When studying full-time, students are dealing with tons of academic assignments and have nearly no time left for themselves. Traveling during such periods is draining. The good news is that students can turn to WritePaper for qualified academic help during their short trips. This way, you can ensure that your grades remain high while you get more time to relax and enjoy your vacation.

But what if you want a longer and more transformational trip? Then, you’d better take a gap year and make the most of it by traveling. And we are going to share with you a list of the eight best culturally rich spots to visit for a truly memorable and meaningful experience!

Seoul

The first one on our list of the most culturally rich destinations in the world is Seoul. Although South Korea may not sound like an obvious travel spot on a student’s bucket list, there is a lot to see and do in its capital city.

The culture of this city and country, in general, takes its roots in the early Korean nomadic times. It is unique and engaging, and it’s nothing like what you can see in other countries around the world. Today, Seoul is a site of industrialization, urbanization, and creativity. It is a future-proof location that boasts rich history and tradition, vibrant nightlife, exceptional architecture, and innovative technology.

At the same time, it still preserves ancient temples and sites that are also very exciting to see. So, if you want to get the best out of your college gap year, consider this option!

Tokyo

If you get fascinated by the mix of modern and ancient, Tokyo is a place for you. This city is the intersection between eastern and western cultures, and it is just one of the many things that make it so exciting to visit.

One of the most interesting things about this location is that many of the ancient traditions are preserved to this day, despite the fact that Japan is considered one of the world’s most technologically advanced nations.

Studying all the history and traditions that lay in the heart of this city can take a while, so Tokyo isn’t one of those typical summer trip locations. But, if you are ready to spend at least a few months, we bet that you will be impressed by what is hidden inside.

Paris

Paris drives millions of tourists with its fleur of romance and plenty of exciting sites that can be found here. But, not many know that this place is also deservedly considered the largest cultural and historical hub of Europe. So, without any doubt, if you are planning a culturally rich trip, Paris would be a great destination.

The history of this city dates back to around 259 BC. It has a lot of ancient sites and architecture that are preserved to our day. Also, as many know, this destination has always been one of the favorites for worldwide famous philosophers and artists, which is why a huge part of timeless pieces of art are stored here.

But, we have to admit that Paris isn’t very cheap. So, as a student, you will have to find ways to save money during your trip here so that you don’t go over your budget.

Athens

If you are interested in ancient Greece, Athens would be a perfect destination for you. Being one of the world’s oldest and culturally rich cities, Athens has a lot for you to see. From the ancient Acropolis, which is a piece of antique culture in the heart of a modern city, to endless museums, academies, and other sites – everyone should find something interesting here.

On top of that, Greece is known for its mild climate and excellent resorts. So, if you are hoping to combine spiritual and educational tourism with a traditional beach vacation, Athens will let you do both!

London

It’s impossible to talk about the world’s most culturally rich cities and not mention London. The capital city of the UK – London, is home to the Royal Family and one of the most visited destinations in the world. Thanks to the UK’s imperial past, today, its capital is a blend of different countries, languages, and cultures.

Tourists who come here can enjoy over 850 art galleries. Moreover, three of the world’s top museums and galleries are actually located in London. Also, it is a blend of various exciting events, festivals, and entertainment. So, rest assured that there are many things that you can do here.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is not like other destinations we shared with you earlier. This city can’t boast of a centuries-long history or a wealth of ancient sites. But, if you are interested in modern culture and entertainment, there is probably no better place to discover them than LA.

Called the entertainment capital of the world, LA offers a wide variety of attractions, including traditional museums, nightlife, theme parks, and beaches. But, apart from this, it provides some very unique spots such as movie studios, the Sunset Strip, and much more.

Venice

Another European location on our list is Venice. It is known for many things. First of all, this floating city attracts tourists with its unique atmosphere, colorful masquerades, and unique experiences. But, if you are looking for a more cultural trip, it has a lot to offer too.

First of all, Venice was known as the greatest seaport in Europe during the Medieval period. It is also known for attracting and inspiring hundreds of artists, writers, and poets, throughout the decades. Today, here you can discover lots of historical sights, museums, galleries, and much more. It might not be a very cheap location. But Venice is a city that everyone should see at least once in a lifetime.

Lisbon

Finally, the last one on our list, Lisbon, is also an excellent destination for your gap year. First of all, the port capital of Portugal is known for its rich history, surrounded by many exciting myths and stories. Many believe that this city was a part of Odysseus’s journey back from Troy. And there are many other interesting stories related to this place.

Another thing that makes Lisbon a good location is that it has retained a lot of its pre-industrial charm. Although it is now a large and economy-driving metropolis, it still preserved a big part of ancient architecture and traditions. So, it is a great place for culture and history lovers. And the best part is that Portugal is relatively affordable, which makes Lisbon a great place for your budget-friendly gap year trip.

The Bottom Line

Traveling is one of the most meaningful ways to spend one’s gap year. If you pick the right destination, it can be much more than just a fun trip. Going to any of the aforementioned locations, you can have the best gap year of your life and receive a truly transformational experience. So, don’t waste any more time, and start choosing your option!

The post 8 Culturally Rich Spots to Travel for a Gap Year appeared first on 203Challenges.

Great Wall Marathon

How about running along one of the biggest attractions in the world? Run 42 km (26 miles) of the Great Wall Marathon in China. Despite the arduous course on the iconic Great Wall of China, you will be rewarded by its breathtaking panoramas. As the route leads you through the lower valley and into the villages, onlookers will be cheering and the festive atmosphere is a real energy boost!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Great Wall Marathon (@greatwallmarathon)

Marathon Des Sables in the Sahara Desert

When you mention the Sahara Desert, a marathon of 251 km (155 miles) is hardly the first thing that comes to mind. What makes it even harder to believe is that under the baking sun, marathoners have to run the distance of six regular marathons in six consecutive days.

Marathon des Sables | tent86/Flickr

Antarctica Marathon and Half-Marathon

Where else can you run among seals, penguins, whales and icebergs? The 200 participants in Antarctica Marathon and Half-Marathon and their supporters have the unique opportunity to visit the ice continent and test their stamina while ticking off one of the continents from their to-race list. History and biology lectures and excursions to remote areas are among the bonuses of this trip.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joanne (@joinmyroad)

The Maldon Mud Race in the UK

Few marathon runners around the world boast the enthusiasm of those who take part in the Maldon Mud Race, along with the enormous amount of mud they get covered in. The race through the natural mud, which could easily be defined as a ‘swamp’, requires nerves of steel to complete the route of 400 m (1310 ft) – running, falling, getting up and even crawling.

The Maldon Mude Race | pg tips2/Flickr

Lake Baikal Ice Marathon, Russia

This extreme race is the regular distance of slightly more than 42 km (26 mi) but along the frozen surface of Lake Baikal, in conditions that only Siberia, Russia can offer in early March.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Влада Тарасова (@vlada28)

Santa Speedo Run, Boston, USA

To run the annual Santa Speedo Run in Boston you need a Speedo-like bathing suit (holiday colors are preferred) and some Christmas flair (Santa hat, beard, Christmas socks, etc.). December weather in Boston is far from the temperature suitable for bathing suits, so the runners are allowed (recommended even) to have a drink or two before the run.

The post Would you run these crazy marathons? appeared first on 203Challenges.