Gap years - not just for students!
16/04/2008
The gap travel market is now big business. And the biggest growth is being seen amongst older 'gappers', who are currently spending an astonishing £1billion each year.
Traditionally, the gap year was the domain of school leavers, but market analyst Mintel has identified two distinct additions to the traditional “gapper” list: “career gappers” - young professionals taking an extended break - and “denture venturers” who are in their 50’s and taking a big trip before they retire.
Their observations have been backed up by Gap Year for Grown Ups, who have seen a record 300% growth in bookings since 2005 - and 27% of them are for those aged 50 and over. Lauren Mackay, brand manager, said: “There is no average grown up traveller anymore. Mature people are feeling confident to travel further afield and many people just want to do something worthwhile before they enjoy their retirement.”
The length of trips is changing too. Mackay adds: "The perception of having to travel for a full gap year has gone. With programmes running from two weeks to two years the flexibility on what you do and when and where you go is enormous.”
Irene Silas, in her sixties, travelled to Rajasthan, India, in November last year as part of a programme to tackle poverty through teaching underprivileged primary school children. She said: “I knew I wanted to experience Indian life outside tourism and I love children, so felt a month-long gap break assisting in the school was a natural choice.”
“I think we helped. We had fun with the children and they learned a good deal of basic English with enthusiasm. However, the benefits to me have been enormous. I encountered a warmth, sensitivity and simplicity which has humbled me. I felt appreciated and cherished in many ways in which I will never forget.”
Now traveling has been made even easier with a new "Gap Year" travel voucher. Available in denominations of £20, £50, £100 and £500, and valid for 12 months, they make a novel alternative retirement present that doesn’t sit on the mantelpiece.
For more information about gap activities and the new voucher, visit the website below.