Posted 28 May 2009

Social networking sites have changed the way those embarking on gap year travel feel about venturing into the world, according to bookings website Expedia.

Head of product marketing at the site Jonathan Cudworth points out that there is a huge world beyond the British isles and people are becoming more willing to explore it as they make new acquaintances across the globe through social networking sites.

Social networking "makes the world smaller so people are more likely to venture out of their comfort zone knowing people they know or people similar to them have been to these amazing places," he stated.

The internet and sites such as Facebook and MySpace also act as a supplement to traditional channels, such as TV and radio programmes, where people used to turn to find out more about a location, Mr Cudworth adds.

Meanwhile, research carried out by lastminute.com found that 42 per cent of young people update their Twitter and Facebook accounts regularly while on their travels.

Category: General Travel