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Hi, I’m Juhh!
Taking a sabbatical is a rare and beautiful opportunity to pause, reflect, and realign your life with your deepest desires. Whether you’re stepping away from work for a few weeks or several months, this is your chance to explore, grow, and rejuvenate. I’ve curated 100 inspiring ideas to help you make the most of your sabbatical leave. Let’s dive into this journey together!
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100 Sabbatical Leave Bucket List Ideas
Travel and Adventure
1. Backpack solo through Southeast Asia
Spend a few weeks navigating Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia with just a backpack and your sense of curiosity. Embrace local cultures, taste street food, and meet fellow travelers along the way.
2. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway
Hit the road from San Francisco to San Diego, stopping at breathtaking cliffs, sunny beaches, and cozy coastal towns. Don’t forget a killer playlist!
3. Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Challenge yourself with this iconic hike in Peru and witness the mystical ruins at sunrise. It’s a spiritual and physical journey like no other.
4. Safari in Tanzania’s Serengeti
Spot lions, elephants, and giraffes in their natural habitat. A guided safari can bring you face to face with the magic of the wild.
5. Discover Berlin’s street art scene
Explore the creative corners of Germany’s capital with a focus on street art, urban culture, and alternative history tours.
6. Cruise the Norwegian fjords
Sail through majestic icy landscapes, waterfalls, and charming Nordic villages. It’s pure tranquility in motion.
7. Celebrate Holi in India
Dive into color and joy during this festival of love and spring. Join locals in vibrant streets filled with powdered hues.
8. Walk the Camino de Santiago
A pilgrimage that combines history, self-reflection, and breathtaking scenery. Choose your route and take your time.
9. See the Northern Lights in Iceland
Head to Reykjavik and beyond for a chance to catch the aurora borealis. It’s nature’s most surreal light show.
10. Eat your way through Italy
From pasta in Rome to pizza in Naples, explore Italy region by region with your tastebuds leading the way.
11. Wander Kyoto’s temples
Experience serenity among Zen gardens, ancient shrines, and geisha traditions. Kyoto is the heart of cultural Japan.
12. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef
Float among colorful coral and sea life in Australia’s iconic reef. It’s an underwater paradise worth seeing while you still can.
13. Explore Petra, Jordan
Step into a world carved into rose-red cliffs. This archaeological wonder feels like a scene from an epic film.
14. Train through the Canadian Rockies
Hop aboard a panoramic train to witness the majestic peaks, wildlife, and alpine lakes of Western Canada.
15. Island hop in Greece
Sail between Santorini, Mykonos, and lesser-known gems like Naxos, enjoying sun, sea, and Mediterranean food.
16. Camp under the stars in Utah
Visit national parks like Zion and Arches, and sleep under the Milky Way in the desert.
17. Take a yoga retreat in Bali
Find your center with daily yoga, fresh juices, and tropical vibes in Ubud or Canggu.
18. Experience the Midnight Sun in Norway
Visit during summer when the sun never sets. It’s surreal and perfect for long hikes and scenic drives.
19. Hike in Patagonia
Explore the dramatic landscapes of southern Chile and Argentina with glaciers, mountains, and pristine wilderness.
20. Visit Morocco’s ancient medinas
Get lost in the bustling souks of Marrakech and Fes, sipping mint tea and soaking up vibrant patterns.
21. Cruise the Galapagos Islands
Witness unique wildlife and volcanic landscapes on this nature-lover’s dream cruise.
22. Ride the Trans-Siberian Railway
Journey from Moscow to Vladivostok, crossing eight time zones and experiencing a deep dive into Russia.
23. Try van life in New Zealand
Rent a campervan and roam through Lord of the Rings landscapes. It’s ultimate freedom with a view.
24. Road trip through the Scottish Highlands
Follow winding roads to castles, lochs, and scenic vistas. It’s like stepping into a Celtic fairytale.
25. Explore Buenos Aires and dance tango
Take lessons and hit the local milongas. Embrace the rhythm and charm of Argentina’s capital.
You’re just getting started! ✨
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