gap year travel agents

All Gap Year Programs | 2024-2025

What are you interested in.

• Adventure Travel
• Marine Conservation
• Outdoor Courses
• Volunteering

What should I do with my gap year?

If you are looking for inspiration on where to spend your gap year, you can rely on Gapforce to have something that will excite you. Gapforce has carefully selected gap year programs around the world since 1989, providing a variety of gap years abroad and gap year volunteer programs for experiences in wildlife conservation, outdoor training courses and once-in-a-lifetime adventures across the far corners of the world. 

Thrilling locations...

From the snowy heights of Everest Base Camp to the heat of the African plain, turquoise waters of Thailand and humid jungles of Costa Rica and India, there is a truly diverse range of thrilling locations. The hardest part will be choosing where to go. If you need help deciding, read our gap year advice resources which explore the possibilities that gap years can open to you.

Is there a gap year program that’s right for me?

The world is beautiful because it is varied, and our range of gap year options reflects this. The diversity of a gap year abroad means there really is something for everyone — follow your instincts:

For those looking for experience in marine conservation take a look at our gap year in Thailand .

If you want to combine travel with adventure on your gap year abroad — snorkel, sail, ride off-road and surf through your gap year in Australia .

Perhaps you are conscious that you want to spend time helping a worthy cause, in which case our summer volunteer programs will inspire you.

Our Range of Gap Year Programs...

Australia Adventure

Bali Escape

Costa Rica Adventure

Dive Instructor Training - Costa Rica

Europe Tour

Fiji Marine Conservation

Game Ranger Course - South Africa

Marine Scientist Training - Costa Rica

Nepal & India Adventure

South Africa Wildlife Volunteering

South America Explorer

Southeast Asia Explorer

Sri Lanka Escape

Thailand Escape

Thailand Marine Conservation

Trekforce Expedition Leader Training

Wildlife Volunteering - Ecuador

The Best Gap Year Programs in 2024-2025

The GoAbroad Writing Team is a collection of international travel writers with decades of experie...

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When it comes to choosing a gap year program, the options are infinite: you can choose a pre-made gap year program, combine short-term programs, or make your own custom experience at home or abroad (or both!). But if you’re looking for the best gap year programs, what should you consider?

Finding the best gap year is all about knowing what YOU want.

What makes the best gap year programs?

The best gap year program is the one that’s best for you. In other words, what might be the best, perfect fit for someone else might not have anything to do with your interests. Just like you shouldn’t choose a college by ranking alone, you shouldn’t choose a gap year program by prestige or reviews alone.

When it comes to choosing the best gap year program for you, you need to think about your goals. Are you looking for work experience that will set you apart in your career? Are you trying to support yourself by teaching a language or skill abroad? Would you like to get immersed in a language or launch a new educational path? Depending on where you want to end up, the top gap year programs for you will be completely different.

That said, there are some good benchmarks to follow when evaluating a gap year program. If you’re looking for top gap year programs that are sure not to disappoint, here are some factors to keep in mind whether you’re looking for the best gap year programs after high school, during college, or after your college career.

1. Reviews and alumni experience

When you’re looking for the best gap year programs, check out the reviews online, but also ask the organization for the contact info of alums that you can talk to. Hearing from people who’ve been there can help you to best evaluate the experience, hear all the good and bad parts, and understand if it’s a good fit for you.

Past students are a GREAT resource for the inside scoop on a gap year program.

2. Clarity and availability of information

The best gap year organizations make information about their programs available clearly without having to jump through hoops. You should be able to find prices and what they include, detailed curriculum information, housing and meal information, travel logistics, and any other information you need either online or by talking to a program representative.

[ WATCH: Gap year options we can’t get enough of ]

3. organizational partnerships .

While some fantastic programs have no partner organizations or run their own facilities, most of the best gap year programs are partnered with or work with other respected organizations. Ask about university or organizational partners, and research organizations where you might intern or volunteer on the program. If you believe in the mission of those organizations, you’re more likely to find that the program is a good fit for your goals.

4. Resources for alumni 

Your gap year should be a valuable experience on its own, but it should also contribute to your future in a positive way. The best gap year programs have resources for alumni support, whether helping you place you in a teaching job, write you a recommendation letter for medical school, network you with other alumni in your field, or whatever else might help to support you on your journey. So ask!

5. Respect for local culture, environment, and individuals

The best gap year programs are always evolving, learning, and growing. Look for experiences you can be proud of that treat the country you are visiting as a respected equal instead of just a playground. Is there local ownership of service organizations? Are local staff respected and treated well? Is there are orientation to the local culture and language? If you are volunteering, are you supporting ongoing projects in an educated way that is under local guidance? Volunteering abroad has grown and improved a lot over the last decade—make sure you’re choosing an organization that’s keeping up!

Do you want to get real-world work experience with an internship?

6. Level of support and assistance 

Top gap year programs support you through the whole process. Can you talk to someone who’s been there before? Can you speak with faculty? Can they help you with your questions about everything from securing a visa to how to get vegan meals during your program? Is there 24/7 support staff available during the program, and if so, how available are they: will they just answer the phone, or can they come to you and help you? You may find the best program for you is more independent, but if you’re looking for support and assistance every step of the way, the best gap year programs for you have it available in a personal, friendly, consistent way.

[ The 5 Best Gap Year Destinations RN ]

7. respect within your field.

If you are looking at gap year programs in medicine, law, veterinary medicine, business, or another profession, research how they are known within the field. Top gap year programs will be run by respected professionals in the field and will follow professional standards of practice and ethics throughout the program.

Gap years are always improving—what’s new?

As more and more students consider a gap year after high school or college (thanks, Malia Obama, for making gap years even cooler!), program offerings expand. So what’s new

• New and niche. When it comes to finding the best gap year programs after high school and beyond, remember that oldest doesn’t necessarily mean best. Experience does add value, but there are some new additions to the gap year game that are helping to make waves and create niche programs that might be the perfect fit for you. Keep in mind that just because an organization has been around for fifty years, that doesn’t mean the staff with you have been there that long. So don’t shy away from new programs, but talk to them about the staff who’ll support you and their experience.
• Do it yourself. As social media such as instagram becomes ingrained in our culture, more students are putting together their own gap years by following bloggers and influencers who’ve traveled before them. It’s easier than ever to get connected to others in the places you want to visit and find real-time travel information, which is great for the solo traveler who is on their own path. If you want to combine a short-term program with your own adventure or stay in-country after your program to volunteer on your own, you can talk to your program organizer about options, or get online and find out for yourself as you design your break year after high school.
• Spend your first semester abroad. Anyone applying for college now may have noticed that many schools offer you the option to spend your first semester on the abroad branch of their campus, whether it happens to be in England, Dubai, or anywhere in between. These programs are sometimes called a “bridge year” or a “bridge semester.” But you might not know that this is a fairly new phenomenon! While a semester abroad through your school isn’t technically a gap year, it can be a great chance to explore a new culture while in a setting you find familiar, and it can also be a great gateway to a gap semester or gap year during or after college.

Do you want to lend a hand with volunteer projects?

Are these gap year trends the perfect fit for you?

No matter who you are, you can benefit from the fact that it’s becoming easier than ever to communicate across cultures, more valued than ever to have intercultural experience, and more flexible than ever to pursue your education. If you’re looking for the best gap year programs after high school, your options have only increased!

