The gap year is an important milestone in the life of any young person, and the benefits of taking one include greater happiness and increased likelihood of graduating on time. Taking the time to focus on yourself and your own interests, as well as the path you wish to take with your education, is invaluable. But if you're finding it difficult to decide how to spend your time while you take your year of discovery, why not consider heading to Cyprus? A Year in Cyprus
The culture and beaches of Cyprus makes it a perfect destination for the student looking to make the most of their gap year before beginning the process of applying for college, arranging finance for studies and finding the perfect accommodation for the next few years of studies. Before you have to deal with the admin of the next few years, enjoy the historical sites, art, food, music, and thriving party scene that this small island has to offer. Although the eastern Mediterranean gets a lot of bad press for being situated close to Lebanon and Syria, it is one of the safest countries in the world. Additionally, the country has a large network of public transit that makes traveling around both easy and affordable. The locals are also more likely to speak English than in neighboring countries, and are generally friendly and hospitable to tourists and students. Finding a small flat to rent is generally easy and accessible through multiple online message boards.
A Little Something for Everyone
Regardless of what your interests are, there is a good chance that you will find something to catch your eye in Cyprus. One of the major points of interest is the historical art scene, including medieval painted churches and more modern, figurative paintings. The small island country boasts many art galleries that are worth checking out. There is also a thriving food scene, with influences in cuisine coming from Cyprus’ neighbors in Syria, Lebanon, Greece, Turkey, and Italy.
Taking the Plunge
Once you have decided that Cyprus is the destination of your gap year, there are a number of ways to make the most of your time there. Working, even part time, while doing your gap year can help you to save money for when you do end up attending university, allowing you to require less financial aid, and maybe even require you to borrow less. A part-time job is easily achievable, especially if you are willing to do odd-jobs like cleaning up beaches or selling umbrellas to tourists.
All things considered, there are many ways to make your year in Cyprus rewarding and beneficial for your university years to come. There are a multitude of ways that the gap year is beneficial to students, and all of them can be found on the small island country of Cyprus.