Gap-year students can now access a wealth of travel information online
FCO launches gap-year guide
17 July 2008People planning gap-year trips can now access a new online map tool launched by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).
The department teamed up with Lonely Planet to create the Google-powered service, which allows users to click on destinations and access photographs, information and country-specific travel advice.
Thousands of students are expected to set off on gap-year trips over the coming weeks and many are likely to embark on their journeys without full preparation.
The FCO urged travellers to use its new tool, which is hosted on GoGapYear.com, as a first step to preparing for their trips.
Alice Draper of the FCO said: "The very nature of a gap year means that it is likely to be a prolonged trip, taking in a number of destinations.
"This can increase travellers'' risk of encountering difficulties on their journey, so it is vital to prepare properly before setting off."
As well as offering guidance on issues such as travel insurance and visas, the guide also provides information on adventure activities and interesting places to visit.
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