Lots of people are taking some time out of their lives to experience other cultures and environments. It’s certainly an investment in both time and money so preparation is the key to getting your gap year off to the right start.
Preparations for your gap year will largely vary depending on type of break that you are planning and the country or countries you’ll be taking in on your trip. There are some essential things to consider though whatever you plan to do.
Plan Responsibly
Though there is a temptation to view gap years as a chance to travel utterly independently, this isn’t recommended. Working with a reputable organisation you will have the confidence to know that your destination has been vetted for safety and that you’ll have access to someone on the ground to contact if necessary. This is particularly the case with volunteering as the last thing you want to do is arrive at your chosen project only to find that there is no real project to volunteer on. Organisations such as Real Gap ensure your gap year time is spent doing something beneficial do both you and the locals.
Get the Knowledge
Once you’ve decided on your destination, thoroughly research every aspect from safety to places to visit. Don’t leave it until after you get home again to discover that there was an incredible place to visit. Agents such as Real Gap can help with this kind of background.
Get Vaccinated
As with any trip abroad you should check which vaccinations you need well in advance. Some projects are in remote areas and you may need Rabies jabs which need to be done at least 21 days in advance of travel so don’t leave it to the last minute.
Get The Language
Spend some time getting to grips with the local language before you go and you’ll be glad you did. Having an awareness of the language will help you connect with locals as they will be far more accepting of a stranger who takes the time to understand them and, it will minimize an chance of culture shock. There are plenty of DVDs and CD’s available or even online courses.
Get Your Money
Aside from finding the cash to fund your trip in the first place, you need spending money to help you get by daily. Many projects provide basic accommodation and subsistence but you should organize enough money for additional trips, emergencies and calling home for example. Make sure you understand how to access your money in your destination, whether that’s knowing that there are plenty of cash machines or if you need to organize somewhere safe to leave your cash. Some destinations also charge an arrivals tax too which is payable in cash or card so make sure you know if this applies to you as some can be fairly steep.
Get In Contact
Get in touch with someone in charge at your destination in advance of your trip or someone who is going to the same project with you or both ideally. This will boost your confidence and cut the nerves before you get there. It will also ease the minds of your loved ones at home to know someone is looking out for you there.
Get Packed
Packing the right equipment will help your trip go smoothly. Do you need mosquito net or sleeping bag? What kinds of clothes do you need? Be sure you know and pack them in a sturdy backpack.
Making the most of your gap year is easy provided you take a little time in advance to prepare. It’s a once in a lifetime experience so make the most of it!
AUTHOR BIO
Anna Mathews is a writer specializing in student issues. She writes for student publications and spent her gap year teaching marketing to underprivileged women in South America with the help of Real Gap.
Leave a Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.