefits for your social and professional life.
If you do travel to a country where English isn’t the first language its really important to at least learn the basics of the local lingo, not only is it polite, but it will also really help make things easier.
There are language schools all around the world offering classes, the hard part is deciding which language to study. To find more information or book classes visit Book My Language Course.
10. Learn to Cook
Especially if you’re going travelling before heading to uni and are concerned that your egg boiling skills will only get you through so many weeks! You can do local cooking courses all over the world, from India to Thailand, from the Australian Bush the mountains of Peru. Just think how jealous your housemates will be when you whip up a perfect pad thai for dinner in week 1.
Taking a gap year really can be an amazing experience, and something which can change your life. Have you ever taken a gap year or sabbatical? Do you have any other recommendations? Let me know in the comments section below.
