Hello~ Everyone! Today I want to share my incredible sabbatical journey exploring 4 different countries in just 30 days! Are you curious about how I managed to plan this adventure and what I discovered along the way? Shall we find out right away? 😊
Taking a sabbatical was one of the best decisions I've ever made for my personal growth and well-being. After five years of non-stop work, I felt burnout creeping in and knew I needed a significant break to recharge.
I chose Japan, Vietnam, Portugal, and Iceland as my destinations because each offered completely different cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. This variety was exactly what I needed to expand my horizons.
Planning a month-long trip across four countries required serious organization. I spent nearly two months researching and creating detailed itineraries while still maintaining room for spontaneity.
| Planning Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Budget | $6,500 total including flights, accommodations, food, and activities |
| Accommodations | Mix of budget hotels, Airbnbs, and one splurge hotel per country |
| Packing Strategy | One carry-on backpack and one small daypack for entire trip |
| Transportation | Combination of flights, trains, buses and occasional car rentals |
My journey began in Tokyo, where I spent five incredible days exploring this fascinating metropolis. The contrast between ancient temples and futuristic skyscrapers created an atmosphere unlike anywhere else I've visited.
What surprised me most was how peaceful Tokyo felt despite being one of the world's largest cities. The orderly subway system made navigation simple, and I quickly adapted to the daily rhythm.
My favorite experiences included visiting the teamLab Borderless digital art museum, enjoying a traditional tea ceremony in a hidden garden, and taking a day trip to see Mount Fuji. The Japanese concept of "omotenashi" (wholehearted hospitality) was evident everywhere.
After Japan, I flew to Vietnam where I divided my week between Hanoi and Hoi An. The sensory experience was immediate – the fragrant street food, the symphony of motorbike horns, and the vibrant markets filled with colorful produce and handicrafts.
Vietnam's food scene was a highlight of my entire sabbatical. I took a cooking class in Hoi An where I learned to make authentic pho and banh xeo (crispy pancakes). The instructor took us to local markets to select ingredients, explaining the importance of each herb and spice.
I also spent two days cruising through Halong Bay, where limestone karsts rise dramatically from emerald waters. Sleeping on a traditional junk boat under the stars was an experience I'll never forget. 😍
Portugal offered a perfect mid-trip change of pace. I focused on Lisbon and Porto, with a day trip to Sintra's fairytale palaces. The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings created a photogenic backdrop for my adventures.
I found myself captivated by Fado music – Portugal's soulful traditional genre. One evening in a tiny Lisbon tavern, listening to a Fado singer pour emotion into every note while enjoying a glass of port wine became one of those perfect travel moments.
The Portuguese people were incredibly welcoming. I had wonderful conversations with locals who shared stories about their country's rich history and recommended hidden gems not found in guidebooks.
Iceland served as the grand finale of my sabbatical. I rented a car and drove part of the Ring Road, giving me access to breathtaking waterfalls, black sand beaches, and geothermal hot springs.
The landscape felt almost otherworldly – sometimes I wondered if I'd landed on another planet rather than just another country. Hiking on a glacier with crampons and an experienced guide gave me a profound appreciation for Iceland's natural wonders.
Despite visiting in shoulder season, I was lucky enough to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the sky on my final night – a magical conclusion to my sabbatical journey. ✨
| Key Sabbatical Experiences by Country | ||
|---|---|---|
| Japan | Vietnam | Portugal |
| Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing | Hanoi Street Food Tour | Lisbon's Alfama District |
| Kyoto Temple Tour | Halong Bay Cruise | Porto Wine Tasting |
| Mount Fuji Excursion | Hoi An Lantern Festival | Sintra Palace Visit |
| Iceland | Travel Skills | Personal Growth |
| Northern Lights Viewing | Minimalist Packing | Comfort with Solitude |
| Blue Lagoon Relaxation | Budget Management | Flexibility & Adaptability |
| Golden Circle Drive | Language Navigation | Cultural Appreciation |
This sabbatical taught me more than I ever expected. Beyond the practical travel skills I developed, I gained profound insights about myself and what truly matters in life.
One key realization was how little we actually need to be happy. Living out of a single backpack for a month showed me how much excess I'd accumulated at home. Upon returning, I immediately decluttered my living space.
I also discovered my capacity for adaptability. From navigating Tokyo's complex subway system to handling a minor car breakdown in rural Iceland, each challenge boosted my confidence and problem-solving abilities.
| Common Questions About My Sabbatical | |
|---|---|
| Wasn't it exhausting to visit so many countries in just one month? | It was definitely fast-paced, but I deliberately chose countries with different attractions to keep things interesting. The key was building in rest days and not trying to see absolutely everything. |
| How did you handle the language barriers? | I learned about 10-15 basic phrases in each language, which locals always appreciated. Translation apps helped with specific situations, and in tourist areas, English was usually sufficient. |
| What was your biggest challenge during the trip? | Adjusting to multiple time zones in quick succession was harder than expected. I found that staying well-hydrated, getting morning sunlight, and taking melatonin helped me adapt more quickly. |
If you're considering a sabbatical, I cannot recommend it enough. Even if you can't manage a full month across multiple countries, even a two-week break in a single destination can provide incredible benefits for your mental health and perspective.
The world has so much to teach us when we step outside our comfort zones! 🌍
See you next time with another exciting travel topic! 🌈 Bye Bye~