So you’ve decided to take a gap year – great! Do you know where to go already? There are hundreds of countries across the globe, offering different fantastic scenery and amazing culture that will overwhelm the school-leavers adventure!
10 Gap Year Destinations Around the World, Where to Go?
Remember, you’re putting together the trip of a lifetime, so make sure your single trip right now should be well-arranged. Choosing popular gap year destinations like USA, France, or Australia will make your traveling easier, as it’s fully-packed with complete tours, volunteering, and jobs for short time stay or backpackers.
However, if you wanna get out of the comfort zone or simply feeling border, you may consider Thailand, South Africa, or Hawaii. Well, we’ve curated the list of 10 most amazing gap year destinations as a brilliant idea to kick-off your awesome trip, ever!
1. Australia
Australia can be a great country for first-time travelers. Ever thought about celebrating Christmas on the beach? The Oz offers the comfort of home and amazing adventure at the same time.
Exploring from city to city by doing a road trip will also bring you loads of excitement. Besides, the country has a working holiday visa for those who want to spend the gap year by traveling while earning some pennies!
2. Thailand
The buzzing capital Bangkok, the beautiful beaches, and not forget to mention the epic parties bring Thailand into the top list for gap year students. It offers plenty of interesting activities you can do throughout a day, a month, or even a year!
Besides, food and accommodation are generally cheap for such a paradise. No wonder that the tourists who come to Thailand always increase year to year. Pack your bags and meet the world’s population of backpackers there 😉
3. USA
One of the most popular destination to start or end your gap year is in the States, home to diverse people and places. New York or Los Angeles can be perfect to kick-off your journey where you’ll experience the fast-paced lifestyle.
After that, head to Florida or San Fransisco to have a laid back day. You can also add Arizona into your list, to watch the sun rises over Grand Canyon beautifully. We guarantee it’d be one of the most unforgettable memories, ever.
4. India
Going to the snowy Himalaya or green landscape in Kerala, India has them all. Another incredibly diverse and dynamic county to fill your gap year if you’re craving for beautiful temples, beaches, and adventure in the desert.
5. Hawaii
Best place for those who like surfing and big waves! Go to Honolulu, Oahu, or Maui and discover its beauty through the beaches, waterfalls, landmarks, volcanoes, and ocean by diving into the water. Island hopping can cost you a pretty penny, but well, there are plenty of part-time jobs as well!
6. South Africa
Those who like adventure will probably choose South Africa. It’s an exciting and spectacular destination to visit on your gap year! This most popular country in Africa is ready to welcome you not only with the lions and elephants, but amazing food and abundance of vineyards.
With its scenic atmosphere, South Africa is totally worth exploring. Besides, there are loads of volunteering jobs or internships that you can apply, to support the development, promote wildlife conservation, while also gain new knowledge.
7. South Korea
Head to Seoul or other parts in South Korea if you like a vibrant ambiance, where modern life and old-world tradition meets perfectly. Amidst the bustling city, this destination in Asia offers everything youngsters might like.
South Korea also provides a working holiday visa for some countries. That makes your gap year is even more exciting, isn’t it? Experience the cultural and lush green scenery in the country, while studying, volunteering, or taking a part-time job.
8. Western Europe
When we say western Europe, that’s because you can travel freely around countries with a single visa! Come to Oktoberfest in Germany, or Tomorrowland in Belgium, then enjoy the city of lights in France to appreciate what the world has to offer.
A combination of fairytale villages and modern cities that you’ll love on your gap year journey. In fact, there are many host families available to cover your stay in several European countries. However, you have to take care of their kids in return. Totally will be a new fun experience!
9. New Zealand
Who doesn’t love New Zealand, anyway? That makes this country on the top list of gap year destinations. Friendly locals, jaw-dropping outdoor scenery, and laid back vibes that you can get it all during your best gap year in the country!
Although traveling to New Zealand may cost you a pretty penny, there are plenty of volunteer and internship opportunities too. Weave them together!
10. Indonesia
We just need to put Indonesia on the list because you’ll love it as much as we do. This alluring archipelago offers you plenty of destinations to visit, started from its beautiful beaches, amazing volcanoes, delectable culinary, and cheap accommodations.
So, Where to Go Next?
Made up your mind yet? Wherever you wanna spend your gap year, make sure to book the flight early so you won’t have to pay through the nose. A gap year should be perfect timing for you to enjoy your me-time and find out what to do next.
Before going, take notes on the visa you need to obtain when you come to any destination. Different countries require different types of visa that you need to have in hand, besides your passport. Check our Visa 101 to simplify your trips 😉
