Taking a Gap Year? Choose China
Author: OTB Ventures, LLC
Category: Travel and Leisure
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In recent years China has become a popular destination for students leaving secondary school who wish to see a little more of the world before they embark upon their further education. China offers a culture that is totally different to the west.
What is more, China offers a broadening cultural experience. From religion through to politics, China will continually challenge every western preconception you may have, greatly enhancing your understanding of a culture dramatically different from your own. Furthermore, China, mostly, welcomes its visitors with extreme warmth and kindness.
For students who decide to take their gap years at the other end of university, there are an even greater number of opportunities available. Organisations such as the British Council, for example, offer successful graduates placements as teaching assistants in Chinese school, with accommodation and a living allowance provided.
This not only allows successful applicants the opportunity to experience life in a completely different environment, but it also allows them to discover an entirely different educational system - a fascinating reflection on the country's system of government. For anyone interested in discovering more about a country that had closed its doors to the west for so long and which still remains intensely mysterious, this could be an invaluable opportunity.
There are many other perks to choosing China as your gap year destination. If, for example, you stay long enough to master even a little of the mandarin language this will be an attractive addition to any curriculum vitae as far as future employment opportunities are concerned. The experience of living within a culture so vastly different from your own also demonstrates independence and effective adaptability that will no doubt also impress on any job applications you may make.
An experience such as this will also improve your confidence in dealing with new and unfamiliar situations throughout your life, preparing you for all kinds of challenges you may face in the future.
Of course, there's a high level of planning that goes hand-in-hand with planning a trip to China and any excursion there will require a substantial amount of planning. For example, you'll need to make a trip to the doctors to get all the relevant vaccinations and a certificate of general health you'll be expected to produce before you apply for your visa.
If you're staying and working for a longer period, you will also require a specific type of insurance. Many providers now offer specialist insurance that keeps backpackers and student travellers in mind. Do research these policies before you travel, and ensure your trip is hassle-free.
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Keywords: Travel Insurance
View Count: 106
Date Submitted: 6/30/2009
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