Introduction:

In early 2022, a life-altering accident confined me to bed, leaving me with a slow recovery and a longing for change.

After 3 months, frustrated by the lack of solutions from doctors, I made a bold decision to leave my job and embark on my version of self-recovery. In May, I went to a meditation retreat nestled in the peaceful countryside of Belgium. As my body and mind recovered, I finally felt ready to travel. By the end of June, I was boarding a flight to Colombia, where I first explored the vibrant city of Medellin before venturing into the tranquil countryside of Barichara, Santander.

Two months of decompressing and relaxation in some incredible surroundings paved the way for my next adventure.

I embarked on a cycling adventure through Latin and North America, which allowed me to witness breathtaking landscapes, connect with local communities, and take time for personal reflection.

Especially my mode of transport, the bicycle, allowed me to explore remote areas, and ride on rough terrains with minimal luggage, and became an invaluable tool in my recovery.

Regardless of the personal reasons behind it, taking a sabbatical can be an incredible opportunity to explore the world, discover oneself, and grow personally. Two decades ago, when I first moved to London and worked for an airline, I had the privilege of enjoying free travel benefits. Now, as a developer, I have found my passion for coding, but my love for travel remains.

In this short blog post, I will share five compelling reasons why going on a sabbatical can be a life-changing experience.

1. Experiencing Nature and Outdoor Exploration:

I had the chance to witness the beauty of remote areas, ranging from the lush coffee regions of Colombia to the snow-capped peaks in Washington state, and camp with my tent in picturesque locations.

Travelling by bicycle allowed me to fully immerse myself in these natural wonders, taking in every sight, sound, and scent.

Exploring remote areas and camping in serene locations granted me a deep connection with nature and instilled a profound sense of awe and gratitude.

2. Personal Growth:

Exploring a country travelling through rugged terrains and enduring physically demanding journeys tested my limits and pushed me to overcome obstacles. It was through these challenges that I developed reliance, adaptability, and mental focus. The moments of solitude and reflection allowed me to gain a clearer perspective on my life goals, aspirations, and values.

Stepping out of our comfort zones and facing new challenges is a catalyst for personal growth.

3. Making new Friends:

It is a great opportunity to break away from the routine and immerse oneself in new cultures and experiences. Travelling through Latin America on a bicycle allowed me to go beyond the typical tourist destinations and truly engage with the local communities and in the case of Guatemala and Mexico, indigenous communities as well. This immersive experience introduced me to diverse traditions, languages, and ways of life that enriched my understanding of the world.

Learning some Spanish at the very beginning of my stay in Colombia has been instrumental. I further took courses while staying in Quetzeltenango, Guatemala. From stumbling through basic phrases to gradually gaining fluency, learning Spanish opened up a world of connections and cultural understanding.

While travelling through Latin America, I volunteered in a hostel in Guatemala, worked on an agriculture project in Colombia, and formed friendships with locals in various regions. These interactions provided unique insights into their cultures, traditions, and daily lives. Engaging with people from diverse backgrounds contributed to broadening my worldview. I am very thankful for the exceptional hospitality I encountered throughout my journey, and it is something I hope to give back in the future. I have been offered drinks for free during cycling in the hottest regions in Mexico and Guatemala by locals.

4. Embrace Adventure

An adventure is a transformative experience that takes us beyond our comfort zones and into the realm of the unknown. It is not merely a vacation or a leisurely trip; it is a deliberate pursuit of excitement, discovery, and personal growth and can take various forms, but often involve stepping into unfamiliar territory, embracing uncertainty and the unexpected.

Adventures have the power to expand horizons and leave an indelible mark on our lives. Through adventures, we find ourselves immersed in extraordinary moments, forging lifelong memories.

And it makes a whole journey truly rewarding.

5. Self-Reflection and Recharge:

While travelling (mostly) by bicycle can be physically demanding, it also offers the opportunity to take breaks, decompress, and recharge. Throughout my journey, I deliberately took intermittent breaks to relax and reflect. These breaks allowed me to process my experiences, appreciate the beauty of the present moment, and regain energy for the next leg of my adventure. Whether it was volunteering in Guatemala or enjoying the company of new friends in Mexico or California, these breaks provided a necessary balance between exploration and self-care.

I finally found time to read books and reflect on myself and my life goals.

See also: List of the books I read during my Sabbatical

Conclusion:

A sabbatical is not just a period of extended vacation; it is a transformative journey that can shape one's perspective, enhance personal growth, and foster a deeper understanding of the world. Embracing adventure, connecting with local communities, immersing oneself in nature, and taking time for reflection, can be a profound and life-changing experience

Links:

What is Bikepacking

RUTA MAYA DE LOS CUCHUMATANES, GUATEMALA

Credits

Pictures taken by me on an iPhone 12, unless otherwise attributed. I used Grammarly for the spellchecks and asked chatGPT for a good title and a 140 characters summary for the SEO description.