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Gap Year Programs in Thailand

Picture yourself enjoying a bowl of tom yum goong (hot and sour Thai soup) while relaxing beneath swaying palm trees after a day of exploring bustling markets and taking a dip at the nearby beach. Sound too good to be true? Well, it’s actually within your reach! Taking a gap year in Thailand is this and so much more. You’ll not only have the time of your life, you’ll be helping to improve the lives of others with the myriad of volunteer programs and activities available for your Thailand gap year!

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The Intern Group - Thailand
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The Intern Group

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GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

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Seamester Study Abroad at Sea
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Seamester Study Abroad and Gap Year Voyages

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Rustic Pathways
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Latest Program Reviews

The Key to a New Beginning

by: Alyssa Galdamez - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Semester: 10-Week Programs in Multiple Destinations
9

Being part of the first ever Voyager semester in Fall 2023 was an experience I was unprepared for, and the best decision I could’ve ever made. Little did I know that by embarking on this endeavor, I would unlock a part of myself that I didn’t know existed until then. My semester with EF Gap Year taught me self-love, self discovery, and the importance of being uniquely myself. Never did I think it was possible to be able to afford this trip of a lifetime, but I was left with so much satisfaction and so much pride that I had set this goal and I achieved it. This semester taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to and no goal is too big or too impossible. I flew to the other side of the world by myself and saw glowing blue oceans in Thailand that I never thought I’d be able to witness in my lifetime. I learn pieces of languages from each country I spent time in. I connected with people I would’ve never met without this experience and found with locals who had so much passion for their homeland and wanted to share it with me. Was I prepared for this transformation and self growth? No, and only because it was more than I could ever ask for. To anyone who is scared to take such a leap of faith, do it anyway. I haven’t met one person who regretted doing this for themselves, or thought it was a waste of time or money. Dream big, and you will reach the stars.

A Guide to Gap Year in Thailand

Best Cities

The first step to an amazing gap year in Thailand is choosing your destination and program. Check out these very different cities to see which would best fit your interests!

Bangkok. If you’re looking for an exciting city to explore, Bangkok takes the cake. Its vibrant city streets, ornate temples, and incredible shopping districts will keep your schedule packed. Its central location also makes it a great base camp for further explorations during gap year programs in Thailand! Did we mention the mouth watering street food?!

Chiang Mai. Located in the mountainous north of Thailand, Chiang Mai provides a calmer form of city living for a gap year in Thailand. You’ll have access to cafes, restaurants, and markets while still being a stone’s throw from the picturesque countryside. You’re also sure to have company as Chiang Mai is full of expat artists, teachers, and more.

Phuket. Dreaming of living the beach life? Phuket is definitely the place for you! Southern Thailand’s island of Phuket is known for its white sandy beaches and clear blue water. Day trips to outlying islands (especially Phi Phi) are a must, and snorkelling will soon be your favorite past time (just watch out for those jellyfish).

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