Stretching from the laid back, lush green, twisty tracked mountain vistas of the Burmese border hills in the north, where a dusty pink sun sets over Chiang Mai, or Mae Hon Son, while the curious hippy subculture of Rasta Buddhists, reggae loving Thais and ex-pat army vets strum guitars together in bamboo bars until the early hours, right to the silver sanded beaches of the Malaccan straight, and the warm watered diving meccas of the Thai Gulf, where face-painted party goers drain buckets under the clear, unclouded, full-moon night sky, this is a country as much about adventure and energy as it is about placidity and discovery, with a character so rich and different, it´s difficult to be left behind.
Last year Thailand received a record influx of 22 million tourists, most of which flew into the capital, Bangkok. An energetic and proudly full-on metropolis, rich with religious culture, from the colossal Wat Pho reclining golden Buddha, to the formidable, grey stepped, Wat Arun, Bangkok hums with human activity, and rarely sleeps. Whizzing Tuk Tuks weave through the traffic packed streets, while backpackers sip Chang and party late on Khaosan Road, fuelled by the delicious noodle concoctions of the street side vendors, just the tip of a dark and gaudy underbelly that has given Bangkok its name for hedonism and indulgence.
But, if this all sounds too much, you´re in the right place. Intensely Buddhist, Thailand is a centre of calm and relaxation, just as much as it is energy and action. There are sleepy temples vibrating with the steady hum of meditating priests, and no shortage of interesting, chilled-out villages that will get you away from the city hubbub of Bangkok.
While not the cheapest of Southeast Asia´s destinations, you can rest assured that value for money is one of the great pulls Thailand can offer. Generally speaking accommodation is very cheap, with the price of a budget guest-house ranging from 150 to 400 Thai Baht (5-10 USD), while a beer will set you back 40 to 60 Baht, depending on whether you want to risk the infamous ´Changover´ morning, drinking Thailand´s better value national beers.
Many visitors require a visa for entry to Thailand, while some will be granted tourist visas on arrival \” typically allowing them a month´s stay. Visa applications can be done in the airport, and it´s a good idea to have passport photos ready to make the process go smoothly. Once in, domestic travel is extremely easy, and the Thai tourist industry has developed well, with bus connections (called VIP bus services) to most major cities. You can also get interior flight connections to Krabi (a good gateway to the beautiful Andaman Coast in the south) and Chiang Mai (great for reaching chilled out Pai or into Laos in the North).

You can experience both sides of Chinese life. In the busy towns and cities it is very much like any other country. There are people busily going to and from work, going out their daily routines and simply walking past each other. This is both exciting and interesting to experience when you are young. However, you are also able to visit the quieter villages and towns where people will stop and talk to you without knowing you. Here the way of life if very slow paced and work is very different. People work with what they have and how they can; it is experiences such as these that encourage you to take a gap year as you may not be able to visit such a diverse place again.

With the country divided between history and robots, it is sure to be a very surreal experience! You can learn about the oldest civilisations in history in one building, and see the technological developments in another nearby. It is the clear different between the old and new which makes China one of the most interesting places that you will ever visit.

Enjoy watching the local people live their lives in very different ways. It is guaranteed to be extremely differing to the town or city that you may call home. There will be many sights, good and bad, that you will see in China, and this is to open your eyes to the word. Work wise, you will be able to teach English in small schools and enjoy the youngsters who are the next generation for China as a country.

You are not going to be bored or unimpressed by such an intriguing country. Unlike anywhere else in the world, you will have the oldest examples of history combined with the newest advances in technology. Does it prove that China is becoming a world superpower, or is it all too good to be true? There´s only way to find out, and that´s if you choose China for your gap year.

