Introduction
In the summer of 2022, my wife, Amy, and I embarked on a remarkable journey, deciding to take our daughters out of school and embark on a family gap year around the world. The motivation behind this audacious decision was simple yet profound: we aimed to show our girls the incredible diversity of the world and instill a deep sense of gratitude for the privileges we enjoy. This article is a chronicle of our adventures, the challenges we faced, and the transformative impact our Family Gap Year had on each of us. Throughout this narrative, the term “Family Gap Year” will be interwoven, underscoring its significance in shaping the unique experiences that unfolded over the course of our journey.
The Pearson Family
Our global odyssey commenced in August 2022, armed with a rough plan that included traversing Central America, South America, the Middle East, southern Africa, Australia, Bali, and Southeast Asia. Caye Caulker, Belize, marked our first destination, and, truth be told, it wasn’t without its hurdles. The initial shock of leaving the familiar cocoon of home and school was evident, exacerbated by a less-than-ideal accommodation choice. However, the island’s allure gradually won us over, offering a plethora of activities from biking to swimming, revealing the diverse adventures that awaited us on our Family Gap Year.
Calker Belize
Central and South America: Building Bonds through Adventure
As we traversed Central and South America, the language barrier became a catalyst for family bonding. The smaller towns like Banos, Salento, and the Galapagos Islands resonated with us, providing a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. The term “Family Gap Year” started to hold weight as our shared experiences became the building blocks of lasting memories. The daily struggles of planning on the go and adhering to a tight budget added an element of challenge that, in retrospect, added depth to our journey.
Salento Colombia
Namibia: A Pinnacle of Diversity
Namibia emerged as a standout destination, offering unparalleled diversity that showcased the very essence of a Family Gap Year. The vast landscapes, camping under the stars, and encounters with wildlife in places like Sossusvlei and Walvis Bay left an indelible mark on our hearts. Meeting the Damare and Himba tribes provided a cultural richness that served as a poignant reminder of the beauty found in simplicity. Namibia, in many ways, became the epitome of what we sought to experience during our year of travel.
Himba Children with Amy, June and Jolie, Namibia
The highlight of Namibia was undoubtedly our decision to rent a truck with tents on the roof, providing us with the freedom to explore wherever we desired. We camped in secluded spots that were never crowded, and the ever-changing, mind-blowing landscapes became the backdrop to some of our most memorable experiences. The sand dunes of Sossusvlei and Walvis Bay provided two of our most cherished moments of the entire year. Driving and hiking the dunes created laughter, gasps, and heart rates that skyrocketed, etching those incredible days into our collective memory.
Deadvlei namibia
Our first encounter with African animals took place in Etosha Game Park, and the reactions of my girls to witnessing these magnificent creatures for the first time are memories we will carry with us forever. Venturing further, we had the privilege of visiting with the Damare and Himba tribes, which opened our eyes to how people can live happily with so little, serving as a powerful reminder to our girls of their own good fortune.
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Oman: A Hidden Gem in the Middle East
Oman, a surprise addition to our itinerary, captured our hearts with its unique charm. Armed with borrowed four-wheel drive and camping equipment, we explored its landscapes, from beachside camps to Wadis and deserts. The term “free” camping took on a new meaning as we woke up to the soothing waves of the Arabian Sea and hiked up Wadis to discover hidden waterfalls. The Middle East market shopping spree in Oman became a cultural immersion where our daughters honed their bargaining skills, adding yet another layer to our Family Gap Year experience.
Wadi Dahm Oman
All these experiences culminated in Oman becoming a close second to Namibia in our list of favorite places. The idea of “free” camping in Oman was a revelation. The freedom to set up a tent anywhere we liked came with the caveat of limited amenities, but the sheer beauty of the landscapes more than compensated for any lack of convenience. Camping on the beach, in Wadis, and in the desert were some of our most rewarding nights away. Waking up to the rhythmic sounds of the Arabian Sea was surreal, and a quick hike up a Wadi to a waterfall with a secluded swimming hole were two of the many reasons we would love to go back and experience more of Oman.
Wadi Oman
The Omani markets provided a sensory delight, a feast of sights and smells that marked the beginning of our Middle East market shopping spree. This spree became a delightful way for the girls to gain confidence in navigating cultural exchanges, negotiating prices, and, as it turned out, realizing that sometimes overpaying is okay. The food and juices in Oman found their place among the top culinary delights my girls enjoyed throughout the entire year.
Safety on the Road: Navigating Concerns
Addressing the common question of safety, our experiences taught us that the world, while having its challenges, is filled with everyday people eager to share the beauty of their countries. Being cautious in certain areas was a practice, but cities like Dubai, Sydney, Bangkok, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh provided a vibrant and safe atmosphere after dark. This exploration of safety not only exemplified our commitment to responsible travel but also underscored the essence of a Family Gap Year, where shared experiences forged a stronger bond among us.
Our journey through diverse cultures and landscapes provided a nuanced perspective on safety. While we took precautions in cities around the world, we found that many places offered vibrant and safe experiences after dark. The bustling life in cities like Dubai, Sydney, Bangkok, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh gave us confidence to explore beyond daylight hours, contributing to the rich tapestry of our Family Gap Year.
A Year with Animals: From Belize to Bali
Animals played a recurring and delightful role in our journey, creating unforgettable moments and connecting us with the natural wonders of each destination. From snorkeling with stingrays, sharks, and turtles in Belize to exploring the rich wildlife of the Amazon, Galapagos Islands, Namibia, South Africa, Uganda, and Australia, each encounter added a unique chapter to our Family Gap Year. These experiences fostered a deep appreciation for the diverse ecosystems around the world and left us in awe of the incredible creatures that inhabit our planet.
