Student travel is as diverse as the demographic itself. Some want to spend a gap year volunteering in a foreign country, others want a summer internship in a happening city, and others prefer to simply see a new place and experience a new culture without breaking the bank. Considering all three realms of the student’s agenda, we’ve targeted 10 locations around the globe that welcome young, open-minded individuals either for career opportunities, volunteer challenges, or just plain exploration.
Australia
You’re going to have fun here, no matter what you do. Australia is known for adventurous lures by land and sea, so get ready to push life’s boundaries and redefine your perception of a good time. Sky dive, climb a bridge, surf the waves, sleep in the desert or explore a coral reef – Australia puts it all within your reach. Students can explore the forests of Tasmania or Sydney’s urban appeal and uncover the secrets to living outside the straight and narrow.
Barcelona
With so many student-friendly cities in Spain, we chose Barcelona for its distinct blend of urban glory and beachside reveling. Take in sights of Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell for free (from the outside of course) or saunter through Las Ramblas and let the street performers dazzle you for a few coins. The Picasso Museum is free the first Sunday of the month, and Barceloneta Beach is always sans-fare. For cheap eats, head to the Boqueria marketplace and pick up fresh fruits and veggies – or pay a little extra for spectacular sangria and tapas at a café.
India
In one afternoon, India can be a natural wonder, a bustling marketplace and a strong and elegant yoga pose. A kaleidoscope of intensity, this country heats up in cities like Delhi and Agra and cools down in Himalaya respites like Palampur. Willing students from all over to world are welcome to explore the endless opportunities for teaching English, working in orphanages and helping street children. Give your time, and get a truly unparalleled travel experience.
Cambodia
A hub for volunteers and history buffs, Cambodia showcases captivating sights like in Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, and the historic and heartbreaking Cambodian killing fields. Here, you’ll see the beauty of Sihanoukville, the waterfront life of the Mekong Delta or take a day trip to the scintillating markets of Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City. Along with its rich history comes the need for volunteers in teaching, child care and human rights organizations, so consider Cambodia as a viable volunteer option.
Peru
Want history, nature, culture and adventure all wrapped in one? Spend some time in Peru. Discover the thrills of the Amazon, the desert culture of Lima, or the archaeological paradise that is Cusco. Explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu and absorb a country’s rich heritage while you learn the ins and outs of a new place. Peru is also rife with volunteering opportunities for students who want to lend a hand.
Chicago
If your kind of town is big on sports and art, and can quickly span from low-brow joints to high-class digs, then Chicago it is. A unique blend of cosmopolitan flair and genuine Midwest hospitality, Chi-town is friendlier than other hustle-and-bustle cities – except for its raging winters. Students here can explore the beauty of green neighborhoods, lakefront entertainment, and stunning architecture downtown. It’s best for summer internships and fun-filled city breaks.
Paris
Sure, Paris can be pricey, but taking the mindset of a bohemian romantic will allow you to experience the City of Lights in its most authentic spirit – and for cheap. There’s plenty to do here without splurging. Forego the caviar and fill your senses with bread, cheese and house wine (or crepes off street carts – whatever you fancy). While student IDs will get you into most museums for free, you can also see Jim Morrison’s grave, visit the Louvre on Friday nights or watch movies at Parc de la Villette without spending a dime. There’s no admission fee to fashion-gawk on Champs Elysees, either.
Vancouver
Recent home of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Vancouver is well-equipped for visitors right now. It constantly tops lists of world’s greatest places to live, and boasts all things nature, from beaches to mountains to forests. It also has young vibe that matches its history: Only 150 years old, Vancouver is perfect for open-minded students in a modern, Pacific Northwest kind of way, where hipster hangouts go hand in hand with pubs and coffee shops.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a perfect refuge for students based on versatility alone. A relaxing beach vacation, an exciting city break, a livable post-grad metropolis and the Mecca of all entertainment industry careers, LA offers a wide range of fun and important opportunities. Go from the relaxed, flip-flop vibe of the sunny beach to hipster haven to glam-lux dining and nightlife all in a day’s time.
If you’re the kind of student that draws palm trees during lectures, Thailand might be a good travel choice for you. The limestone islands of Ko Tao and Kho Phi Phi Don are nothing short of paradisiacal, and it’s impossible to escape the wild and gratifying feeling of being on any one of Thailand’s shores. Culturally, students can dive into the history of Buddhism in Bangkok or climb the mountains of Mae Hong Son. Thailand also offers long-range volunteer programs for teaching English and working with children.
