Sabbaticals

A GUIDE TO

SABBATICALS time to reflect...

Sumatra, Indonesia

INTRODUCTION

Things to do, places to be, people to see. When life becomes one long To Do list, we can easily forget to ask the questions that really matter.

Who am I? What do I want? Why do I want it?

At Original Travel we’re big fans of holidays (no surprise there), but sabbaticals are a rare opportunity to truly break out of the normal routine and answer those big questions; to press the reset button on life, rather than just the pause button.

We’ve organised sabbaticals of all shapes and sizes, but all with the same core intention - allowing yourself the privilege of space and time to focus on what matters to you. This guide is full to the brim with insights, ideas and inspiration on the whys, wheres, whats and whens of taking a sabbatical.

After all, life is for living. Start with a sabbatical.

Tom Barber, Co-Founder, beneficiary of a sabbatical back in 2009 and probably due another one

CONTENTS 1. CONSIDER ........................................................... 06 - Who, What, Why?.................................................... 10 - The Benefits............................................................ 12 - Feel the Fear… and Do It Anyway......................... 16 - FFFs (Frequently Faced Fears)............................. 20 - How to Ask For a Sabbatical................................. 22 2. INSPIRE................................................................. 24 - Culture, Nature, Learning a New Skill................... 26 - Wellness, Giving Back, Family .............................. 34 - Bucket List............................................................... 44 - More Ideas............................................................... 50 - Where to Go When.................................................. 52 3. PLAN...................................................................... 54 - The Planning Process............................................. 56 - How to Prepare For a Sabbatical.......................... 60 - Travelling Together ................................................ 62 - Why Original Travel?............................................... 66

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INTRODUCTION

WISH YOU WERE HERE? Sabbatical snapshots from around the world…

“Original Travel are one of the world’s best kept secrets in travel – nothing is too much for their team of experts.”

PF, an 18-month worldwide sabbatical

“We have nothing but praise for the very kind and efficient attention paid by the whole Original Travel team. It would have been very difficult to organise a sabbatical like this oneself.

We felt entirely confident that in the unlikely event of any problem arising, Original Travel would solve it. You took away the potential stress and made it very enjoyable.

Thank you!”

RS, three-month Africa sabbatical

CHAPTER 1: CONSIDER

SHOULD I ...?

There’s more to taking a sabbatical than packing a bag and booking a flight. You need to consider multiple things such as work, family, home, pets, finances, health… the list goes on. The good news? It’s all totally manageable and any fears are completely normal. Over the next few pages you’ll discover what a sabbatical actually is (spoiler: it’s whatever you want it to be); who should take one (spoiler: it’s everyone); the answers to your questions and the solutions to your concerns.

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SHOULD I...? | CONSIDER

WORK-LIFE (OUT OF) BALANCE The ‘Work-Life Balance’. That elusive nirvana we’re all aiming for. In a world of technology and flexible working, it’s theoretically easier than ever to make work work around us, but the flipside is the added pressure and expectation to always be, well, working.

In fact, despite all of this wonderful flexibility, a survey in

see what’s happening in our inbox, and a deflating ‘we’re

2017 reported that 69% of employees across the UK and

already halfway through and I’m only just relaxing!’ feeling.

Europe said they do not have a good work-life balance. If

When it comes to that tricky little thing called work-life

we have the opportunity to work from home, work early,

balance, it’s difficult to truly tune into the Life frequency

work late, work on the go, work the second we wake up and

when we keep changing the channel back to make sure we

check our emails, then when does the ‘work’ part end and

didn’t miss anything on Work FM.

the ‘life’ part begin? How often do we truly switch off? Does

Sabbaticals are a game changer. A sabbatical allows us

life begin at 5pm every Friday and pause again on Sunday

the space and time to reset, to unblur the boundaries, to

evening as we mentally prepare for Monday morning, or

fulfil the promises we’ve made to put health/travels/family

do thoughts of work lurk in our every waking moment?

first, as well as reignite our passion for a fulfilling worklife.

We’ve all done it. Woken up and checked our phone

When you’re on sabbatical, there are no urgent emails that

before saying good morning to the person next to us, or

need a quick reply before breakfast, there is no loop to be

even fully opening our eyes. Even when we go on holiday,

kept in, there is no work-life balance; it’s all life balance.

there’s often an incessant, addictive need to check in and

Sounds good, doesn’t it?

Images clockwise from left: The backwaters in Kerala, India; The view from The Peak, Hong Kong; Sunset in Yosemite National Park, USA; Kayaking in Pha Nga Bay, Thailand; Hiking in Garibaldi Provincial Park, Canada

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WHY SHOULD I TAKE A SABBATICAL?

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM A SABBATICAL?

Sabbaticals come about in different ways. Once the

A sabbatical is defined simply as an extended break away

preserve of academia, they were an encouraged leave

from work, meaning that we can handpick all the fun stuff.

of absence for scholarly writing and research. In fact,

They could last one month or 12, consist of ticking off

the word sabbatical derives from the Hebrew word

multiple bucket list items across 30 different countries

'Sabbath', the day of rest, as scholars would take a year's

or spending the whole time getting under the skin of just

break from their studies every seven years. Sabbaticals

one destination; it’s all a sabbatical, and the juicy details

have now been redefined, and

are down to you (and us). What

come about in various different

we do know is that however they

circumstances across all

come about and however long

industries. It may be about taking

they last, the same themes come

advantage of time off (voluntarily

up again and again. “I want to…

or otherwise) between jobs;

reconnect with family/pursue

enjoying some gardening leave

self-improvement/prevent myself

(minus the gardening); taking a

from burning out/reignite my

well-earned break from a current

passion for life and work/see the

role. Or due to a big personal

world while I can…” Whatever your

change; selling a business; shifting

motivation, we’ve come up with

priorities; embarking on a fully-

some ideas on what might work

fledged mid-life crisis, being freshly

for you, from pages 24 to 51.

responsibility-free (hurrah!) or

WHO WOULD BENEFIT FROM

easing into retirement. After all,

TAKING A SABBATICAL?

going from spinning 20 plates at

Pretty much everyone. For CEOs,

once to suddenly doing nothing

teachers, entrepreneurs etc, the

can be a bit daunting.

benefits of being refreshed and reinvigorated both personally and

The great thing about the word sabbatical is that it covers all of

professionally are so clear that

the above, but requires minimal

there is no single profile for who

explanation of the details, which

needs a sabbatical, or what that

can be tricky to talk about.

break should look like. An increasing

Consider it a fig leaf for a wealth

number of savvy companies are developing sabbatical policies

of situations where we’re essentially just putting ourselves first for once. We have

for their staff because the positive impact on employee

little trouble with the hedonistic pursuits of youngsters

retention and workplace happiness is huge. Indeed, 25% of

taking gap years, so let’s start getting comfortable with

Fortune’s '100 Best Companies to Work For' offer their staff

the adult equivalent (minus the Thailand full moon

sabbaticals. It's never been more socially acceptable to

parties, backpacks and hostel bunk beds, unless you

prioritise life over work. There’s no longer any stigma about

want that, of course).

putting our wellbeing first, in whatever form that takes.

Which leads us nicely onto the benefits… b

32

%

46

%

69

%

of clients who took a sabbatical

of people who took a sabbatical

of employees surveyed across

with Original Travel went for

in 2017 and 2018 wanted

the UK and Europe said they do

between three and six months

to learn a new skill

not have a good work-life balance

(47% for one to three months)

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“We have little trouble with the hedonistic pursuits of youngsters taking gap years, so let’s start getting comfortable with the adult equivalent”

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No matter what you do as a day job, we've all

WORK BENEFITS

Taking a sabbatical doesn’t have to mean tuning out

experienced the benefit of seeing things through a

entirely. In fact, we may find ourselves refocusing the

different lens. Sometimes when we’re caught up in the

energy normally channelled into work into a philanthropic

moment of a project, we forget exactly what we’re doing

project (page 38) or to learning a new skill (page 32).

and why we’re doing it. We often look to an outsider for

Whether we’re swapping morning meetings for mountain

an objective point of view, but a sabbatical allows you the

biking or mindful meditation, travel in all forms broadens

emotional and physical space to be that outsider yourself.

the mind and inspires us in myriad ways. From appreciating

Who am I? What do I want? Why do I want it? How can I

the joy of simplicity in rural life (page 30) to experiencing

make it happen? Very important questions, but ones that

a wealth of culture and history in ancient cities (page 26),

can get lost in the day-to-day doing of life. If we only have a

these skills, challenges and experiences transcend the

limited amount of energy and we’ve already used up a hefty

personal to enrich our professional lives too, letting us

portion running a business/team/project; or on our

bring new perspectives and ideas into the workplace. MD

commute; or on politics at work; or the general daily grind,

of Personal Career Management Corinne Mills suggests:

how can we be expected to have the time, energy and

'Taking time out to study, learn a new skill or try some

space to see the bigger picture? Viewing the world from

interesting experiences can be positively life-changing, both professionally and from a personal point of view. Stepping off the treadmill of work enables you to think about what you really want to do with the rest of your career, and life.'

another perspective can make us

“Taking time out to study, learn a new skill or try some interesting experiences can be positively life-changing, both professionally and from a personal point of view. Stepping off the treadmill of work enables you to think about what you really want to do with the rest of your career, and life.”