All this means that you shouldn’t feel limited by what you find available at first glance. If there’s a program you’re dreaming of, whether it’s researching sharks off a boat in the Caribbean or teaching dance in an Italian village, it’s either out there for you to find, or you can create it yourself. If you feel stuck, GoAbroad’s Online advisor can help.

By the way, if you're an American citizen, National Background Check, Inc. can help with all the necessary background checks and travel paperwork you may need to safely and effectively travel abroad!

[ Use MyGoAbroad to Find & Compare the Best Gap Year Organizations for You ]

The best gap year programs of 2024-2025.

For the best gap year programs before college, you’ve got to think about your college goals and the level of support you need. There are lots of excellent programs or individual options for those taking on their gap year with a college degree, but when it comes to the best gap year programs after high school, here are a few that get top marks:

1. Impact Gap Year: Africa and South America Gap Year

Embark on a transformative 6-month journey with Impact Gap Year! You'll explore dream destinations like South Africa, France, and Thailand while immersing yourself in wildlife conservation amid South Africa's Big 5, experiencing French culture and language in the Loire Valley, and volunteering as an English teacher on Thailand's scenic Hua Hin island. This comprehensive adventure promises cultural insights, skill development, and lifelong memories, fostering a commitment to social and environmental causes.

• Where? South Africa, France, and Thailand
• Focus: Education, wildlife conservation, and community service
• Related: Read Impact Gap Year reviews

Do you want to teach as much as you want to learn?

2. Centro MundoLengua: Gap Year in Sevilla, Spain

Centro MundoLengua’s gap year program is ideal if you have just finished high school. In this immersive program, you will perfect your Spanish language skills, discover stunning monuments with outdoor history lessons, explore the vibrant Spanish culture, make an impact in local communities with volunteering opportunities, and of course, travel a lot, in Spain and beyond! The program is ideal for students who want to take their learning out of the classroom, develop leadership skills, and have a real impact on their future.

• Where? Sevilla, Spain
• Focus: Language immersion, cultural exploration, volunteer
• Related: Read Centro MundoLengua reviews  

3. Raleigh International

Raleigh International believes young people can change the world...so they create youth-driven change that lasts! Through their Raleigh Expedition, you can expect to be empowered with the skills, experience, and connections needed to be a leader of change. Create lasting change in Costa Rica and Nepal through 4, 5, 7 and 10-week programs that tackle issues in poverty, education, and the environment. This is one of the first UK programs to be accredited by the Gap Year Association.

• Where? Costa Rica & Nepal
• Focus: Conservation, youth development, water, sanitation & hygiene, trekking
• Related: Read Raleigh International reviews

4. Sea|mester Study Abroad at Sea

When it comes to a gap year, you might feel like you have to choose just one destination from a plethora of options, when you just want to choose them all! 

But what if we told you didn’t have to pick just one? With Sea|mester Study Abroad at Sea's 90 Day Voyage , you can travel across the ocean visiting numerous destinations along the way for three months, while living abroad a ship with other young people.

• Where? Worldwide
• Focus: Study abroad ocean voyages 
• Related: Read Sea|mester's reviews  

5. International TEFL Academy

For students who may not have the funds for a gap year, earning a TEFL certificate and teaching English abroad can be a great option for career advancement and cultural immersion while making money instead of spending it. International TEFL Academy’s opportunities in Costa Rica, in particular, are one great option, and you can go on to use your TEFL certificate and experience to teach abroad and earn money while you travel for years to come!

• Where? Costa Rica & Worldwide
• Focus: TEFL certificate and teaching abroad
• Related: Read International TEFL Academy reviews  

6. Pacific Discovery

If you want to spend half of your gap year working and saving money, and the other half rightly blowing that money on incredible adventures (you know, like watching the sunset over the outback, skiing down the Remarkables, or actually finding nemo in the Great Barrier Reef), then we recommend you check out Pacific Discovery’s short-term semester gap programs down unda, mate!

• Where? New Zealand, Australia
• Focus: Adventure, travel, volunteer
• Related: Read Pacific Discovery reviews 

7. The Intern Group

The Intern Group offers gap year programs across the globe for candidates looking to test drive their future career and gain hands-on experience that will make them stand out from their peers. This gap year program offer roles across the globe in leading NGOs and SMEs, and the Intern Group promises to help every step of the way on your international journey—from pairing you with a company that matches your profile, to organizing your visa and finding your accommodation. Whether you're considering going to university or creating your own company, their all-inclusive program will help you achieve your goals.

• Where? Australia, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, England
• Focus: Intern abroad, volunteer
• Related: Read The Intern Group reviews

VACorps offers one of the most valuable internship programs abroad in Cape Town, South Africa. Many students want a focus on adventure during a gap year; however, with VACorps you can enjoy adventure AND a boosted resume. And don't worry about there not being an internship placement for your particular degree or interest; VACorps offers internships in many fields, including human rights , journalism, law, marketing, and much more. You'll get the chance to live with other like-minded gap year participants, and gain a new sense of independence and capability. Get ready for the experience of a lifetime and a unique way to travel meaningfully!

• Where? Cape Town
• Focus: Intern abroad
• Related: Read VACorps reviews  

The best gap year programs are always adventures.

Princeton in Asia Fellowships

Princeton in Asia’s fellowships are a great example of the growing commitment of US colleges and universities to support incoming college students in having new experiences abroad. You’ll find fellowships in media, community development, teaching, business and more, all throughout Asia, from Cambodia to Mongolia!

NOLS Semester in the Rockies

NOLS is a pioneer of adventure leadership education in the US, and their Semester in the Rockies is a great opportunity for students looking to pursue adventure and build experience and leadership skills while going their gap year in the United States. From canoeing rivers and navigating canyons to learning first aid, this program will give you some truly one-of-a-kind outdoor experiences.

Loop Abroad’s Veterinary Semester 

One of the best gap year programs before college for students interested in veterinary medicine is the Veterinary Semester Abroad , where students can get college-level, hands-on experience in a variety of veterinary settings and earn college credit. From caring for elephants at sanctuaries across Thailand to SCUBA diving with sea turtles to study marine biology to externships in a veterinary clinic, this program covers a huge variety of veterinary medicine and travel experiences.

Finding top gap year programs means doing your research, so don’t just take our word for it—check out reviews, talk to people you trust, and find the right fit for you!

Remember: Best = Best for you!

This is the most important advice out there: the best gap year program is the one that’s best for you. If you’ve only looked at one or two programs, you haven’t looked enough! Don’t stop after doing a quick Google search or talking to your study abroad office. This is your gap year, so take advantage of the opportunity and make it work for you! You can start your search and begin looking for the program that makes you go, “Oh my gosh, that looks perfect for me!” It’s just a plane ticket away.

Look for the Perfect Gap Year Program Now

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Gap Year Travel Inspiration & Advice

The best gap year travel programmes,

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Please Note: Year Out Group has no association with other organisations using the name YEAR OUT and any similarities with our logo and branding should be met with caution. We were founded in 2000 and have noticed a few more recently established companies outside the UK have ‘borrowed’ from our wording and graphic design, albeit with some colour and font changes.

