As our lives become increasingly busy and hectic, it's easy to forget the importance of taking a break and going on vacation.
Taking a break from work and going on vacation can have significant physical and mental health benefits, as well as improve productivity and job performance.
One of the primary reasons for most to take a break from work and go on vacation is to reduce stress levels.
According to a study by the American Psychological Association, chronic stress can lead to a range of health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and depression.
Taking a break from work and going on vacation can help reduce stress levels, which in turn can improve overall health and well-being.
Going on vacation can also have significant physical health benefits. For example, a study by the Framingham Heart Study found that women who took a vacation once every six years or less were almost eight times more likely to develop coronary heart disease or have a heart attack than those who took at least two vacations per year.
Additionally, taking a break from work and going on vacation can help improve sleep quality, which in turn can improve overall physical health.
Going on vacation and leaving your work behind can also have significant mental health benefits. A study by the American Psychological Association found that vacations can lead to decreased levels of depression and anxiety, as well as increased levels of positive emotions and life satisfaction.
It also improves creativity, as well as provides a much-needed break from the stresses of everyday life.
According to a study by the Society for Human Resource Management, employees who take regular vacations are more productive and engaged at work than those who don't.
Going for that trip can provide employees with the opportunity to recharge and come back to work with renewed energy and focus.
Do you know that going on that flight can also help improve relationships with family and friends? According to a study by the U.S. Travel Association, couples who take regular vacations together report higher levels of satisfaction with their relationships and are less likely to divorce.
Going on vacation with family and friends can provide an opportunity to create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.
Go Where?
With so many options and so little budget, the question will be where should you go to?
Forget about the long sleepless and torturous trip to Europe that will break your bank. Don't even think about that same-same-but-different Hong Kong where you will still be rubbing shoulders, sometimes literally, with fellow rat racers after that four hours flight from Singapore.
Sometimes the best thing is right next to you without you realising (considering) - Southeast Asia.
Southeast Asia is a stunning region with an abundance of photographic opportunities, from the lush jungles and towering mountains to bustling cities and colorful markets.
If you are an avid photographer, it is akin to a treasure cove waiting to be discovered.
Here are some suggestions to a few of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia for photography purposes
Angkor Wat, Cambodia Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia that dates back to the 12th century. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, and for good reason. The intricate carvings, massive stone structures, and stunning sunrise and sunset views make it a dream destination for photographers. Make sure to explore the lesser-known temples as well, such as Ta Prohm and Bayon.
Bagan, Myanmar Bagan is an ancient city in Myanmar that boasts over 2,000 temples and pagodas spread out over 26 square miles. The best way to see these magnificent structures is from above, either by hot air balloon or drone. The sunrise and sunset views over the temples are absolutely breathtaking.
Luang Prabang, Laos Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in northern Laos. The city is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and stunning natural scenery. The alms-giving ceremony, where monks collect offerings from locals in the early morning, is a must-see for photographers.
Hoi An, Vietnam Hoi An is a picturesque town in central Vietnam that is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and lantern-lit streets. The town is especially beautiful at night when the lanterns are lit and the buildings are illuminated with soft yellow light.
Bali, Indonesia Bali is a popular tourist destination in Indonesia that is known for its stunning beaches, rice terraces, and Hindu temples. The island is a photographer's paradise, with endless opportunities for capturing the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the region.
Chiang Mai, Thailand Chiang Mai is a city located in northern Thailand that is known for its Buddhist temples, night markets, and stunning natural scenery. The city is surrounded by mountains and lush forests, making it an ideal destination for landscape photography.
Vientiane, Laos Vientiane is the capital city of Laos and is known for its French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and bustling markets. The city is located on the banks of the Mekong River and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and is known for its stunning Buddhist temples, colonial architecture, and bustling markets. The city also has a rich history, with sites such as the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum offering a glimpse into the country's dark past.
Yangon, Myanmar Yangon is the largest city in Myanmar and is known for its stunning Shwedagon Pagoda, colonial architecture, and bustling markets. The city offers a glimpse into traditional Burmese life, with its street food vendors, vibrant markets, and friendly locals.
Halong Bay, Vietnam Halong Bay is a stunning natural wonder located in northern Vietnam. The bay is filled with towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear water, and traditional Vietnamese fishing villages. The best way to experience the bay is by boat, which allows for stunning views of the landscape.
With big tech companies like Meta and Google retrenching staff in the thousands on a regular basis and financial behemoth Credit Suisse being in huge trouble and ultimately absorbed by rival UBS at a fraction of their market valuation, upgrading yourself and your skills seems more important than ever.
So do you spend the money traveling or learning a skill?
By upgrading your skills, you become more valuable to your employer, making it less likely that you will be laid off. It also makes you more marketable to potential employers, increasing your job security overall.
With new skills or improving existing ones, you may become eligible for new job opportunities or promotions within your current company. This can help you stay competitive in the job market and increase your earning potential.
If you are learning a skill that aligns with your personal interest, it can, not only helps in your career but, also lead to personal growth and fulfillment, boosting your confidence and self-esteem. Pursuing personal growth can definitely help you feel more motivated and engaged in your work, leading to greater job satisfaction.
With new skills, you can start to take control of your career development and invest in yourself, you can feel more empowered and confident during uncertain times. This can help you weather the ups and downs of the job market and emerge stronger and more resilient.
So why not have both - traveling and learning a new skill?
Students from our diploma in photography and digital imaging course not only learn new skills through hands-on practice but also get to travel around to hone their skills with masters in the region!
We believe in having fun while learning so if you also have the same mindset, join us now to open up a whole new world of opportunities for your life!