Angela Petitt

https://www.sabbaticalscapes.com

Age: 42

Hometown: Houston, TX

Quote: “Not having a paycheck is scary. But with planning, it was well worth the sacrifice.”

How did you find out about Vagabonding, and how did you find it useful before and during the trip? In an effort to research sabbaticals and extended travel, I came across Vagabonding. I found it to be a great resource for inspiration that encouraged and allowed me to see that there were others out there traveling long term.

How long were you on the road? My “on the road” was a little different. I took trips every month or so returning home in between to plan my next adventure and to handle responsibilities at home.  Initially, I planned only to be out 6 months. Then, 6 months turned into 10 months…Now, it has been 15 months and counting.

Where all did you go? Egypt, Israel, Greece, Turkey, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Cabo, St. Thomas, Bonaire, Aruba, Colombia, Dominica, Italy, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Germany, Puerto Rico, Quebec, NYC, Rhode Island, Panama, Canada, Nova Scotia, Mexico, Grand Cayman, and many other exciting destinations.

What was your job or source of travel funding for this journey? Self-funded

Did you work or volunteer on the road? I volunteered in my community and at church.

Of all the places you visited, which was your favorite? That’s a huge question. I experienced so many wonderful destinations and each place had its own unique appeal. I really enjoyed the beaches at Tayrona National Park in Colombia and Punta Cana. I was extremely excited to have a once in a lifetime experience of peering into the mouth of a steamy active volcano in Nicaragua…And of course Italy is always a personal favorite with the azure waters of the Mediterranean, the food, the history, and gelato!!

Was there a place that was your least favorite, or most disappointing, or most challenging? I was a little disappointed in Costa Rica. Although the Arenal Volcano was great, it rained and I didn’t get to enjoy it. Ok, it is the rain forest…But, I hope to go back to explore the area again.

Did any of your pre-trip worries or concerns come true?  Did you run into any problems or obstacles that you hadn’t anticipated? When I initially quit my job, I really had no clue as to how my travel, and my life as a whole, would play out. I still had a house, car note, a nephew in college to support, and other responsibilities. Of course, there were some unexpected emergencies that came up. But, I took everything in stride and continued to budget accordingly.

One pre-trip concern was the notion of traveling alone. Turns out I always had someone to travel with me or meet me at a destination. My aunt Thelma, who is retired, was key in coming up with travel ideas and agendas. She always found a trip that was appropriately priced going to fabulous destinations. (Thanks Aunt Thelma!!)

Which travel gear proved most useful?  Least useful? A sturdy backpack or bag. Although I am not a true “backpacker”, a good sturdy and functional bag is worth the money.  Also, a camera, a hat, sunglasses, and a pashmina were indispensible.

What are the rewards of the vagabonding lifestyle? Wow! There were so many wonderful rewards where do I start. Mainly the confidence that I gained knowing that I actually did something that was not the normal (corporate) life…something that I desired and made happen.

What are the challenges and sacrifices of the vagabonding lifestyle? Not having a paycheck is scary. But with planning, it was well worth the sacrifice. I am so glad I took the plunge!!

What lessons did you learn on the road? Life is too short to NOT do what you want to do!! Chalk some things up to the experience. Some things don’t go as well as you would like, but as long as you are safe and have your health, have fun. It really is all good!

How did your personal definition of “vagabonding” develop over the course of the trip? I did a combination of land trips, getaways, and cruises. It was the best way for me to see a lot of the world with the level of comfort that I desired. So to me, vagabonding is taking the step to freely enjoy the beauty and experiences of extended travel – no matter how you do it.

If there was one thing you could have told yourself before the trip, what would it be? You will be glad you took a step of faith to make your dream come true.

Any advice or tips for someone hoping to embark on a similar adventure? Make the decision to do it and then pray and plan. You will have naysayers, but keep your focus and step off into your dreams. You only have one life to live. It is up to you to live it by faith or by fear. By faith is much better.

When and where do you think you’ll take your next long-term journey? That is a great question. Currently, I am looking for a corporate position. In addition, I just started working on my doctorate degree. So, it may be a while before I venture out long term. But, I am still committed to travel and getaways!!

Are you a Vagabonding reader planning, in the middle of, or returning from a journey? Would you like your travel blog or website to be featured on Vagabonding Case Studies? If so, drop us a line at casestudies@vagabonding.net and tell us a little about yourself.