You only live once, and life does not start at 60. Around 40 is a good time - you usually have the career/CV not to worry too much if you have to quit to do it. If you worry about that, you maybe should not do it. I got unpaid leave from my company after making it quite clear It was not a discussion. They had a choice between getting me back, or me working for someone else. You will find out if you are valued! As long as you have a realistic plan for paying the money back, then go. Life will not wait for you to make up your mind and may have other less enticing plans for you waiting round the corner. Recently diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer, I know whereof I speak. Go go go go go. Assuming other issues mentioned by other posters are ironed out, like no, you can't leave your spouse and little children, in which case, save up and go together later. When you're old and immobile would you rather have a head full of memories or a room full of things? (Well, you will need some things...) You Puritan! Two months is not nearly long enough - you will barely be over the jet lag. Dear, the competitive traveller. Everyone's different. Not everybody enjoys very long stints away. Two months is more than enough for some people. You also need far less time on your own as you don't have to