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In the north, the River Ganges slices through the land, a throbbing artery of life in this nation of religious devotion and captivating mysticism. To Hindus this is the water of life, the quintessence of all sacred rivers. The energy that buzzes on every section of its banks \” both rural and urban- is echoed in the ebb and flow of the river, a veritable symbol of the Heraclitan flux that characterises the history and life of the Indian nation itself.  Also in the north, at the head of this great nation, its capital, New Delhi, is a compounded fusion of Asian culture. Riddled with awesome temples, vast museum collections and a myriad of other cultural gems, the capital is scented with the coveted treasures of Indian cuisine, and energised with the full momentum of the Indian people. Here, the streets are crammed with traffic, and the markets overflow with custom; New Delhi is the New York of the East, never sleeping, never stopping.
On the coast, India has some serious clout. The beaches of Goa have accumulated a reputation as some of the best in the world, where long stretches of white sand fades into the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. But that´s not it, there´s untouched coastline right the way round India´s horn, with equally as perfect sand at places like Tamil Nadu in the Southeast, and, if you´re feeling adventurous, the paradise island beaches on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are within easy reach.
For food lovers, the Indian cuisine is a goldmine of flavours. Oozing with the aromas of exotic spices, the culinary creations of this nation´s food gurus can be dangerously spicy and dauntingly varied. So, leave plenty of time to sample the lot, from the tandoori dry meats of the North, to the spicy seafood dishes of the southern sea fishing towns.
Whether you come to India, for a high-energy, adrenaline filled splurge, a kick back, or in search of greater truths, this is a country that rarely disappoints. The bubbling energy of India´s cities is tempered and penetrated by a curiously relaxing vibe that emanates from the nation´s overarching love of serenity and peace. Remember, you´ll never be too far from a secluded soaring mountain range or exquisite beach front if you need a little break. It´s a place where the word diversity just doesn´t cut it; India has all types, and all terrains, and it´s waiting to be explored!

This geographical concoction of more than 700 languages, nearly 250 million people (it´s the fourth most populous country in the world), 130 active volcanoes, and a myriad of religious faiths, from Islam, to eastern mysticism, to Balinese Hinduism, makes Indonesia one of the most attractive destinations on the Southeast Asian circuit.

As with most things Indonesian, diversity is word when it comes to cuisine. Travellers will enjoy fresh mangos and soft avocadoes (when in season) and a menu of rich, spicy and dangerously tasty dishes – from the vegetarian´s dream, peanut tempeh satay, to the traditional egg fried  nasi goering  rice, and a hodgepodge of other recipes extracted from the variety of cultural influences at work on this archipelago.

While not the cheapest in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is still astoundingly value for money and expect to get a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you learn to haggle like a local! Expect to pay between 10,000 and 30,000 Rupiah (around $3) for a meal – street style – and upwards of 120,000 for a cheap bed – with haggling. The national beer is Bintang, and tastes just great in the sun, but there´s a host of ´local´ spirits and drinks to enjoy that can be a cheaper and more adventurous option, from the infamous Arak rice wine, to locally brewed versions of western drinks.

Most international flights will fly into the capital, Jakarta, a sprawling metropolis of over 23 million people that fuses western and eastern architecture on the top Western tip of Indonesia´s most central and the world´s most populous island, Java. Despite being scattered across so many islands, it´s deceptively easy to find transport in the country; the presence of railways highlight the colonial influence of this archipelago, while there are always eager tourist services willing to do special journeys to most destinations if the price is right.

So, wherever you land, the whole of Indo is your oyster; hop on a train to Yogyakarta to revel in the rich and historical Javanese art, get low-cost connections to Bali and be surfing legendary reef breaks before bed, scour the Jumanji-esque ´Monkey Jungle´ of Ubud for historical architecture now claimed by a more simian population, go dragon spotting in Komodo, diving in the Gilis, or grab a Bintang and just soak it up – sun, beach, jungle, city, or sea, in Indonesia, the choices really are endless.

If you, like many people, know little about Laos, then your first stop during your gap-year may be to one of the many museums or archeological discoveries that Laos has to offer. The Laos National Museum in the capital of Vietiane, while not the most attractive of buildings, has displays and artifacts dating from various significant periods in Laos´ history, such as its colonial history, and the two World Wars and their influence.

There are also many beautiful and revered temples throughout Laos, which continue to inspire generations of visitors. Wat Wisunarat is one of the oldest temples in the country, dating back to 1513, and is a place where spiritual curiosity meets historical discoveries, making it a doubly rewarding visit.

In addition, there are attractions which simply cannot be labeled or categorized. One such attraction is the Plain of Jars, a large area which contains over-sized glass jars. While many archeologists, historians and architects have puzzled over the purpose of these jars, their reason for being is still unknown. So why not visit them, and add your own ideas to the continual debate?

