Gap Year Woes: Be Wary Of Your Reasons for Taking a Gap Year

Many years ago I went on a gap year to Africa and had the time of my life. I was a young man, fresh out of college, heading out into the great unknown in search of excitement and adventure.

Those were the days!

But although overall I had a fantastic time during the six months I spent in Tanzania, it wasn't all perfect.

My Gap Year Experience

My gap year placement involved teaching in a primary school. It did not matter to me that I didn't have any teaching experience, and it didn't seem to matter to anyone else either. To be honest I thought that I would be holding conversation classes, something which I could do without any special training.

But I ended up teaching maths to a group of kids whose combined knowledge of English vocabulary came to about 20 words.

- Did I enjoy the experience? Yes.
- Did I have an adventure? Yes.
- Did I really do anything to help? I'm not so sure.

I would like to think that the pupils at least enjoyed themselves, and maybe even still remember our lessons. But I don't genuinely think I was any real help during my time in the school.

After a few months, I honestly felt that I was doing more to get in the way than actually helping.

I later found out that for each volunteer teacher the school accepted, they were also receiving $300 from the gap year company. After making that discovery it started to make more sense why they put up with us for so long.

False Expectations

It all left me with a slightly bitter taste in the mouth. After all, the whole aim for me on my gap year (apart from having fun) was to do something genuinely good, to offer my help in some way. To discover that I hadn't been much help at all was a bit of a body blow.

But why am I telling you this?

I think that a lot of young people go away with high expectations of their gap years, but don't really think them through properly. This is especially true of teaching, or any activities which involve a higher degree of training than simply being enthusiastic.

I began to wonder what made me so qualified to start teaching in a school when the other teachers had had years of training. Was it simply because I was a Westerner?

These were real kids, real schools, real teachers. How could I just expect to walk in and pretend I knew what to do?

Key Question: Do You Have the Experience?

Teaching seemed like the ideal opportunity because it was a long-term placement (six months), the location was incredible (the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro), and for some reason I thought it would be easy (perhaps because we were given no training and I therefore assumed there wouldn't be much to it).

There are loads of volunteering positions where you don't have to bring anything more than enthusiasm to the job. No one expects you to have experience counting lions, for example.

But teaching is slightly different, and if you choose such a gap year then you should know exactly what is expected of you beforehand.

Are you just there to give conversation classes or is more expected of you? There are organizations such as VSO in the UK which only provide placements for professionals with experience, including teachers. So be realistic about the actual skills that you have.

Know Why You Are Doing It

It's also really important to know why you want to go on a gap year in the first place.

Going on a gap year to have fun and adventure is no crime. That's probably why most people go on one. But there are plenty of opportunities out there for that. You could go traveling, see the world, and meet new people all without joining up with a dedicated volunteer scheme.

Or consider combining the two and joining a program where you can volunteer, get your board and lodging, live somewhere amazing, but are not required to do anything which requires skills you don't have.

If you want to do something good at the same time, I'd recommend seriously looking at the skills you have and only joining a program where you can really bring something to the voluntary position. If not, you may find it slightly dissatisfying when, like me, you realize that you were not much help at all.

Choose Your Company/Charity with Care

It's also a good idea to find a gap year organization which shares your values. Although there are lots of good commercial companies out there, I've often looked back on my experience and wondered whether it might not have been better to go with a charity instead.

That way you can choose an organization which shares your values, and will be more concerned with what you can offer than with making money from you.

Also, whatever organization you choose, make sure that they are very clear about what your position will entail. That way at least you know what is expected of you before you jet off across the world into the middle of nowhere and are then confronted with a situation that you are not prepared for.

Connor Davies writes at http://aspirationsabroad.com/, where you can find in-depth articles, tips, advice, and useful resources to help you to act on your dream and move abroad to live, work, or volunteer.

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Five Reasons You Should Couchsurf

How would you like to stay with like-minded people who will show you the best parts of your destination through the eyes of locals for absolutely FREE? That's just one of the many facets of Couchsurfing. There is so much more to the idea behind the concept of couchsurfing. The website now boasts 3 million users in about 250 cities around the world. It was created with the intent of creating global meaningful connections and has been successfully doing so since its founding in 2003. Here are 5 reasons why you should couchsurf.

