A new study released yesterday (August 14th) has revealed the top gap year destinations and activities for British backpackers.
With the A-Level results in this week and the university holidays in full swing, many youngsters will be heading off on trips to far-flung corners of the world.
Now the Year Out Group has analysed gap year trends for 2007, and found that volunteering work came out top in terms of popularity.
South Africa has been named as the favourite destination for gappers, topping the standings for the second year out of three.
The other countries appearing in the top 12 destinations listed by the group were Canada, Kenya, Ecuador and the US.
Teaching proved to be the most popular choice in terms of voluntary work, while general care, land-based conservation projects, community projects and winter and water sports courses also featured prominently.
With the study also finding that there was a 20 per cent rise in the number of structured placements in 2007, gappers are reminded that it is essential to take out backpacker travel insurance before embarking on their trip.