The food and restaurants of Laos are just as diverse as its attractions. Restaurants range from typical Asian cuisine to European food, such as French bakeries and typically British fish and chip meals. A notable restaurant in Laos is the Makphet restaurant, which employs and trains homeless young people, arming them with skills in waiting-on and cooking in order to improve their own lives. Not only do you leave Makphet with a sense that you have done some good in the world, you also leave with   a full stomach and a yearning for more of its delicious food!

The best time to begin your gap year in Laos is during the dry season, which occurs from November through May in most of the country. This is also the time when most of the country´s vibrant, colorful festivals take place, on both a regional and a national scale. During the wet season, beginning in May or April and lasting through to November, rainfall is often daily and heavy, but lasts for only a short time. However, rivers and roads quickly fill up and overflow, so boat travel is a common, quick, interesting and usually cheap way to travel during the rainy season.

While Laos remains relatively untouched by tourists compared to other Asian destinations, it is certainly a worth-while place to spend your gap-year. Youthful energy and curiosity is an essential quality, as this country is quiet and unassuming, so you need to work quite hard to uncover all the mysteries and beauty that it has to offer.

Nepal is a paradox within itself, as extreme thrill-seeking adventurers risk their lives to summit, that which has gripped the fascination of man for centuries; Mount Everest. On the other hand, Nepal is a place of strong spiritual peace and silent resides, where devoted Monks wander the streets and towering Buddhist and Hindu shrines decorate the land. As such a unique and vastly different country to those in the West, it is no surprise that, over the last few decades, Nepal has attracted hundreds and thousands of young ´lost souls´, as travelers seek to ´find themselves´ in this new and exciting land.

Don´t worry though, you don´t have to be on a quest to ´find yourself´ to travel to Nepal. If you are simple looking for some classic adventure, then you´ve come to the right place. Even if you´re not a skilled mountain climber, you can still enjoy the life-changing experience of hiking in the Himalayas. There are plenty of great tour operators based in Kathmandu that can bring you on amazing treks and hikes to the Mount Everest Base Camp. And in case you need to stock up on gear, the streets of Kathmandu are full of hiking stores with everything you need for your climb.

Kathmandu, the capital of the country, is a haven for travelers with lots of cheap hotels, hostels, inns and guesthouses available throughout the city. If it´s culture, architecture and history you´re after, there are some gorgeous Buddhist temples around the city, which are well worth a visit. Some of the most popular temples include the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the city, Swayambhunath, another stunning Buddhist pilgrimage site just outside of Kathmandu, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, situated a 30 minute drive outside of the city, in the Kathmandu Valley.

Arriving at the airport of Kathmandu, you can obtain a 15-day ($25), 30-day ($40) or 90-day ($100) tourist visa. This can be paid in cash in USD, Euro or in local Nepalese rupee (NPR). Ensure you bring two passport-sized photos with you for a smooth application process.

Nepal is a relaxing country, where nature and religion play a strong role in everyday life. However, despite the peaceful appearance of Nepal´s people, the country has had a troublesome past with both Tibet and China, so you should always keep updated on the current situation before traveling there.

Just like in other Buddhist and Hindu countries, women should dress modestly when traveling through Nepal. While Kathmandu has a large tourist presence, the rest of the country remains relatively unexplored by foreign travelers so extra caution should be exercised when traveling outside of the city. Always try and respect the local cultures and traditions; for example, taking off your shoes before entering a temple, or not taking photos in certain places. It is a good idea to do some research on Hindu and Buddhist customs before traveling to the country.

Nepal has an interesting mix of old and new. To come here is to experience life in the extremes; extreme adventure, terrain, beauty, culture and tradition. Open your mind to new experiences and ways of life and you will fall deeply in love with this country, as so many other travelers do.

Renewal in Nepal

Nepal is certainly not a country for those who want an easy, comfortable gap-year. However, for those who want to be challenged, to experience new cultures, to witness some of the greatest features of the natural world, and to feel truly rewarded by their gap-year, then Nepal is most definitely a place to visit.

