5 Ways to Spend your Gap Year

Your gap year should not only be an opportunity to have fun, but to also rediscover yourself, be an agent of change, and enable you to be prepared for what lies ahead. To make the most out of your gap year, below are some of the best things that you might want to consider doing.

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Teach English in India

Agra 

If English is your native language, teaching is a great way to make a real difference on your gap year. You can choose to do this work as a volunteer or look for a job that pays.

In India, there are lots of opportunities that can open up, especially for volunteer work. You can even find host families and live in a local community.

With your daily interactions with your students, you will be able to not only teach, but learn about their culture as well.

Work as an Au Pair in London

Amazing view of London with birds flying

In case you do not know, au pair refers to a domestic assistant coming from a foreign country and living with a host family. If you plan to spend your gap year in Europe, working as an au pair would mean that accommodation is one less thing you have to be worried about.

You could work for a family household in London, then in your spare time you can go off and explore England’s beautiful capital city.

Being an au pair or a nanny can help to further your education, allow you to make new friends, and even learn another language. Plus, it can be a great way to travel and make money.

Take Part in a Conservation Project in Peru

Cusco (Peru)

For a meaningful gap year, pack your bags and head to Peru to be part of a conservation project. Most of the opportunities are for volunteer work, but the life experiences you will gain are priceless.

Although this is not the most luxurious way to have a gap year, it is informative, and best of all, you are able to take part in very significant work.

There are environmental and jungle conservation projects for the benefit of the Amazon rainforest. It is sure to be an eye-opener as well.

Go Backpacking in Thailand

Phuket or Krabi - Choosing the Perfect Destination for your Thailand Trip

If you are going to be spending your gap year on a shoestring budget, plan an escape to Thailand, one of the best backpacking countries in the world. It’s capital, Bangkok, perfectly blends the new with the old.

If you want to explore the beaches, on the other hand, head to Phuket or Krabi. The Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan is also a must-experience for young travelers who live to party.

For a more relaxing retreat, head north and visit the province of Chiang Mai. There are also plenty of opportunities to work while you travel, especially in hostels.

Get a Hotel Job in Turkey

Turkey

There are plenty of hotels in Turkey that can offer the perfect employment opportunities for those who are having their gap year.

This is an especially good opportunity if you have a hospitality background. It will provide an excellent training ground. Many hotels can also provide benefits to their employees, such as staff lodging and meal allowance, among others.

If you like to party then get a job in one of Turkey’s party destinations. If you’d prefer a more peaceful experience then going to Antalya or Islamlar might suit you.

Author

  • Sam

    Sam is a seasoned solo traveler who’s explored four continents and visited 49 countries, making her a trusted authority in travel planning—especially for solo female adventurers. Through her website, Travelling King, Sam offers tailored itineraries and expert guides designed to make every trip seamless and unforgettable. Whether it’s luxury escapes, quick getaways, or in-depth destination guides, her expertise keeps her at the forefront of the solo travel community, inspiring women to explore the world confidently and independently.

    View all posts https://www.tiktok.com/@travellingkng

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