comprehensive travel insurance. Besides offering great deals on travel insurance, Patrick also collects and shares the best free travel competitions to help his clients get the most out of their holidays.
“>Taking a gap year before heading off to university or beginning a career can be a great learning experience. Many young people save up and head out into the big wide world to see and do as much as they can before they have to settle down into ‘real life’, which can often mean limited time out for travel and more everyday responsibilities.
If you are planning on taking some time away and joining thousands of other like minded individuals, you might be interested to know which destinations come top of the list for places to spend a gap year, as well as the different options for how to spend a gap year. Of course, wherever you decide to go and whatever you decide to do, make sure you get comprehensive travel insurance so that you can rest assured that whatever happens, you are covered.
Top Gap Year Destinations Revealed by ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents)
An increase in the number of gap year travellers of 10% over the past twelve months is quite a significant one. Most people this year are choosing to travel to Australasia, Southeast Asia, South America and the US. Australia has always been a firm favourite and claims the number one spot in the most popular gap year destinations, and New Zealand has recently taken over from Thailand and now sits at number two. Vietnam has jumped from eighth to fifth, and places such as India, Brazil and Peru are also high on the list.
How Do People Choose to Spend Their Gap Year Travel?
There are several types of gap year travel that can be organised. Many young people enrol on work placements abroad, while others engage in a volunteering programme. It is advisable to book through a recommended and reputable company when volunteering, and make sure to do your research with regards to the benefits of the project and what will be required of you. Always invest in comprehensive travel insurance too.
Another popular way to spend a gap year is to embark on an adventure trip. Trekking, mountain biking, overland tours and other adventures remain great ways to see the world from a different perspective, but all might require a top up clause in a comprehensive travel insurance policy, so check before you go.
Of course, the traditional round the world tickets are still being booked by the more independent traveller, who perhaps is looking to enjoy a little bit of everything on their travels.
Take Heed
While gap year travel is a great way for young people to grow in confidence, gain some independence, make great memories and see the world, it can be a challenging time. Good preparation is key if the experience is going to be a safe and positive one, and a comprehensive travel insurance policy is a must!
Patrick Chong is the Managing Director of InsureMore, an award-winning team of specialists in single trip and annual comprehensive travel insurance. Besides offering great deals on travel insurance, Patrick also collects and shares the best free travel competitions to help his clients get the most out of their holidays.