Adventure-hungry youngsters in search of their first big adventure have been told the top seven gap year destinations in the world.
Travel experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have scoured the globe to find the best spots for travellers looking to take a year out.
January is a popular time for travel with Brits swapping dark, cold days with warm Southern Hemisphere countries.
Many students see gap years as a right of passage, with an estimated 45 million backpacking trips taken across the globe annually.
One of the most popular locations is Thailand, loved by backpackers for its affordability, natural beauty and legendary nightlife.
Vientiane in Laos is also on many travellers’ wishlists as the world’s most affordable city in the world.
John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com said: “There is no age limit to taking a gap year, but they are popular among youngsters without big responsibilities, looking to embrace freedom and broaden their horizons.
“Whether you’re drawn to serene beaches, tantalising cuisine, stunning temples and landscapes or vibrant cultural and archaeological wonders, there are stunning locations all around the world to experience.
“From Koh Phangan in Thailand to Queenstown, New Zealand, we have put together a list of the best spots in the world for backpackers to travel to on a gap year.”
The top seven gap year destinations:
- Vientiane, Laos
Laos is popular amongst travellers looking for beauty on a budget as the world’s most affordable city for backpacking. The average daily cost is just $19.39, which includes accommodation, meals, public transport and an entertainment fund.
2. Thailand, Koh Phangan
Thailand is renowned for its crazy nightlife, and unique natural cultural beauty. Koh Phangan is a popular spot for budget backpackers, loved by many for the full moon party, as well as its serine white sandy beaches.
3. Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City
Famous for its distinct culture, low costs and epic natural beauty, Vietnam is one of the most popular and picturesque backpacking spots in Asia. Ho Chi Minh is Vietnam’s largest city, and a must-visit for gap year travellers because of its nightlife spots, cultural influences and cheap activities.
4. New Zealand, Queenstown
Queenstown also has epic nightlife, and it is also an easy place to find long-term accommodation and get a job to fund the rest of the trip.
5. Australia, Cairns
Cairns in Australia is a laid-back tropical city which is home to the iconic barrier reef, and full of plenty of beaches, making it a paradise for backpackers with extensive nightlife.
6. The Philippines, El Nido
Touring the Philippines is affordable when on a limited budget, and there are many exciting spots to see and savour the unique culture and tropical waters. El Nido has soared in popularity with foreign tourists because of the number of stunning islands and beaches.
7. Cambodia, Koh Rong
Travellers can survive on a small budget in Cambodia, with food and hostels extremely cheap. The Koh Rong islands a paradise with crystal blue waters, and a vibrant party atmosphere, making it popular for youngsters on their travels.
