Firstly you need to remember when staying with a host family you are literally living in their home and so you should have a good level of maturity and responsibility. This applies greatly to messy people out there; fair enough if you have a messy room in your own house, but this isn’t “your” house. So the biggest thing you need to know is that you will have to be very considerate. This includes cleaning up after yourself and leaving the room as you found it.

If you are a traveler who really wants to be immersed into the culture of a country then staying with a host family is definitely for you. Host families will obviously be able to communicate with you on some level, particularly those in Europe, who learn English from a young age. However, by living with them it’s a great opportunity to learn their language. Being in an environment in which everyone speaks a foreign language is the right encouraging push for you to learn easily and comfortably.

The cuisine when staying with a host family can go two ways. It might not be quite to your taste; but then you have to remember that you are a guest in their house and so try not to make your distaste of their food too obvious as it may offend them. However, if you do like them this is an amazing chance for you to broaden your knowledge of other foods and even how to cook them!

Living with a host family could be like finding a whole new family for yourself, as long as you keep clean and tidy. This could e a great experience that you will never forget!

There is still doubt in your mind, right? You’re thinking, “why should I spend my year off studying?” Well this doubt needs to go. If you are still uncertain then do some research, see the benefits and then decide. There are many positive reasons for studying in Europe.

Firstly choose a subject which is somewhat relevant to what you wish to study or wish to do in the future, but still allows you to visit the places you wish to see. So if you are interested in Ancient History, you can choose a course in this area of study, from many countries: there’s the magnificent Acropolis to see (Greece) or the remains of Pompeii (Italy). If you wish to take a course in Architecture then why not study in Spain, which would allow you to see Antoni Gaudi’s Architecture. Well you get the point…

Studying another language is a subject which cannot be criticized, whether or not it’s related to something you wish to study. Studying languages opens up many doors and there are many countries to choose from. From some of the most popular languages to study, like French or German, to the less popular, like Romanian or Dutch. There is a wide variety.

You don’t necessarily have to spend the whole of your gap year studying, there are short courses. This would allow you to both study and so some sightseeing. Remember: it’s still your gap year and although you should spend it sensibly; there’s nothing bad about you enjoying yourself. Taking a little time out from studying can be beneficial for you.

Positives of studying in Europe

• Adds to your CV
• Learn about European history
• Learn one of the most/least popular languages in the world
• Learn new skills
• Makes it easier for you to get back into studying or work
• Builds your confidence
• Allows you to see a continent rich in history and culture
• Looks good to employers

First research the area you will be staying in. The local customs and laws are particularly important. The worst thing you could do is go on your gap year and a few weeks in find yourself in a cell. So be aware that you are going to a different country and you should try not to offend anyone.

Running out of money… 

Make sure you have enough money. You need to realistically sit down and make a budget for how much you will need and try to stick to it. Also make sure you have a back-up plan; if you do run out of money you need to know how you will get more. Contact home? Use a debit card to take out savings? Work whilst there?

Large medical bills…

Make sure you do get the right insurance because accidents do happen. If you go abroad and have an accident, without the proper insurance, you will be left with a hefty bill. So think about the activities you will be doing and then look around for insurance that will cover them.

Excessive drinking…

Yes you are away and it’s not a bad idea to enjoy yourself. But there is such thing as too much alcohol! Make sure you don’t drink too much because this could lead you into all sort of trouble. It may be the case that your insurance doesn’t cover accidents which happen when you’re drunk, so: be sensible.

Getting into trouble…

You’re going to a foreign country; you don’t know the area or the people. So do stay wary. One of the most important things, which you will hear again and again is: don’t accept drinks off strangers. Over recent years there has been an increase in the usage of “date rape” drugs. You could unknowingly become a victim. So make sure you use your common sense, whether it’s watching out for your belongings or avoiding walking alone, in the dark; just be alert and keep your wits about you.

Getting ripped off…

A local seller always knows the difference between who is and who isn’t a local. This makes a difference because he is going to automatically charge you more, that’s a fact. But the reason that the locals get away with charging you more is because you don’t know otherwise. So watch the locals, know how much things are worth: you can’t get ripped off when you know how much you should pay. Stick up for yourself and refuse to pay unless you are given a fair price!

Whatever your skills or interests there is an area of volunteering in Europe that will suit you. People spending their gap year volunteering has become quite a popular thing, there are many companies out there who will assist you in this. You don’t even have to spend a whole year volunteering; it can be a few weeks to a few months. So you could easily do volunteer work, whilst also having the chance to do other things in Europe, like sightseeing or studying.

