Mind the gap: How taking a year out can help you discover the world - and yourself

Taking a gap year can be very rewarding experience. Arlene Harris speaks to the people who took time out to discover the world, and themselves

Rear view of young female tourist enjoying the view in Parc Guell in Barcelona, Spain.

She may only be 17 years old, but Greta Thunberg has certainly made a name for herself as she returns to school this month after the most extraordinary Gap Year.

But while most people will not have addressed the United Nations, sailed across the Atlantic or debated with world leaders, the majority who took a year out will agree that it was a learning curve and a fantastic opportunity to see another side to life.