This November, I had the privilege of taking a two-week sabbatical. A reward for reaching five years with Expert Wealth Management. This felt like the perfect opportunity to pause, recharge, and experience two destinations that had long been on my bucket list: Scotland and Austria. Rather than choosing between them, I decided to embrace the spirit of adventure and visit both.

This wasn’t just a holiday. It was a chance to reflect on the past five years, appreciate the value of planning, and remind myself why experiences matter as much as financial goals. Here’s how the journey unfolded.

Week One: Scotland’s Timeless Charm

Our first stop was Edinburgh, a city that effortlessly blends history with vibrancy. From the moment we arrived, the crisp autumn air and dramatic skyline set the tone for an unforgettable week. Edinburgh has a way of drawing you in. Its cobbled streets, architecture, and lively atmosphere make every walk feel like a step back in time.

We spent hours exploring on foot, which quickly became a theme of the trip. There’s something liberating about wandering without a schedule. The freedom to enjoy the moment.

One highlight was the Edinburgh Christmas Market, which had just opened for the season. The festive lights, the scent of mulled wine, and the hum of excited chatter created an atmosphere that felt magical. We sampled local treats, browsed handmade crafts, and soaked up the early Christmas spirit.

Another memorable experience was visiting Edinburgh Zoo. Speaking with zookeepers, who are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about what they do, I found inspiring. This truly is a way of life for them.

We also explored Edinburgh Castle, perched proudly on Castle Rock. Standing within its ancient walls, you can’t help but feel a sense of history. It’s incredible to imagine the stories those stones could tell.

And then there was Arthur’s Seat. The climb was a challenge, but the panoramic views of the city were worth every step. There’s something grounding about standing above it all, looking out over a city that has witnessed centuries of change.

Our only disappointment? Missing out on Glen Etive, the famous filming location for James Bond’s ‘Skyfall’. We set off full of excitement, but about 100 miles from Edinburgh, a sudden snowstorm forced us to turn back. Frustrating at the time, but now it’s simply another reason to return. Sometimes, the best plans are the ones you haven’t completed yet.

Week Two: Vienna’s Winter Magic

From Scotland’s rugged beauty, week two was spent in magical Vienna. A city that feels like a living museum. The architecture is breath-taking, and every street seems to tell a story. We walked for miles, taking in grand buildings, and the sense of history that surrounds you at every turn.

Vienna in November is synonymous with Christmas markets, and we visited five of them! Each had its own character, some focused on food, others on arts and crafts, and all brimming with festive spirit. I was pleasantly surprised by the variety and creativity on display. My favourite snack? The classic pretzel. Simple, yes, but absolutely delicious! We also tried as many authentic Austrian dishes as possible, which was a treat for the taste buds.

We explored the Natural History Museum, marvelled at its incredible exhibits, and even attended my first European football match. The atmosphere was electric! Thousands of fans singing in unison, the energy pulsing through the stadium. Unforgettable.

One thing we weren’t prepared for? The cold. The forecast suggested close to freezing, but at times the wind made it feel much lower. Cue an emergency trip to a local shop for extra layers! It’s funny how the unexpected moments often become the most memorable. Standing in a Viennese square, bundled up in new scarves and gloves, sipping hot chocolate. It’s those little things that stick with you.

We rounded off the trip with a visit to a light display, which provided plenty of photo opportunities and a magical end to our time in Vienna. Walking through illuminated tunnels and glowing sculptures felt like stepping into a winter wonderland.

Reflections and Takeaways

Looking back, this sabbatical was more than just a holiday. It was a reminder of why planning matters, not just financially, but in life. Experiences like these don’t happen by accident; they’re the result of setting goals and making them a priority.

As a financial planning firm, we spend a lot of time helping clients achieve freedom to do exactly this. Take time out, explore, and enjoy life. For me, this trip reinforced that message. Whether it’s a sabbatical, a dream holiday, or simply more time with family, these moments are what make life rich and rewarding.

I’m grateful to work for a company that values its people and recognises the importance of taking time out. After two weeks of exploring, walking, and soaking up new cultures, I’ve returned energised and inspired, ready for whatever comes next.

Why This Matters

One of the things we often discuss with clients is the importance of planning for experiences. It’s easy to get caught up in numbers. The savings targets, investment returns, retirement dates, but ultimately, those numbers are there to serve a purpose: to give you the freedom to live the life you want.

For me, this sabbatical was a perfect example. It wasn’t just about ticking destinations off a list; it was about creating memories, sharing moments, and stepping outside the routine. And that’s something worth planning for.