The gap year has become an almost obligatory rite of passage for students, and rightfully so. At their best, gap years help students learn outside of a classroom situation and away from the comfort of home. A successful gap year will enable you to gain new skills, meet new friends and enjoy new experiences. It should also help you discover new things about yourself.
However, with any gap year there is the chance that you will fall into it, losing rather than finding yourself. To make the most out of the time, it needs to be planned as carefully as a career move or choosing a university course.
The idea of being a student volunteering abroad may not at first sight seem like a fun-filled way to spend your gap, but it can actually provide a solid basis for a successful and fulfilling trip.
Here is a look at some of the top gap year destinations, as well as how to get the most out of your travels, wherever you go.
South Africa is increasingly popular because of the variety of experiences it offers. It combines the chance to see some unforgettable wildlife with the delights of cosmopolitan cities, such as Cape Town. You can choose from countless exhilarating adventures, from a safari in Kruger National Park to underwater encounters with great white sharks.
Australia offers an enviable outdoors lifestyle and plenty of opportunities to find work. From the laid back beaches to the rigours of the Outback, there is something for everyone.
New Zealand offers more tranquil pleasures for those who love trekking and outdoor activities. The landscape is remarkably diverse with volcanoes, beaches, glaciers, forests and sea-drowned valleys all packed into two islands about the same size as the UK.
Thailand
Thailand’s chaotic capital, Bangkok, – alongside its beautiful beaches and islands – continues to make it a popular destination for those on a gap year. In addition, it offers a very cheap cost of living, welcoming people, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, sprawling rainforests and stunning waterfalls.
Cambodia
Cambodia, on the other hand, is a more recent destination for gap year travelers. It offers plenty of opportunities for adventure amongst its mountains, jungles and beaches. The magnificent temples of Angkor are not to be missed.
Cambodia is also popular for those looking to make more meaningful contact with a culture through volunteering opportunities.
India
India is becoming increasingly important on the world stage, but it still plays host to living cultures that stretch back into antiquity. The Himalayas will challenge you, Goa will refresh you, Kerala will charm you and the Taj Mahal will inspire you.
For volunteers there are thousands of opportunities. These range from working with elephants in Jaipur to building projects in the Himalayas, teaching in Mumbai and care work in Delhi.
Do Something Worthwhile
A great way to really get to know the country you travel in is to volunteer. Be doing so you’ll also gain new skills, meet new friends from all over the world and give something back to the communities you visit.
Organisations, such as Projects Abroad, list a range of exciting opportunities for students to volunteer on a wide range of projects in many exciting destinations, worldwide. You can choose your project, the amount of time you wish to volunteer for and use the experience to add value to your CV. Try working in a field that interests you and really challenge yourself to achieve new things.
Volunteering is a great way to spend your gap year; it’s fulfilling as well as fun. Wherever you choose to go, make the most of it!
Photo Credits: South Africa by Randy OHC/Australia by kevgibbo/ New Zealand by PhillipC /Chiang Mai, Bayon and Varanasi by FlipNomad/