You only have to see Nepal´s climate to understand what type of country it is. In June, the wet season begins, with four months of notorious monsoon rains. The roads become rivers of mud, infected with leeches, and rains pour heavily every day. However, after this period of extreme harshness comes a long period of quiet, calm, and pure beauty. The monsoon results in a kind of regeneration within the natural world, with all kinds of new and beautiful plants able to grow in the newly churned and watered soils. Not only that, but the air is no longer murky \” the monsoon rains have cleared it, resulting in crystal-clear views of Nepali landmarks, especially the infamous Himalayas.

Nepal is one of the only places in the world where mountaineering is open to all who wish to try it. The popularity of the Himalayan Mountains, especially Mount Everest, means that there are many hotels within this region, so you can enjoy trekking through the mountains without worrying about where you are going to set up your tent. And the Himalayas are not only valued for their beauty and their challenging climbs, but the rivers which run through the mountains are popular for white-water rafting among the most adventurous visitors \” why not give it a go? After all, you´re only young once!

After all the hard climbing and water-sports, you´ll also need time to recover and rejuvenate – luckily, Nepal is the perfect place for that too. Nepal is famous for its Buddhist temples and monasteries, and there are hundreds of shrines throughout Nepal that would give even the most adamant of atheists goose bumps. While you´re in Nepal, why not take the opportunity to learn (or just receive!) Indian massage techniques, or feel the physical and spiritual benefits of yoga and t´ai chi? In the beautiful, luscious, natural surroundings, nothing feels better than engaging in an activity that calms both the body and the mind.

Not only do you benefit spiritually from visiting Nepal, but there is also a great deal of culture for you to immerse yourself in, meaning you will return from your gap year a well-travelled andmore peaceful human being. There are many festivals throughout the year, one of the most beautiful being the Dasain festival in October, just after the monsoon season.

But beneath these exciting festivities is something very serious, as while Nepal enjoys a rich culture and natural world, economically it´s still a developing country. Nepal will humble you in a way that no other country possibly could, and such a spiritual transformation is surely the only motivation you need to spend your gap year in Nepal.

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Filipino Fling

However, despite the damage inflicted by the typhoons, many of the country´s most well-known buildings continue to provide delight to their visitors. Malacanang Palace, the Presidential residence, is a beautiful and majestic building admired by all who visit it, while the Coconut Palace, built in 1981, is often used in tours and for weddings, as it´s such a striking building.

The natural world is even more stunning than the man-made creations of the Philippines. Why not take a trip to the Tamaraw Falls, where a thirty foot wall of water cascades into clear pools, in the midst of a jade-green jungle? Or how about a visit to the Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary, where over 50,000 of birds have a break from their migration to refuel and relax?

In fact, those 50,000 birds have the right idea, as the Philippines are the perfect place for anyone to unwind, making it the ideal gap-year break. Beaches in the Philippines are rated as some of the best in the world – and with the white sands and clear waters of beaches such as Panglao and Boracay, it´s easy to see why. If you ever get tired of all that hard sunbathing sand, you can take a dip in the sea, where there are plenty of colorful coral reefs, and even some shipwrecks for you to discover off the coast of Coron.

If you ever need a break from the beaches, you can always head to one of the many museums that the Philippines have to offer, showcasing the country´s unique and sometimes violent history. A perfect specimen is the National Museum of Filipino People, which contains artifacts estimated to be over 26,000 years old \” if that doesn´t quench your thirst for knowledge, nothing will!

While the Philippines are often regarded as a destination to visit only because of its beaches, you will uncover so much more about this chain of islands when you spend your gap-year here. The beaches are obviously beautiful, but immersing yourself in these islands will reward you with cultural experiences with a friendly, lively people \” and what better setting to spend your gap year in?

From traditional to explorative (really explorative), there is food and drink for every palate. Savour the  Moules-frites  of Brittany´s sea towns, the pungent cheeses and dark reds of Burgundy, the potent Armagnac and  Périgord  truffle of the Basque country, blue Roquefort of Aveyron, oysters in the deep-south Roussillon, the infamous  escargot  (snails) of Franche-Comté; camembert, crepe, baguette and brandy, French cuisine is rich, varied and full of flavour.