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Gap year basics

Whether you are at school, college or in work, we can guide you towards the best gap year travel programmes & experiences. Visiting this site is your first step towards an awesome adventure !

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Browse our site, the best gap year programmes and get in touch with a question or request a talk at your school. We’re here to help with one of the most important decisions you’ll make about your future. Read our blogs for even more info.

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Too much choice on the web and not sure who to trust? We have experienced and approved providers and are happy to answer your gap year travel queries. We are also keen to hear from potential members .

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We’ve selected a range of the best gap year  programmes which we think will whet your appetite for a gap year. Choose from what’s on offer or dig deeper to find more on our member’s websites.

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by Stefan Wathan

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Get your questions answered at our live info session !

Make this your year

Experience the world and discover your passions. Build real-world skills, make lifelong memories, and return home a better you. For ages 18-22.

Two program lengths

Choose how long you want to travel. With Year & Semester programs, there's an EF Gap experience for everyone.

The EF Gap Year Program

Discover the world on the ultimate, global gap year: explore Europe, Asia, and Australia through a combination of guided exploration and cultural immersion. Learn more

Semester Programs

Spend your gap semester living in different parts of the world, experiencing multiple destinations in depth. Combine language study, service-learning, and/or an internship. Learn more

The most productive break of your life

The gap year is not an alternative to college. It’s about preparing yourself to make the most of college—and in many ways, the rest of your life. Our innovative experiential learning model helps students discover their goals, while equipping them with the confidence and skills to get there.

Develop global skills

Travel the world, experience new cultures, and gain valuable life skills abroad.

Grow into your best self

Become a more confident, independent, and resilient version of yourself.

Define your life path

Return home with greater clarity about your goals and inner compass.

Gain a competitive edge

Enter college more socially and academically prepared, with life experiences under your belt.

The world leader in international education

When you travel with EF Education First, you travel with a global organization that has been in operation since 1965. EF’s mission has always been to open the world through education, and we’ve delivered on that promise for millions of students.

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Taking a gap year before or during college is an incredibly worthwhile experience. It can also be a complex decision. We strongly recommend speaking with someone on our admissions team as you determine which program or destinations are right for you.

Set up a time to talk

Fill out a short contact form and one of our EF Gap Year Consultants will be in touch to walk you through the program and answer any questions you may have.

Join a virtual info session

Not ready to talk to us just yet? Learn more about how our program works and get your questions answered at one of our weekly virtual info sessions.

After completing this short form, one of our EF Gap Year Consultants will reach out to schedule a time to talk in more detail about which of our programs is right for you. For U.S. students ages 18–22.

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Where will your adventure take you?

Gap years, career breaks and responsible travel from two weeks to a year in 19 countries .

Oyster Worldwide is a long standing, award winning 5* responsible travel and gap year specialist.

We have travelled the world looking for the best projects for you

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We follow best practice for your safety, financial security and well-being

Oyster is one of the most well-established companies in the UK with many projects founded as far back as 2006. We are known for our environmental standards with worthwhile, ethical and planet conscious projects. Our programs are life-changing for participants, but at the same time, give you the opportunity to make a genuine contribution to the places you go and people you meet. Because of our niche little team, we are able to offer a boutique and personalised with expert knowledge delivered from dedicated destination managers.

Want to get paid work or volunteer abroad? Oyster’s wide range of popular gap year programs, career break projects and volunteering breaks allow you to get under the skin of a country and participate in meaningful activities.

Our gap year volunteering projects are suitable for school leavers, gap year students, those taking career breaks, families and people in retirement – a real highlight of our volunteering trips in particular is the wide range of people that you come across from all round the world.

Planning your trip with Oyster Worldwide could not be easier, with all of our staff members having done their own gap adventures and responsible travel.

• Request our info pack

“So helpful! My recent experience with Oyster was amazing. Spending 5 months in Canada, securing a job and accommodation should have been a difficult task, but Oyster helped take the stress out of everything! Having monthly meet ups with all the Oyster participants during our trip was such a nice touch, as it helped those who don’t see each other that much to stay well connected!”

ANYA WHISTLER SKI INSTRUCTOR

Destination of the month.

Borneo has to be one of the most dreamed-of locations in the world. Its vast rainforests, beautiful rivers, golden coastlines and prolific wildlife has turned this island into one of the top bucket list locations. Discover the ever-smiling people of the local tribes, taste the delicious cuisine and get to know the jungle with all of its incredible fauna and flora. And we all know which creatures are hiding in the depths of those forests….

As many people like to stay for longer  in Borneo, we can offer you a discount of £50 if you choose to combine any of our Borneo projects.

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3 active projects

• Wildlife conservation volunteering in Borneo
• Volunteer with bears in Borneo
• Wildlife conservation volunteering for families in Borneo

Oyster Reviews- Marine Conservation in Portugal

“Oyster has been incredible useful in setting up and communicating travel and information. Any questions were answered rapidly and with all the detail requested. An all round good and easy experience. ” …

Combine your project volunteering with an internationally recognised diploma

The World’s Only Diploma in International Volunteering This online program is designed to support you throughout your volunteering journey—before, during, and after your experience. Upon completing both the course and your volunteership, …

COSTA RICA: Introducing Oyster’s Pure Pura Vida’s transfer included 9 day tour

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COSTA RICA: Introducing Oyster’s Pure Pura Vida Family 9 day Self-Drive Tour!

Discover the essence of “Pura Vida” as you adventure on an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica with our exclusive self-drive tour! Get ready to buckle up and ignite your passion for exploration …

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Privacy Overview

Gap Year Travel For 18 - 30s

Adventures for gap year travellers, popular tours.

Australia East Coast Highlights - 21 Days

• Sydney to Cairns
• Age group: 18 - 35
• Max group size: 24

Thai Experience - 13 Days

• Bangkok to Phuket
• Age group: 18 - 39
• Max group size: 16

Bali Bucket List - 10 Days

• Canggu to Bali
• Age group: 21 - 39
• Max group size: 10

Real North India - 11 Days

• New Delhi to New Delhi

Total Thailand - 27 Days

• Max group size: 20

East Coast Australia - 36 Days

More gap year, work in australia, australia gap year, new zealand gap year, gap year holidays.

Great, you're taking a Gap Year, lucky you! We only wish we could be doing the same. So you probably have a lot of plans and / or questions. 

We know it's pretty nerve-wracking when you're starting to think about a year away so our job is to help you and make sure your experience is excellent. When you contact us a travel expert will be able to help you and will be your personal travel agent throughout.

Our team are experts in gap years because most if not all have taken gap years and many have lived overseas or years. 

We can help with flights and which routes to take. Depending on where you're going and for how long we can help with visas, jobs, bank accounts, accommodation and more.

We also have hundreds of small group trips on our website. These trips range in length from just a few days up to a few months, and we have them for all over the world, so you won’t be disappointed with our options.

The vast majority of gap year travellers are solo and these trips are designed with you in mind. Over 50% of those on these trips are usually solo travellers. They're a great way to meet people.

Getting There

We can find and book the best flights on the market for you. We can also piece together stops along the way and way back if you wish.

We can book flexible tickets which allow you to change your dates of lying giving you maximum flexibility.

