Increase in Gap Years and "Snap-Gaps"

April 1, 2014 - In 2012, it was estimated that a staggering 2.5 million young Brits were planning a gap year travelling, and the numbers keep on increasing, Travel Friendz reporting. Around 7% of UCAS applicants choose to defer their university place to embark on a gap year, and 20% of parents decide to help fund their child's gap year. This increase in gap years and shorter "snap-gaps" has been noted globally, especially in Australia where now 11% of students take a gap year before university study.

Additionally, the academic results of students who took a year out prior to university are very positive; gap year students are more likely to graduate with a First Class Honours or an Upper Second Class Honours degree than those who skip travelling and go straight into study. Moreover, 80% of students who travelled or volunteered abroad thought that their gap year added to their employability. In light of these figures, an online social network connecting people with a passion for travel is urging gap year students or snap-gap travellers to sign up and share their trip of a lifetime.

Temi Odurinde, founder of the social network Travel Friendz says, "As a society we are travelling and exploring much more, and more people than ever are travelling alone. 30% of gap year students choose to travel solo, and while this is a rewarding experience it can also be overwhelming and at times lonely. Travellers can sign up to Travel Friendz completely free before they set off on their gap year adventure, to chat to like minded people with whom their paths may cross – or just to seek expert advice from others who have visited the destination."

The social network is designed specifically for single travellers on their gap year or individuals on a career break, and helps connect people with a shared passion. Travel Friendz has a focus on travel dating; however the site is a useful tool whether or not you are looking for love and is also commonly used to find platonic relationships. In addition, Europeans who aren't currently travelling but enjoy meeting people from around the world can choose to host tourists or show them the best of their home city. "We understand that many people simply enjoy meeting new people from a mixture of different cultures and countries," Temi added. "Finding a friendly tour guide on Travel Friendz is easy, and can be a huge help when arriving on foreign soil alone."

Without spending a penny, people planning an adventure can take advantage of the many features of travelfriendz.com. From helpful advice and expert tips for travellers, and an option to post an advert to search for the kind of travel companion you are seeking, the network is a lifeline for solo travellers. Members can also post details of any upcoming trips they are planning, so others can decide whether to join a group expedition or advertise a different journey of their own.

No longer do backpackers and solo travellers have to set out alone to attractions, restaurants and bars; Travel Friendz allows users to meet friends before they've even left home. Whether you are looking for a clubbing partner, a long term travel companion or just someone to share the cost of care rental or a hotel, Travel Friendz is the answer.

For more information about TravelFriendz or to join the niche social networking site, visit www.travelfriendz.com.

About Travel Friendz:

Travel Friendz is probably the fastest growing travel dating, friendship and social networking website for single travellers in UK & the EU.
Connect with girls and guys looking for a travel companion to make a journey more fun. Meet men and women who are happy to host or show you around their town or city. Browse profiles of travellers and adventure lovers looking to meet someone just like you.