Next Gen News

Youth specialist STA Travel says Asia and North America are the most popular destinations among those opting for a mini gap, with sales up 28% and 17% respectively this summer compared with the same period last year. Its bestselling tour is a 22-day American road trip from New York to San Francisco, and the most popular volunteer projects include a fortnight at an elephant rescue centre in Thailand, and three weeks working with underprivileged children in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro.

Mini gaps to Asia are also proving a strong seller for Intrepid Travel, thanks largely to the number of direct flights and favourable exchange rates.

If you don't know what you want to do in life, a constructive gap is an opportunity to figure it out - to "road test" the various jobs and careers you have in mind.

"Gap stints are particularly useful for those students who can't decide which course or career they really want to do, giving them time to make an informed decision and even gain work experience abroad with the potential to earn a bit of money," says Sam Cox, managing director of Real Gap Experience. If you take on activities during your gap year to showcase your talents in other ways or to travel, volunteer, engage in further study, set up a business, learn new skills, test yourself as a professional sportsperson or musician, or simply earn money to pay for your university course, then good for you.