Galapagos Islands
Our journey with animals became a remarkable thread weaving through the tapestry of our Family Gap Year. It started with the exhilarating snorkeling experiences in Shark Alley off Caye Caulker in Belize, where the underwater world teemed with life. Searching for Caimans and insects in the Amazon Rainforest provided an entirely different perspective on wildlife, emphasizing the importance of conservation and biodiversity.
Amazon Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands presented an unparalleled week of wildlife encounters. Sea Lions, tortoises, Blue-Footed Boobies, sharks, turtles, and saltwater Iguanas made our time there an unforgettable chapter in our journey. Namibia, known for its stark landscapes, also revealed a bounty of wildlife. The huge Sea Lion colony and our experiences in Etosha Game Park brought us face to face with the wonders of the animal kingdom.
South Africa, with its legendary reputation for wildlife, did not disappoint. Addo Elephant Park and Kruger National Park provided us with the quintessential African safari experience. Witnessing elephants, lions, zebras, and a plethora of other species in their natural habitat left an indelible mark on our Family Gap Year.
Kruger, South Africa
Uganda, a country not as often associated with traditional safari experiences, surprised us with unique encounters. Walking with Rhinos, observing hippos, elephants and chimps in Queen Elizabeth National Park made Uganda a worthy stop. Australia, known for its distinctive wildlife, presented us with a few kangaroos, although we missed some of the other classic Australian fauna.
Uganda
Our journey continued to Bali, where encounters with monkeys added a touch of nerve-wracking excitement to our days. These diverse wildlife experiences contributed to the educational and enriching aspect of our Family Gap Year, fostering a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of ecosystems around the globe.
Southeast Asia: A Strategic Finale
As we ventured into Southeast Asia, we strategically planned our route to optimize value for our dollar. Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia were on the original list, but flexibility allowed us to tailor our itinerary based on our evolving preferences. The idea of “You might as well see it all,” echoed by many during our trip planning, faced the practical reality that constant movement between countries incurred long and often costly days. Consequently, Laos was removed from our itinerary, not due to any lack of appeal but in favor of spending more meaningful time in other destinations.
Vietnam
Our journey through Southeast Asia provided us with a wealth of memorable experiences. From a cooking class in Chiang Mai, Thailand, to a hill tribe trek out of Chiang Mai, exploring the beaches of Krabi, and immersing ourselves in the local culture, we discovered the allure that draws travelers to this region. The food, no longer requiring us to cook, became a highlight, and the feeling of safety allowed us to fully appreciate the wonders of South East Asia.
In Thailand, a cooking class turned into a delightful family activity, offering us insights into local culinary traditions. The hill tribe trek out of Chiang Mai provided a unique opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty and connect with local communities. The beaches of Krabi offered a serene escape, and the vibrant markets added a cultural dimension to our Southeast Asian experience.
Now that we have been home for a few months and settled into a routine of school, work, coaching, and playing sports, it is easy to reflect on why our year of travel was so valuable for us. While we appreciate and love our home in Saskatoon, our year away made us realize how much we have and how lucky we are. There are people in the world who have more than us and many who have less. We were fortunate enough to spend time with both groups and enjoyed our time everywhere.
Our daughters always enjoyed having kids around that they could communicate and hang out with. Since being home, they have enjoyed reconnecting with friends and are relishing being back in a classroom. They know they have had a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but home has comforts that are hard to find elsewhere.
Reflections on Homecoming
Returning home brought a new perspective. Our year of travel had not only broadened our horizons but also deepened our appreciation for the comforts and privileges of home. Connecting with diverse communities, appreciating hospitality, and rekindling friendships brought the realization that while travel is enriching, home offers unique comforts that are hard to replicate.
Uganda
The journey was not without its troubles, but I can’t recommend a Family Gap Year enough for those contemplating a year of travel. It required five years of saving and making sacrifices, but the experiences and memories created during our journey were priceless. My wife and I have already entertained the idea of doing it again, but this time, we envision our daughters taking the lead. We made countless memories as a family, and rarely does a day go by without a story or memory being shared, keeping the spirit of our Family Gap Year alive.
Conclusion of our Family Gap Year
In conclusion, our Family Gap Year was an odyssey of discovery, growth, and gratitude. From the rocky start in Caye Caulker, Belize, to the diverse landscapes of Namibia, the hidden gem of Oman, and the cultural richness of Southeast Asia, our journey was a mosaic of experiences that shaped us individually and as a family. The animals we encountered, the people we met, and the challenges we faced all contributed to the tapestry of our year-long adventure.
The term “Family Gap Year” is not just a label; it encapsulates the essence of our journey—a journey that transcended the ordinary and left an indelible mark on our lives. As we settle back into the routines of daily life, the memories of our year of travel continue to enrich our perspectives and serve as a reminder of the beauty that exists in the world. The Family Gap Year, with its highs and lows, challenges and triumphs, is a testament to the transformative power of travel and the bonds that strengthen through shared experiences.
Author: Mark Pearson
About the Author
Mark Pearson is a PE teacher in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, with a passion for sports, outdoor activities, and travel. Having lived and taught in various international locations, including London, Australia, and Egypt, Mark’s love for travel was cultivated during his two years in Egypt, where numerous options for exploration were at his doorstep. Mark is married to Amy, also a PE teacher in Saskatoon, and together they share a competitive spirit in all aspects of life. Their daughters, June and Jolie, are in grades 6 and 8, avid sports enthusiasts, acclaimed AirBnB critics, and the dynamic force behind the family’s adventurous spirit. Jolie may not be a fan of hiking but possesses incredible speed, while June harbors a belief that every boat in the ocean will tip on every trip—an amusing testament to the quirks that make their family’s journey truly unique.
