By Dr Chris Blair, CEO of 21st Century
Ah, annual leave—those precious days to reclaim your sanity. But how do you spend them? Whether it’s jet-setting to exotic destinations, embracing the art of doing absolutely nothing or attempting to master downward dog at a yoga retreat, the choices can feel overwhelming. Let’s dive into practical and humorous ways to maximise your time off.
Timing is everything
How many days should you take? Splitting your leave into four chunks of seven days might refresh you throughout the year. But there’s an undeniable charm in a 21-day escape—just enough time to transition from a frazzled office worker to a zen-like traveller. The hybrid approach—one long holiday paired with short getaways—can strike the perfect balance.
Travel buddies or solo shenanigans?
Travelling with friends and family can be delightful—or maddening, depending on how much they critique your sunscreen application. Solo travel, however, offers the freedom to indulge in pizza for breakfast without judgment. The goal is simple, regardless of who you choose: escape the grind and return with Instagram-worthy memories.
Work and holidays: A love-hate story
Pro tip: disconnect from work emails. Set an out-of-office message and resist the temptation to check-in. If returning to a mountain of emails sounds unbearable, focus only on emergencies. Future You will survive the chaos.
Bankrolling your break
Whether splurging on luxury or keeping it budget-friendly, plan for fun—not debt. Experiences like accidental salsa classes in Barcelona often outweigh extravagance.
Move or hibernate?
Active holidays like hiking or surfing are great for adventure seekers. But don’t underestimate the joy of doing nothing. Striking a balance between activity and relaxation ensures your holiday rejuvenates body and mind.
Food: Indulge or restrain?
Vacation calories might not count, but balance is key. Enjoy local delicacies, but throw in a salad occasionally to keep those jeans fitting on the flight home.
Learn something new
Consider using your holiday to pick up a skill. Learning something new can be more rewarding than binge-watching Netflix, whether it’s yoga, pottery, or wine tasting.
The grand takeaway
The best holiday is one that leaves you smiling and recharged. Whether you’re climbing mountains, napping in hammocks, or Instagramming your adventures, make it count. And yes, post a smug photo to make Janet from Accounting jealous.
Bon voyage!