1. Free Accommodation: You can spending the night or a couple of nights (don't take advantage of people's hospitality) on someones couch for free. It doesn't have to be a couch. It could very well be a comfortable spare bed.

2. Local Perspective: Even if you're uncomfortable staying with a complete stranger, you could meet up with someone who interests you for coffee or a drink or a meal. They can show some of the best places to eat and drink, away from the touristy spots listed in your travel guide.

3. Safety: Couchsurfers can leave testimonials or vouch for persons they have stayed with in the past, so you can pick people to stay with or spend time accordingly. Additionally, there is an optional verification system that couchsurfers can use through a payment system for added security. I have known a number of friends who have couchsurfed across the world and have had amazing experiences.

4. Local Groups: Thousands of groups exist for various cities where people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds, full of wanderlust can gather together. A quick search of the DC group shows that there are around 8000 members and events range from ballroom dancing, camping and hiking excursions to group travels during the holidays and thanksgiving dinner for people away from their families. It's also a great place to find fun events in your city, places for rent and the best places to eat.

5. Gatherings: Couchsurfers have large gatherings aimed at uniting people from all continents to come together to partake in international debauchery. These events often draw more than 1000 people, such as new year eve events in major cities.

The idea is that people create these connections and reciprocate by hosting someone in their city or town. You do not have to have someone stay at your home. You can set your preferences to meet for coffee. There are also options for last minute travel plans such as when you have a long lay-over or missed connections. The best part is that couchsurfers are more likely to be open-minded and knowledgeable people with a keen interest on showing you the best that their home town has to offer! All for free.

Good luck! Visit Doing it Big for Less for more tips on saving and earning money.

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The Best Reasons to Visit Kenya, Africa

Kenya is a land of many things. This country is very cosmopolitan and has something for almost everyone. From some of the most modern and swanky shopping arenas in the world to the best wildlife reserves- Kenya has it all. It also has a rich cultural and historical background. Given the diversity of this country, it is easy to miss out on the top natural attractions. However, this article will ensure that you do not.

1. Lake Tukana

The first place on your list should be Lake Tukana. This is a must-visit for those who want to enjoy the wilderness of the country. It is the best known lake in the Northern Rift Valley and is one of Kenya's most visited tourist attractions in the country. The most amazing thing about this water body is that its color changes with the wind. This means that every time the speed and direction of the wind changes, the water becomes a different color! The Lake is also known for its crocodile sightings and is best visited in the month of July.

2. Malindi and Watamu

The small town of Malindi is one of the most beautiful places in Kenya. It is a coastal town and hence consists of beautiful beaches that create the perfect setting for an idyllic beach holiday. The famous Marine Park here is one of the best locations for snorkeling, parasailing and other water sports. Watamu is situated to the south of Malindi. This little place is known for its lagoons, mainly, the Turtle Bay and the Blue Lagoon. Just like Malindi, Watamu is also known for its water activities. The adventurous ones can engage in sailing, dolphin watching, sailing, sunbathing, diving etc. A cultural site that is very close to this place is Gedi, which was once an important destination in the Swahili Kingdom.

3. Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya is the second largest mountain in Africa and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kenya. It is very easy to reach both its peak, the Batian and Nelion. It is a very picturesque location surrounded pristine forests, hard rocks and snow. It is an ideal location for camping with nice, comfortable cottages nestled right between the mountains. This mountain also houses some rare species of animals. The best time to visit this mountain is between January-February and July-October.

Kenya is a country that is blessed with outstanding natural resources. However, in the short span of your vacation, the correct planning can help you get the best out of a country.

Before you go overseas, you may want to check out trip cancellation insurance. We can also help with travel insurance over 65.

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Top 10 Reasons to Take a Long Term Overseas Voluntary Placement

1. Immerse yourself in a new culture - try something new, new countries, languages, foods, music, dance, arts, sports and crafts. Whatever your interest you will find a chance to broaden your outlook and discover something new about your hobbies. Become involved in something a world apart from your old life and open your eyes to new experiences. With long term projects, volunteers become part of the community and develop respect for their hosts and their location.