France has a host of international airports, with great connections throughout the continent and the rest of the world. The largest is the  Charles de Gaulle  in Paris, with such great train connections to the  Gare du Nord, you can be out of arrivals and sipping a coffee (or maybe a  vin rouge) in no time. France has one of the best railway systems in Europe, again with fantastic international connections, via Eurostar to London, and the high-speed Thalys to Brussels and Berlin beyond. But, if it´s the famous rustic French life you´re chasing, renting a car is easy and the roads are of great standard, from the comprehensive motorway system to the James Bond hill winders of the south coast.

For the city lover France is buzzing with action, from the medium regional capitals of Lille and Marseille, to the sprawling Parisian metropolis. Drop into the Louvre to wonder and France´s collection of worldly treasures (including Da Vinci´s masterpiece, the Mona Lisa), scout wine bars and cafés on street corners to ponder the flux of French life as it passes you by, or go small scale with weekend markets packed with smelly cheese, organic veg and a local vibe that oozes France´s unique human character.

If it´s green hills, rustic barns, sunflower fields, warm beaches and vineyards you´re after, you´ll never be far away. Drive through the poppy fields of Somme, through brandy country to the warm sanded coastline of St. Maxime and St. Tropez, or east, through the rolling yellow flower fields, to the soaring peaks of the French Alps, the country´s beating winter heart.

French culture has always held a reputation for richness and passion, and whether it´s in its food, people, places, it´s mountain vistas, azure seas, sleepy village squares, or bubbling city centres, this is a country that really lives up to its name:  Vive la France!

Hidden behind this arguably clichéd understanding of Spain´s zealous culture lies a picturesque landscape that is perfect for those wishing to spend time with nature surrounding them. An emerald green horizon shows mountains that join faultlessly with the deep blue waters of the Atlantic. The charmingly rugged mountain ranges such as the Sierra Nevada is home to numerous ski resorts; a great activity to participate in, whether you are a beginner or can ski at an advanced level. And, further, through the dense culture that sits heavily upon the country, the Celtic music of Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia reminds us of a place closer to home and the hazy lands of Britain.

The history of Spain is dotted throughout the countryside as the castles belonging to medieval towns stand proud and emerge from the lush grass. The country is a treasure chest of artistic relics and architectural wonders that create an inimitable, distinctive cultural palette. Visits to Spain´s cities provide perfect day trips during your gap year stay in the country as you explore the magnificent buildings in city of Barcelona, Bilbao and Madrid to name but a few. Roman relics can be found within the country, whilst Muslim palaces sit next to baroque cathedrals with stories echoing within their walls. For those wishing to experience the more recent of architectural buildings, the Modernista constructions are prevalent within society and waiting to be explored.

Enjoy the freedom to explore both city and countryside at your own pace as the friendly atmosphere allows for a confidence to be instilled within. Public transport is reasonably priced and regular, thus creating the possibility to explore a much further radius of the country. The country itself is linked to other European countries by rail, air and road, making Spain a perfect destination for gap year students; especially those who have yet to travel alone or who wish to be closer to home but still experience a great gap year!

When you arrive in Spain, it will become apparent as to the hedonistic vibe that dances around the vibrant, sparkling and bubbling cities. A gap year is a time to enjoy yourself and experience things that you ordinarily would not get to experience. Throw yourself into the culture so openly displayed in Spain and experience a gap year that would be the envy of those around you!

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Portugal

All of Portugal is unashamedly alive with the footprint of the hundreds of cultures that have flowed through its history, from the Greek colonialists and Roman imperialists of ancient times, to the medieval Moorish settlers from African Morocco to the south, all augmented by an historical Portuguese reputation for exploration and cultural expansion, and the influences of all the European peoples sitting right on the country´s northern tip, that, through the vein of the Iberian peninsula, have enriched this country right at its heart.

An ancient city by everyone´s standards, Lisbon is oft termed the ´oldest city in Western Europe´. It was once a major player in Roman efforts to wrangle the Iberia from the control of Carthage, but it is now a mosaic of human life, rich with Moorish castles and Roman baths, Renaissance palaces and sprawling docklands, home to one of the European Union´s fastest growing business centres, and indelibly full of life. Its scattered hilly topography, and suitably descriptive nickname – A Cidade das Sete Colinas, ´The City of Seven Hills´ \” leaves the visitor wondering strangely, if there is any other European city, famous for its ´Seven Hills´, artistic richness, religious history and spots of cultural interest, that could possible give Lisbon a run for its money!