This can be daunting, you're really now on your adventure. To make things a little easier for some destinations  we can provide a start pack which  includes things like:

Opening your bank accounts

Job opportunities

A few nights accommodation

It's basically designed to take away some of the admin and hassle so you can enjoy your time rather than queuing at the bank for example.

Having Fun & Holidays

We have literally hundreds of adventures, tours and experiences all designed around those on gap years. You'll meet lots of other people around your age and on gap years or adventures too.

Coming Home

You might not want to come home but in case you do we can book your flights home either when you decide you want to return. If you've booked flexible tickets to travel to Australia you'll be able to move your dates for your return, either way our experts ca help get together the perfect flights for you.

We Are Here To Help

We are experts in gap years and we're going to help you to make sure you have a great time. When you make contact with us an agent will be assigned to you and they become your personal travel agent making sure you get what you want!

We understand planning your gap year can seem like a bit of a minefield at the beginning so, often it can be easier to talk to someone. Don't worry, we are real people! If you chat to us on our live chat or call us you'll speak to someone, there are no answer phones unless our office is closed for the day in which case leave a message and we'll call you back.

Around The World Adventures

A gap year is the perfect time to embark on an around the world trip, it’s rare to find that amount of time all in one go again! Who wouldn’t want to travel the world taking in lots of different countries on a once in a lifetime adventure?

Our group adventures operate in well over 100 countries around the world, so you will be spoilt for choice with where to go. Doing several group tours in your ‘Around the World’ trip ensures that you’ll have a bit of structure to your trip, have things paid for upfront so that even if you do start to run out of money you’ve already paid for your adventure, and it just makes it that much easier to make new friends. Plus, for a lot of parents out there it gives a bit of peace of mind that they know where you are and what you are doing.

We have put together plenty of ‘Around the World’ adventures so please don’t hesitate to get in touch and together we can create the perfect trip for you. Give us a call on  0208 004 8886 or send an email to [email protected] and we'll be sure to help.

Build Your Own (Gap Year Ideas)

Each customer to us is completely different. We’ll listen to exactly what you want, how you want to do it and any requirements you may have. We will then ensure that all of the trips we send over to you suit you and what you are after. Ask us any questions and we will be sure to help in all aspects of putting together an amazing once in a lifetime trip for you. We are here to make this experience as easy and stress free for you as possible, so you only need to think about the exciting bits to come!

What should I expect?

What a question! We think you should expect an adventure, a good time, to meet new people, make some amazing friends and finally to have some memories you'll keep for your life. All in all, this is your time, this is your adventure and we are here to help make it happen for you. It can be nerve wracking but embrace it and enjoy it. You'll have a guide, new friends and tons of support when on your adventure, and of course, you always have us. If you'd like to find out more about specific destinations or trips just get in touch via email on [email protected] or give us a call!

Who else has booked on?

Good question! We aren’t able to give exact details on this, but please do get in touch and we'll give as much information as we can which is typically how many people, split of gender, solo travellers and couples and where everyone is from and their approximate age.

Where should I travel to?

South East Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia etc) is generally a very popular place for a Gap Year! It’s cheap, easy to get to in terms of flights and there’s tons to do. The food is incredible, the people friendly and don’t get us started on how amazing some of the beaches are! We have such a range of trips in this region you really won’t be disappointed.

Another popular region is Australia & New Zealand, there are so many appealing things about this area. Although more expensive than South East Asia it’s truly worth it, when you’re snorkelling in the Great Barrier reef, visiting shipwrecks on Fraser Island, seeing the amazing Milford Sound or spotting Dolphins in Kaikoura, you’ll be thrilled you came.

South America is becoming more and more popular as the years go on. It’s a stark difference to that of South East Asia, with completely different scenery, culture and food, but it’s equally worth a visit. How about checking out the Salt Flats in Bolivia, Iguassu falls on the border of Brazil and Argentina, climb the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru or visit one of Pablo Escobar’s homes in Colombia. There are endless things to do in this amazing continent, it's definitely a must see!

It's my first time away on my own, help!

Of course, that’s what we are here for! Don't worry, when travellers have their first time away from home the vast majority of people are nervous. It's always good to chat through things. It can seem like there is SO much stuff to think about and get right or plan for but the good news is, really there are only a handful of key items to address:

1. Where are you going and what do you want to do?

2. What to expect

3. Safety, your guide and emergencies

5. Communications

We can help with ALL of the above and more. 

Often people want to know who else is going, what age they are and basically know a bit more about the group to make sure they'll fit in.  We can give information about the general group make up so do contact us if you're curious but also, it is very, very rare that a group doesn't work for you. People who take these trips and go onto gap years are often like-minded and share similar outlooks and interests. People are usually around the same age too and most of the time are mixed gender. If in doubt give us a shout!

As a final bit of advice, the first thing to start with is what you'd like to do and where you'd like to go, everything else will flow from that. If you already know, make contact with us! We can help with the rest.

Is it safe?

YES! Well, as safe as it can be! Travelling always carriers some danger but the good news about these tours are you have a guide and people so you get safety in numbers in local knowledge. This is a huge benefit of small group travelling.

Nonetheless there are some risks like you get on any trip (pickpockets for example) and of course your own behaviour can influence your safety so be street smart! (we can help with this too).

If you are nervous about certain destinations what you can do is head on over to the government website ( HERE ) and you can check out each country's safety and security, and sign up to receive any alerts.

How do I budget for my trip?

Good question and this really depends upon the tour(s) you're taking and where they are as costs will change a lot. We would say do make sure you've got some spare cash in your account and make sure you bring your bank card. For more information on budgeting, head to our destination pages to see how to budget for each country you want to visit.

Most people have a debit or credit card, either are fine. There is one advantage to a credit card is that it can be good for emergencies and / or if you run out of cash in your current account. A lot of travellers also tend to bring more of a ‘Travel Money Card’ providing better rates and more security. These work in the way of a bank transfer from your normal bank so you can load little and often onto the card to feel safer.

What about visas?

You may need one, best to contact us or check with the FCO. Visas depend upon your nationality, where you're going and how long for so it can be a tad complicated.

If you are a British national then please check our government website, you can access that HERE . You can type in the country you are going to and check out the entry requirements. These can change frequently so we suggest checking this well in advance of your trip and then shortly before you go to see if anything has changed.

Another good thing you can do on this website is sign up to receive any alerts, this means you'll be emailed if there is an update to anything to do with that specific country.

Do I need any vaccinations?

Maybe yes. Again, this is one of those areas which we can only answer with more information. Your best bet though is to phone your GP or local NHS travel clinic and ask once you've made your booking. You may need a round of vaccinations for some destinations so we suggest contacting them well in advance of your trip.

Alternatively you can visit your local pharmacy and ask as they'll often have a very good idea of what, if anything, you need. We do recommend you find out if you need anything as some diseases can be quite nasty so it's well worth protecting against.

Why book with The Adventure People?

You may be thinking ‘why should I book with The Adventure People?’. Here are just some of the reasons we stand out:

The Best Value

Not only are our prices usually the best in the market but our leading service coupled with the financial protections we offer mean you won’t find better value anywhere else.

Your Dedicated Travel Expert

Our travel team is the best in the business and we’re not just saying that. The moment you make an enquiry we’ll pair you with your own dedicated expert who is on hand to answer your questions, look after your booking and make sure you have a fantastic time.

