While you may have opportunities to travel as a college student, if you get the opportunity to take a trip to a foreign country before you go, you should take it. Experience traveling abroad may even help you get into college; it shows admissions officers that you are well rounded and can give you good writing topics for the admissions essays.

If you are heading on the road you don’t have to leave everything behind. If you are keen to keep in shape and motivated on your travels, take your fitness classes with you online and maintain a healthy body and mind while you explore. Now where to go?

India

India is a colorful country, literally and figuratively. India is a significant center of international business and commerce, so if you are interested in a career in one of these fields, the things that you learn about the culture during your trip there could serve you well in the future. Even if you are not interested in the economic aspects of life in India, there is still a lot that you can learn during your trip there. The best gap year programs give you opportunities to participate in education and social programs so that you learn more about what life is like for people from all walks of life.

Ecuador

A relatively small country, Ecuador nevertheless consists of many different regions. Some are rainforest areas, while others are mountainous. Each has forms of wildlife that you cannot find anywhere else in the world, and a trip to Ecuador allows you to see them in their natural habitats. The Galapagos Islands are part of Ecuador, and there the wildlife sightings are really something special. Galapagos, after all, is where Charles Darwin went to study natural selection on which he based his theory of evolution. Therefore, if you are interested in studying biology in college, Ecuador is a must-see.

Tanzania

If you have ever wanted to take an authentic African safari, Tanzania is the place to go. Serengeti National Park has preserved acres of natural area without interfering with it. Thousands of animals of the African plains, including wildebeests and zebras as well as many native bird species, live protected within its boundaries, and you can see them on a safari ride through the park. Tanzania also has a lot to offer if you are interested in geology and paleontology. The Ol Doinyo Lengai is a volcano that produces unique lava, while the Ngorongoro Conservation area is one of the richest fossil sites in the world.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

In the 1990s, Bosnia and Herzegovina was the site of severe armed conflict. Over the intervening decades, it has stabilized, and today it is known for its magnificent scenery, natural and otherwise. The high peaks of Sutjeska National Park offer unbelievable views of the forests surrounding them. The villages, and even the cities, are picturesque for their unusual architecture. Though a major metropolitan area, the capital city of Sarajevo has relatively few skyscrapers. Instead, the skyline consists primarily of Gothic churches and Balkan red roofs, providing a relatively unimpeded view of the mountains beyond.

Panama

While the Panama Canal is well worth a visit, there are many other things to do in this Central American country perched between North and South America. Panama Viejo is a world heritage site where the vibe is colorful against the backdrop of architecture that is centuries old. You can get an incredible view of both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from the top of Ancon Hill. If you prefer to spend time on the beach, there are plenty of opportunities to do that in Panama.

Sicily

Sicily is a large Italian island that offers many opportunities to sample authentic cuisine. Because it is an island, fresh-caught seafood figures prominently on Sicilian menus. However, there is a lot more to Sicily than the food. There is an active volcano, ancient Roman ruins, and quaint cobblestone walkways. You can get around by renting a Vespa.

Honduras

Honduras was a center of the Mayan civilization, and traveling there gives you the opportunity to see ancient temples and hieroglyphics carved in stone. There are also opportunities to go snorkeling, ziplining, or on other outdoor adventures.

The best opportunities to travel may present themselves while you are young. Take advantage of them while you can.