Corinne Mills, MD of Personal Career Management

Snaefellsnes, Iceland

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realise we want something totally different – a complete career change – or maybe it will make us appreciate what we already have and renew our passion for it. Either way, we’ll have more clarity and be making more informed decisions.

Sedona, Arizona, USA

HEALTH BENEFITS

It’s no secret that stress has a massive impact on our health, both physical and mental.

Reduce stress and you also

“As a GP, I regularly see patients with work related stress and burnout. A change of environment, for example a sabbatical, can be a great antidote to these problems.”

Dr Rachel Allen

reduce the risk of stroke,

where do we find the time to simply sit and think and reflect?

Mindfulness and meditation have become increasingly popular in the West for this very reason - we’re searching for a

diabetes, heart attack, high blood pressure and mental

way to be in tune with ourselves - but it’s often temporary,

health issues… the list goes on.

and finding the time can be tough, so the cycle continues.

The sad truth is that some of us don’t appreciate our

Even our sacred holidays that we’ve worked so hard for are

health until it’s too late; until either we or someone close

only a temporary change of pace before we’re right back in

to us has a wake-up call that makes us sit up and value our

the rat race again.

physical and mental wellbeing. Whether you’re currently

Always being in work mode can mean we forget to make

in top shape, looking to improve or want to totally revamp

time for the things we actually enjoy and that make us

your health routine, taking a sabbatical not only eliminates

happy. Studies show that 15% of people are experiencing

the health-battering stress-factor of work from our lives,

mental health problems in the workplace, and evidence

but also allows us to focus generally on what our bodies

suggests that 13% of all sickness absence days in the

and minds actually want and need.

UK are attributable to mental health issues. Sabbaticals

We've become so used to rushing from pillar to post,

provide a remedy, a total break from the norm to help us

grabbing food on the go (we’re no strangers to a cheeky

reset ourselves, refocus our priorities and - essentially

desk lunch between meetings), pushing ourselves until we

- put our wellbeing and happiness first. Being happier

have no energy to do anything but watch TV and go to bed;

makes us healthier.

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PERSONAL BENEFITS

Sadly, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves disconnected from those we love the most. Whether our family consists of a partner, children or any other wonderful combination, time away from the stresses of everyday life can help us reconnect, rebuild and strengthen these important bonds.

Overcoming challenges together, having more time for one another and enjoying fresh experiences together bonds us.

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%

The same is true if the person we’re disconnected from is ourself, left

of clients who took a sabbatical

wondering who we are and where we belong. Whether it’s a full-on identity

with Original Travel did so out of

crisis or a more gentle dawning realisation that we’re far from being the

a desire for self-improvement

person we thought we’d turn out to be, travelling to new places with new challenges - and the space to make mistakes and try new things - can help us figure things out.

SO, IT'S DECIDED

Original Travel have had the precious task of planning many sabbaticals and handling all of the life admin that entails. This sabbatical guide is just a snapshot of what we can do for you.

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“

“THANK YOU to the team for such life enhancing experiences!! We have had an amazing experience with some fantastic guides, and in some of the most beautiful places in the world!

It is only when looking back that the enormity of what we have done truly hits home. It has been an absolutely mind-blowing experience.”

TG and family, a six-month sabbatical

”

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FEEL THE FEAR | CONSIDER

FEEL THE FEAR...

AND DO IT ANYWAY “It’s only normal to come up with excuses not to try something new or bold.

We all fear uncertainty and things going wrong. Another way is to focus instead on the potential upsides and how the decision could transform your life for the better” Gil Dove, Leadership Coach

Change can be scary. Whether we’re teetering on the edge,

into submission, especially with the help of experts who’ve

or have already taken the sabbatical decision plunge, fears

seen it all before (that’s us). Other fears are more deeply

about the logistics - the ‘what abouts', the ‘what ifs' - can

rooted emotional barriers within ourselves, but these too

start to creep in. Sometimes these are self-doubts, other

are entirely surmountable. After all, “twenty years from now

times they're niggling questions from those far-too-practical

you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t

voices around us, but either can lead to excuses as to why

do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines.

we should or shouldn’t do something.

Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in

The good news is that these concerns are entirely conquerable. After all, the practicalities can be organised

your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” Turns out Mark Twain may not actually have said this, but it still stands.

Images, clockwise from left: Cliff jumping, Croatia; Exploring Havana, Cuba; Skiing in Verbier, Switzerland; Friends reunited, California, USA; Silver surfers, Bali, Indonesia

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LET'S GET EMOTIONAL

Once we’ve tackled the logistics and no longer have any

Just for a minute, mind. Many of us have thrived in other

excuses about those practicalities to deal with, we can

areas of our lives - at work, for example - by appearing

look at what it is we’re actually scared of, feel that fear...

fearless, but there’s no shame in having some concerns

and then do it anyway.

around leaving one's emotional comfort zone. Many of us feel

SO, LET'S GET PR ACTICAL

prepared to overcome work barriers; after all, we’ve already

Planning a sabbatical can seem overwhelming – you’re

done it time and again and survived (and often thrived) to

faced with the prospect of organising all of the mechanics

tell the tale, but we're often less comfortable with facing

of a huge trip with flights, packing and visas aplenty,

personal barriers, unlocking new ideas or perspectives

plus all of the practicalities of being away for an extended

and, potentially, confronting a few home truths.

period of time, such as finding nannies or tutors for

We’ve heard tales of those brave souls who seek out

children, coordinating home security, ensuring you can access healthcare as and when

mountain retreats and, alone with their thoughts and without the distractions of day to day life, achieve great realisations about their place in the world; about who they truly are and what they truly want. While this idea may excite some of us, others might be scared of this introspection; of not having a perceived purpose like we have at work; of being out of the loop or behind the group as the world keeps turning without us, and

“Once we’ve tackled the logistics and no longer have any excuses about those practicalities to deal with, we can look at what it is we’re actually scared of, feel that fear... and then do it anyway.”

missing the predictability of

you need it - all the boring-butimportant stuff that has its place in our ordinary lives.

Luckily, you’re in the best hands possible. We’ve seen it all before and have a vast amount of experience tending to these details so that you can focus on simply enjoying the trip.

So, the dream of exploring the world is there, and the passion to discover something new and get out of your comfort zone is ignited,

routine. These are all very valid concerns. We have

but there are still several things to think about, and a

structure in our lives for a reason: to help us predict the

lot of excuses we might still make as to why we shouldn’t

future and control whatever we can control, but the truth

go through with it. At Original Travel we’ve got a lot of

is that while these fears are understandable, they should

experience in planning (and taking our own!) sabbaticals,

not be debilitating or stop us from living our best lives.

so we’ve collated some expert advice and information on

The best way to conquer these emotional fears is first

conquering your fears about travelling for an extended

to ensure all of the practicalities are taken care of. Afraid

period (page 20); asking for and taking time off work

of getting homesick and missing family and friends?

(page 22) and how to pack for it (page 60), and have even

Book in regular trips back home, or organise for people to

included space for you to scribble a few inspirational notes

come and join you. Concerned about how to pack for five

(page 72). We’re on hand to help you out with planning,

different climates in one bag? We’ll organise your luggage

budgeting, logistics and generally making the most of

to be sent ahead so you only need to carry the basics.

the time you have in the destination(s) you want to visit.

Images, clockwise from above: Overlooking Oludeniz, Turkey; Admiring Udaipur, India; Exploring Khao Sok National Park, Thailand; Family fun, Wyoming, USA; Exploring Tokyo, Japan.

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WHAT WOULD I DO

FFFs

(FREQUENTLY FACED FEARS)

WITH THE TIME OFF?

Anything! Everything! The point is to stop doing what you were doing beforehand, be that for a month or much longer. Ideally you’ll recall a long lost desire to achieve something, improve somehow, go somewhere.

Identify that and the rest will follow, and if it’s in any way travel and/or experience related, we’re here to help, but it might just as easily be learning

You've got questions, we've got answers

to play the piano or paint watercolours.

Equally valid, but we’d argue you can do that sort of thing of an evening during your ‘normal’ life. If you have managed to secure the longest single amount of time off you will ever have in your working life then we strongly urge you to think big and head out into the world. Who knows, you may get a flavour for it and become a serial sabbatical taker.

I RUN MY OWN COMPANY. WHAT HAPPENS WHILE I'M AWAY?

It might be a sweeping generalisation, but most founders/bosses tend to have a touch of control freakery in their make-up. It’s the flipside of the perfectionism that makes them such excellent entrepreneurs in the first place. You'll find it hard to resist checking up on the business, but we'd recommend keeping it to a bare minimum. After all, handing over the reins to your second-in-command will help succession planning and you can take immense pride when the team rise to the challenge in your absence.

WHAT IF I DON'T HAVE A JOB TO RETURN TO BECAUSE THE PERSON COVERING FOR ME HAS TAKEN IT?

So here’s the thing. If this happens to you then they're not the sort of company you should be working for anyway. Or, they didn’t think you were right for them, in which case you're better off not working for a company that doesn’t value you.

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WHO WOULD COVER FOR ME?

