Q: When preparing for a Gap Year what advice do you give to first time travellers?
We advise our customers that there are a number of things that they should think about when planning to travel for the first time. We firstly ask them to think about where they most want to go! There are so many amazing countries available, but before making a decision, first-time travellers should consider their budget, how long they want to go for and what's most important to them. We would say don't just sign up for a party trip around the world because your friends want you to, especially if you would prefer to spend your time volunteering! First-time travellers should also consider whether they want to travel alone or with friends. About 70% of our customer's book on to our trips on their own so independent travel is still a really popular and safe option! It's also important to do thorough research to make sure you have the correct visas, insurance, injections (if needed) and finances in place. Lastly, make sure you pack the right kit for your trip!
Q: Is a working Gap Year really the best type way to spend your time when travelling?
Working while you travel is a great way to earn money and have a unique experience in another country at the same time. For example, our Absolute Oz Jobs programme in Australia allows you to earn enough money to cover all of your living expenses, offering an affordable way to travel and making sure you don't have to rely on your savings!
Working abroad is also a great way to meet new people and mingle with fellow travellers as well as with the locals. Gaining work experience abroad looks great on your CV and shows prospective employers or universities that you are adaptable and have the confidence to travel and work in another country.
Q: What types of jobs can you offer people travelling on their Gap Year?
We've got loads of great paid work packages to choose from at Gap 360! Our most popular paid work destinations are Australia, New Zealand and the USA. Our programmes offer a range of jobs to suit everyone, from casual work e.g. bar or hospitality work etc. to professional jobs and internships across a range of industries including sales, marketing and accounting. If you prefer something a bit more hands-on we have options such as ranch work in Australia or Au Pair and Summer Camp job opportunities in the USA for anyone interested in working with kids. Or if you want to Teach English abroad, you can take up paid teaching in Asia, earn money and get teaching experience for your CV.
Q: Do you have to have visas in place for all of the countries you travel to, is this something I have to do myself or can I get help to do this?
Yes, getting the right visas in place is really important! All of our paid work programmes require that you have the correct visa in place, with many countries' visas needing to be obtained before you leave the UK. We can process the visas for working in Australia from within our office and we also offer advice on all the other visas you may need for you trip – we are happy to help you every step of the way!
Q: Do I have to worry about interviews when I go on a working Gap Year?
Just as in the UK, many overseas employers like to meet you face-to-face before offering you a job. All of our jobs programmes require that you have a Skype or personal interview as part of the application process. We can help to set up the interviews and give our travellers any tips they may need to make the interview process as painless as possible.
Q: If you were going to go and do a working Gap Year what would you do and why?
Personally I would love to go on our Absolute Oz Jobs trip in Australia. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and includes an cool intro week in Sydney, plus access to a range of well-paid jobs which will suit everyone. Australia is just an amazing place to work, live and travel! Although for anyone who wants to work with kids, I would say that becoming an Au Pair in America is also an unmissable opportunity!
