Interview with Amar from Gap Year Escape

A little while ago, Brendan van Son had the chance to interview Amar from Gap Year Escape. He said Amar always seems to make him laugh and didn't fail to do so in this interview.  Enjoy!

Tell us about yourself. Who are you? Where are you from? Boxers or briefs?
I am a boxers man. Calvin Klein. Black. I’m also a big fan of leaving them on a heater overnight during winter for the morning. Feels… oh… so… good.

Oh and if you were really interested I am from a place called Warwick in England. We have a big castle that American tourists seem to love. After a long stint of travel I now have a base in London to call home (which I see about 4 days a month).

You run a website called Gap Year Escape.  Why do you think it's so important for people to take a gap year?
Taking a year out of your life to be selfish; winner. Selfish doesn’t have to be a negative word when it comes to travel. In the words of the intelligent folk from Jersey Shore “I’m doing me right now”.

A gap year allows you to be free. It allows you to do what you want, when you want. You call the shots. Whether you’re taking a break from studying, working or just life, a gap year will give you a new perspective, friends and some amazing memories. I think everyone should do one. Do you?

What is one place you've been to that few readers would know about that you think is a "must-see"?
A sorority house. I’m not kidding! Sorority houses in the deep south especially. Felt a bit like a cult at first with all the chants and traditions. Not many people get to witness all of this, especially a British guy. I was sworn to secrecy but maybe one day I will loosely write about my experience.

You claim to like to take "amusing photography" what do you mean by this?  Do you have a good example you can link to us?
Claim? Claim Brendan? I’m hurt. Well seeing as you’ve called me out, check out my Photo of the Week section.

What is one obscure item that you travel with?
I used to have this thing called dignity and then I lost it one time in Thailand.

If you were an animal (other than human of course) which one would you be an why?
A lion. No doubt. I mean they have an awesome musical and Disney film about them. I’m totally feeling the love tonight! They sleep for something like 20 hours a day. Brutal.

What is the best travel destination you've been for a good party?
Two spring to mind. Sydney, Kings Cross area. When I lived there I was going out 6 nights a week. Queenstown, New Zealand is also a very good shout. I mean one bar there has a deal on Wednesdays where you bring a ginger and get a $50 bar tab. Ginger people need love too

What is one food that you discovered while travelling that you know can't live without?
Pad Thai. I mean seriously. 50 Baht for Paid Thai, 50 baht for a drink. Get me back to Thailand!

What is one invaluable lesson that travel has taught you?
You, yeah I’m talking to you. Put your camera and iPhone away! We love capturing memories and sharing them on twitter but seriously. Put the stuff away and just be IN the moment. Watch that sunset, dig your toes in the sand or do whatever else you crazy kids are up to these days. Just once in a while try doing it without a camera or technology. Also helps if you bring a trigger happy friend with you who will take snaps instead of you.

This is your chance to brag.  What's next for you?  Where are you off to?
What’s next? A box of brownies. Where am I off to? To hide the evidence after I finish eating all of them. I want to go somewhere hot for Christmas. Just not decided where yet!

Got any questions for Amar? Leave them in the comments section below. Then hed to twitter and Facebook for more competitions, games and fun.

Take a look at all our trips to find the one that inspires you. Then request a FREE brochure for more info. 

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