Saturday November 15, 2008
Don’t sweat the cash!
The looming recession may have got you rethinking your career break plans. But never fear, because the Career Break Website (www.thecareerbreaksite.com) founder Rachel Morgan-Trimmer is here to share some tips on how to live your dreams on a limited budget. Go away for a shorter period of time
You might not get to do everything you wanted to, but even a three-month break is better than none, plus you can take another career break at a later date. If you are taking a shorter career break, focus on a few countries rather than trying to rush through many so that you get a more fulfilling experience.
Choose your destination well
Where you go will have a huge impact on what you’re likely to spend. Opt for countries in South-East Asia where the cost of living is lower than in Malaysia. Other regions you might want to consider are the Indian subcontinent, China, Mexico, Latin America and parts of Africa.
Plan well ahead
Read travel materials (like Lonely Planet’s The Career Break Book), talk to other travellers and browse through Internet forums and price-comparison websites (like www.wego.com or www.kayak.com) to find good deals, discounts, cheap places to stay etc. Guidebooks will often give you a rough idea of the daily cost of being in a particular country.
Alternative funds
Search government websites for scholarship programmes or consider volunteering to cut your travelling expenses by more than half. For example, some language schools offer part-time work for free accommodation in return, while some yachts look to sign on crew members during sailing season to help them circumnavigate the world.
Spending a little more on certain things could save you time, money and pain later on. The areas where you shouldn’t skimp are insurance, your backpack, medicine and shoes.
Related stories:
Your biggest break
Break ideas
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