Gap Year Expeditions, Global Volunteering & Conservation Projects – Greenforce

Gap Year – Bridging the Cultural Divide

It goes without saying that those embarking on a gap year are likely to come across many different cultures and this is, of course, part and parcel of what makes a gap year so rewarding. It is important, however, to be aware of other countries cultures and customs.

Whilst those travelling to mainstream gap year destinations such as the USA or Australia are unlikely to encounter any problems so far as cultures are concerned, it is important for gap year travellers to realise that less commonly travelled locations such as India and South East Asia may have numerous customs that they are not aware of. It is important not to get hung up on cultures as gap year travellers are not expected to be up to speed with all the nuances that a country has but it is a good idea to have a general overview of the cultural heritages of the countries that you intend to visit during your gap year adventure. A gap year is a great opportunity to become attuned to how other countries live and it is undoubtedly a culturally rich experience to visit different countries across the globe. Many gap year travellers choose to do some volunteer work during their travels because there are few better ways to ingratiate yourself into the cultures and customs of a country than with volunteer work.

Gap Year – Cultural Tips for Popular Locations

Discounting the most popular westernised locations such as America, Canada and Australia, other popular gap year locations are likely to have certain customs which may seem strange to gap year travellers but which it is important to be aware of. Just some of the cultural issues to be aware of include:

India
India is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for gap year travellers but there are a number of basic cultural differences that it is important to be aware of. Of course, the most obvious culture difference for gap year travellers in India to be aware of is that of religion. Hinduism and Buddhism are the most commonly practised religion in the country.

Thailand
Gap year travellers need to be aware of the high regard royalty is held in when visiting Thailand and be sure not to do anything that could be construed as official to the Thai royal family. Also, you clothing should be considered when travelling through more rural parts of Thailand. Generally speaking, gap year travellers should cover their shoulders and at least down to the knees when visiting rural villages.

Looking for a Gap Year Experience? Speak to Green Force

Here at Green Force, we specialise in offering gap year experiences that make a difference. We offer opportunities to visit remote destinations across the globe with many volunteering projects to become involved with. Green Force have close links with gap year experts Year Out Group and the Foreign Commonwealth Office and we are pioneering gap year provider with some of the most fulfilling and unusual gap year opportunities on the market. To find out more about our excellent range of gap year projects, just give us a call on 020 7384 3343 or fill in our online enquiry form.