No Waiting Times

We only have one phone number with no automated services. When you contact us you’re straight through to a member of our team and a human! 

Financial Protection

We are ATOL certified, members of ABTA and run a Trust account for our packages ensuring you’re fully financially protected. 

Flexible Payments

We offer low deposits and monthly payment plans at no extra cost. 

We can add flights to any trip you book with us and we’re happy to help with Round The World tickets!

Accommodation

We work with wonderful accommodation providers and our team can quote almost any hotel in the world at the best prices.

Transfers & Extras

We can easily add airport transfers or extras to any booking. Our team will always quote the best possible price and be able to update your booking.

Why choose the Adventure People

Monthly payments.

Spread the costs with no interest or additional fees

Best Price Guarantee

We won't be beaten on price. If you find this adventure at a lower price please get in touch!

Reserve now & pay later

Reserve your adventure today and pay later, free of charge

ATOL protected

Book with confidence

Hold your space today, for free

or book your trip with a deposit and then pay the rest in instalments.

Build your Adventures

Our tailor-made tours and holidays are crafted by you and for you, with the invaluable assistance of our expert team

Reserve your flights with us

Add flights to your booking and we'll take care of the rest. You'll get 24/7 support from our team & ATOL protection.

Speak to our experts

Call or email our expert team to find out more and help with ideas and planning.

What Our Customers Say

Trust the adventure people.

Communication was excellent both by email and over the phone, everyone I had contacted followed and actioned my request or answered my question politely and efficiently.

Would definitely recommend this company.

The staff are super helpful and friendly and always answer e-mails as soon as they can.

Trip achieved all my expectations!

The tour that I booked with The Adventure People met all my expectations. The local agent in Vietnam kept in regular contact with me during my trip. All of the connections worked perfectly. The hotels were all of a good standard and comfortable as well as being in a good location. Would definitely use them again

Sign up for our deals

Stay up to date with our new latest deals & special offers.

The Adventure People has been rated excellent by its customers

Pack your bags, it’s time to start your adventure

Booking flights online is easy but you could also pick up the phone and book with a smaller travel agent. This can make life easier if you need to make changes – getting hold of someone is generally more simple, especially from overseas. If you want to have flexible plans then make sure you have a ticket that can be changed (normally for a fee and any change in fare). TOP TIP: Check your luggage allowance and leave a copy of your e-ticket with someone at home.

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The Gap Year Hub

GAP YEAR & ADVENTURE GROUP TRAVEL

 Explore amazing destinations, experience different cultures and make memories for a lifetime. Welcome to Ultimate Travel –  Gap Year and Group Adventure Tour specialists. Are you ready for your ULTIMATE moment?

At ULTIMATE, we believe that Gap Years and Adventure Travel are essential life experiences. We offer group tours, adventures & gap year travel for 18-35’s in Australia , New Zealand , Europe & Southeast Asia ! 

We have countless travel styles throughout Australia. Create a custom itinerary perfect for you, or join us on one of our popular East Coast Group Tours .  Thinking about a Working Holiday down under? Our iconic UltimateOz Working Holiday program is award winning and is the Ultimate way to set up your Gap Year. Are you wanting to experience new culture, food and adventure? We also offer Guided Group tours in Bali , Vietnam and Thailand , and Adventure Experiences and Custom Itineraries throughout Southeast Asia .

Let us introduce you to amazing destinations and give you countless #ULTIMATEMOMENTS.

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WORLD EXPERIENCES

ULTIMATE tours are all about exploring incredible destinations, experiencing new cultures and making lifelong memories; all with a group of new mates! Whether you’re travelling solo or with others, you’re guaranteed fun & adventure on our awesome guided group tours!

NEW MATES, NEW ADVENTURES

Experiences are better shared. When you join an ULTIMATE tour, you’ll meet travellers from all over the world and make great friendships that will last a lifetime! Chat to others booked onto your tour before you leave home and share the adventure with your new mates from day one!

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We wont charge you any fees to change your trip to a different date or tour if you do so 14 days before your start date. Lock in your start date with a LOW deposit. Deposit now, and pay the final balance 45 days before your start date.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

We believe in supporting the local environment, economy and people in the areas we visit. We’re big nature lovers and only work with companies who share our core values, including caring for wildlife which is why we don’t ride elephants on any of our tours. The world is a beautiful place, lets keep it that way!

Which Australian City Should You Move To?

Why Moving to Australia could be the Best Decision of your Life!

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50 Free Things to do in Australia!

Overcoming Fears and Anxieties while Travelling!

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TERMS & CONDITIONS OF ENTRY

This Competition is open to all Ultimate Travel customers. Posts must have been published from 01 Jan 2019 onwards, be original content captured or produced by the traveller and must be posted to a personal Instagram account. Qualifying entries must be deemed by Ultimate Travel to reflect the style of Ultimate’s brand and reflect experiences accessible by Ultimate customers. Posts with no association to Ultimate will not qualify. The winning post will be decided at the discretion of Ultimate Adventure Travel Pty Ltd. If you qualify for a prize, your acceptance of the prize consents Ultimate to a worldwide license to use the image within its marketing material and promotional activities. Entries must include the relevant Ultimate Travel hashtags at the time of posting. These must be clearly displayed and not hidden after bulk text or hashtags. Winners must be following Ultimate Travel on Instagram. Ultimate Travel reserve the right to withdraw and end this competition at any time.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR ENTRY!

YOU'RE NOW IN THE RUNNING TO WIN A SPOT ON OUR 10-DAY ULTIMATE BALI TOUR FOR YOU & A MATE! 

THE WINNER WILL BE NOTIFIED ON 4TH MARCH 2019.

WANT TO SUBMIT A VIDEO ENTRY? EMAIL [email protected].

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I would like to receive marketing emails including ULTIMATE news, insider travel tips & tour offers!

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Why Choose Us?

The best destinations and best programmes, value for money, huge discounts, learn develop and explore, dedicated support team, passionate about travel, where to go , hey download our free full coloured brochure.

We have put together a catalog of our most popular trips and programmes for your gap year! Travel from 2 weeks to 2 years book flights visas and insurance.  Speak to one of our fab team to book your trip today!!

Most Booked Trips

Thailand island hopper, learn to dive australia, 23 day sail learn to earn programme, paid ranch work australia, internship new zealand, namibia wildlife rescue project, marketing internship south africa, fiji teaching programme, bali teaching programme, safari ranger project, endangered species project, lion sanctuary project, shark conservation south africa, paid work in melbourne, bali turtle conservation & rehabilitation, 10 day philippines tour, 13 day adelaide to darwin tour, 10 day alice springs to darwin tour, 10 day melbourne to alice springs tour, 16 day sri lanka and maldives tour, 20 day west coast australia tour, 2 day kangaroo island adventure tour, 14 day india tour, 24 day complete new zealand, 30 day east coast and outback australia, 38 day south east asia, 22 day sydney to cairns, 9 day australia tour, 18 day thai intro tour, 21 day vietnam & cambodia tour, 13 day japan adventure, 12 day sri lanka tour, 12 day bali intro tour, where to go , deals and discounts, what to do , our travel blogs, traveling solo or in a group.

