10 Steps in Planning Gap Years

by Tyler P. A Passionate Blogger - Entertainment

Most people take a gap year to spend time travelling around the world, enjoying unique experiences in remote corners. Although it may seem like an interesting idea on the outside, a lot of planning goes into making this dream successful. One of the ways to implement it is to enroll yourself with an exchange program that allows you to visit interesting places and learn about the region’s culture.

Planning gap years

1. Deciding the place to go- You will need to decide what you want to experience during the gap year and choose a suitable place. This would usually require you to travel solo. The objective during this time could be to enroll in one of the reputed Foreign Exchange programs, which will give you some of the most memorable experiences of your life.

2. Figure out the budget- Talk to your family about your plan and sit together to figure out the budget you would require for the same. The ways and means of getting the money would require extensive thought. It may be helpful if you could get a scholarship from a school or college, as it would take care of the academic fees and accommodation. Also, get your bank cards authorized to be used abroad.

3. Look for accommodation- Gap Year programs abroad will arrange for your accommodations. For them to get it right, you can tell them about options that meet your comfort levels the best. You would either be living in a separate flat or be sharing rooms with fellow gap year mates. A good idea here would be to look for a homestay, which is an excellent way to mingle with the locals and understand the local culture.

4. Plan the rides- During the gap year, your rides within the country will be planned by the program. However, anything outside has to be planned on your own.

5. Know the visa requirements- You will need a visa to get into any country. It will be required at multiple places, starting with the airport.

6. Prepare your health accordingly- Any pending vaccinations and treatments must be completed before the new program. It would also be a good idea to pick up suitable travel insurance.

7. Learn the local language- Find out more about the cultural norms before visiting an entirely new country. Knowing basic sentences in a new land will always prove to be helpful. Also, remember to not offend anyone with inappropriate gestures.

8. Reflect on gap year goals- This is the best time for introspection on gap year goals. Based on the same, think of special steps you could take before leaving for the period. Some of the gap year goals could be in relation to:’

a) Adventure

b) Related to career

c) Passions

9. Pack your bags- Do not pack anything and everything in your sights. There are always maximum weight limits in airlines, so think before you pack. It would be a good idea to ask other gap year takers about luggage.

Leave on time- Ensure that you keep adequate time in hand to get to the airport and catch the flight