Often, people become frustrated when their life is planned in advance and this can lead to feelings of discontentment. After finishing school, for example, young people sometimes feel forced to choose between further education and work.
Whilst both further study and job opportunities are viable options, there are other ways to further your career and gain experience in a real-world environment. Taking a gap year, for example, is a great way to experience new things and there are plenty of advantages when it comes to taking a year off…
Travel the world
When planning your adventure, you may want to plot out a route and book accommodation in advance. Alternatively, you might prefer to keep your itinerary free and go where the mood takes you.
Travelling by air, sea or even interrailing provides great opportunities to visit new places and discover far-flung countries. Whilst you may like to soak up the atmosphere in some of the most famous cities in the world, you could also get away from it all and trek through remote regions in any corner of the globe.
Take up volunteering opportunities
For students taking a gap year, there are plenty of volunteering opportunities available. Teaching English as a second language, for example, is an extremely popular option for students and it means that you can volunteer in numerous countries.
Alternatively, you may want to try something more practical and commit to building homes and amenities in developing countries. With various roles available, you’ll have the chance to develop your existing skills and increase your expertise while you travel.
In addition to this, a confirmed volunteering role can be a great way to plan your trip. Often, companies and charities organise these ventures so you may feel more confident travelling to a designated location with a group of volunteers, rather than travelling alone.
Plan your next move
Taking a gap year is a great way to experience the world and try new things. For students, in particular, it can help them to decide what they want to do next. Many young people are undecided about their career path or study options but a gap year can help to focus the mind and provide inspiration.
Indeed, the opportunities available during a gap year may help you to decide what career you’re interested in or what qualifications you need to apply for your dream job.
Take a career break
Although many gap year packages and travel options are aimed at younger travellers, gap years are suitable for travellers of any age! In fact, gap years are becoming increasingly popular with people who are already working full-time or have just finished postgraduate studies.
Deciding to take a sabbatical from work or giving up your job may be a difficult to decision to make but the benefits can far outweigh the costs. As your personal life may not always afford the opportunity to travel, it’s important to seize the opportunity while you can.
Fortunately, the availability of low-cost travel and reliable forms of communication means that taking a gap year is easier and safer than ever. Before you leave, however, you’ll need to ensure that you have the appropriate documentation and visas in place, particularly if you plan on working during your gap year. If you plan on travelling to the US, for example, you may want to take a look at esta-visa.org.uk for guidance.
Providing you’ve got valid travelling documents, you’ll be able to explore numerous regions and turn your gap year into the perfect getaway.