So you have around 3 months free this summer and you are either between studies, or graduating. Need some inspiration for what to do for summer? There are so many options, close to home and also all around the world which can be done on a small budget or where you even get paid.
Here are the best ways to spend your student summer without being bored.
1. Summer Camp USA
Working at a summer camp in the USA is one of the most fun ways to spend summer. You will get to live in the United States, help children learn, meet lots of people from all over the world and get paid to do activities and sports. You will also get lots of free time during and after camp to travel and you could see amazing places like New York, California, and Florida – just to name a few.
2. Islands hopping in Greece
Is there a more scenic country in Europe than Greece? We can’t think of many that come close and the Greek islands are stunning. Santorini and Mykonos are two of the highlights but there are more less well known islands to check out.
3. Party in Ibiza
Ibiza is a world famous island with some of the biggest clubs in the world located here. Okay, it is very expensive during the summer season, but sometimes you can’t put a price on the experience. Even if you aren’t that keen to part, there is still so much the island has to offer including relaxing on some of the best beaches in the world. View Spain gap year trips for more inspiration.
4. Volunteer in Thailand
Volunteering abroad is such a rewarding way to spend a trip overseas and there are so many destinations and projects available. We highly recommend going to travel to Thailand, this country is incredible and one of the highlights is helping elephants. There are conservation projects throughout the country where you can learn more about the animals, meet inspiration people and also make a difference.
5. Learn to Surf in Portugal
Southern Portugal is beautiful and the Algarve region is one of the most popular summer destinations. If you have always wanted to learn to surf there are lessons and camps throughout the region. Surf schools also arrange lots of social events and excursions too which can be a great way to make friends and explore.
6. Intern or Get TEFL Certified
Okay, this might sound a little boring, but if you want to put your career ahead of anything else consider an internship abroad or getting TEFL certified. By interning you will get to boost your CV, learn new skills, live in a new location and improve your career prospects.
If you take a TEFL course, you will get a recognised qualification to teach English abroad – a job that can help you to live all around the world. To get started view our guide to the best online TEFL courses.
7. Become a Holiday Rep
Fancy a summer job working in one of the top European resort? Become a rep. Lots of holiday companies and travel companies hire reps to work in sunny destinations like Cyprus, Greece, Spain and France. This job allows you to be more than your average tourist and enjoy a wild summer like no other.
8. Attend a Festival
Summer means festivals and is there much better in live entertainment than seeing some of the biggest bands in the world? There are so many great festivals in the UK, Europe and around the world.
9. Overland Europe
If you want to ignite your wanderlust why not book the ultimate overland adventure and go country hopping in Europe. Lots of tour operators offer bus and small group trips showing you the highlights of the continent. Browse gap year tours today.
10. Explore Ancient Ruins in Mexico
Mexico attracts thousands of international visitors every year and the main tourist destinations are very safe. You could book a trip to Cancun and explore more of the region including the popular coastal resorts of Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, or book a tour in Yucatan and see ancient temples. Browse Mexico gap year ideas.
Whatever you decide to do with your summer, make sure you plan ahead and don’t have any regrets at the end of it. If you are graduating and considering a longer break, view our gap year website and start planning a dream break around the world.