One of the most popular volunteering options, which many opt for, is teaching. Voluntary teaching is welcomed throughout Europe and especially in the poorer countries, like Romania. One of the reasons that teaching volunteers are needed so greatly in Romania is because many schools there lack teachers, so by volunteering you’re helping the children receive an education.

However, don’t worry if you don’t think teaching is for you, there are many other options to choose from. There is also work in orphanages and within the community, these are the best ways to make connections and meet new people. But, if you’re not so keen on working with people, there is also the choice of working with animals or in conservation. From sea turtle conservation in Greece, dolphin monitoring in Italy or Sampling Vineyard Ecology and Biodiversity in France; the list of volunteer opportunities is endless.

Obviously volunteering isn’t a great way of earning money – you will have to spend so that you can volunteer and you’re not going to earn money in return. However, what you will earn can be seen as more valuable than money. From meeting great people and having great experiences, volunteering is something you do for others rather than yourself. But you also get something out so it, as the memories and experience will be there.

Volunteering is a fantastic way to learn about a country’s culture and interact with the people within the country that you normally wouldn’t. It’s a learning experience and will help you in the long-run. Being a volunteer may be challenging at times, but it will be worth it in the end.

For instance, if you start exploring Venice as a small city of Italy then you can find ten most quixotic spots out there. Venice is known as the Serenissima, city of light and Queen of Adriatic due to these breathtaking dreamy attraction points. St Mark’s Square is the very first place to see in the city of Venice. Napoleon even called it as a Europe drawing room. You can enjoy a wine glass at dusk while enjoying the romantic music to transform your busiest evening into a blessed night. Second are the spires and domes of St Mark’s Cathedral following Gondola, Bridge of Sighs, Doge’s Palace, Verona, Lake Garda, Orient Express and Burano. Venice is also known as the floating city due to its Gondola boats and iconic canals. You cannot find any other means of transportation here in Venice other than these boats.

Rome is the next big cultural heritage in the lap of Italy. It is known as the center of world’s greatest civilization that has influenced the world in its 2500 years of subsistence. Then is the turn of Florence that is known to be a reincarnation state. No one can deny the fact of this beautiful city with a great impact on music, art, religion and architecture. If you are looking for art heritage or love art then it is the place waiting for your arrival. Many people regard it as the art center of Italy. You can found the Michelangelo’s David statue at Accademia Art Gallery here in Florence.

After finishing with these three big cities, you can move towards the northern cities such as Turin, Genoa and Milan or toward the southern island city of Sicily, Catania, Palermo and Agrigento. But if you are looking from more fun and want the chilling red wine then you need to look for good spots such as Chianti, Montefalco or Montalcino. These are the renowned places where you can get the best wine. So, if you are a wine lover then you should not miss these three spots in your to do list. You can taste different wine flavors at this place but don’t get too much drunk as yet you have to visit some small towns to make it a lovely tour.

If you think of different foods in Italy then, you should not miss Naples pizza. You may have tried different brands of pizza but if you haven’t tried one from Naples then you are not familiar with the true taste of pizza. It is the renowned destination for pizza lovers and you can approach Naples two hours from Rome.

Where to go

You have chosen Europe, but let’s be honest Europe is a big place. There are around 50 countries within Europe and I’m sure you don’t plan on visiting every single one of them. So decide which countries you really have to visit. Now within these countries you should decide what you are going to see. You can’t go to Europe and not visit many of the attractions present there; surely something attracted you to Europe in the first place? So get yourself a map and pinpoint the main places you wish to visit. You cannot visit all the places in one day, so you will have to make a schedule.

Research: documentation

You also need to research what documentation will be needed for your travel. If you are travelling from within the EU, it will be a lot simpler. But for those outside of the EU you will need to be more careful: travel visas, an international driving license, passport… Make sure you don’t leave home without the right documentation!

Money

There would be nothing worse than going on your gap year and after just a few weeks finding yourself out of money. So spend carefully and watch where your money is going. Is all that alcohol more important than a few meals? Also, make sure to watch out for pickpockets – they are real and if you don’t watch out will find out. Maybe you could be clever and invest in a money-belt. It will keep your money safe.

Where to stay?

Now before you start booking flights and booking a hotel – research. Where do you want to stay: a hostel, hotel, with a host family..? There are many options, but you should choose which is best for you and your budget. Visit your local travel agents and ask for their advice, or you can go online and make some searches.

