So, you finished high school, and you’re considering taking a gap year. You’re in the right place. Here, you’ll find out about some of the best gap-year destinations that will inspire the adventurer within you.
Taking a year off before going to college is a bold move, but it’s also an opportunity to do something remarkable with your life. If you plan it well, you can turn this time into an unforgettable experience that you’ll reminisce about for years to come.
A great gap-year spot needs three things: affordable lifestyle, incredible weather and lots of tourist attractions. Let’s go!
1. Andalusia, Spain
You may think that going to Europe is expensive. Well, not if you decide to go to Andalusia, the southernmost region of Spain. It’s a real tourist paradise and a perfect destination if you want to get acquainted with the European culture.
The Spanish you learned in school is completely different in Andalusia. The spoken language is much faster and unintelligible for the untrained ear. So, I suggest you download a few travel apps to make your life easier. These include a translation app and a mobile dictionary.
You can use Seville as your base and then travel to places like Granada, Jerez, Cordoba, and Malaga. Get ready for a $2 beer in the local bars!
2. Bali, Indonesia
If you ever look for a cheap, paradisiacal destination in Asia, look no further than Bali. This Indonesian island is a tourist hub full of international travelers. It’s excellent because you won’t feel like you’re the only foreigner, and you’ll be able to meet wonderful people.
Indeed, Indonesia is one of the best backpacking destinations in the world, so if you’re into trekking and crossing jungle paths, this is the spot for you.
The cost of living in Bali is no more than $700 a month.
3. La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz is the capital of Bolivia and one of the most accessible destinations for U.S. students. In it, you’ll find everything a young traveler would dream about: cheap restaurants, wild nightlife, chaotic traffic and a completely different culture.
The city is high in the mountains, 3,630 meters above sea level and has a population of around 800,000 people. It’s also only a stone’s throw away from the famous Lake Titicaca and other breathtaking natural reserves.
According to Numbeo, the cost of living in La Paz is around 160 percent lower than in major U.S. cities like New York or LA. Bolivia is also an excellent place to learn Spanish and take cheap flights to other South American countries.
4. Chiang Mai, Thailand
The last item on our list is a not-so-hidden gem of Thailand. When you arrive in this tropical country, you’ll probably land in Bangkok, which is known for its clubs, bars and crazy traffic. But after an eight-hour bumpy ride north from the capital, you’ll find yourself in a hilly city, which became a hub for digital nomads from around the world.
There’s a reason for that. The prices are inexpensive, the weather is fantastic throughout the year, and the location is breathtaking. If you’re into yoga, meditation and nature, Chiang Mai is your place to be.
Hopefully, by now, you’re more than inspired to accept the challenge and start planning your gap year. Remember, no matter which destination you choose, it’s crucial to do your research, especially when it comes to necessary vaccinations as well as the political situation of the country you plan to visit. Safety first!
5. New York City
Of course you can go for one of the more expensive but also one of the great destinations in the world, New York City. With so much history, great companies, fun night light and the surrounding east coast to visit its hard to beat. One fun thing to do is a Photoshoot in New York City where you can look glamorous and on top of the world.