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There are many Gap Year organisations out there to choose from. It is important that when choosing the right Organisation for you that you ask a few key questions:
  • Financial security
  • Where your money goes
  • In Country Risk assessments completed
  • Returned travellers reviews
These are the basics that should be answered. Organisations that are part of the Year Out Group have been assessed and recognised as complying with set high standards of trading.

Preparation

You can never be too prepared! It is important that the organisation stays in contact with you throughout the booking process and answers any questions you have. They should take you through the basic steps of setting out abroad through to Visa’s and emergency contact details. If you feel that you are not getting the advice that you seek tell them and ask for answers.

Depending on what sort of trip you are off on depends what clothing you are going to take with you. As an example for Volunteering with children in a third world Country:

What to take: Rucksack (85ltr approx), 4 t-shirts, 2 light jumpers, 5 underwear, 4 pairs socks, 2 pairs of comfortable shoes, waterproof light jacket, toiletries (Programs that require sleeping bags+ground mat will state)

Health

Organisations will state if there is a likelihood that you will need medical injections before departure and is best you get in contact with your Doctor to arrange an appointment. Please beware some treatments need to be arranged 4-6 weeks prior to departure.

Finance

On completion of paying for a program you should know what else is needed to be funded by yourself when you are abroad (e.g. Food, Drinks, Transport, Accommodation etc) . We recommend a VISA Debit card is used for every day purchases and a Credit Card is taken only for emergencies. Small dominations of currency should be used when out and about.

Contact

Clients should be able to contact the organisation 24 hours a day 365 days a year in case of emergency. On arrival into the Country a full induction to the area should take place and any questions answered. The In Country team (looking after the day to day running) should be easily approachable and have extensive knowledge about the location.

Constructive Gap Year

Gap Years over the years have changed in many ways. It is important to gain something from the experience that can be utilized for the future. Times have changed from just drinking cocktails on the beach and doing a bungee jump! Employers will want to see productive, responsible travel undertaken. That is why Gap Discovery prides itself on offering something slightly different for a bit of time out.

Ideas for parents

With your son/daughter about to embark on a life changing experience, now is the time to start thinking about the possibilities that are out there for you! “My wife and I discussed the idea that instead of having a party to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary, we would go away and see the world instead.” Roger Paice Tenby, Pembrokeshire.

Always thought about going to Thailand? Maybe plan to meet up with them for a few days whilst your out there! “We met up with our daughter on a beautiful beach in Thailand. We were in awe of what a beautiful country we had all met up in and relieved that our son was coping independently!” George Nichol, Tonbridge

With a bit more money to spend you can travel in style but still experience the culture and locals in the countries. “For only £18 a night we were staying in *5 star hotels in Malaysia. It was fantastic!” Julia Paice, Tenby, Pembrokeshire.

  The Paice family on their Gap Year, Rottnest Island, Perth, 2004.

 
 
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