2. Help others - Do something meaningful with your time and have a real and appreciated effect on the lives of others. Watch the children you teach improve or see the little things that you can do that make a big difference to those who need it. Improve other people's understanding of a different culture, language and experiences.

3. Gain great new skills - Working with people of a different age and from a different way of life will teach an immeasurable amount. You will learn valuable life skills such as socialising with others beyond your age group, learn a new language and improving your communication skills, teamwork, leadership, organisation and more all while helping others to do the same!

4. Challenge yourself - Find out what you are truly capable of and challenge yourself to reach new heights. With enthusiasm and hard work you can push yourself out of your comfort zone and into unknown territories. Building confidence and overcoming difficulties. All things that you can look back on and be proud of.

5. Improve your job prospects - Gain skills and experiences that will help you bridge the gap between school and your working life. Show a real commitment and adaptability that will be appreciated by employers and have something that sets you apart from the crowd on your cv. Volunteers often find employers want to speak about their volunteer experiences in interviews giving you the platform to impress and highlight all your accomplishments.

6. Build Friendships - Have the chance to meet new people from a diverse range of backgrounds, cultures and ages. Make friends with locals and other volunteers, who will share your experiences. Work as a team in a community and build the kind of lasting relationships that will have you wanting to go back and will stay with you forever.

7. Travel - gain an excellent chance to visit another corner of the globe. You will get the opportunity to travel within your host country and often volunteers take day or weekend trips into neighbouring countries. You will have the chance to see beautiful landscapes and stunning vistas, as well as buzzing cities and friendly towns.

8. Meet like minded and interesting people - You will not be the only one looking for a fantastic and memorable experience. There will be others looking to make the most of their time off. Volunteers often form close friendships that last throughout the rest of their life. Whether that person is from your country or not.

9. Have an adventure - There is so much more to life than the routine of going to work. Make the most of this time off to do something special. You may be surprised how rarely you will get the chance to live and understand another culture as fully as when you undertake a long term voluntary placement. The opportunity to become part of a society completely different to what you are used is truly a privilege and the opportunity should be made the most of.

10. Discover yourself - Regain your sense of adventure and find out what it means to accomplish something truly unique. See how volunteering can change your life and don't just take our word for it, read testimonials from those who have returned, come for an interview and get in touch, so we can help you find out what you want to do and achieve in your volunteering placement.

Written by Nick Adie of international youth development charity Lattitude Global Volunteering.

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The Best Reasons to Visit China - The Natural Wonders

The geographically diverse China is home to the countless and splendid natural wonders. Blessed by different facets of nature, the country promises an unforgettable journey for the avid nature admirers. Exploration of sacred mountains, rivers, lakes, caves and waterfalls is facilitated by the guided tours and the enthusiasm of tourists to intermingle with the fascinating natural beauty. Get to know China's most popular natural wonders that are worth visiting once a lifetime.

Changbai Mountain with Ever-White Glory
Formed from pumice stones, the Changbai Mountain in the Jinlin Province enthralls with its white beauty. The month of August is the best time to visit this mountain which is accessible by bus and train. Changbai Natural Reserve in the area provides the opportunity to explore animal species like Siberian tigers and bears. Longwanqun National Forest Park, which accommodates a number of volcanic crater lakes, is another attraction of this place.

Li River with a Long Scenic Stretch
Part of a number of scroll paintings, the Li River stretch in Xing'an County is world-famous for its scenic stretch extended beyond 100 km. Be it the Mountain of Splendid Hues that feature beautiful colored rock layers or Reed-Flute Rock, an amazing limestone cave, the place is full of natural wonders. Elephant-Trunk Hill, Yellow Cloth Beach and many other attractions greet the visitors who can also participate in rafting, cruising and hiking adventures.

