Traveling to South Asia, whether you’re backpacking across the continent, or making a visit to an elephant sanctuary, is likely to be full of adventure, excellent food, and phenomenal wildlife.
However, taking a gap year can involve a significant amount of disruption to the process of starting a career, or beginning your university studies. Why not take a gap year with a difference? Here are 4 things to do in your gap year without disrupting your long-term plans.
Photo by Ibrahim Rifath on Unsplash
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1. Work as a Freelancer or in a Casual Role
Freelance work of any kind is a great way to establish yourself as an independent worker, with flexibility around your travel commitments, and itinerary.
You can join websites like Fiverr to advertise your freelance expertise in copywriting and website design. Take on work as and when you need it to fund your travels and gain experience as you do it!
Alternatively, you can take on casual work in bars and restaurants, but it would be wise to plan in advance if you want to take on casual work, as visa requirements can be complex, and working under the wrong terms can land you a hefty penalty.
2. Enrol in a Distance Learning Course
You may want to take the opportunity to enhance your existing skill set by enrolling in a distance learning course. Courses from expert providers such as Anglia Ruskin University are designed with flexibility in mind, giving you maximum control over your schedule while you tackle your travels with gusto.
Additionally, these courses are 100% online, meaning that you can study from anywhere in the world, just be aware of time zones when submitting for any deadlines.
3. Get Fit
Although many will take a gap year to drink, socialize and explore, why not use the opportunity to get fit, and overhaul your lifestyle?
It’s widely reported that the Asian diet is perfect for those wanting to lose weight, as many countries in Asia favor a low-calorie diet, mainly based on fish, vegetables and pulses. Portions are also typically small and meals are centered around uniting family and friends as a social occasion and honoring guests.
Furthermore, South Asia boasts some of the most beautiful mountainous regions in the world. Areas like Bhutan, India, and Pakistan exhibit famous hiking trails through mountains, jungles, and beside lakes.
4. Make A Difference
If you have a strong inclination to make a moral difference during your time in South Asia, there’s more than one way to achieve this.
You can volunteer in a variety of places including elephant sanctuaries and orphanages. You can even work on a farm through websites like Worldpackers, which will help you find rural volunteering opportunities.
Do you have any tips for embarking on a gap year without pausing your life commitments? Leave your answer in the comments section below!
