Planning a North American gap year? 10 top tips
Taking a year out can be a great way to broaden your horizons between leaving university and starting school, or even as part of a mid-life career break.
And with so many diverse destinations North America might be the coolest continent to base yourself during a sabbatical.
If you’re heading across the pond, here are ten top tips.
- Summer camps
Summer camp work is a great way to earn some cash and live in a superb location.
Find out about placements in the US and Canada on Bunac.org — there are lots of diverse projects.
- ESTA
Depending on which passport you hold, you might need a US visa or ESTA document.
So research your options now by looking at esta.cpb.dhs.gov — better safe than sorry.
- Gap year advice
A successful gap year depends on traveling safely securing your cash and heeding official travel advice.
Browse the gov.uk website for the latest official guidance from the Foreign Office for any destination.
- Mexico
There’s lots to savor in Mexico and, provided you plan ahead, plenty of places that aren’t dangerous.
Source safe places to visit in Mexico on lonelyplanet.com and prepare to pour yourself a tequila.
- Jamaica
Jamaica’s a stone’s throw from the east of the US but a world away in terms of culture and scenery — so be sure to visit if you get the chance.
If you want an insider tip, Rockhouse Hotel in Negril is one of the world’s most beautiful spots.
- NYC
New York City has inspired countless artists and musicians and backdrops dozens of movies.
If you’re a rap fanatic, book an NYC hip-hop tour on viator.com to visit musical history hotspots in each of the five boroughs.
- Quebec
If you’re a dab hand at French, you’ll fit right in with the locals in Quebecois spots like Montreal, Quebec City and the Adirondack Mountains.
Reserve some cheap accommodation in Quebec at hostelworld.com to secure a safe base while you explore this pretty Canadian province.
- Miami
Miami’s simply one of the best party locations anywhere. From trendy rooftop bars to cheap dive bars and Latin nightclubs to craft beer halls, there’s almost too much to choose from.
Do a little research on miamiandbeaches.com to plan the perfect blow-out.
- Pacific Coast Highway
The US still boasts wonderful wide-open spaces and is home to several iconic roadways.
California’s Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most legendary — hire a car from a firm like Alamo and take off on a trip to remember through Carmel, Big Sur and Morro Bay.
- Air travel
Domestic air travel is reasonably cheap and convenient in most North American locations, so once you find your feet, you’ll think nothing of jetting off to Vegas or Hawaii for a few days.
But if you’re traveling to your departure hub in your own car rather than journeying on public transport, book US airport parking at Looking4.com to ensure it’s stored safely for the duration of your break.
That’s our list! Add your own North American gap year advice in the comments section.
Category: Travel