How to get around?

Travel shouldn’t be too much of a worry – Europe is famous for its rail service and for a good reason. Cheap, fast travel that is used by many – especially travellers. Taxis are available but tend to be pricy. Maybe even look into hiring a bike or a scooter. Scooters are everywhere in Europe and you will fit in, like a local.

So research, spend your time wisely and enjoy yourself!

1.      Thailand
This friendly Southeast Asian country is one of the most popular destinations for budget travelers.  The beautiful beaches of Phuket and the sacred landmarks of Bangkok can all be experienced on the cheap.  Visitors can stay in some of the finest hotels and savor some of the county’s best cuisine at surprisingly low prices.

2.      Czech Republic
As an alternative to the more expensive tourist destinations of Western Europe, travelers can visit this impressive nation at a fraction of the cost.  The capital city of Prague, which boasts sites like St. Vitus Cathedral and Prague Castle, rivals many of the top European capitals in terms of cultural and historical institutions.  As for accommodations, many inexpensive hostels can be found throughout the country.

3.      Argentina
Visitors won’t be crying for Argentina once they realize how inexpensive this South American country can really be.  Holiday apartments can be rented at a cheaper price than many standard hotel rooms in other countries.  Buenos Aries, the nation’s capital city, features sites like the Obelisco de Buenos Aries monument and La Recoleta Cemetery.

4.      The Netherlands
This charming Western European country can also be a thrifty alternative.  This nation is famous for its windmills, fields of tulips and historical sites like the Anne Frank Museum.  Tourists can find cheap flights to Amsterdam to enjoy the magnificence of the country’s capital city.  In addition to cheap flights to Amsterdam, visitors can also find other inexpensive flights to other cities in the country as well.

5.      Vietnam
Once feared by many Westerners, this beautiful country in Southeast Asia is now a popular travel spot.  Gorgeous stretches of coastline and lush forestry shape the environment of Vietnam.  The city of Hanoi features many budget-friendly markets and eateries.

6.      Colombia
Tourists can find this country in the northern part of South America.  Private hotel rooms are known to be very inexpensive throughout most of the country.  Renowned Colombian cities, such as Bogota and Cartagena, are known for their vibrant atmospheres and fun activities.  The country is also known for its impressive natural wonders such as the Sierra Nevada de Chita and the Atrato River.

7.      Hungary
Visitors to Eastern Europe can check out this iconic nation.  Several significant landmarks, such as Heroes’ Square and Buda Castle, can be found in the country’s premier city of Budapest.  Visitors can also marvel at the beauty of the Danube River as it flows through the city.  Friendly hostels and cheap hotel rooms can be found in many areas throughout the entire country.

8.      Mexico
Located in North America, this festive country has long been a favorite destination for many tourists.  Although some of the more well-known resort towns may be somewhat expensive, there are still many inexpensive and exciting places to visit throughout Mexico.  Places like Mexico City and Rosarito Beach can be cheaper alternatives.

9.      Egypt
Visitors who are interested in ancient history can visit this jewel of the Middle East without having to break the bank.  Pyramids, statues and ancient cities are some of the main attractions found in Egypt.  Many of these amazing sites can be visited in cities like Cairo and Alexandria.  Tourists can top off their visit with a cruise along the Nile.

10.     South Africa
The abundance of natural beauty is one of the main draws to this popular African nation.  Tourists can also see the previous site of a historical kingdom by visiting Mapungubwe Hill.  The cities of Johannesburg and Cape Town offer visitors several cheap dining and lodging options.

Always book as early as possible

Make sure you have the pick of where to stay by getting in there before everyone else. Naturally, the best value accommodation and highest rated is what gets snapped up first, so make sure you’re the one to get it.

Decide what’s important

What is at the top of your perfect accommodation wish list? Is it location? Price? Privacy? Make sure you have the one thing you’re not prepared to sacrifice at the front of your mind, and accept that you might have to lower your standards on the not so important things. If you want to be in the centre of town, then you can save money by staying in a dorm. Or, if the price tops your list of things that matter then be prepared to stay on the outskirts of the city and get the bus in. On HostelBookers.com you can look at properties using the map function and you can also sort the results by shared room price, private room price and rating – helping you to choose the perfect accommodation for you.

