A number one travel expert has revealed the highest gap yr destinations – with Slovenia amongst one of the best places to go to for those trying to make their money go further. Asian destinations, resembling Thailand and Bali, also made it onto the list, in addition to long-time favourites Australia and Recent Zealand.
While it won’t be the backpacking destination that tends to come back to mind, globetrotting influencer Monica Stott, also often known as “The Travel Hack”, is a giant fan of the “underrated” destination, Slovenia.
The Central European country offers stunning greenery and exquisite rivers, a Venetian-style coastline, and snow-capped mountains that are popular with skiers.
But it surely’s also inexpensive – a beer is £2.47 on average, a three-course meal for 2 is £36 on average, hostels start from around £18 an evening, and a one-way local transport ticket typically costs just £1.15.
And because of its low crime rate, it’s also among the many safest places to travel to, making it perfect for people latest to backpacking or finding their feet at the beginning of their gap yr.
Travel expert, Monica, who has partnered with Post Office Travel Insurance to disclose the gap yr destinations, said: “Slovenia is one of the vital inexpensive destinations I’ve visited as a backpacker.
“It’s also one of the vital underrated and safest destinations in Europe.
“Explore beautiful cities like Ljubljana, and natural attractions like Lake Bled, for a fraction of the fee of other European countries.”
It comes after it emerged interest in backpacking travel is on the rise, with Google searches for these two words up 49 percent from last yr.
Monica added: “Selecting your gap yr destinations is probably the most exciting a part of planning your trip.
“Most backpackers select destinations which might be totally different to home, giving them a singular experience and an insight into latest cultures – but it surely’s also essential to decide on destinations based on safety.”
Another choice for would-be backpackers is Thailand – with the South Asian country more likely to go down well with foodies.
Monica said: “Thailand has been a preferred destination for backpackers for years, because of the incredible beaches.
“The locals are friendly and welcoming, they usually know tips on how to cook and throw an excellent party.
“Thailand can be inexpensive, and also you’ll make friends with backpackers from throughout.”
Meanwhile, Australia is historically popular with those trying to go away for a spot yr and earn some extra cash as they travel – and Monica doesn’t think that is more likely to change anytime soon.
She said: “For those who’re under 30 you may easily apply for a Working Holiday visa, which permits you to work for one yr in Australia.
“Try something latest and work as a fruit picker in a rural farm, be a city slicker in Sydney, or join the cool kids in Melbourne.
“I used to be scuba diving by day and waiting tables by night – the island life was an excellent solution to lower your expenses.”
Monica also believes Bali is a preferred tag-on for many who are working their way around Australia, as they will get more “bang for his or her buck” there – in addition to being an “Instagram dream” because of its waterfalls, white beaches, and tropical jungles.
And at last, there’s Recent Zealand, which is really helpful for those into outdoor pursuits.
Paul Paddock, head of travel and protection at Post Office, which offers insurance for travellers aged 18-60, said: “Taking a spot yr is one probably the most exciting trips an adventurer can experience in life, especially in the event you’re going backpacking.
“There are a lot of excellent destinations to think about, as indicated in our previous Travel Safety Index.
“But even with those recommendations, it’s important to choose an appropriate travel insurance cover before your trip – whether it’s a backpacker, multi-trip, or a single-trip policy – to provide you peace of mind whilst in your trip.”
