Gap year destinations: the best value places to travel

It's all about making your money go that bit further on your year out...
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Adebola Lamuye8 September 2017

Results day is finally here, and as students celebrate or commiserate their grades, thoughts eventually shift towards their next move.

While many will be heading to university this coming September, some may opt to taking a gap year, and travel away from home.

Recent research by travel money specialist, No 1 Currency, revealed a huge difference in cost between some of the most popular gap year destinations. If the average 'gapper' had a budget of £5000, the analysis showed Colombia would offer the best value for money whilst Australia emerged as the most expensive country, with the budget estimated to last barely six weeks.

So, for those toying with the idea, here are the top ten destinations promising the best value for your money.

1. Cambodia

Here's the chance to visit Cambodia's untouched beaches. Many know of Thailand’s beautiful beaches, but visitors say islands like Koh Rong and Kon Rong Samloem are what Thailand used to be.

2. India

The Pink Palace (Shutterstock )
Shutterstock

The food alone should be convincing enough as no other country can offer a range of cuisines like India and with some of the world's most famous buildings, like the Taj Mahal, are located there, it’s best to get going before its too late.

3. Mexico

Puerto Vallarta
Rex Features

The chance the gaze at the stunning Pacific coastline is something to be explored. Escape from all your troubles and visit the small towns and villages to help bring you to a calm and tranquil state of mind.

4. Vietnam

Celebration happening at Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam
Getty Images

Nothing can match the chance to Vietnam. Travel through this amazing country and experience its dramatic landscapes, epic food and fascinating history, whether by motorbike or bus .

5. Indonesia

The popular Nihiwatu Resort (Melissa Dive )
Melissa Dive

There are plenty of hidden gems to be discovered. With more than 17,000 islands, you won’t be short of things to do; the great dive sites, surfing waves, hiking routes and wildlife are ready to be explored.

6. Chile

In the middle of the Chilean Patagonian rainforest is the Montaña Mágica Lodge hotel, built inside of a man-made volcano

Being one of the leading nations in South America, experience the breath-taking scenery of its rainforests, endless sandy beaches, snow-capped volcanoes and the driest desert on Earth.

7. Peru

Travel to Peru
Richard James Taylor

If you’re a lover of history, this is the place for you. Whether you’re hiking through one of the hidden Inca ruins or just taking a wonder through the towns, you are sure to be surrounded by a strong presence of culture and history.

8. Thailand

Relax and enjoy the sun
AFP/Getty Images

Get blown away by the perfect tropical islands, the luscious jungles, the delicious food and the nicest people. If you’re looking to escape, but still want the perfect exotic yet affordable journey, there is no greater place than Thailand.

9. China

Gapper activity: Join the local fun
AFP/Getty Images

When visiting China for the first time, Beijing, Shanghai and Xian are a must-see, lets not forget the famous Great Wall, Summer Palace and Forbidden City. The trip should be filled with a buzz load of activities and spectacular scenery.

10. Colombia

Las Lajas Cathedra; An usual location choice for a church

Explore the fastest growing tourist destination in South America; visit the lost city, stroll through their exceptional street arts, dance till you drop in their all-night salsa clubs and visit one of the world’s biggest carnivals.

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