Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
“We did see numbers drop as well as the length of placements get shorter as people
tightened their belts. At the same time, the budget-volunteer companies saw an increase
in numbers - though conversely this also saw a rise in complaints in the field as some of
these placements were not necessarily always well researched or executed. 2014 has seen
the market balance out a little more, with people once again able to balance the many op-
tions available to them to ensure their gap travel is maximised in a perfect placement for
them.”
Our friends at Projects Abroad say they have enjoyed a record year: “Not everyone is
choosing to commit to an entire year - many volunteers join a project during their long
summer holidays or after university. On balance though, we still speak to plenty of people
week in, week out who are planning ahead for their gap year or career break, so we feel
that the market is still going strong.”
As we've already mentioned, with the traditional route of going straight to university after
finishing A levels not proving as dependable as in previous years and a sluggish jobs mar-
ket, more youngsters are considering vocational training or work experience on a gap-year
abroad, allowing them to gain the hands-on experience that employers are looking for.
What's more, experts say the number of young professionals booking extended trips and
work sabbaticals is still rising - up 30% in the past five years.
So, if anything, industry leaders are expecting to see more people taking a gap, despite the
economy.