WHAT IF EVERYTHING IS

HOW CAN I AFFORD TO

If you’re confident that you are an

DIFFERENT WHEN I RETURN?

TAKE A SABBATICAL?

integral part of your organisation and

It might be, but almost certainly for

Some sabbaticals are all private jets

that they would never willingly want

the better. You’ll return refreshed and

and luxurious experiences. Others

you to leave, then - frankly - working

renewed, with a new perspective. If

are about pretty much the exact

out who will cover for you is their

you're returning to work, your company

opposite, with clients looking to

challenge, not yours. No one is so

will have learned how to cope -

divest themselves of the materialistic

mission critical that the world won't

temporarily, at least - without your

trappings of modern life and experience

turn without them, so give the

sheer awesomeness.

a more humble, spiritual way of life.

That can cost next to nothing, and

company enough warning, guarantee that you will come back refreshed

WHAT IF MY COLLEAGUES ARE

yet be more enriching than any other

and reinvigorated, and they can’t

UNABLE TO TAKE ME SERIOUSLY

experience, so deep pockets are

have a problem with your decision.

AFTER MY SABBATICAL?

absolutely not a prerequisite.

Have you actually been reading any WHAT ABOUT MY KIDS' EDUCATION?

of this guide? If that’s a concern, leave

ISN'T A YEAR OUT FOR STUDENTS?

This is, of course, the single most

this dog-eared and dearly loved guide

Yes and no. If you had a ‘Gap Yah’ then

important thing to consider for parents

on their desks and they might soon

you’ll know that those few precious

of school age children who want to

understand. Besides, the 'new you'

months before the onset of adulthood

take them on sabbatical. First, the

should be all the proof they need that

related responsibilities are an

practical response. If there are the

sabbaticals are a winner of an idea.

unmissable chance to experience

funds to consider it, then taking a private tutor with you is an option (and a great gig for the tutor in question).

This is something we have arranged on a number of occasions for clients, and it works extremely well. Then there's the internet. If you’re disciplined and organised, you can arrange for the children to receive a ‘remote’ education through online assignments

69

untold freedom and - let’s not forget

%

of clients who took a sabbatical with Orginal Travel said they were excited and proud to tell others about their trip.

and tutoring. On a more emotive level,

- fun. Those lucky enough to have had a year off will also remember that it’s profoundly depressing knowing that you’ve probably already had the best year of your life. Well, thanks to a sabbatical, that no longer need be the case. Chances are, in fact, that if you take a sabbatical you will appreciate the time off even more than the younger you did, because you have the

the pay-off that parents need to

power of comparison to appreciate the

consider is this: will any perceived

MY COMPANY DOESN'T

deficit in ‘traditional’ education while

HAVE A SABBATICAL POLICY

freedom and - let’s still not forget - fun.

the children are away be matched or

SO HOW DO I ASK FOR ONE?

ISN'T IT SELF INDULGENT TO

bettered by the life experiences and

Where there’s a will, there’s a way,

GO TR AVELLING FOR SO LONG?

education-by-experience that they

Waving this guide under the right

Fun sponge alert! If you’d prefer your

enjoy through seeing the wider world?

noses won’t do your cause any harm,

sabbatical served with stale bread

In our view, and with our planning, the

and might make less enlightened

and water and a side order of guilt we

answer is an emphatic 'yes'.

bosses see the error of their ways.

can arrange it, but that might put a

You’re welcome.

slight dampner on things. This is a once-in-a-working-lifetime opportunity

WILL THIS DAMAGE MY CAREER?

If you identify what emotional need

HOW WOULD A SABBATICAL

to do something (or things) completely

you are looking to satisfy on your

LOOK ON MY CV?

incredible; to visit places you’d only

sabbatical, and plan the essential

The truth is, time out doesn't look as bad

ever dreamed of visiting; to experience

details of said sabbatical to ensure

as you think it will. Leaders understand

things that will linger in your memory

you'll meet your goals (we might know

the realities of life and the ebbs and

for a lifetime. Self indulgent?

a multi award-winning travel company

flows of careers. In fact, your sabbatical

who can help with that) then, in a

will make you a better candidate than

word, no. You'll be back a more

ever, by reinvigorating and refreshing

fulfilled, culturally aware you.

you - especially if you've spent some time volunteering or learning a new skill.

ANY MORE QUESTIONS?

We've fielded hundreds of sabbatical questions over the years, so ask away...

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HOW TO ASK FOR A SABBATICAL...

NOW YOU'VE DECIDED

YES

Does your company have a sabbatical policy?

Read the policy and discuss with your manager the duration, when you want to depart and how you see your return to work

Start planning your sabbatical.

(We're here to help...)

YES

Offer to help develop a sabbatical policy (and share this guide)

Request sabbatical

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NO

Would you be willing to resign?

YES

Decide on the duration, when you want to depart and how you see your return to work

Meet your manager to share plans, explain rationale and ask if they'd consider implementing a sabbatical policy

Share a copy of our sabbatical guide with the powers that be...

NO

Spell out your sabbatical reasoning, share the company benefits (see page 12) and explain your ideal situation, from duration to start date. Give careful consideration to how you feel your role can be covered while you’re away and ask to discuss these ideas with your manager. Then ask if they can see a way in which this could work

NO

Explain sabbatical reasoning and share the company benefits (see page 12) and your ideal position (e.g. sabbatical duration and starting date) and how you feel your role can be covered while you're away

Wait a reasonable amount of time (1-2 weeks)

Re-share sabbatical rationale and personal importance - highlighting that if required, you will resign

“

“I couldn't fault the service at all right from the start you completely understood our requirements.

The organisation was exceptional.

Our flight home was cancelled last minute but Original Travel managed to sort out our journey home with minimal hassle. Thank you again.”

LM, East African sabbatical

”

CHAPTER 2: INSPIRE

I WANT TO...

What would you do if you could take a break from day-to-day life for a while? See as much of the world as possible? Reconnect with family? Yourself? Nature?

Maybe there's a certain country, region or city you want to explore, or maybe it’s all about what you’ll do and learn, wherever you are. Either way, think about what you want to achieve with the statement ‘I want to…’ and let our ideas and insights in the following few pages inspire you.

INSPIRE | CULTURE

I WANT TO...

BE IMMERSED IN DIFFERENT CULTURES You can get a flavour of a place on a traditional holiday, but a sabbatical offers a unique opportunity for immersion. Spending extended time with people from a totally different culture provides not only unparalleled insight into their values and history, but also encourages you to reflect on your own. With our unparalleled contacts and network of Concierges, who can open otherwise inaccessible doors and introduce you to local communities, we can ensure you have the most eye-opening experience imaginable.

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CULTURE | INSPIRE

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INSPIRE | CULTURE

TRIBAL TRADITIONS WITH THE ETHIOPIAN OMO For a truly authentic experience away from Western civilisation, travel to Ethiopia’s remote Omo Valley and meet with the local tribespeople as an honoured guest. Regarded as one of the world’s final frontiers, this valley is home to various tribes co-existing in a diverse landscape of grassland, riverine forests and delta marshes. Stay in a remote lodge for a fortnight or so and venture out by 4x4 to meet the likes of the lip plate-wearing Mursi and the body painted Karo. You may also get the opportunity to witness the extraordinary bull jumping ceremony with the Hamer people, the culmination of a three-day long rite of passage for young men within the tribe.

MULTI-LAYERED LIFE IN MEXICO With so many layers of history (including Aztec, Zapotec, Mayan and Spanish Colonial) Mexico is something of a cultural onion just waiting to be peeled. Although visiting the country’s numerous ancient archaeological sites offers important context, immersing oneself here is really about getting to know the culture through everyday activities. Take time to perfect cooking traditional dishes with a local Zapotec family in Oaxaca, or wander through lesser-visited neighbourhoods in San Angel or Coyoacan in Mexico City with a knowledgeable guide; just two ways to get a real feel for Mexico.

ACCESS ALL AREAS IN ABORIGINAL AUSTRALIA Visit Australia’s remote Arnhem Land, where sacred lands and ancient rock art dominate the rich, red landscape. This vast wilderness is still owned by the indigenous Yolngu people, and permits are required to visit. When travelling with one of our experienced guides, you have unprecedented access to areas such as the Injalak Hill rock art gallery and can spend several days exploring on foot and by 4x4 from luxury tented camps.

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CULTURE | INSPIRE

RURAL COMMUNITIES IN THE INDIAN HIMALAYAS Join expert local guides to hike between the traditional rural communities which are dotted around the stunning Himalayan landscape in Sikkim. Between hikes you’ll stay in beautifully refurbished village houses and spend a week learning about local mountain life. When not exploring the lush surroundings on foot, cultural highlights include participating in early morning prayers at Rinchenpong Monastery, taking tea with a retired school teacher in Khandu village and visiting a typical mountain village market to shop for locally-grown groceries to rustle up delicious dishes.

MAINTAINING IDENTITY WITH SWEDISH SAMI Despite the pressures of modernisation, Lapland’s indigenous Sami people enjoy a quiet continuation of their traditional lifestyle. We can arrange for you to spend several days with a local Sami man who embraces the opportunity to invite visitors into his home and teach them about the threats and challenges his people face in maintaining their identity. During your stay you will sleep in a traditional lavvu (teepee) tent, admire the Northern Lights (hopefully) and learn the dying art of reindeer-herding from your guide's brother.