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• North America

Central America & Caribbean

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North Africa & Middle East

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

Bring on the world with small group travel.

Save on our most popular tours.

Got the urge to get away? We’ve got you covered. Check out the tours below, then get booking today!

• Central & Caribbean
• 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Introducing The Geluxe Collection

Icy hot deals on select expedition departures.

Depending on your travel date, you can snap up iceberg-sized savings on our Antarctica Expedition cruises to Earth’s frozen frontier.

Antarctica Classic

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Why travel with G Adventures?

As the leader in small group adventure travel for 30+ years, we've redefined the way travellers see the world. Check out how we’re creating the future of travel.

Small groups

Join a small group of like-minded travellers that, like you, are eager to safely and confidently experience all the things that make our world worth exploring.

100% guaranteed departures

Pack those bags and don't break a sweat because we guarantee every single one of our departures. As long as it's safe, you're going!

Locally based guides

At G Adventures, we don’t have tour guides — we have Chief Experience Officers. And they are all locally based, meaning they know the area you’re exploring like the back of their well-travelled hand.

Built to support local communities

We have always created our tours by building meaningful relationships with local communities, directly benefiting the people and places we visit.

Flexibility, freedom, fun

No matter the Travel Style, our tours balance well-planned itineraries with the flexibility to do your own thing and make the experience your own.

When you travel with us, you experience first-hand our commitment to making travel a force for good is in everything we do.

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What to Know About a Golden Gap Year — and How to Take One

Traveling for a year can help bring clarity to transitional life phases.

Cheryl Maguire,

When her marriage ended, Camille Rae, at 53, was searching for answers.

“Sometimes when you’re thrown into one of these storms in life, you’re just not quite sure which way to turn next,” she explains. While researching ways of coping with her new circumstances, she found a podcast about how to reboot your life — the concept is based on rebooting a computer. She liked the idea of starting over and decided to spend a year traveling.

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Now 56, she says, “The physical distance gave me the perspective and the clarity that I needed. So that when I did come home, I really did feel like I had that reboot.”

Rae is one of many people who embarked on a golden gap year. Like a traditional gap year taken by high school graduates before entering college, a golden gap year is when you dedicate time to your personal growth through travel at age 50 or older. Taking a golden gap year can be considered a luxury, as a survey of nearly 4,600 people ages 18 and up, conducted for Northwestern Mutual by the Harris Poll, found an average nest egg of $88,400 . Yet, many Americans say they will need nearly $1.5 million to retire.

“The idea is to find a new spark in life, and it’s often a great thing to do during a transition,” says Doni Belau, 61, the founder of the travel company Girls’ Guide to the World. “There’s a clarity that comes to you when you go away,” she says.

Aiden Freeborn, the senior editor of The Broke Backpacker, noticed the trend of taking a golden gap year while organizing group trips to Pakistan around 2019. “It was more common to find people who were [in their] 50s [and] in [their] 60s backpacking into places where we were,” he says.

This may be due to different factors. After the pandemic people realized the importance of traveling now instead of waiting, explains Sarah-Leigh Shenton, director of marketing at travel company Red Savannah. She adds that people tend to be more active later in life as well. Another factor in the move toward taking a golden gap year is due to the changes in how people retire. “Whatever your idea of an old-fashioned retirement is, it doesn’t sound fulfilling to most of us,” says Belau. She explains that instead of moving to a warmer climate to retire , many people are interested in traveling and having adventures.

An additional difference in retirement is the extended time frame. “People are gradually retiring now. They’re not just stopping at a certain day,” says Angela Rice, the cofounder of Boutique Travel Advisors. This change allows more opportunities for longer periods of travel and a chance to figure out how you want to retire during this transition phase. There are also more people retiring now , with about 4.1 million Americans expected to reach the traditional retirement age of 65 this year, according to the Alliance for Lifetime Income.

We spoke to travel experts who offered their advice on how to have a successful journey during your golden gap year.

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1. Create a mission statement

Many people embark on a golden gap year of travel during a transitional period in their life in hopes of figuring out their next steps for retirement or from a change in relationship, such as divorce or death of a partner. One way to help achieve your goals during this time is to create a mission statement that defines your purpose and provides “a guiding light for the year,” Belau says.

2. Meet up with friends and family during your year of travel

If you haven’t seen some of your friends or family in a while, planning to meet up with them during your year of travel is a great way to reconnect. Research has shown that connecting with friends can help improve your quality of life, so incorporating them into your trip may enrich your journey. While planning her trip, Rae intentionally stopped along the way to see friends.

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3. Consider downsizing before your trip

Downsizing to a smaller home and decluttering before your trip will mean that you will have less to worry about while you are away. “I literally got rid of everything. It was quite a liberating experience,” Freeborn says.

4. Understand your travel personality

Traveling usually involves getting out of your comfort zone. There are different types of travel to match your personality , such as adventure or wellness . Consider these options and your personality when planning your trip. If you are unsure about your travel personality, you can take an online test to figure it out.

Freeborn says a key personality trait when traveling for extended time periods is being open to trying new experiences. “If you’re someone who’s very closed off and into your routine and into your preconceived worldview then you’re probably not going to like [travel] that much,” he says. He adds that patience and a willingness to sometimes forgo comfort is also beneficial.

5. Budget for emergencies and serendipity

Before traveling, create a budget for the year. While doing so “you probably want to have a little extra money in your bank account in case you need to come home unexpectedly,” Rae says. Also, consider setting aside money for splurging on unexpected experiences. “If the budget is planned properly, it will cover the costs of the journey, but it will also allow for serendipity to kind of step in and present a few wonderful opportunities along the way,” Shenton says.

One way to save money through the travel year is on your accommodations. Freeborn explains that even though most people consider hostels to be for younger people, there are hostels that cater to people who are interested in sleeping instead of partying. He suggests searching hostel descriptions for words such as “quiet” or using travel websites that review hostels and explain their target demographics.

6. Research visas and travel or medical insurance

If you are traveling outside of your home country for an extended period, research necessary visas and fees for each country you plan to visit. Next year, Belau says, Europe is going to require U.S. citizens to get a travel authorization, or European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) access. You might need to apply for visas for some countries about 30 days before you travel there, she says.

You also want to have travel or medical insurance . Rae says that while she was in Vietnam, a woman fell and required surgery. “Make sure that you’re prepared in case something does happen,” she says.

7. Document your journey through journaling

During your trip you can journal about your experiences. “It’s a really good historical record, as well as [a] personal record,” says Shenton. You can share your journal with your friends and family when you return from your trip and also refer to it for your memorable experiences.

Cheryl Maguire is a freelance writer whose work has been published in The New York Times , National Geographic , The Washington Post , The Boston Globe , Parents Magazine , Healthline and many other publications. She is a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors. 

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Gap Year World

Russia Gap Year

Travel, Backpacking & Tours in Russia

Oil-rich, emerging from Communist rule and home to billionaire football club owners, Russia is the perfect place to hit both books and booze. Low living costs, a vibrant culture and a location that makes footing it to eastern European coastal resorts relatively easy, Russia is often overlooked for its more popular neighbours further out west.

If you would like to spend your gap year exploring Russia you can book a trip by yourself and go independently, or book an organised trip. Tours are a great way to see the highlights of the country and to get a hassle free experience.

