A banker who was earning six figures has “no regrets” about quitting her job to backpack across the world. Amy Ya joined a city firm upon leaving university in 2006, but was burned out after working 12-hour days for nine years in London’s financial markets. Despite earning a great salary which allowed her to do own her own two-bed flat, the 31-year-old was not happy.
In 2015, Amy decided enough was enough, so she rented out her flat and used some of her savings to backpack across Europe, Central America and South East Asia for a year. “I’m much happier than before,” the now 40-year-old, who is a part-time travel coordinator for tour operator WeRoad, explained. "I’m not money-orientated anymore.
I fully understand that it’s not easy for everyone to quit their job and go travelling." Did you quit your job to undertake a global adventure? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com Reflecting on her experiences of banking and travelling, Amy said: "It has allowed me to see the bigger picture and become more open-minded.
Before I was very snappy if I didn’t get a service within five minutes. I expected it from everyone and everywhere." Travelling through Central America, Amy noticed how everyone appeared to be relaxed, because that was just how they lived.
"I think travelling makes you less snobby and arrogant. You see more culture, hear more stories and become a lot more relaxed. I’m not so demanding now.
That’s one of the biggest things I’ve learned and changed a.