Check the reviews before you book

HostelBookers.com asks all their customers to rate their stay to make it easier for potential customers to ensure they get what they pay for. The ratings and reviews prove that a really cheap hostel or hotel doesn’t mean it won’t be of a high quality. By sifting through the reviews you can see the accommodation fares on atmosphere, facilities, staff, safety, location, cleanliness and value – and the results are combined to give an overall satisfaction rating. You can also search these reviews according to the type of traveller you are – single, group or family – and the trip type – backpacking, partying or shopping – to make sure the hostel or hotel is for you.

Keep an open mind

The cheapest accommodation is usually in a large dorm room in a hotel or hostel. The beds will usually be bunks and you’ll share bathroom facilities (either in the room or in a centralised point along the corridor). The biggest dorms are generally 16-bed ones, which can be noisy places, but with some earplugs and an eye mask you’ll be glad you saved the money to splurge during the day. Most accommodation will just charge a little more to stay in a 12- or 8-bed dorm instead. But try it first, you’re sure to be glad of the extra money.

Think about location

After room type the location of your hotel can be the biggest accommodation money saver. Of course, when you’re visiting a new place you want to see as much of it as possible and if you stay on the outskirts of the city, you’re more likely to do this. Do you really need to pay for the pleasure of being right in the centre? If you’re staying in Europe for example, many of the main cities have well-developed transport systems where for just a few euros a day you can get a day ticket allowing you to travel wherever you want in the city. This can save you a lot on hostel and hotel prices, and you’ll get to see the city from a different viewpoint too.

From taking art studies in Europe to building homes in Asia, the opportunities for students abound during the gap year. Some students grab this chance to earn money to cover expenses in college. There are a lot of resorts and hotels in France, Austria, and Italy who are in need of chefs, Snow Rangers, nannies, and reps. You can earn as much as £50 per week plus travel allowance. That is not bad at all! They also allow a day’s off to part-timers each week. Students can grab this time to explore Europe’s charm by visiting museums, historical ruins, and other landmarks. This part-time opportunity usually lasts for five months starting from December up to April.

Taking a gap year is also an opportunity to share your skills with other people. One good way to do this is by teaching language and literature in Honduras. As the second poorest country in the entire Central America, Honduras is a good place to immerse yourself in various community works. The country adores lush surroundings with its mountainous backdrop, sparkling rivers, and tropical weather. It also prides itself for having the best diving site around the globe. Not only will you be able to help others, but you will also be able to gain valuable experiences as well. A trip to Honduras may cost around £4,000 which includes travel meetings, transportation fee, training, and insurance.

There are tons of reasons why having a gap year is worth a try. To sum it all, a gap year allows the students to experience what the world has to offer right before they embark a new path in their life. And as the old adage goes, learning should also come outside the four corners of the classroom.

Top Tourist Spots

Diversity is at the heart of Thailand’s tourism. From Bangkok’s bustling metropolis to Phuket’s white sand beaches, there is something in Thailand for every excursionist. Rush through the day with the capital city’s cinema-multiplexes, state-of-the-art hotels, and high-class malls. But Bangkok has more to give than the posh lifestyle swathing the entire city. One of the most visited tourist spots is the Old Palace, a perfect specimen of the city’s craftsmanship evident in its old-world inspired furnishings. This exquisite piece of architecture ushers guests into a vintage setting right in the centre of Rattanakosin Island. Just a few hours from Bangkok is Nonthaburi, a city of fun, flair, and everything else in between.

The city is host to the colourful central market which showcases authentic products and fresh produce. A variety of food stalls occupy this place smelling every bit like the conventional Thai market. For a fun-filled nightlife and an all-in-one cultural escapade, walk through the streets of Chiang Mai, the biggest city in north Thailand. Thousands of tourists flock to this paradise to witness exciting Thai festivals such as the Lantern Festival, Thai New Year, and Flower Festival. Cap off the tour with a visit to Phuket, Thailand’s biggest island. Resorts, historical spots, and natural wonders abound in this place.

Getting There

Enjoying top-notch transportation and infrastructure facilities, Thailand welcomes every guest with local hospitality and convenience. After all, this place is home to the multi-million dollar Suvarnabhumi Airport, one of the top ten best airports in the world. Most of the tourists arrive in Thailand through a scheduled trip for Asia, Europe, Australia, and North America.

There are also gateways and border crossings for short tours in Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Myanmar, and Laos. It is easy to explore the sights in the country once you get there. The coastal resorts and inland cities are conveniently connected giving each tourist a chance to move about the area despite having a limited time. True to its nickname, Thailand is truly a “City of Angels” that should be in everyone’s bucket list.