If you have the opportunity to study abroad, do it. Almost anyone can have this opportunity these days. I studied in Israel for a semester and took archaeology, comparative religions, geography, etc. courses. There were folks there from all over the world which was an added bonus.
Of course, there are times when you are homesick, have diarrhea, etc., but there are more times when you realize you are learning things outside the classroom that you never would have learned back home. What's more, you see places you only read about, etc.
Also, you meet people who are involved with situations you hear about on the news, etc. and that really puts a personal touch to those events. For instance, I was able to play on a Palestinian basketball team while I was there. It was interesting to realize that there were some on the team with strong nationalistic views and some who just wanted peace and to live in harmony. Then you would also talk with Jews and hear the same. It really puts a new face on many of the issues - you don't solve anything, but you get a good idea of the complexity of things.
About taking a year off, that also is good, but only if you do it with purpose. Taking time off in and of itself will not help you get into med school. Many people say these days, "I took time off", insinuating that they are now much more mature. What is important about taking time off is that you have a plan. If you travel, do it purposefully, if you work also do it purposefully. You can do almost anything, but the rationale must be there behind the work.