For the seafood lover, Portuguese cuisine should always be on the menu; being surrounded on two sides and by two different maritime environments, means Portugal´s fishing industry has thrived since inhabitation began here, and fresh fish is the order of the day. The seafood options are eclectic, from squashy octopus to rich, red lobsters, while influences from the nearby Med and the exotic lands once colonised by Portugal, make this a country a journey of discovery for the culinary enthusiast.

Portugal´s biggest airport is Lisbon´s Portela, but both Faro to the south (the best access point for the Algarve and southern coast), and Porto to the north (the best access points for the rugged northern Atlantic coast and the Spanish border), take international arrivals. There have been great improvements in the country´s national and international rail links over the last 20 years and frequent trains run between the country´s largest cities, with international links to Madrid and Paris also available.

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What more could you want on a gap year than being able to say you walked alongside penguins and waterfalls? You certainly can´t do that in Birmingham city centre! Argentina is there to ensure that you can have the best experience possible when are travelling away from home. With South America´s highest peak, Patagonia´s glacier and Andean deserts, you can enjoy every single moment that you spend in the country. You will even be able to impress you family and friends by learning the local language, playing football with the local people, and learning the intimate tango dance.

Enjoy the freedom to have days where you can enjoy the scenery and local atmosphere, or having a hunt round the designer shops to fulfil your shopping needs whilst you are away! You will be able to feel safe in the friendly towns and cities. There will be no need for your family to worry about you being away on your own during your gap year \” after well, we have all seen most the horror films that are around today!

Dip your toes into the cultural aspects alongside the wilderness and modern cities. With Argentina being affordable, it is ideal for gap year travellers who do not have a lot of money. This is making it very popular, meaning that you may find you are not only gap year student staying in your accommodation. You can make the trip your own experience. Simply travel the country throughout your stay or volunteer. When volunteering you will have Spanish tutoring and can make life long friends and have amazing experiences.

Help artists and join outreach programs to young children in the local areas. You will have the thrill of being able to learn about the Argentine lifestyle through the locals themselves. They all come from different walks of life and have different stories. Have a change from soap opera conversations and enjoy learning about different and real people.

It is the designer shops mixed with the rich heritage which makes Argentina one of the most amazing places on Earth. There is nowhere that can literally offer you the best of both worlds so take advantage of the current low prices of travelling to the country and have the opportunity of a life time. Spend your days exploring the stunning scenery or hunting through racks of clothes in the cities. Come back confident in Spanish and within yourself!

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The Amazon jungles are there for you to explore and see wildlife. You can easily just watch David Attenborough on the TV is you wanted to, but how exciting would it be to be there yourself? Seeing the animals there right in front of you whilst you take in your surroundings, there will be nothing like this that you will be able to experience anywhere else. So now if your chance to grab the opportunity.

Whether you are a passionate nature lover or want to experience something extraordinary, Ecuador is not going to disappoint. With exotic birds, insects, paramo and plats, it is a dream location to visit. Alternatively, if you are looking for a more active gap year there are more choices for you to do. Mountaineering, trekking, horseback riding and surfing all ensure that you´re not going to get bored! It may be surprising to learn this when you think of Ecuador being so small, but you must remember that the best things come in small packages!

If you are more interested in the cultural side of things the country´s heritage is going to be perfect for you. Traditional costumes and markets are going to enable you to experience the history of the country and what life is like for the people that live there. It will make a chance from your usual trip to Tesco and outfits of shirts and jeans, that´s for sure!

Architecture is also very popular in Ecuador/ Cuenca and Quito are the places for you to see some of the most amazing buildings and features that Ecuador has to offer. There is nothing that is going to disappoint and you will be able to have the experience of a lifetime that will be like nothing else.

