If you work for a company that allows sabbaticals, it’s well worth taking advantage of this perk to expand your horizons and simply take a break from the daily grind for a while.
Many people use sabbaticals to sightsee, but there’s also the attractive opportunity to give something back to society by joining a volunteer project. Whatever kind of adventure you hope to have, there are several destinations you should consider – here’s our pick of five of the best.
Australia
Research suggests Australia is the most popular destination for those taking a break from work. Given its reputation as a mecca for students on a gap year, it might surprise you to learn that it’s also a big draw for over-50s looking to escape the UK for a few months. So it’s perhaps safe to say that the destination really is for all ages!
The sheer size of the country means you’ll have a different experience wherever you go on your sabbatical, from the cosmopolitan vibe of cities like Sydney and Melbourne to the impressive Great Barrier Reef, the remote outback and the heady tropical rainforests. Specific activities you can enjoy in Australia include working on a ranch and learning the finer points of wine tasting.
Thailand
Thailand’s breathtaking coastline and islands, exotic culture, low living costs and fantastic food make it a hit among Brits looking to really get away from it all on their sabbatical.
You can wander through the streets of cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai to immerse yourself in local history, relax on golden beaches, check out iconic sights like the bridge over the River Kwai or help out on volunteering schemes that assist local children in learning new skills. Thailand really does have something for everyone!
India
Another relatively cheap sabbatical destination, vibrant India has plenty to offer the work-weary traveller. You can choose from a host of experiences here, from relaxing on the golden beaches of Goa to exploring the Rajasthan desert and helping teach children high up in the Himalayas.
Despite being a technologically advanced country, India is home to many poor communities in desperate need of help – in terms of both money and human labour. So, if you want to do your bit as you travel through the nation, it’s well worth signing up to a volunteer project that lets you do just that.
South Africa
As the land of safaris, wine, spectacular scenery and a diverse culture, South Africa ticks all the boxes for a perfect sabbatical if you want to simply relax and enjoy yourself.
In terms of volunteering, you can spend time in small communities helping children learn to read, assist in the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned monkeys or take care of disadvantaged children in the more rural parts of the country.
Everywhere
Okay, so this might be cheating, but if you can’t decide where to go on your sabbatical, you could consider a round the world trip – especially if you have a few months off work. Think about the countries and activities that interest you and go from there, taking into account your budget and the time of year you wish to travel.
Just imagine flying to the USA and spending a few days there before travelling on to the likes of Costa Rica, Africa, China, Vietnam, Australia and New Zealand. Of course, this is just one potential itinerary; there are countless combinations to choose from for a sabbatical that is tailor-made for you!
What do you think? Are there any other destinations you think are ideal for a sabbatical, based either on experience or your own wish list? Let us know in the comments!