We're planning a family gap year, and would love inputs, perspectives, risks, etc.
We're a family of four, when we go the kids will be 7 and 9 years old. Currently based out of San Francisco, CA, USA. Right now we're focusing on Southeast Asia, China, Russia, Northern Africa, and Western Europe.
Your question is? I would say you are probably in the wrong forum.
You need to read about the 90-days-within-180-days limit for the countries within the Schengen Zone. Also check on visa requirements for the other countries you want to visit.
Now would be a good time to check on what fees you will be charged for using your ATM card and credit cards overseas. If the answer isn't "near zero" you'll want to apply for more travel-friendly cards. You should have at least two ATM cards, attached to two separate accounts.
And read everything in the "Travel Tips" section of this website.
Are you going to be able to do an experience again like this ever again? If not, consider waiting until your children are slightly older and can remember it/appreciate it a bit more.
Also, you might find it more helpful if you posted your question in the proper section on this web site. This section is for Trip Reports - not open ended questions about travel.
One place to begin your research would be the websites for Star Alliance and OneWorld programs. Each of them offer Round the World airfares shared among their member airlines. For a trip such as the one you propose the cost might be surprisingly affordable and the rules governing their routes might fit in well with your proposed itinerary - as I recall you have a full year to complete your journey using the RTW fare structure, and the rules regarding booking the various legs are quite liberal, ie you don't have to book every leg when you initially book - only the first one. After that you can sort of schedule as you go, realizing that the earlier you commit the better chance you have of getting the specific flights that you want. Am pretty sure that each of the websites has sample itineraries to get you started with your planning and at least give you some ideas. Good luck.
Sorry, but what's a "family gap year"?
I’m curious about what a family gap year is as well??
Does it involve no schooling for the kids?
Will they be held back?
Family Gap Year
As best I can tell from some brief research is that it is a "year long family vacation"
Given the obvious expense of such an endeavor, I suspect the pool of folks who have done it and can provide useful experience based input is rather small.
I'd suggest joining some family travel groups on facebook - lots of families who will have good advice! I would love to do something like this at some point. What an amazing experience it will be!