You will get to travel with like-minded people and get an experienced guide to guide you to the best locations in the country like Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Lake Baikal, Kazan, Yekaterinburg, Sochi and Vladivostok.

Work in Russia

Finding gap year jobs in Russia is harder than other destinations in Europe, but there are positions available in areas like tourism. Russia is a very safe country and local people are very friendly although the language barrier can be difficult at first.

Knowing at least basic Russian will really boost your chances of gaining employment unless with an international recruiter who offer positions in English. For students there are some temporary and seasonal positions for example working at language summer camps.

Teach in Russia

One of the best ways to live and work in Russia is to teach English . There is a big demand for local people to learn English and there are positions available in all the major cities at language schools and training centres. Salaries can be high depending on the employer and Russian students are very respectful and keen to learn.

Volunteer in Russia

Volunteering abroad in Russia can be a really rewarding experience. Projects can range from helping communities, wildlife and the environment. Organised summer volunteer trips are popular are arranging by international agencies.

Study in Russia

Looking for a cultural experience like no other? Enrol to become a student in Russia! St Petersburg State Polytechnic University, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and even Novosibirsk State University in chilly Siberia all boast excellent reputations.

Russian cities also score highly for artsy types with ballet, classical music and circus training all popular ways to pass the time. You could do a study abroad program or book a Russian language course. There are complete beginners classes and also more advanced levels. Prices are very good value for money and some include accommodation and social events.

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So your teen wants to take a gap year or go travelling. Now what?

After all the stress leading up to A-Level results, your teen might drop a bombshell—they want to take a gap year. As a parent, this can trigger a whirlwind of emotions. Here’s how to navigate those feelings and see things from your teen’s perspective.

By this stage, your child has likely been in continuous education for most of their life. They’ve faced immense pressure to achieve good grades on A-level results day , but now they might feel they haven’t had the time to figure out what they truly want to do.

While you might worry that delaying their next steps in an increasingly competitive job market is risky, numerous studies have shown that gap years can be incredibly beneficial. They often help teens clarify their goals, develop their passions, and better prepare them for university. And according to one recent study, nearly half of UK parents don't think a university degree is worth the money , so a gap year can be the perfect time to reconsider all the options.

What are the benefits of a gap year?

Colleges report that students who take a year out tend to return more focused, engaged, and motivated. Universities also recognise that in an era of rising anxiety among young people , a gap year can be a valuable opportunity for them to step outside their comfort zone, gain independence, and build resilience .

Dr. Shahzad Rahman, Deputy Head Pastoral at Stephen Perse Cambridge , notes, “If your child is worried about falling behind, remind them that a gap year is a unique chance to discover more about themselves. With less pressure from exams, they have the time to reflect on what really interests them. Whether it’s trying a new hobby, job, or volunteering, these experiences can significantly boost their confidence.”

Chris Rea, a student careers expert at Prospects.ac.uk , points out that gap years come in many forms. “It’s not just about traveling or working abroad. A productive gap year can happen close to home too," he says. "What matters most is what your teen learns and how the experience supports their career development. Align it with long-term goals, set a return date, and plan the next steps. This helps maintain focus and momentum.”

A well-structured gap year can also impress universities and employers. “Taking a gap year demonstrates curiosity and a willingness to embrace the unknown, traits that are impressive to both universities and employers," says Vish Ungapen of Quizlet . "Skills gained—like volunteering, learning new languages, or exploring different cultures—are incredibly valuable on a CV.”

How easy is it to defer a university place?

If your child secured a place at university on Results Day, they can defer entry for a year. This can be done either at the time of application or after receiving a confirmed offer. However, it’s crucial to check with the university or college to ensure they are on board with the deferral.

Oliver Sidwell, Co-Founder of RateMyPlacement , suggests that after school is the perfect time for a gap year. “Delaying or deferring university isn’t an issue and can provide invaluable life experience. This can also be a great talking point when they meet new people at university.”

It’s important to remember that life plans can change. Chris Rea notes, “Even with a university place secured, your teen might change their mind during their gap year. Our Early Careers Survey shows that 39% of students change their career plans within a year.”

Ultimately, this is your teen's journey, and they need to make decisions that are right for them.

What are the options for a gap year?

• Volunteering: Teaching, building schools in developing countries, or contributing to wildlife conservation projects can provide life-changing experiences.
• Travel: Exploring the world fosters independence and essential life skills for university. Travel agencies can help set up flexible working holidays.
• Internships: Gaining work experience or internships at home can enhance your teen’s career prospects without leaving the country.
• Part-time courses: A gap year is a chance to learn something new—whether it’s a language, programming, a sport, or a practical skill like carpentry or cookery.

Tips for the gap year conversation

If the news that your teen wants to take a gap year comes a surprise, you might want to take a moment to let it sink in. But remember, your role as a parent is to guide your teen toward becoming an independent adult. Here are some tips for a positive, healthy conversation about their plans:

• Listen to their reasons: This is a pivotal moment for your teen to assert their independence. Show that you trust their ability to plan and take care of themselves.
• Avoid seeing a gap year as a detour: Education doesn’t just happen in classrooms. A well-planned, challenging gap year can enhance leadership and problem-solving skills.
• Share your perspective: Emphasise that this is a formative time, and it's important that your teen makes the most of it. Encourage them to structure their time meaningfully.
• Let them do the planning: The logistics of planning, booking, budgeting, and earning money are as educational as the trip itself.
• Assess their readiness for university: Just because your teen has the grades doesn’t mean they’re ready for university life. If they still need time to mature, don’t rush them.
• Put the risk in perspective: Gap year accidents might make headlines, but statistically, teens aren’t at much higher risk abroad. Consider a safety course if you’re concerned.
• Support their decisions: If your teen is reconsidering university, have an open conversation. Success doesn’t always require a degree.
• Monitor their well-being: If your teen seems unmotivated or unwilling to make plans, consider whether they might need support for depression or other issues.

Worried about their safety while travelling?

• Get perspective: The idea of your child being in a different country for the first time can be nerve-wracking. But this experience is likely to be empowering for them.
• Plan together: Set up a schedule for regular check-ins. Agree on a frequency that works for both of you and consider using location-sharing apps for peace of mind.
• Create a contact list: Help them compile a list of local authorities, nearby friends or relatives, and the nearest embassy or consulate.

A gap year real-life experience

Kay Worboys, a psychotherapist from Bromley, Kent, learned that her son Josh, 20, was taking a gap year just after he accepted his university place on Results Day.

“He didn’t discuss it with us beforehand; he just told us he was deferring to take a year off to travel," she says. "I was thrilled for him. I travelled a lot in my 20s, and it was the best education I could have had. If he had changed his mind about university, that would have been his decision, and we would have supported him regardless. You can’t force someone to go to university if they don’t want to.”

In the thick of raising teenagers? Do you agree that parenting teenagers is just as difficult as raising a baby or that strong-willed teens need to be nurtured rather than tamed? For more practical guidance on parenting teens, check out 11 expert-led tips on how to talk to a teenager or 9 ways to let teenagers take positive risks this summer .

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Gap Year In Russia

This diverse country has something for every gap year traveller - whether you're looking for natural wonders, beautiful architecture, rich culture, outdoor sports, or just a different way of life, Russia should certainly be on your travel calendar!

