Students sign up for snap gaps
Defying common concerns surrounding the university fees hike and a tough economic climate, a vast majority of gap year aspirants say they are still considering taking time off for that trip of a lifetime - according to a survey conducted by Round the World Experts, the UK’s biggest round the world travel specialist.
The study suggests a definite trend towards a preference for Short Gaps (lasting up to 3 months) and Snap Gaps, lasting up to just 6 weeks or sometimes even less for an adventure tour Down Under or a volunteer project in Asia.
“The traditional year long gap is being traded for a shorter, snappier multi stop itinerary that includes a mix of adventure, overland travel and volunteering”, says Paul Bondsfield, Head of Marketing, Round the World Experts.
“We have noticed an increase in student demand to combine their travels with community work, most popularly with animals or children. It helps develop important life skills and makes your CV look good, while you still live your dream of a gap year travel.”
“Our volunteer sales have seen an increase of 27% while the overland tours to regions like Africa are up by 20%”.
On average, an 18 year old, fresh out of high school, plans to get away for three to six months, visit 6 countries with a total spending estimate of £3000-£4000. A slightly older group of gappers between the age group of 25-35, wanting a career break, tend to plan for stints lasting six months or more and are also willing to spend more, between £6000- £9000.
Almost 90% of the survey respondents said they are thinking of taking a gap year, of which 60% were considering to depart within the year. A realistic budget for a round the world flight was set at £1250 - £1500 by most.
Australia and New Zealand top the list of most popular destinations with Asian countries of Thailand, India and China closing the gap as destinations of choice to spend a gap year. The analysis also shows there is considerable interest in South America, particularly Brazil and Argentina, countries often cheaper to visit as part of a round the world trip.
“Recent reports suggest a shortage in university places, with over 220,000 students considering their next move pre-university. We expect a larger number to make the choice of short gaps, travelling around the world and developing skills much valued by employers and making themselves more attractive to today’s job market”, said Bondsfield, highlighting the benefits of a shorter gap year.
“Round the World Experts offer specialist advice and knowledge to make gap year travels exciting but safe. Our exclusive and free Travel Butler service is on hand throughout our customers’ travels, allowing them to be flexible with their itinerary, making route and activity changes as they go. This means they can more easily choose destinations, adventures and volunteer projects that enrich them personally and professionally”, he concludes.
To book your round the world, snap gap or a multi stop travel itinerary, visit: roundtheworldexperts.co.uk