Top Gap Year Destinations For 2016

Grab your passport and get ready as Real Gap Experience predict the best gap year destinations for 2016. As experts in backpacking and gap year travel, Real Gap Experience know where in the world is best to go. So whether you want to party your way around Thailand (hello Full Moon Parties!), witness the unique sunrise of Angkor Wat, learn to surf in Sydney or step off the beaten track, they’ve got you covered. Get that bucket list ready and make 2016 your best year yet!

Thailand

From buzzing Bangkok to the relaxed islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao, Thailand has everything for budding travellers. Starting off your travels in Bangkok is the best way to embrace the Thai culture, as you experience floating markets, delicious food and crazy tuk tuk rides! Heading south, the stunning beaches await, and of course the famous Full Moon Parties of Koh Phangan. Spend your day island hopping, kayaking through Marine National Parks and jungle trekking before hitting the glow sticks, bucket cocktails and beach parties in the evening! As one of Real Gap Experience’s most popular destinations, Thailand is the perfect place for first-time travellers and one to definitely tick off that travel bucket list.

Cambodia

It doesn’t get much better than watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat – trust us! Cambodia is an up and coming travel destination with an untouched feel in comparison to neighbouring Thailand and Vietnam. If you’re after a true mix of culture, history and excitement, this is the one for you! Home to the ‘eighth wonder of the world’ (Angkor Wat), Cambodia has plenty on offer. Real Gap Experience have a huge range of trips from just 10 days, so whether you’re wanting a whirlwind tour or would like to embrace a new culture and volunteer within a community, they’ve got plenty of options! Whatever you do, though, make sure you visit the beaches of Sihanoukville – they’re rated some of Asia’s best.

Bali

If you’re looking for a proper chill-out break, head to Bali. This Indonesian gem combines everything from temples and monkeys (check out Monkey Forest!) to surf and beach parties. However, it’s the laid back Balinese culture that is so infectious. For those wanting a bit of R&R, try a spot of Balinese yoga and meditation. Here you can quite literally sit back and relax! Alternatively, for those in search of a bit more action, on Real Gap Experience’s new Bali Beaches trip you can experience the famous surf spot of Kuta, chill in Ubud and snorkel the depths of Gili Trawangan. These islands are quite literally paradise on earth!

South Africa

It’s wildlife galore in South Africa! Perfect for anyone in search of true wilderness and adventure. Kruger National Park is home to the jaw-dropping big five, so make sure you keep an eye out for rhinos, leopards, buffalos, elephants and lions all in their natural habitat. For those wanting a bit of an adrenaline rush, how about diving with Great White Sharks (cages provided!) or abseiling from the jaw-dropping Table Mountain?! Real Gap Experience have a huge range of trips in South Africa, so whether you want to get up close to wildlife, experience life on a Game Reserve or help develop communities, there is something for everyone in this unmissable country.

Australia

We have so much love for Australia, and a top 5 wouldn’t be complete without mentioning this whopper of a country. Where do we even start…? Sydney, Great Ocean Road, Surfers Paradise, Great Barrier Reef, Outback, Whitsundays and much, much more. Stretching over 7.6 million square kilometres, no words can describe just how vast and varied Australia is. With everything from iconic cities and beach hot spots to dry deserts and lush rainforests, but wherever your travels take you make sure you keep an eye out for native koalas and kangaroos! The Ultimate Aussie Paid Work package is the most popular option for backpackers meaning you can fund your travels and explore the country in your spare time. Perfect!

Book your own gap year experience at www.realgap.co.uk