Taking a bit of time out after college or university is something that is desirable to many students, and who can really blame us? Australia, Thailand and Africa are among the list of top destinations for young people to pay a visit to after their exams. In fact more than 30,
000 of you took a gap year in 2010 to relax and work out what career path to take next.
Believe it or not, most gap years don’t last a whole year, they could span from 2 weeks up to around 6 months. It entirely depends on what you’re looking for; and with so many different options to choose from, picking the right gap year programme can be tricky. So we’ve put together our top five destinations and specialist programmes to get you started.
Camps International
If you want to spend a few months making a difference then this will be the programme for you. Camps International is a company which offers 18-25 year olds the chance to get involved in wildlife and community projects, whilst staying in some of the most cultural and idyllic places in the World. You can choose from a variety of destinations, from Camp Kenya, where you can get involved with teaching projects, to Camp Borneo, where you will be working alongside other volunteers on environmental programmes. Visit www.campsinternational.com for more information.
Learn Spanish in Costa Rica
Brushing up on your languages might not sound too appealing to those who have just completed a mile long list of exams, but for those who are looking for a relaxing break with a twist, this is perfect. Visit Costa Rica and book a few Spanish classes while you’re out there. As well as exploring the country’s breathtaking sights and culture, you could be attending Latin dance classes, cookery classes and tropical fruits lessons. Log onto http://www.realgap.co.uk/costa-rica-spanish-language-school to make a booking.
Become an Au-Pair
If you’re looking to live abroad for a few months but don’t have too much cash to splash, applying for a job as an au-pair is one route you can take. Aupair-world.net is one such website which will help you find the perfect family in your perfect destination. Here you can create your own profile detailing your specifications and away you go. As an au-pair you would be living with the family for the duration of your stay and you’ll still receive a bit of money for your trouble. For language students, this is also a great way to brush up on your skills and learn more about the culture of your chosen country, without breaking the bank.
Gap Year Medics
Thinking of going into medicine? Well what better way to start your career than say visiting the Caribbean or Tanzania? Gapmedics.com is a website dedicated to pre-medical students who fancy doing something unique and inspiring before heading off to University. On this fantastic programme, you will be granted a hospital work placement in a Country of your choice and put up in accommodation situated in picturesque locations. On your travels you’ll not only learn the trade but meet loads of other students too. Visit the website for more information and to book a place.
And Finally…
Why not stay at home? As odd as it sounds considering its climate in comparison to Australia’s, the UK is on the list of most popular gap year destinations, and to be honest with the amount of stuff you can do in the UK, I’m not surprised. Why not visit Edinburgh for its amazing culture and historical landmarks, or the Lake District for beautiful scenes and relaxation? You could even find yourself a job in a country hotel for a summer, or become a volunteer as a wildlife conservationist. There are endless possibilities for gap year programmes, even on your doorstep.