Top 10 things to do on a gap year

Taking a gap year can be the most memorable thing you’ll ever do, as long as you make some plans and see them through. In this article you can read about the top 10 things to do on a gap year, including travelling, working a season and volunteering abroad. If you want to travel, help people and boost your CV, check out Projects Abroad UK destinations to see what’s on offer.

Travel the world

This is quite general and sets the tone for the list. Think carefully about there you might want to go or maybe you already have a dream destination in mind. Remember that you might not have an extended period of time free like a gap year until you retire so it’s important to make the most of it!

Work a ski season

Ski resorts are amazing! It’s like being on a different planet when you’re up the mountains and you will have an amazing time. Don’t worry if you’ve not skied before, there will be plenty of opportunity to learn.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/alpesdehauteprovence-tourisme/8130431859

Work a summer season

If the sunshine and partying is what you’re all about, why not take on a season? It’s probably best to set something up before you go, that way you’ll have board and accommodation all paid for.

Enhance your skills

You’ll find plenty of opportunities to build your CV on a gap year and one way is to take on an internship. You’ll have fun, gain experience and develop professional contacts. It may even lead to a job.

Teach English abroad

You can take a course before you go or learn abroad. You’ll meet great people, get paid and will have learned a useful new skill.

Take the Inca trail

Many people head to Peru to tackle the incredible Inca Trail. It’ll be a challenge but when you reach Machu Picchu it will all be worth it!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/robennals/499123644

Explore Asia

Go to the Far East and check out Asia. Head for Thailand to visit the beautiful islands and Japan to experience the unique culture.

Take Route 66 across the US

One of the most fun and interesting ways to explore the USA is to take the old Route 66 from Chicago all the way to Los Angeles.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kb35/3615965154/

Try skydiving

If you are brave enough, try skydiving or something else that is way out of your comfort zone! Use the time to try new things and push yourself to your limits.

Make a difference by volunteering

If you fancy spending your gap year volunteering, head off abroad and help those who are less fortunate than you. Whether it’s with orphans in Africa, working with communities in South America or helping in a medical centre in Asia, you’ll have the most rewarding experience.

Resource Box

Gap year travel

The Guardian’s section on gap year advice.

Gap year: Is it for you?

Key questions about gap years from the BBC’s website.

Route 66 by Harley Davidson

Article in the Telegraph about travelling Route 66 on the classic motorbike.