I've been thinking about taking a gap year to work and travel. Has anyone here done this, and if so, which countries or programs would you recommend for a meaningful experience?
While I don't have personal experience with a gap year, I can definitely speak to some popular options that I've seen others have success with.
One popular and affordable program is "Workaway" which allows you to exchange a few hours of work a day in return for food and accommodation. It is available in over 170 countries and offers a diverse range of work opportunities from farming to teaching English.
Another option is the Australia Working Holiday visa program, which allows individuals aged 18-30 from eligible countries to live and work in Australia for up to a year and even extend your stay by completing certain types of work.
Another organization, "Projects Abroad," is popular for their volunteer initiatives. They provide programs across numerous fields from conservation work in the Galapagos to medical internships in India.
It can be helpful to start by reflecting on what skills you hope to gain during your gap year as well as what kind of work aligns with your interests. Keep in mind a gap year is about gaining experience and knowledge while seeing a part of the world you're excited about.
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