KAZAKH EAGLE HUNTERS IN MONGOLIA Every autumn Mongolia’s nomadic ethnic Kazakh population hold Eagle Festivals deep in the dramatic Altai Mountains. These ancient festivals are a celebration of the extraordinary partnership formed between the eagles and their master handlers. To better understand this centuries-old, hunter-gatherer lifestyle and its importance for these communities’ survival, we can arrange for you to live in a traditional ger felt tent and work as a respected member of a Kazakh family during the lead up to the festival.

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INSPIRE | NATURE

I WANT TO...

GET BACK TO NATURE

Spending time in the natural world is a vital balm for the soul and one we should all try and make time for, but it’s easier said than done.

Sabbaticals allow us the privilege of time to truly get away from it all. With weeks or even months to spare, looking for niche wildlife species in the rainforests of Borneo or dedicating time to learning astronomy aren’t such far-flung ideas.

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NATURE | INSPIRE

WALKING SAFARIS IN ZAMBIA

PRIVATE ISLAND PEACE IN MOZAMBIQUE

Become more closely acquainted with nature on a

There’s a whole other world beneath the waves,

multi-day guided walking safari in Zambia’s South

so what better way to get away from the constant

Luangwa, taking your time to travel between luxury

demands of email, Instagram and the latest

mobile camps, getting much closer to the bush and

must binge-watch box-set than swapping your

its resident wildlife in the process. Exploring on

smartphone for a snorkel? Explore the marine

foot means that you’ll not only see some of the

world and escape day-to-day life on a private island

big stuff (from a safe distance, of course) but also

surrounded by pristine reefs just off the coast of

plenty of fascinating smaller creatures. Then head

Mozambique, where it feels as if time has stood still.

over to the Lower Zambezi National Park for a tranquil boat safari.

ANCIENT RAINFOREST IN MALAYSIAN BORNEO

CANADA’S WILD WEST, BRITISH COLOMBIA

At the ripe old age of 130 million years old,

Think nature and wildlife and your mind might jump

Malaysian Borneo’s Danum Valley Conservation

to the Big Five-hosting savannahs of Africa, but

Area is one of the oldest and most biodiverse

head to Canada's British Columbia and you will find

rainforests in the world. Spend a few nights

another abundance of animals great and small, and

exploring with our expert guides and spot

locals who can regale you with stories, myths and

orangutans, Bornean slow lorises, proboscis

legends about them. Take in the watery wildlife off

monkeys and pygmy elephants. There's also the

Vancouver Island and the elusive spirit bears of the

opportunity to go swimming in natural river pools,

Great Bear Rainforest, all set against a wild

test your head for heights on a treetop canopy walk

mountainous backdrop.

or simply relax and listen to the chorus of birds.

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I WANT TO...

LEARN A SKILL

Make the world your classroom. What better way to learn a skill than on an immersive sabbatical, where you have the freedom to dedicate proper time to your pursuit? As well as being incredibly rewarding, learning new skills keeps you sharp, so don’t worry about the sabbatical-shaped gap in your CV. Fill it with all the transferable skills you picked up en route and you'll make yourself a better candidate than ever.

LEARN A LANGUAGE WITH A LOCAL

LEARN TO COOK

Whether you’re mad about Mandarin or fanatical about

Serving something you have lovingly made yourself is

French, earn yourself some serious achievement points

immensely soul-soothing and satisfying in equal measure.

(in both work and life) by learning a language on your

The eating part is pretty fun, too. You may have tried your

sabbatical. Lessons with a friendly and qualified local

hand at a pad thai, mole or pintxo (Basque tapas) at home,

are the perfect way to get it started; then, with some

but it adds a whole new dimension to visit a vibrant

basics under your belt, you can practise to your heart’s

market, pick fresh ingredients and learn to cook up an

content as you live like a local or travel around. How

authentic culinary creation with a local cook talking you

about challenging yourself to speak no English at all

through each step. Pick up recipes and techniques from

for a portion of the trip?

around the world to impress dinner guests for a lifetime.

PERFECT PICTURES IN BOTSWANA

MUAY THAI BOXING IN THAILAND

Whether you're a beginner or semi pro, take your

Muay Thai (Thai boxing) is about more than getting a

photography to the next level on a dedicated photography

sweat on, focusing instead on the relationship between

safari, taking the time to really capture that perfect

mind and body. Thailand's national sport dates from the

shot – hippo yawning, lion pouncing or lilac breasted

18th century, when Burmese soldiers captured famed

roller, er, rolling. The right lodge (we know ones with

fighter Nai Khanom Tom and gave him the chance to win

amazing hides) and a professional photographic guide

his freedom by beating ten of their number. His fighting

are crucial to putting you in the right place at the right

style and dance to respect his ancestors before the

time, and teaching you skills you can then use on the rest

smack-down is the stuff of Thai legend, and you can learn

of your adventures.

some of his moves in Bangkok’s legendary boxing camps.

MOVE TO THE MUSIC IN LATIN AMERICA

SADDLE-UP IN ARGENTINA

A universal expression of feelings and desires, dancing

Imagine yourself on horseback at an Argentinian estancia

forms a huge part of cultures around the world, and

(ranch), learning how to ride, play polo and ranch. It’s a

nowhere more so than in Latin America. With the help of

picture-perfect movie moment come to life, and you'll learn

our expert instructors, learn to tango in Argentina, salsa

with the help of some of Argentina's finest polo players,

in Cuba or samba in Brazil. Before you know it you’ll be

who are so good they are known as 'hired assassins' when

wiggling your way into Rio Carnival’s sambadromo parade

they play for overseas clubs.

ground – by exclusive invitation, which we can sort.

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LEARN | INSPIRE

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INSPIRE | WELLNESS

I WANT TO...

FOCUS ON WELLNESS

In recent years wellness and mindfulness have become synonymous with social media braggability, but the quest for wellness was being pursued the world over long before we started Instagramming our dinners and downwards dogs. Whatever your motive - be it physical, mental, or spiritual - and however hard you want to push yourself, the extended nature of a sabbatical allows you to curate a trip to achieve those goals.

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WELLNESS | INSPIRE

THE GREAT OUTDOORS IN NEW ZEALAND

SWEET SOLITUDE IN NAMIBIA

There’s nowhere quite like the so-called Land of the

Sit in total solitude (with your favourite tipple for

Long White Cloud to rediscover the joy of physical

company) under a stunning canopy of stars in the

wellness. With ten aptly-named Great Walks to tick

Namib Rand International Dark Sky Reserve and

off (and on a sabbatical you’ll actually have time

you’ll almost feel the stress leaving your body. To

to do them all), drawing in lungfuls of good-old-

really complete the tranquillity treatment (however

fashioned fresh air and increasing your daily step

long that takes for you) and continue the feeling of

count is easily achieved, not to mention fun. It also

calm, enjoy a customised menu of massages and

helps that the scenery is famously epic and that

yoga classes and test your legs on several nature

fresh, seasonal produce (yes, that does include the

walks across this vast desert, the scale of which

wine) is available in abundance.

helps put even the biggest issues into perspective.

YOGA INSTRUCTING IN COSTA RICA

MEDITATION AND MOUNTAINS IN BHUTAN

So you’ve been practising yoga for years and always

Simply spending time soaking up the atmosphere

dreamed of learning to lead your own class? Forget

in a country whose government measures Gross

your dingy local gym and instead head to Santa

National Happiness should help improve mental

Teresa Beach in Costa Rica. Over the course

wellbeing. Factor in the numerous Himalayan

of three weeks you’ll learn practical instructor

mountain treks and other outdoor adventures on

techniques, deepen your physical awareness and

offer here and you’ve got physical wellness covered

collaborate with your fellow students to inspire and

too. And for the ultimate trifactor, add on some time

encourage each other. While there, make the most

learning traditional meditation techniques. We can

of your stunning surroundings with fun surf lessons,

arrange for you to join a group of devout Vajrayana

challenging rainforest hikes and plenty of sun-

Buddhists in one of the country’s many ornate

kissed R&R.

dzongs (fortresses).

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INSPIRE | WELLNESS

RETREAT IN INDONESIA Visiting a retreat needn't mean having to lock up your phone or live exclusively off green juice - unless you want it to, of course. For instance, the lovely COMO Shambhala on Bali offers various programmes (including active, Ayurvedic and cleansing) which can all be tailored to suit individual needs. With beautiful surroundings in the jungle north of Ubud, fantastic spa facilities and qualified on-site wellness and yoga experts, this is somewhere to switch off and detox without compromising on luxury.

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WELLNESS | INSPIRE

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INSPIRE | GIVE BACK

I WANT TO...

GIVE SOMETHING BACK Knowing where to start when it comes to giving back in a constructive way can be difficult, but we're here to help. Responsible travel and conservation are things we feel very strongly about (see page 64), so if you want to help reduce your carbon footprint by planting trees or do research to help protect your favourite species, we can introduce you to the right experts and best projects to make that possible.

