The decision to pack up and move to a new country for any extended period of time is no small feat! Just know that this experience may teach you more than you’ll ever learn in the classroom. The program you’ll join, the people you’ll meet, and the Peruvian ceviche you’ll devour (yum!) will be second to none. You, friend, are beginning a journey of exploration and growth beyond what you could ever imagine.

South American culture and etiquette is as varied as its landscape. However, in general, the South American lifestyle is relaxed. Buses may not arrive at the scheduled time, and family often comes before work. But most visitors settle in easily to this chill lifestyle. For North Americans, it’s a breath of fresh air to see people taking….their time? Pro Tip on greeting: Friends typically greet with a kiss on the cheek, and you’ll never see anyone gesturing “come here” with their palm facing up (remember to avoid this, too!). For the most part, people in South American value human connections. There’s always a fiesta with friends, and people find the time to have one last cafecito (little coffee) and conversation.

Sure, you can kick back and relax into that South American vibe. But your time down there will be busy! Whether you’re trailblazing the Amazon or building houses in Bolivia, gap year programs in South America will keep you on your toes—quite literally. This experience will teach the problem-solving and critical thinking skills necessary in any situation. How do you teach a child to read without resources? How do you live in a rural village without electricity? You’ve got this. Gap years in South America teach you something too. Qué perfecto!

Keep reading! Find out all the awesome reasons why you should take a gap year.