Taking a gap year is not only a great way for you to get out and see the world before starting fulltime work, it is also an excellent method of self-development, letting you seize the day and see the world for what it truly is. Taking a cruise can be a viable alternative to catching a plane, simply because of the added enjoyment you get out of the journey. Here are a few of the best places around the world that gap year travellers can reach by passenger liner.
South Africa
With luxury ocean vessels stopping in at Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, young adventurers will have many gateways to commence their African experience by boat. From the sweeping plains and majestic wildlife of the Kruger to the stunning beaches of the Western Cape, this is a country that has it all. Along the way, your ship may even get to stop off at several other African locales, expanding the journey.
Australia
The world’s largest island has a host of ports of call for the keen gap year tourist. From Perth to Sydney, travellers can take scuba diving courses, hire a 4WD through the desert, witness spectacular harbour views, and enjoy some local indigenous culture. Depending on where your boat departs from, your voyage to Australia could pass through a number of other, interesting countries to form a well-rounded world trip.
Thailand
Known worldwide for its fine cuisine, sunny climate and welcoming people, Thailand is definitely a must-visit place for any gap year student. With rocking nightlife and a very friendly exchange rate, even taking a cruise here will be affordable. With liners stopping in Phuket, Koh Samui and Chonburi, there are plenty of ways for you to commence your Thai adventure once you step off the boat. Experience Bangkok and beyond, by booking a berth today.
India
Nothing quite says far-off and exotic like vendors of spices and the Taj Mahal. India is one of the most popular destinations for gap year students for these and many more reasons. Liners such as P&O Cruises stop over at cities such as Mumbai and Cochin where travellers get a chance to sightsee around some absolutely amazing communities. These locales also make for great starting spots from which to further explore the rest of the country.
Malaysia
Thanks to the growing number of volunteer and charity organisations operating in Borneo, Malaysia is now an up-and-comer when it comes to cruise localities for gap year students. After a long and luxurious sea journey to this tropical isle, you can then get to work helping the indigenous people and the jungle wildlife through any of these associations. This makes for a holiday that gives to you as well as the planet.
New Zealand
Found at the corner of the world, New Zealand offers so much for young travellers, especially those arriving by cruise ship. As well as spectacular natural scenery, the country also boasts some of the world’s best extreme sports spots. Whether you stop at Auckland or Christchurch, you can witness stunning landscapes straight out of Lord of the Rings, or experience nature’s fury while strapped to a bungee cord or on a whitewater raft.
Tanzania
With cruise ships stopping at ports such as Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania is a great place for gap year students looking for the beach lifestyle or something a bit more active. The country also boasts Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. Add onto this some exotic wildlife and culture, and you have a destination perfectly suited to young travellers of all types and preferences.
About the Author:
CruiseWorldWide.Travel is a travel agency based in Australia providing a variety of Carnival, Princess, and P&O cruises in several destinations worldwide.
Very good post, there are also very nice cruises in the mediterraneang area