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GIVE BACK | INSPIRE

RESEARCHING RHINOS IN SOUTH AFRICA

REBUILDING BIODIVERSITY IN INDIA

Teetering on the brink of extinction, rhinos across

The number of mangroves in India’s Sundarbans

Africa are reliant on the efforts of conservation

region is rapidly dwindling due to climate change,

organisations for their very survival. We can arrange

heightening the risk of devastating floods. Visitors

for you to join a conservation team to witness

to our project here are encouraged to spend time

first-hand as they dart and notch individuals,

getting their hands dirty while planting trees and

providing crucial data for researchers and helping

meeting the local communities our work benefits.

rangers keep track of these magnificent creatures

To date, volunteers have replanted 11,110 acres

for ongoing support. For the super keen, there is

of mangroves, helping restore biodiversity and

even the option to take part in a rhino relocation.

countering 700,000 tonnes of CO 2 .

PROTECTING TURTLES IN COSTA RICA

COMMUNITY FOCUS IN BOLIVIA

They've managed to survive for more than 130

As globalisation takes root and traditional ways

million years but today six of the seven species

of life are passed over in favour of factory work in

of sea turtles are considered endangered.

cities, people in rural areas are struggling to make a

Conservation programmes which monitor nesting

living. For example, in José Manuel Pando Province,

activity and hatching success play a crucial role in

Bolivia, 98% of the population lives below the

protecting them from threats such as plastic in the

poverty line. To help counter the problem you can

sea or poaching. One project in Costa Rica's Osa

spend an extended period helping local women

Peninsula offers volunteers the chance to spend

learn skills to turn their traditional weaving trade

two weeks taking part in essential research and

into a viable businesses, while learning the art of

nest building to help protect turtles.

weaving yourself.

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INSPIRE | FAMILY

I WANT TO...

SPEND TIME WITH FAMILY It can be hard to carve out family time together. Taking a family sabbatical not only ensures oodles of quality time spent exploring, playing and bonding, but also opens your children’s eyes to life outside their little bubbles. What better way to learn Egyptian history than by visiting the Pyramids, or to speak Spanish than with a month in South America? And as for the practical stuff, we’ve got that covered too (see page 54).

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FAMILY | INSPIRE

ROAD TRIPPING IN THE USA

CULTURE IN VIETNAM & CAMBODIA

A California road trip is iconic, especially one chock

The captivating culture of the Far East makes for

full of Original Travel insider tips and activities.

a great living classroom for children to learn about

Over the course of several weeks you'll have the

food, religion, traditions and more. Visit crumbling

freedom to take to the road for as long or little as

temples filled with statues of otherworldly

you like, stopping whenever someone spots a

creatures and fall for the sights, sounds and smells

national park ripe for tree-climbing (read: Big Sur),

of cosmopolitan cities before visiting mountain

or beach break perfect for a surf lesson (say hello

villages and getting messy making traditional

to Santa Barbara). And whether you crave the

dishes in kitchens across Vietnam and Cambodia.

freedom to roam in a motorhome, or prefer hotels each night, we can organise it all.

ALL OUT ADVENTURE IN OMAN

SAILING IN THE IONIAN ISLANDS

With desert, mountains and coast to explore, Oman

Messing about on boats is a wonderful way for

is a dream family sabbatical destination. Channel

families to bond. Sail between tiny fishing villages

your little monkeys' energy into rock climbing in the

and harbourside towns, drop anchor and leap into

Hajar Mountains, spotting dolphins on boat trips,

the water whenever you find an inviting spot and

‘defending’ sandcastle-like forts and canyoning

generally spend all day soaking up the sun on deck

through dramatic wadis (river valleys). Then, for

and playing endless games. A few weeks sailing

some real bonding time, journey off the beaten path

around these beautiful Greek islands is the perfect

to go glamping in the Empty Quarter, home to vast

introduction to life on the high seas for children as

sand dunes, sunset camel rides and nobody else

they muck-in, master their ports and starboards

for miles around.

and generally learn to sail.

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INSPIRE | FAMILY

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE IN KENYA It’s fairly easy in our technological age to forget the joys of the great outdoors. To jog your memory, travel to Kenya’s remote Laikipia region, the perfect setting for plenty of al fresco adventures. Dedicate a week here and get back to nature on a big game safari, meet local Samburu and Maasai tribes, make the most of outdoorsy pursuits such as rafting, riding or quad-biking, and learn ancestral skills like animal tracking and navigating by the stars.

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FAMILY | INSPIRE

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INSPIRE | BUCKET LIST

I WANT TO...

TICK OFF MY BUCKET LIST It might be something of a clichéd concept, but the fact remains that – consciously or otherwise – we all have bucket lists. Whether you have your own list scrawled on a piece of paper somewhere, or just have several big ideas floating around in your head, a sabbatical is the perfect opportunity to start ticking things off.

Having trouble narrowing down your seemingly endless list? With a long stretch of sabbatical time ahead you can finally take on those big-ticket items, the do-before-I-die moments, the money can’t (usually) buy experiences, the long and leisurely trips that you can never fit in on a regular holiday.

They're yours for the taking and ticking off.

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BUCKET LIST | INSPIRE

Bucket List: noun: A number of experiences or achievements that a person hopes to accomplish during their lifetime.

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INSPIRE | BUCKET LIST

SEE THE GREAT MIGRATION Every year over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras and other plains game make a cyclical migration around northern Tanzania’s vast Serengeti National Park before entering into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Park and, finally, heading back south again for calving season (one of the migration’s unsung highlights). Our expertise means we know the best places to see the action, as wildebeest run the gauntlet of lions and charge past your 4x4 on their journey to cross the savannah or croc-infested Mara River.

WHEN: Year-round, with Mara River crossings

between July and September

CRUISE THE NILE History and literature lovers can relive the voyage that inspired Agatha Christie’s famous novel by taking a cruise down the River Nile. Spend five nights aboard the stylishly restored Steam Ship Sudan and enjoy peaceful river views and elegant accommodation. Each day, take expertly guided excursions to spectacular sites from Egyptian antiquity such as the Valley of the Kings and Queens and lesser-known, but no less spectacular, sites such as the beautifully preserved Dendera near Luxor, dating from the 4th century BC. WHEN: Best in Northern Hemisphere spring and

autumn. Summer is seriously hot TRAVEL ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS Swap the standard commute for a train ride with a little more elegance. Travelling from London to Venice on the iconic Orient Express, enjoy racing through lush French countryside and dramatic Swiss Alpine scenery, all observed from the comfort of your own luxurious cabin, which magically transforms from cosy lounge to snug bedroom for the night. While admiring the views, dine on word-class cuisine and sip chilled champagne in the elegant dining carriage.

WHEN: Best between March and November

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BUCKET LIST | INSPIRE

SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS Seeing the Northern Lights is a classic bucket list experience. The Aurora Borealis light up the skies across Scandinavia and other northerly destinations during winter and we can arrange private and fun-filled Northern Lights tours (by dog sled or snowmobile) with you staying in cosy wilderness lodges in the snowy Scandinavian north to view these awesome technicolour displays. Then, why not complete the set and see the southern hemispheric equivalent, the Aurora Australis?

WHEN: Best between December and March (or

June to September for the Southern Lights)

HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU After four days hiking at altitude through the Andes, arriving at Machu Picchu as the sun rises to illuminate the mesmerising ancient Incan citadel is a euphoric moment. That said, this is one of those experiences where the journey is as special as the destination. For the best version of that journey we always recommend forgoing the more popular Inca Trail for the little-known Lares Trail, along which you’ll enjoy staggering mountain peak panoramas and ancient Incan ruins almost all to yourself.

WHEN: Best between April and October

BALLOON OVER BAGAN Tick two things off your bucket list during one memorable morning in Myanmar. Wake up with an early breakfast before sunrise, then climb into the basket to experience the giddy feeling of being lifted into the air by hot air alone. Tick number one. As you continue to ascend, so should the sun, bathing Bagan’s thousands of stupas and earthen temples in the golden morning light. That would be an incomparable tick number two.

WHEN: Best between December and April

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INSPIRE | BUCKET LIST

SAFARI IN THE OKAVANGO DELTA No other safari destination is as remarkable, or quite as varied, as the UNESCO-protected Okavango Delta. Every year the Okavango River floods huge swathes of the Kalahari Desert, and so the fertile land surrounding the delta’s waterways teems with wildlife including elephants, buffaloes, lions, rhinos and more. Depending on the season and your location within the delta, we can arrange safaris by traditional mokoro dugout canoe, boat, 4x4 and even on foot. As safaris go, this is the dream.

WHEN: Best between June and August

EXPEDITION IN ANTARCTICA The snowy home of the South Pole is a once-in-alifetime destination and, considering the significant amount of time required to venture into Antarctica, a sabbatical is the perfect time to tackle it. We can arrange your travel by small expedition cruise ship to this magnificent icy destination, navigating along a coastline of stunning fjords while spotting elephant seals, humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, Adelie penguins, albatrosses and petrels. Alternatively, base yourself on land for kite skiing tours or even skiing to the Pole like the original Edwardian adventurers.

WHEN: Between November and February

ISLAND HOP IN THE GALAPAGOS As a destination with a dizzying number of endemic species, the Galapagos Islands are almost certainly on most wildlife lovers' bucket lists already. If not, they should be. Travel on board a small and luxurious expedition cruise ship to visit some of the 13 major islands and kayak, snorkel, hike and dinghy ride around every day, discovering amazing nuggets of information about the wildlife and habitats from expert guides as you go.

