Sometimes I’m envious of those Twitter profiles that say, “Quit my job, sold my life and currently traveling the world”. I must admit, even before university ended, I got suckered into the corporate world, but in all honesty, it’s not that bad.
For those of you who are confused about what you’d like to do after university, I suggest for you to try out the corporate life first. This advice sounds weird, doesn’t it? It’s the opposite of what you’ve heard. Even my mother wanted me to backpack around Europe first. But truth be told, I’m not much of a backpacker – does that make me any less of a traveler?
I started working a month after classes ended and just days after I came back from San Francisco. And while I miss not being able to tan on the beach on any given weekday, my weekends feel that much more valuable. Working full time also gave me good benefits, full health and travel insurance coverage. I started saving up and with my 3 weeks vacation, I took 2 weeks off for my trip to Hong Kong and Thailand. Not only that, a few months later I was off to Cuba for a week and closed off the year in San Diego and LA. Of course, I had a few road trips in between.
This is what I consider my work-life balance. Depending on the type of traveler you are, you might not be able to afford to travel around the world all at once. I do enjoy my private ensuite hotel rooms and occasional fancy rental car. I’m not so good with self-guided tours which make me a pretty terrible backpacker. Maybe I’m a luxury-on-a-budget kinda gal?
The way I see it, joining the workforce first can enable you to save money for your dream vacation as well as get some good experience on your résumé. And while I’ve began my house hunting journey, I’ve come to realize that until the day I have a mortgage to pay off, I can just quit and travel where I want with a few pretty pennies in my pocket. That’s my sense of security.
Don’t get me wrong, those who can pick up and go are brave and inspirational and I bet they accumulate amazing stories to tell. But while its a nice thought, I know it’s not my thing. For me, I believe you don’t need to leave your corporate career to be a world traveler. I think I’ll be off to Europe soon but I’m in no rush. I have plenty of time and vacation days! You’ll never know, maybe one day I can combine my career in marketing with my love for travel.
Expedia, are you reading my blog? 😉
Life Outside the Inbox 
Interesting perspective. I know what you are saying. The backpack around the world forever kinda life isn’t for everyone. Some people manage it well, but others need that stability for most of the time. Also, the level of luxury desired changes drastically per person. Cheers for speaking your mind! Happy travels!
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Howdy! I just want to give a huge thumbs up for the nice
information you’ve gotten right here on this post.
I can be coming back to your weblog for more soon.
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Would love to travel around the world, but unfortunately you have to do it before kids. Its all about timing I think. Right between ending school, still living at home, and just a cell phone bill to pay for.
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The most important thing to do is… what’s right for you.
I work a desk job, 40 hours per week and getaway when I can, as I can and I’m good with that… for now 😀
I’ve been to 7 countries
Lived in 6 of the US states and visited about 20 others during my lifetime (thus far)
I figure I’m doing OK although, yes, I’d prefer to never “have” to work another day but then I wouldn’t be able to travel at all.
Love this site – so glad to have found it
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Love this site! Great blog and some good advice too!
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I did a year and a half road trip around Australia before settling into a house and a job. It was a fantastic experience and because for most of that trip I lived in a tent having a house was a huge novelty. Now I’m happy with my few weeks away every year while I pay off the mortgage. But once that sucker is paid off I want to go on a big road trip again. But next time I’ll do it in style – I’ll do it in a caravan 🙂
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You are right and wrong at the same time 🙂
It’s unique decision for everyone what is correct timing to go to travel.
We’ve packed everything into a storage room and began to travel after 10 years of hard working
corporate life.
Others feel call of the road much earlier.
We guess that your call just haven’t come yet 🙂
Gadi & Tune
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Thanks for your comment 🙂
I don’t really thing there’s a right and wrong to this. While some people seek adventures in their travels, others (like me) need to feel the security of having a full time job.
Perhaps I’ll never find the traveling calling, but i feel I’ve got a pretty good balance going on.
Happy travels!
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