Rustic Pathways believes real leadership happens at the actual place—beside students. This article outlines why our most experienced staff stay in the field, not behind laptops, and how that presence transforms student travel experiences.

In this guest article, Arar Han recounts how taking a gap year helped her gain work experience and develop a clear direction for college. Her unexpected year off helped to shape her future. Read to find out how it could do the same for you.

Why do some teen travel programs yield change and others don't? After 12,000+ students, one pattern keeps surfacing: transformation happens in the stretch zone. Too comfortable and teens stay the same. Too stressed and they shut down. The programs that work find the middle. The ones that don't, don't."

There are different types of gap year programs available which vary in purpose: some are for social impact and global awareness, while others are for learning new languages and about different cultures. Read this article to find the one that best aligns with your goals.

Worried about the cost of taking a gap year? Don't worry, you've got plenty of options! Read this guide to learn how to afford a gap year and find the best bang-for-your-buck gap year programs.

Build houses, teach English to children, or save the turtles. These are a few types of service activities you can do when you volunteer abroad on your gap year. Help the community and grow as a person. Read and learn how!

Wondering if a gap year hurts college admissions? Top colleges support them, and research links gap years to higher GPAs, stronger applications, and better student confidence. Learn how to plan a gap year that stands out on applications.

Stop following trends and start following your heart. We have all the steps, all you have to do is read through them and pick the best gap year countries you want to travel to in 2025!

Don't worry, a college gap year deferral will allow you to delay enrollment without falling behind. In fact, students report feeling more prepared once they return to college from their gap year! That could be you too!

Don't feel like leaving the USA during your gap year? That's okay, you have options. Don't feel like staying in the USA during your gap year? That's okay, you have options, too! Read and find the best gap year programs US students can go on!

Should I go to college? Should I take a gap year? What should I do?!? If you're debating taking a gap year vs college, we've created the perfect guide that will help you make a decision!

I took a gap year and felt happier, became more confident, left my comfort zone, learned a new language, met new people. Read this guide to see which gap year life skills you will gain when you go on your gap year!

Senior year of High School can get extremely stressful: final exams, SATs, ACTs, college applications... Taking a gap year for mental health will let you recharge and prepare for what's next. Read how you and your mental health can benefit by taking a gap year.

Teens share their travel reviews after joining Rustic Pathways programs. From volunteering to exploring new places, their stories highlight the impact of student travel. Read real teen travel reviews and see what they say about their Rustic Pathways experiences.

South Korea is full of small details that shape everyday life, from silent subway rides to heated bus stop benches. Some are convenient, others surprising. As a South Korean who has lived abroad, I’ve noticed things that make Korea different—like why we have three Valentine’s Days or how motorbikes drive like there are no rules. Here are 26 Surprising Things You Should Know About Life in South Korea – From a Local

International travel for teens opens doors to new cultures, global friendships, and real-world learning. This guide covers everything from top programs to safety tips.

Planning a teen travel experience requires balancing adventure with safety. This guide covers budgeting, safety, logistics, and top programs to help parents organize a rewarding trip.

Planning international travel for your teen? This Teen Travel Documents Guide covers essential paperwork by age and country, ensuring a smooth trip.

Students can turn their summer into a meaningful experience with the best service trips for teens in 2026. These top-rated volunteer programs offer hands-on learning, leadership development, and a chance to make a real impact. Whether you're protecting sea turtles in Costa Rica, rebuilding communities in New Orleans, or working on sustainability projects in Fiji, there's a program that fits your interests.

Spots are filling quickly—find the perfect service trip and start planning today!

The right teen travel resources make planning safe and meaningful trips easier. Whether for study abroad, service programs, or adventure travel, access to budgeting tools, safety tips, and expert advice helps teens explore the world with confidence.