WHEN: Year-round (although it works perfectly

directly after an Antarctica adventure)

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BUCKET LIST | INSPIRE

JOURNEY ACROSS JAPAN There’s so much to see and do across Japan’s 6,852 islands (excellent pub quiz fact) that dedicating an entire sabbatical to exploring this fascinating country could easily still leave you wanting more. There are few countries where ancient traditions and modern technology coexist so harmoniously – learn the art of ancient samurai swordsmanship one day and travel by high-speed Shinkansen (bullet train) the next. With fantastic food and stunning scenery to add to the equation, Japan is a real sabbatical all-rounder.

WHEN: Year-round with cherry blossom season in

March and April and autumn colours in October

ADVENTURE IN ICELAND The Land of Fire and Ice is, as its nickname suggests, a wonderfully wild, natural adventure playground. Hire a car and spend as long as you can exploring the dramatic scenery in remote corners of this diverse island. Iceland is the only place in the world where you can dive between two tectonic plates, plus it’s also home to lava tubes you can traverse through, geothermal lagoons perfect for bathing, fantastic whale watching, endless volcanoes and some seriously wacky cuisine.

WHEN: Year-round

DELVE DEEPER IN ITALY There’s something to discover around every corner in Italy. Spend your sabbatical getting away from the crowds and under the skin of this magical country to truly discover Italy’s secret sauce (and pasta sauces).

Travel to remote rural villages, ride a Vespa around the streets of Rome, play cards with locals in Puglia and learn to make pizza in Naples. With any luck you’ll even pick up the language en route (or at least the important stuff, like ‘pizza e vino per favore’).

WHEN: Best between April and November

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INSPIRE | BUCKET LIST

I WANT TO...

DO IT ALL

HEALTH & WELLNESS Detox at an Ayurvedic spa retreat in India Meditate in a Cambodian Buddhist monastery Soak in soothing onsen hot spring baths in Japan

If you’re feeling suitably inspired and have

Bathe under the stars at a luxury safari lodge

started dreaming up your sabbatical itinerary

Practice tai chi with the locals in Henan, China

already, here are a few more ideas you might want to add to that ever-growing list.

Live like a local on guided walks around the world Enjoy nomadic life and yurt camping in Mongolia Soak up surf culture with Australian surf pros Walk Spain's Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route Master mindfulness on a feng shui course in China

CULTURES Trek with indigenous Vedda guides in Sri Lanka Visit hill tribe communities in Vietnam's Ha Giang Meet the leg-rowing fishermen of Inle Lake, Myanmar Take tea with an apprentice geisha (maiko) in Japan Recieve a Baci ceremony blessing in Laos Go behind the scenes at a sumo stable in Japan Meet Lake Titikaka's floating island Uru people Learn ancient skills with the Bushmen of Botswana Visit the Batwa people in the forests of Rwanda Experience tribal traditions with the Samburu, Kenya

NATURE Stargaze in New Zealand's UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve Kayak in Thailand's unspoilt Khao Sok National Park Climb Mount Kinabalu in Malaysian Borneo Dive the tropical Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar Explore canyons and glaciers in US National Parks Spot bears in Canada's British Columbia Hike, kayak and spot wildlife on an Alaskan cruise Cruise around the dramatic Norwegian Fjords Embrace outdoor adventure activities in Montenegro Sleep under the stars at a private desert camp

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BUCKET LIST | INSPIRE

SKILLS

ROAD TRIPS

Stay on a vineyard and produce your own wine

Take the quintessential California road trip

Learn the ancient art of Javanese batik dyeing

Embark on an intrepid self-drive safari in Namibia

Perfect your manga drawing skills in Tokyo

Delve into the music scene in the USA's Deep South

Learn to surf world-renowned breaks in Indonesia

Explore Under-Down-Under in Tasmania, Australia

Visit Malaysian Borneo and learn to songket weave

Cross the Andes by 4x4 in Patagonia

Practise your fishing techniques around the world

Cruise Cuba's colourful cities and coast in style

Learn to cattle ranch, cowboy-style in the USA

Race Bond-style up Switzerland's mountain passes

Learn to read the stars on an astronomy course

Potter around Greece's hugely historic Peloponnese

Take a bush guiding course in Botswana

Go on a self-drive adventure in Hokkaido, Japan

Finally master the art of switching off from work

Cruise along the scenic garden route in South Africa

FAMILY

WILDLIFE

Make a kite with a traditional artisan in Vietnam

See the endemic Komodo dragons of Indonesia

Enjoy a digital detox on the steppes of Mongolia

Spot one-horned rhinos and tigers on safari in India

Bring new cities to life with scavenger hunts

Go snorkelling with whale sharks in Australia

Experience rural life during a local family homestay

Track rare snow leopards in Ladakh, India

Explore Peru by bike, raft and on foot

Witness Sri Lanka's famous elephant gathering

Cycle, ride and eat your way around Italy's Puglia

Spot grey whales off Baja California in Mexico

Qualify as Junior Rangers on safari in South Africa

Search Brazil's lush Pantanal wetlands for jaguars

Meet the cast of Madagascar, in Madagascar

Help a rhino conservation project in Laikipia, Kenya

Let the children take charge of some sabbatical plans

Go chimp trekking in Tanzania's Mahale Mountains

Bond with your child doing their favourite hobby

Learn to dive and spot turtles, whale sharks & more

CELEBRATIONS

JUST BECAUSE

Celebrate technicolour at Holi Festival in India

Go back to basics and sleep under canvas for a week

Watch the fireworks over Sydney Harbour, Australia

Take a street food tour in famous gastronomic cities

Watch the first sunrise of the new year in Japan

Reach the summit of a mountain, big or small

Light a candle for Diwali in Varanasi, India

Volunteer at an elephant sanctuary

Get soaked during Songkran in Thailand

Make time to read instead of watching TV

Celebrate gaucho life in San Antonio de Areco, Argentina

Stay in an ancient palace or monastery

Celebrate Orthodox Easter in Greece

Tick off the New Seven Wonders of the World

Spend Christmas as a family in Lapland

See somehwere from above on a light aircraft flight

Join the musical celebrations at Rio Carnival

Go a week without your mobile phone

Learn about other religions from the locals

Take part in a crazy challenge for charity

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INSPIRE | WHERE TO GO WHEN

WHERE TO GO WHEN Planning a sabbatical across multiple destinations can mean taking several different climates and seasons into account.

Fortunately, the team of amateur meteorologists here at Original Travel have come up with a handy guide to weather around the world. Here's a sneak preview...

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“

“We had such an amazing adventure on our six weeks sabbatical. We covered 2,800 miles and saw places we would never have dreamed of had it not been for your help. The pre-trip planning and the support during the trip was absolutely brilliant so once again thank you. We have made many, many happy memories which hopefully our girls will remember for the rest of their lives. ” A six-week summer adventure through Europe

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CHAPTER 3: PLAN

OUR TOP TIPS...

Now that your head (and heart) is full of big dreams and grand plans, it’s time to start bringing your sabbatical to life. We’re here to help with advice and insights on the planning process; to provide tips and tricks on the practicalities; to give the lowdown on logistics and to actually make it all happen.

PLAN | PLANNING

TOP TIPS:

PLANNING

No two travellers plan in the same way.

Some of us favour detailed spreadsheets and minute-by-minute itineraries while others just have a great long list of love-to-dos that need turning into an actual plan. Whether you’re in the early conceptual stages, already have a rough idea or own a map smothered with post-it notes, there are some essential logistics that need nailing down in order to turn your dreams into a sabbatical reality.

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PLANNING | PLAN

HOW LONG TO GO FOR

WHERE TO GO WHEN

COMPROMISE IS KEY

How long you go for really depends on

You need to make sure you're visiting

If you’re travelling as a couple you

a few factors, from the length of your

your dream destinations when they're

need to make sure you’re both happy

company's sabbatical policy to your

at their best, and that's where our

with the places you visit. They say

budget, the logistics and the reality

handy Where To Go When guide (page

opposites attract, so for many couples

of fitting in everything you want to

52) comes in. Want to know the best

that might be easier said than done.

do. We’ve helped people searching for

spots for snorkelling with whale sharks

To help find the magic middle ground,

a ‘live like a local’ experience across

in June? After an accurate prediction

we suggest each picking two or three

Italy for three months as well as some

of when the famous Japanese cherry

can’t-miss destinations and then

seriously adventurous travellers

blossom will be in full bloom? The

letting us create a route to combine

wanting to spend two years ticking off

guide will reveal all, and our expert

those. The result? You both get your

every item on their global bucket list

consultants can then help weave

way, but potentially with wild card

(and some extras). We can look at

together the ideal tailor-made

destinations thrown in to link the trip

what you want to do, what you want

itinerary. And remember: some bucket

together. Who knows, they might end

to achieve, where you’d like to go and

list experiences and events get booked

up being your highlights.

then help you come up with a plan.

up WAY in advance, so plan ahead.