UNESCO World Heritage Site Jiuzhai Valley
The acclaimed Jiuzhai Valley located in Sichuan Province near the Tibetan Himalayan Plateau is no less than a nature's treasure box. Multilevel waterfalls and more than 100 gorgeous calcium carbonate lakes form the essence of this valley. The lakes in particular offer irresistible beauty due to their blue, turquoise and green appearance. Spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs and snow-covered peaks are completely breathtaking.

Hukou Waterfall with Mysterious Stones
One of the most amazing natural wonders of China is the Hukou Waterfall. Formed by the Yellow River, it is the only waterfall on the planet with yellow water. It is truly captivating to watch the powerful rush of water. A mysterious stone, locally called guishi, can be seen shining below the waterfall. The rainbow formed by the mist of the rushing water adds worth to this mesmerizing site.

Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon - The Longest and the Deepest
Also known as Tsangpo Canyon, the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon is the longest and the deepest canyon in the world. The snow-capped mountains form the gripping sites for the visitors. The mysterious and spiritual appeal of this canyon makes it even more wonderful. Dense forest areas, rushing torrents and diverse ecological system adorn the area and make it a unique marvel of the planet.

Huangshan - The Subject of Photography, Painting and Literature
Popularly referred to as the Yellow Mountain, Huangshan is worth mentioning in the list of China's top natural wonders. Sunset views and the spellbinding sights of floating clouds define the beauty of this mountain range. Painters and poets since ages have been appreciating the beauty of the granite peaks and lush green beauty of pine and cypress trees. Photographers are simply attracted to capture the unadulterated beauty of Yellow Mountain.

The presence of such natural wonders authenticates the status of China for being the land of mysteries and surprises. Visiting any of these sites can be a fulfilling experience that will remain fresh in your mind forever.

Before you go overseas, you may want to check out trip cancellation insurance. We can also help with travel insurance over 65.

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Reasons You Want to Rent an Apartment in California

You can find a wide assortment of apartments in California at highly inexpensive prices.
California is famous as a tourist spot and people love to stay here also. You can get a lot of information about this location on internet and if you’re planning on a holiday to California you are able to do just a little research and see what you can do during your remain. You’ll be able to gather complete info about the place, climate, well-liked destinations, accommodations and a lot much more. The most essential factor you should appear for while planning your vacation is to look for a dependable accommodation to prevent final minute rush and uncomfortable cottages. To prevent this you can look for information on California apartments nicely in advance and make your option accordingly.
The majority of these apartments are situated in the coast line which provides so you’ve a great view, also they are close to plenty of purchasing centers, theme parks, museums and so on. Apartments in California are unique. You may even select from villas, vacation rentals, condos based on your requirement.
Individuals usually go on vacations to have tranquil peaceful moments with their dear ones. With these California apartments, you’ve complete privacy and you are also fairly far from the noises. Nevertheless, you wouldn’t miss on any type of actions taking place in and throughout the city since the majority of these apartments is only a drive away from the actual city. Once you’re in California, you would certainly do a great deal of boating, kayaking, fishing, so all these places ought to be easily accessible out of your apartment. They certainly have taken all these into consideration while building California apartments. Therefore you don’t have to worry about it.
Few of them even go to California on an adventurous trail, even for all those of you who adore to remain close to the nature would love to remain in these apartments, because they are greater than just becoming fantastic. These apartments include multiple advantages. You don’t even need to carry loads of clothes because you’ve a provision for laundry more than here and this isn’t all, you do possess a lot of parking space, spacious rooms and so on.
Apartments in California may comes using the following amenities
. AC and Heating facility
. Parking
. Best kitchens . Fitness center
. Sparkling pool.
. Private balconies and patio
. Barbecue area
. Additional storage area
. Garden
There’s a huge availability of apartments in California, you do have a lot of affordable options on them also. Most of them include a lease period of six months or even a year so you are able to go with it based on your specifications. You will have the ability to find several accommodation levels that suit your budget as well. If you’re preparing your vacation in California, do plan your stay well in advance and with inexpensive apartments in California you’re bound to enjoy your stay. San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Barstow, San Fernando Valley and Ventura are some of the cities in California where you are able to discover apartments at inexpensive prices.
California Apartments can provide all the information you need to make your California Apartments hunt better.


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