Banos is also going to provide you with the experience of the Ecuador nightlife. You are not going to have to stop going out simply because you are in another country! Your gap year is for you to enjoy, and Ecuador is the place for you to go. Explore the whole country and make the most out of your opportunity, as you may not have another chance to! Ensure that you can have the best year possible when you choose Ecuador as the destination for your gap year.

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When you arrive in Peru, you must remember that the highest numbers of tourists are present there during June through August, so it´s a good idea to avoid legendary sites such as the Machu Picchu trail during this period. However, whenever you decide to undertake the challenging hike to this historic Inca site, prepare to be dazzled when you reach the end by the beauty and mystery surrounding an area which lay undiscovered until the early 19^th century. Due to concerns over the trail´s endurance under the pressures from tourists, only 2,500 people are permitted to use the trail per day, so you should to book with a tour guide in advance. The numerous temples which sit atop Machu Picchu are fascinating to atheists and the religious alike due to their history, beauty, and spirituality. It is claimed by many that witnessing the sun rise over Machu Picchu is one of the most breath-taking sights on this planet: and seeing it whilst on your gap-year is certainly something to boast about!

Not only does Peru contain majestic man-made features, but it also lays claim to one of the most naturally diverse areas on the Earth \” the Amazon Rainforest. If you feel brave enough to challenge the spontaneous daily downpours, then the Rainforest will reward you with views of rare spectacles, such as jaguars, sloths, and nearly 40,000 other species of animals. Unfortunately, the current deforestation taking place in the Amazon Rainforest means that this natural wonder may not   be around for much longer, so imagine being able to look back on your gap year 50 years from now, and recalling how you witnessed a truly iconic feature of the natural world.

As well as the Amazon Rainforest, Peru also contains the world-reknowned Andes mountain range. The snow-capped mountain peaks and towering volcanoes make for a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience, where you can encounter cougars, chinchillas, llamas, and over 3,500 other enchanting species of animal and 30,000 types of plant. The combination of the Amazonian and Andean wildlife means that , in Peru, you have the opportunity to see two-thirds of this planets animals and plants, and who would pass up the opportunity like that?

Peru is the perfect place to spend a gap year for all types of people, whether you´re interested in biology, history, culture, or geography. The demanding treks, high altitudes and changeable weather can be difficult, but as all visitors to Peru will agree, it´s worth it in the end. All you need to provide is your energy, and while you´re young, what´s the point in waiting around? Peru will provide the rest!

From sensual salsa dancing to sexy Spanish and the sizzling hot weather, Venezuela is a country sure to entice and excite your senses. Dance the night away in Caracas, the city´s capital, scuba-dive in the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean, or go on an epic hiking adventure through desert, mountain and jungle, where you´ll be surrounded by exotic and colorful tropical wildlife. The avid adventurer will feel right at home in Venezuela, with hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, kite surfing, windsurfing, paragliding and more all on offer. Venezuela has it all!

Entering Venezuela by land, from Colombia or Brazil is a fairly straightforward process. You will be given a tourist visa, which must be filled in and presented to the officials, along with your passport. Your passport and card will be stamped and you will then receive a yellow copy of the entry card. This card must be handed back to the immigration officials upon leaving the country and you must also receive an exit stamp on your passport. While entering the country itself is free, you must pay a departure tax of $17.50 USD.

Entering by air requires a similar process (although the departure tax for international flights is $44 USD), but flights to and within the country can be very expensive. Try searching around for good deals, and look at various options, such as flights through Miami or other South American countries for better prices.

Venezuela does have a reputation for being a dangerous country, so you should always be cautious while traveling around the country, especially in Caracas, as petty theft and crime is common. Caution should be taken at all times and you should never walk around the city at night, especially on your own. Always try to carry as little cash as possible and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or pulling out your camera in public. Other parts of the country are much safer, such as the Andean city of Merida in the West, which claims the longest cable car line in the world, or the stunning Margarita Island, which is a Venezuelan Island in the Caribbean Sea, off the northeastern coast of the country.

Venezuela has so much more to offer travelers than just Angel Falls, although that is a definite must-see when you do travel there. With a multitude of tropical islands off the north coast of the country, soaring mountains that peak above the clouds and dense tropical rainforest, it is an extremely diverse country that continues to improve as a great tourist destination as time goes by.