GUIDED OR GOING SOLO

VISAS AND VACCINATIONS

BIRTHDAYS AND BIG OCCASIONS

We’re pretty proud of our connections

Juggling entry requirements, visa

Special occasions can be the prime

across the globe. We can organise

applications and deadlines when

time for homesickness. Maybe you

expert-led activities, tours and

you’re visiting multiple countries can

want to head home to see family and

expeditions, or we can give you some

be daunting. We can help you organise

friends (and sleep in your own bed

gentle guidance and let you discover

all of these details so that you’ve got

again for a few nights), travel to a

for yourself. We’ve found that a bit

peace of mind as you travel around.

favourite destination to celebrate your

of both generally works best and,

Plus, we have a wonderful (if we do

birthday, or swap a bush camp for a

of course, it depends on what you

say so ourselves) Original Travel

luxury lodge come the festive season.

want to achieve. You might want a

app that means everything is in one

These occasions are also a great

professional historian to lead you

paperless place. When it comes to

excuse to have friends and family

around the complexities of an

vaccinations, our advice is simple:

come and join you on your travels, or to

archaeological site in one location,

visit your GP and plan way ahead of

tick something off your bucket list, like

while you’re happy to stroll around

time - some vaccinations need to be

watching the New Year's Eve fireworks

temples in another all by yourself.

done weeks or more before you travel.

over the Sydney Opera House.

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PLAN | PLANNING

TAKE A BREAK While travelling is pretty darn fun if you ask us (we may be biased), it’s not always the most relaxing pursuit. After trekking through mountains, living off-the-grid and getting your hands dirty planting mangroves, you might find that you want - and need - a little down time. We can organise (and in fact insist on) these well-timed, much-needed breaks, which allow you to reflect on the trip so far, and catch up on a little life admin along the way.

For some, a break will mean doing nothing but worshipping the sun on a beautiful sandy beach - living off a diet of daily pampering treatments and cocktails - for others it will mean staying in a city centre apartment that could (almost) be home.

Alternatively, if you really don’t want to take a break, why not enjoy a little so-called ‘slow travel’ instead. Perhaps a week aboard a traditional dhow (boat) in Mozambique or several days on your bike during a cycling trip in Spain? Whatever you choose, we’re certain you’ll be thankful for the change of pace.

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PLANNING | PLAN

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PLAN | PREPARATION

TOP TIPS:

PREPARATION So you’ve taken the leap of faith. Hats off. You’ve secured the time off work, organised hundreds of ideas into a workable itinerary and finally pressed the 'book' button.

Now that the travel admin is sorted, we realise there are some other life-admin-shaped things to think about too.

To help you compile a to-do list, here are just a few of our top tips for ensuring life runs smoothly while you’re away.

HOME SWEET HOME

SPREADSHEETS ARE KEY

LEADER OF THE PACK

The biggest worry for anyone

Some of us love them, some of us hate

Rule one when it comes to packing?

travelling for a long time is nearly

them, but the fact is you’re going to

Don’t panic. If you’re going away for

always their home. Depending on how

need at least one. We recommend

a long time, and travelling in various

long you are going to be away, there

making a Google sheet (so you can

different temperatures, you’re going to

are various options you might like to

access it online while away) and

need more than one suitcase. We can

consider. These include renting your

suggest logging things like friends and

arrange for a summer suitcase to be

home out, finding house-sitters, or

family’s contact details, your online

sent to you once you’ve finished your

simply asking friends to pop over and

and telephone banking details (don't

expedition in Antarctica, or for a bag

check on the boiler every few weeks

worry, you can password protect the

of trekking clothes at your hotel while

– you’ll need to keep the heating on to

sheet), and other useful information

you island hop around French

validate your home insurance. We have

like travel and house insurance

Polynesia. A little pre-planning goes

personal experience organising all of

references and your passport details.

a long, long way.

the above and can give you pointers on what might be the best option for you.

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PREPARATION | PLAN

GO MOBILE

FURRY FRIENDS

ACCIDENTS HAPPEN

Make sure your mobile phone isn’t

Leaving pets behind as you travel is a

Accidents happen; wallets are lost,

locked to a specific provider – your

major concern for many. Thankfully

flights are missed, bones are broken.

current provider will be able to

the world is full of animal lovers and

As a result, travel insurance is

arrange this – so that you can swap

many of you will find you have friends

absolutely essential. To make sure

your SIM card for local ones while

more than willing to foster your pets

you’re covered for a sabbatical length

away. Alternatively, pick up a cheap

while you’re away. Time to apply the

trip, and for all the cool stuff you’ve got

second phone for daily use and keep

'don't ask, don't get' rule. If no luck

planned, we can recommend specialist

your main phone squirreled away

there, we can help you find paid pet

policies. And for all those matters out

as back up.

sitters who, rather than putting

of your control – think cancelled flights

beloved Bertie in a cage, will become

and natural disasters – well, that’s

his new best friend in no time.

where we save the day.

CHRISTMAS COVERED

TARGET TEMPTATION

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY

If you’re going to be away for

For those of you who own your own

When you’re travelling to different

Christmas or a loved one’s birthday,

business (or who are just self-

countries with different currencies,

pick up a unique gift on your travels

confessed workaholics), the

you need a bank account that isn’t

and we will help you ship it home in

temptation to check in on work emails

going to charge you a small fortune

time for the big day. Alternatively, if

while away can be almost impossible

every time you use it. There are

inspiration fails you, remember there

to resist. To help cure your e-ddiction,

several new challenger banks who

is always Amazon. And, of course,

ask your office’s IT guru to change

won’t charge you a penny to use your

we’ll make sure you don’t go without

your email password while you’re

card or get cash out anywhere abroad.

a stocking on Christmas Day too.

away. And don’t worry, you can make

That said, it’s always a good idea to

sure your second-in-command has

have multiple cards from different

your mobile number for any real

banks with you – just in case.

emergencies.

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TOP TIPS:

TRAVEL TOGETHER

We’ve already talked about the potential for anxiety when leaving everyday life and - more importantly - friends and family behind during a sabbatical, but now it’s time to get practical.

Whether you want to counter those fears by taking family with you, or by having friends visit, or if you want to go totally solo, we can make sure the logistics are taken care of.

TRAVEL TOGETHER | PLAN TAKING FAMILY WITH YOU

HAVING VISITORS

Research shows that roughly a third of our clients who took

It’s amazing how infectious the idea of travel can be. Declare

a sabbatical last year did so accompanied by their partners

at a dinner party that you’re setting off on a sabbatical and

and children. It might seem a daunting feat to take children

we can almost guarantee that half the table will promise to

out of school and travel the world as a family, but if planned

come and visit you in some far flung destination. Granted,

properly this can be one of the most rewarding experiences

not all promises will come true, but many will, and it’s an

both parents and children will ever have. And that’s before

opportunity for your visitors to finally make the trip they’ve

mentioning the invaluable quality time spent together, and

always intended (with the help of Original Travel, we hope)

the family bonding and life lessons learned from

as much as for you to be reunited with long lost friends.

encounters with fascinating people and places around the

Similarly, for families with older children, what better way to

world. Time, though, for a quick reality check. Arguments will still happen, and no, children do not learn how to pass their GCSE’s while on safari in Kenya (but as before they will learn lots of other things). Thankfully we can line up fully qualified and fully flexible tutors to travel with you, recommend great online school courses, or even arrange ad-hoc lessons with teachers from international schools.

To help with littler ones, or generally defuse arguments, we also have a healthy address

While we recognise that there is no ‘one-size-fitsall’ approach when it comes to family travel, in our experience, having the advice of those that have planned or taken a family sabbatical before you is utterly invaluable

book of nannies.

To put it simply, while we recognise that there is no

spend the university Easter holidays than travelling around India with Mum and Dad? And if you’re away for a birthday or Christmas, who knows, we might even be able to surprise you with a visitor or two…

GOING SOLO

For some, the whole point of taking a sabbatical is to get away from everything and everyone, spending much needed time truly alone. It’s an incredibly liberating feeling realising that you are not dependent on the network of people around you, and that you are self-sufficient. It may even help you appreciate your friends and family all the more.

For a taste of total isolation with space and time for

‘one-size-fits-all’ approach when it comes to family travel, in

self-reflection, travel somewhere away from the

our experience having the advice of those who have planned

temptations of Wi-Fi, where beautiful scenery and

or taken a family sabbatical before is utterly invaluable.

peace are the perfect companions on your journey.

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PLAN | RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL As a company, Original Travel are

You can then make an informed

passionate about responsible travel

decision before you travel about

in all its forms, and we are determined

where you want your money to go.

to help our clients travel in as

Why is this all relevant to

sustainable way as possible. To that

sabbaticals in particular? Because

end, we offset 100% of our clients'

if you’re staying somewhere for a

carbon footprints from their holiday

sustained amount of time, that’s

flights, car hire and transfers, and

potentially a once-in-a-lifetime chance

the Original Travel Foundation - set

to really give back in a way beyond the

up back in 2009 - supports a number

merely monetary (undeniably helpful

of humanitarian projects in developing

though that is). Depending on where

countries around the world.

you end up on your sabbatical travels,

Similarly, when it comes to

we can weave in a responsible tourism

wildlife preservation we believe

element, be that visiting one or more

that conservation and tourism

of our Foundation or partner projects

are inextricably linked. At the risk

around the globe, or really getting

of over-simplifying, if there is no

your hands dirty by living and working

conservation, then there will be

with a project over the course of

fewer reasons for tourists to visit,

weeks or even months (see page 38).

which means fewer funds to conserve

The latter can involve some seriously

what made a place and its inhabitants

hard graft, but we find that a sense

(both human and animal) so special in

of doing your bit - truly making a

the first place. And so on and on, in a

difference - is one of the key pieces of

downward spiral.

positive feedback from clients who

That’s why we are increasingly looking to work with suppliers who

have enjoyed sabbaticals with us.

