Embracing the Grown-Up Gap Year with Stephanie Perry | Ep. 20
In This Article
Originally aired: December 5, 2019
In a world that often requires us to work tirelessly until the golden years of our lives, the notion of taking a break to travel and explore can seem like a distant dream. For Stephanie Perry, however, this dream became a vibrant reality. At 41, she quit her job as a hospital pharmacy technician and embarked on a transformative journey across twelve countries for just $1,200 per month. As a guest on the “Money Talk With Tiff” podcast, Stephanie shares her remarkable story and offers insights and advice for anyone contemplating a grown-up gap year.
Discovering the Inspiration
Why Stephanie Perry Took the Leap
Stephanie Perry's decision to quit her stable job and venture into the unknown stemmed from a profound realization during a family vacation. Watching her elderly parents struggle with mobility issues highlighted the limitations of postponing travel until retirement. She recognized the importance of enjoying life and its adventures while her body was still cooperative. This epiphany led her to break away from conventional life plans and embrace the nomadic lifestyle.
The Financial Side of Travel
Saving $14,000 was the cornerstone of Stephanie's adventure. Through diligent research, she discovered that budget travelers typically spend around $40 a day in cost-effective regions like Southeast Asia and Central America. This insight helped her structure her finances, ensuring she could sustain her travels on $1,200 a month. By prioritizing savings and meticulously planning her budget, Stephanie made her dream feasible.
Practical Advice for Aspiring Travelers
Begin with Self-Reflection
Stephanie emphasizes the importance of starting with a personal assessment. Understanding why you want to take a gap year and what activities you wish to pursue is crucial. Whether your goal is to travel, participate in yoga retreats, or write a book, having a clear objective helps structure your plans and budget.
Budgeting for the Journey
Once your goals are defined, the next step is establishing a budget. Your chosen destinations significantly affect your expenditure, so selecting cost-effective regions can stretch your savings further. Stephanie's travels through Southeast Asia, where accommodations and living expenses are relatively low, allowed her to maximize her budget.
Setting a Go Date
Planning with a specific date in mind cements your commitment to the journey. Tying your departure to a meaningful milestone, such as a birthday or personal event, can motivate you to follow through. Stephanie's penchant for making life changes in September provided a suitable launch point.
House Sitting: A Savvy Way to Travel
How House Sitting Works
House sitting offered Stephanie a practical solution for reducing travel expenses. Platforms like Trusted House Sitters connect travelers with homeowners who need someone to care for their property and pets. This arrangement eliminates accommodation costs, contributing to significant savings.
Building a Reputation
Starting on platforms like Trusted House Sitters can help you gain initial experience and positive reviews. As your reputation builds, you can rely on word-of-mouth referrals, which may also include stipends beyond free accommodations, making your travels even more affordable.
Living the Dream
Stephanie attributes her continued travels to house-sitting. This lifestyle not only supports her financially but also enriches her experiences by allowing her to immerse herself in different cultures. Through word-of-mouth, she secured consecutive house-sitting stints, keeping her adventure alive.
Exploring the World: Stephanie's Favorite Destinations
Vietnam: A Treasure Trove of Experiences
Vietnam holds a special place in Stephanie's heart due to its affordability, rich culture, and welcoming expat community. With accommodation as low as $180 per month, Vietnam offers an exotic escape without breaking the bank. The country's scenic beauty and culinary delights make it a top choice for budget travelers.
Portugal: A Home Away from Home
For Stephanie, Portugal represents comfort with a touch of the exotic. The country's stunning beaches, friendly people, and relatively low cost of living, especially in comparison to other European nations, make it an ideal long-term destination. Its manageable language barrier and vibrant expat community also add to its appeal.
Mexico: An Overlooked Gem
Closer to home, Mexico offers vibrant culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and stunning landscapes. Stephanie spent nearly a year in Mexico, house sitting and exploring its diverse regions. The country's affordability and accessibility make it an attractive option for those looking to embark on international travels with minimal hassle.
Your Adventure Awaits
Stephanie Perry's journey is a testament to the power of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown. Her story challenges the conventional notion of travel as a post-retirement activity and inspires us to seek adventures now. Whether you're considering a grown-up gap year or looking for ways to travel more affordably, let Stephanie's experiences guide and motivate you to take that leap. With careful planning, a spirit of adventure, and resources like house sitting, the world is more accessible than ever. So, what are you waiting for? Your adventure awaits.
FAQs for Aspiring Travelers
How much should I save for a grown-up gap year?
As Stephanie demonstrated, a budget of around $14,000 is a reasonable target. If you choose cost-effective regions and manage your finances prudently, this amount can sustain you for a year.
How do I start house-sitting?
Begin by registering on platforms like Trusted House Sitters. Start with short-term assignments to build your profile, accrue positive reviews, and expand your network. Over time, transition to word-of-mouth referrals for more flexibility and potential stipends.
Is it safe to travel solo?
Traveling solo, especially as a woman, comes with its unique challenges, but it's entirely doable with proper precautions. Research your destinations, stay aware of your surroundings, and connect with local communities and fellow travelers for added safety.
Can I take a gap year with children?
Yes, it is possible to take a gap year with children. Many families successfully travel together, integrating education and exploration. Planning and flexibility are key, along with choosing family-friendly destinations with appropriate amenities.
What if I run out of money?
Planning for financial shortfalls is crucial. Stephanie successfully transitioned to house sitting and freelance writing to sustain her travels. Having multiple income streams and a contingency plan ensures that you can adapt to unforeseen financial challenges.
Follow Stephanie on Facebook: https://facebook.com/vaycarious
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Visit Stephanie's site: https://www.vaycarious.com
Visit my site: https://www.moneytalkwitht.com
Link to Essence article with the incredible picture of Stephanie in Cambodia: https://www.essence.com/lifestyle/travel/epic-adventures-that-will-inspire-you-to-live-life/#470994