Why visit Russia during a gap year?

It’s the largest country in the world; so there is plenty of scope for exploration.

Pretty inaccessible up to 1990 unless you were educated in Cambridge and worked [part time] for British Intelligence, but now the country is opening up to tourism.

A land of extremes; containing the coldest places in both Europe and Asia: namely Ust-Shchuge at minus 58.1 C and Oymyakon at minus 71.2 C. Not all the time obviously!

The two largest cities, Moscow and Saint Petersburg are the main attractions.

The rest of the vast land is terra incognita to most visitors, although the awarding of the Twenty Second Winter Olympic Games and the Ninth Winter Paralympics , plus the staging Russian Formula One Grand Prix, all in 2014, to the city of Sochi is likely to open up this area.

Sochi is located on the Black Sea at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains which contain areas of dispute and in some cases conflict.

For example Sochi is close to the border of Abkhazia, which considers itself an independent state and is recognised as such by Russia.

However, Georgia and most other countries consider Abkhazia as part of Georgia.

There are several other troubled, disputed or independence seeking areas: North and South Ossetia, Ingushetia, and Chechnya being examples. Enough of the politics; in summary – in some areas tourism is a risky option.

Let’s concentrate on Saint Petersburg and Moscow.

What to see and do on your Russia gap year

Saint Petersburg - Peter the Great captured the Swedish fortress Nyanskans  at the mouth of the River Neva in1703 and by 1712 he declared the new city of Saint Petersburg as the capital of Russia.

Built on low lying land around the delta it is a city of islands; one hundred and one of them according to Intourist.

The Peter and Paul Fortress was the citadel established to defend the city from any Swedes or their Great Northern War allies looking to re-establish a presence and hence was the first construction in the city.

It contains, within its walls the Peter and Paul Cathedral where the Tsars from Peter I to Alexander III with the exception of Peter II are buried. (What happened to him?  I hear you gasp – well, Peter II became emperor in 1727 aged twelve and  was pawn of the nobility following the death of Catherine I. He died aged fourteen in Moscow of smallpox and is buried in the Kremlin).

The major attraction in Saint Petersburg is the Hermitage.

The area consists of a number of beautiful buildings, principally the work of the Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli.

The Hermitage itself [Small Hermitage and Great Hermitage] is possibly the greatest museum/art gallery in the world.

It houses ten of the twelve known paintings by Leonardo de Vinci and artefacts that, so it is claimed, would take you fifteen years to see if you spent one minute looking at each.

The collections were started in 1764 by Catherine the Great [she being Catherine II, not to be confused with Catherine I above].

Full details of the collections are at www.hermitagemuseum.org/

On the same site are the Menshikov and Winter Palaces.

The former, originally built in 1710, has been restored to shown the domestic life of a Russian nobleman.

The Winter Palace contains, amongst other attractions, rooms occupied by Peter the Great.

It was believed that Peter’s Palace was destroyed during later rebuilding, but this area was rediscovered and restored to reflect the period.

Located to the north east of Saint Petersburg is an area called the Golden Ring.

This consists of a group of cities which played an important part in the history of Russia as it fought to establish itself in face of incursions from west, for example the Poles and Lithuanians, and from the east, by the Mongols.

These cities are not that well geared up to tell their history to the visitor; they are, however wonderful examples of Russian architecture in terms of their churches, monasteries, kremlins and cathedrals.

Pereslavl-Zalesskiy contains the Saviour’s Cathedral constructed of beautiful white stone and topped with green onion domes.

More prosaically, the city also contains a museum dedicated to flat irons, and another to kettles.

The city of Vladimir boasts the Assumption Cathedral, originally constructed between 1158 and 1160, it was later decorated by the master of the icon, artist Andrei Rublev [c. 1365 – c. 1430]

Moscow - the most famous attraction here is The Kremlin.

All over Russia there are kremlins [fortresses] but this is The Kremlin; a fortified complex of buildings that has given its name to the government of what was then the Soviet Union.

As with the Hermitage, it is a complex of buildings including several palaces and three cathedrals.

The main attractions include the Ivan the Great Bell Tower- raised to its current height of 81 metres in 1600 on the orders of Boris Godunov, it was the tallest structure in Russia until the revolution.

Not in the tower but in the square is the largest bell in the world, the Tsar Bell, weighing in at a mere 201,924 kilograms and standing over six metres tall.

The three cathedrals are the Cathedral of the Annunciation, the Cathedral of Archangel Michael and the Cathedral of the Dormition, site of the coronation of the all the Russian Tsars.

The Armoury is the official museum of the Kremlin and contains examples of the applied arts mainly from Eastern Europe.

Examples from the collection are: the throne of Ivan IV known as The Terrible [Ivan that is, not his throne] the Imperial Crown of Russia, and ten examples of the art of Carl Faberge [happiness is egg shaped] More details on; www.kreml.ru/en/info/visitors

Ticketing seems a little [over] complicated. Currently 500 Roubles will get you access to the Bell Tower and the museums; a separate 700 Roubles for access to the Armoury. Some venues are time limited escorted tours rather in your own time access.

The Tretyakov Gallery contains a major collection of Russian art, from Andrei Rublev’s icons to twentieth century masters including Kandinsky and Malevich.

The gallery also includes works of Socialist Realism sculpture, removed from their original locations as the Soviet Union became Russia once again. Further details; www.tretyakovgallery.ru

Before you go

Russia uses the Cyrillic alphabet which has a number of letters which do not exist in our Latin alphabet.

You can learn the phonics of these new characters and be aware that some common letters are pronounced differently; for example B is pronounced V, so Moscow in Cyrillic is MOCKBa, giving us Moskva, which is the way Russians would say Moscow.

The main issue is that signs written in Cyrillic are very hard to decode; in Moscow and Saint Petersburg the English translation is often shown in tourist areas, outside these areas and in wider Russia it is an issue.

The currency is the Rouble divided in to a hundred Kopecks. Credit cards are widely accepted in Moscow and Saint Petersburg, less so elsewhere.

The InTourist web site says that passports and visas should be carried at all times as the police have the right to demand to see them without giving a reason. It would certainly be prudent to travel with copies of important documents in case of loss.

As with most countries you should check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s web site for up to date travel advice: www.fco.gov.uk.

Further information

For more advice on taking a gap year in Europe, please see:

• Belgium Gap Year
• Netherlands Gap Year
• Portugal Gap Year
• Italy Gap Year
• Sweden Gap Year
• Gap Year Accommodation
• Gap Year Flights
• Gap Year Visas
• Gap Year Insurance
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These Are Travel Agents’ Most-Booked Caribbean Hotel Brands Right Now

With more than half the year in the books, advisors recently shared just how successful certain hotels have been to their respectful agencies.

From what hotels garnered the most bookings to popular brands and obstacles presented by big time hospitality changes, Caribbean advisors talk about the year in a review of hotel bookings.

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Travel companies rein in their forecasts as US consumers cut spending

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Bankrupt Steward Health Care sells physician network as Massachusetts hospital seized

Bankrupt hospital operator Steward Health Care received a bankruptcy judge’s approval on Friday to sell its nationwide physician network to a private equity buyer while its stalled efforts to sell Massachusetts hospitals caused the state to step in and seize one hospital.