So as we plan your sabbatical, bear

take an ethical and sustainable stance

in mind that our unparalleled network

in their destinations. We're not

of suppliers around the globe, and our

perfect, and there's a long way to go

Foundation – something none of our

for responsible travel as a whole, but

competitors can lay claim to – mean

we are determined to do our bit. For

that wherever you travel, and however

instance, we will always let you know

long the sabbatical, we should be able

about any suppliers who are making

to tailor-make a memorable

particularly admirable efforts to

responsible tourism experience for

promote responsible travel,

you that also helps an admirable

sustainability and conservation.

cause. Win-win if there ever was.

Images clockwise from left: Local organic farm produce; Rhino relocation with Rhinos Without Borders, South Africa; Supporting local schools in South Africa, Turtle hatching in Costa Rica, Planting trees in Colombia

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TITLE | PLAN

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PLAN | ABOUT US

ABOUT US At Original Travel we believe life is in the detail. We want to

in a huge variety of destinations (the Original Travel team

get to know you - what you like, love and would rather leave

have lived or travelled in a whopping 161 countries), but

behind - so that we can create

we also have a whole suite of

a bespoke travel experience

additional extras and services

where every detail is tailored

to take your trip to the next

to you and your needs.

level. There's the big stuff,

No two travellers and

such as the 24-hour helpline,

no two itineraries are ever

expert guides and our local

identical. Each, as our name

Concierge service (more on

suggests, is truly original.

that on page 68) to ensure

Our thoughtful team of

you’re making the most

knowledgeable experts are

of your precious time away,

here to do the hard work for

to seemingly simple but

you. To take care of every

infinitely wonderful fast-track

need and smallest personal

services through security

request from the second you

and immigration in airports,

contact us to the moment

fun packs for little travellers

you return home from another

and a handy Original Travel

memorable trip or adventure,

app to keep all of the

be it a long weekend in Europe

important information and

or year-long globetrotting

documents in one place.

sabbatical.

Whether you want to go

From your personalised itinerary to the service you’ll

wild and track game with

receive from us, we known

bushmen in the Kalahari

that it’s the tiny details that

Desert, or learn the art of

matter and make an enormous

pizza-making in the Tuscan

difference. We’ve proudly

countryside with your family, we provide something a

been doing detail since 2003 (a crisp and icy morning on

little different. Not only do we have the inside scoop,

the 6th January, to be precise) and we want to share our

bucket loads of experience and specialist knowledge

experience and passion with you.

MORE ABOUT ORIGINAL TRAVEL To learn more about us, what makes us different and what we can do for you, request one of our brochures at originaltravel.co.uk/brochure

66 | originaltravel.co.uk

WHY CHOOSE US? LOCAL CONCIERGES

161

FULLY PROTECTED

COUNTRIES Our global network of Concierges help you live like a local with insider insights (see page 68)

41

Visited by the Original Travel team

PRE-BOOKED SEATS

TRAVEL EXPERTS In the team, each expert in a specific region

FACE TO FACE MEETINGS

Your holiday is fully protected

80+

SABBATICALS Avoid airlines’ random seat allocation for flights booked with Original Travel

330+

Organised by the Original Travel team

24-HOUR HELPLINE

YEARS

To discuss and plan your sabbatical.

We'll come to you or you can visit our London office; it's completely up to you.

Of travel industry experience within the Original Travel team

Things can go wrong; we’re on call 24/7 to offer assistance when required

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LOCAL CONCIERGES Our global network of Concierges are always on hand to take your travelling experience to the next level. The Concierges live locally, know their destinations inside and out and are a phone call (or WhatsApp, email etc…) away to help you out with everything from organising additional activities to helping you with your life admin.

Think of them as your well-connected and reliable friends in each country who you can turn to for live, expert advice. You can use them as little or as much as you want, but we find that on sabbaticals they’re more valuable than ever as your needs are invariably different

51

the number of countries currently covered by our local Concierge network... and growing

from a regular holiday. They may be able to help you when: You want to spend a long time getting under the skin of one place or are looking for ‘live like a local’ experiences away from the polished tourist trails You need some help with personal admin such as posting letters and parcels back, and organising medicines (no need to learn the name of your prescriptions in 12 different languages!)

You’ve accidentally on purpose bought too many wonderful trinkets on your travels and you need to send some back home You’re tired from all that adventuring and want a taste of normal life; whether it’s going to the cinema, finding a local pub to play

26

the number of languages spoken by our local Concierges

pool, or getting a massage Let’s be honest: however well you/we plan, things will undoubtedly change during the course of your sabbatical, and we fully endorse that – the desire for freedom and flexibility is part of the reason you’re taking this trip. Having Original Travel and our knowledgeable Concierges on speed dial to make any logistical changes, introduce you to hidden corners of your chosen countries and make recommendations along the way is the perfect way to ensure that you make the most of your sabbatical and don't make unnecessary compromises.

“From restaurant recommendations to organising transfers for our visitors and sending luggage ahead, Brett the Concierge was always on top of every detail.

Nothing was ever too much trouble.”

FR, California sabbatical 68 | originaltravel.co.uk

24/7

our local Concierges are always on hand and available to you in your time zone

1

the number of UK travel companies offering this unique service

A DAY IN THE LIVES OF OUR ORIGINAL TRAVEL CONCIERGES...

INDIA

Today is Bob's birthday so local Concierge Jas has arranged a surprise breakfast picnic for him after his morning hike. Back in the village where he’s been staying for the past month, a package has arrived with gifts and cards from friends and family at home, all collated by Jas. She’s also planned with Bob's new local friends and neighbours to have a party organised with traditional music and food to celebrate with him that evening.

SPAIN

Halfway through a six-week hike along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in rural northern Spain, Amelia's beloved DSLR camera breaks.

Knowing that Amelia is using the trip to practice her photography skills learned on a course on the previous leg of her sabbatical, Concierge Julio sends a loan camera for Amelia to pick up at her next stop on the route, and organises for a courier to pick up her broken one to be repaired and sent back to her.

LAPLAND

After two months in South Africa, the Wright family are heading to celebrate Christmas in Finnish Lapland. Sofia, our local Concierge, has made sure that their winter luggage is waiting for them at their lodge when they arrive, as well as their Christmas stockings and a few home comforts, plus there's a computer in their room to Skype family back home.

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FEELING INSPIRED?

We specialise in a wide range of other holiday types as well.

Whether you’re an avid diver or in search of a Big Short Break, Original Travel can tailor-make something just for you.

For more inspiration visit originaltravel.co.uk/collections

FAMILY

BOATS AND LIVEABOARDS BIG SHORT BREAKS

SAFARI

CITY BREAKS

Top to bottom, left to right:

⚫ A Big Short Break in Marrakech, Morocco ⚫ Piazza Maggiore, Bologna, Italy

⚫ A honeymoon in Rajasthan and Agra, India

⚫ A family sailing holiday, Greece

⚫ Heli-skiing in Monte Rosa, Italy

⚫ Sailing on Alexa, Indonesia

⚫ A road trip through Monument

⚫ Elephants in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

DIVING

⚫ Diving in the Maldives

Valley in Utah, USA ⚫ Villa Mangiacane in Tuscany, Italy

WINTER SPORTS

PRIVATE HIRE PROPERTIES

ROAD TRIPS HONEYMOONS

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YOUR NOTES AND IDEAS

72 | originaltravel.co.uk

Call +44 (0)20 7591 4433 to start planning your sabbatical... +44 (0) 20 7591 4433 | 73

WE HOPE THIS SABBATICAL GUIDE HAS INSPIRED YOU. If so, do get in touch...

PHONE +44 (0) 20 7591 4433

ONLINE originaltravel.co.uk originaldiving.com

EMAIL ask@originaltravel.co.uk

All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. If you buy a holiday that does not include a flight, as a condition of our membership of ABTA, protection is also provided. Details of this protection is set out in our booking conditions viewable at originaltravel.co.uk.

PHOTO CREDITS Tiger Blue (p.11), Lords Safaris (p.28), Panoramic Journeys (p.29), Shakti (p.29), Corocora Camp (p.30), Robin Pope Safaris (p.31), Azura Quilalea (p.31), Wolwedans (p.35), COMO Shambala (p.36 & 37), Scott Ramsay (p.39), Voyageurs du Monde (p.39), twenty3 extreme (p.41), Ol Lentile (p.42 & 43), Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (p.46), Willian Justen de Vasconcellos (p.47), Beverly Joubert (p.65)

74 | originaltravel.co.uk

To order one of our brochures call: +44 (0)20 7591 4433 or visit: originaltravel.co.uk/brochure

Front cover image: Lago di Carezza in the Dolomites, Italy

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