Gap years and sabbaticals on the increase
6 May 2008
Almost a third (29%) of Brits planned a break from their jobs in 2007 to take gap year or a sabbatical and this figure has doubled since 2003 showing a trend towards sabbaticals for professionals looking for a break.

The research also showed that a quarter (27%) of Brits think a career break is exactly what they need to get re-energised and re-motivated. In addition, more than 1 in 5 (22%) of the UK workforce are feeling bored and disheartened and are using travel to change the direction or fuel their career paths.

Chris Rolland, Head of American Express Insurance Services commented: "As an increasing number of Brits take a break from working life to embark on a sabbatical or gap year, it is important they get the right type of Gap year travel insurance to suit their needs. For instance our new gap travel insurance covers people for up to two years, in order to help those who gain two year visas for a country. The gap year policy offers flexible premiums dependent upon whether people need worldwide cover or European which could make a big difference to the cost of your premium. It also allows for people to return to the UK for a period of 14 days in case travellers feel homesick, need to re-take exams or attend a special family occasion."

Further information on American Express gap year travel insurance:

Available for periods of 3,6,9,12, 15, 18, 24 months
Policy can be bought on a worldwide or European basis
Allows a 14 return to the UK if required
Available up to the age of 65

For more information, visit americanexpress.co.uk/insurance.

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