Gap year adventure 'is active relaxation'

Young people have a variety of options when they plan a gap year – such as volunteering, paid employment, travelling and general relaxation.

Many of those who take a year out from work may wish to combine a number of these options – they can bolster their CV skills and experience for part of the year, and then enjoy a gap year adventure for the rest.

But however individuals plan their year out, they should ensure they make the most of their time away from work or study.

Getting out into the great outdoors, and seeking an adrenalin rush through gap year activities, is all part of the wider experience.

It shouldn't just be about lazing on a palm-laden beach on the other side of the world – however appealing this may be for some.

Indeed, a new study suggests that people who go on overseas adventure trips are likely to end up feeling more refreshed and invigorated than those who simply go away to relax.

Research conducted by iExplore suggested that physical activity in foreign climes can make all the difference, with three-quarters of survey respondents believing a degree of exertion is needed for a fulfilling trip.

The study highlighted a growing trend towards 'thrillaxing', with over half of all travellers engaging in some form of adventurous activity.

This could be trekking in the Himalayas, going on safari in southern Africa, kayaking down the Amazon, or even bungee jumping in New Zealand.

In contrast, iExplore claimed that a quarter of lazy beach-dwellers find themselves worrying about money matters, future dieting plans and the prospect of work when they get back home.

Through a lack of adrenalin-fuelled distractions, they end up focusing on issues concerns that are best left for the plane journey home.

TV presenter Craig Doyle, who presented BBC1's Holiday and Tomorrow's World, claimed that "thrillaxing" sums up his idea of a perfect break.

"Whilst beautiful beaches will always have their appeal, for me the key to coming home refreshed and with a treasure trove of memories is to get out and actually do something," he stated.

"By being a bit active and perhaps even trying something new I find I get to share new experiences and spend some quality time with family and friends. Many of my favourite travel memories have come from trips like this."

Check out all the different gap year programs on offer.