If you need convincing a gap year is a good option for you we have put together a list of reasons why you should considering taking one.
As one of the best gap year websites we are slightly biased, but we can’t recommend this experience highly enough.
Check out our top 10 reasons why you should have a gap year.
1. Have a Break from Normal Life
A gap year is time out for you to do something different from your normal routine, possibly you are a student studying, or just looking to take time out from working, there are lots of options available all around the globe. This is your chance to do something totally different to what you might be used to, and also a great way to break a mundane routine.
2. Explore the World
There are so many places you can go, the world is your oyster! From staying close to where you live in your home country, to hopping on a plane and travelling to the other side of the world, there are so many options. If you need some inspiration for where to go check out our top destinations to visit on your gap year.
3. Make New Friends
One of the biggest concerns before taking a gap year is finding people to go with, and if you don’t, do you actually want to embark on this experience solo. The worry of not making friends and being lonely can be daunting, but there are lots of ways to do meet new people and ensure you enjoy the experience. Travelling or taking part in a gap year program is a great way to meet like-minded people from all over the world. Some experiences like tours, courses and volunteering programs are organised in groups, you’ll have experienced staff and guides, as well as being surrounded by similar aged like-minded people from all over the world. The chances are you will form close bonds and make friends for life.
3. Learn About Other Cultures
If you decide to go abroad, you’ll find out there isn’t a better education than travelling. Visiting new countries really does open your eyes and mind to different people and cultures.
5. Try New Things
A gap year doesn’t have to be one specific thing, and if you are open minded you find find lots of unique and special experiences. There are so many amazing things to do on a gap year, from travelling, backpacking, tours, volunteering, working abroad, internships, courses, studying, activities and more.
6. Have a Lot of Fun
Normal life at home can be boring especially if you have settled into a normal routine. A gap year offers the chance to go to new places, learn new things, meet new people and enjoy experiences you might never normally do. Like when either studying or working a 9-5 job could you find yourself helping elephants in Asia, or climbing mountains to see ancient ruins in South America!
7. Boost Your CV or Earn Money
Sometimes the worry of how expensive gap years are can put a lot of people off even taking one. But a this experience doesn’t need to be expensive and there are lots of ways to save money and finance a gap year. A popular option is to apply to work abroad, this allows you to earn money as you go and fund further travels. There are lots of countries where you can find short term, seasonal and working holidays.
8. Personal Development
You’ll learn a lot, not just about other countries, but also about yourself. Taking a gap year requires confidence and you’ll develop so many skills. Like if you can survive travelling in a country where English ins’t the first language, you probably won’t face many more challenges than this!
9. Never Return
A lot of people who take gap years completely change their lives. Possible you could travel and meet the love of your life who lives in a different country. Or you could work abroad, find a destination or a position you really love and decide to stay.
10. No Regrets
Life should be lived with no what ifs and regrets. Once you have settled into a working. life, have a mortgage or a family, the time you have will become limited. If you do have the option for a break from normal life then you should take it.