If you’ve ever fantasized about pressing pause on your career to take a sabbatical and explore something totally different—whether it’s writing, hiking, or (in my case) marine biology—this one’s for you.
The second half of my sabbatical took me to South Africa, where I spent two weeks immersed in a marine science and scuba diving field course and another two weeks exploring the vibrant, wild, and ridiculously beautiful city of Cape Town. Spoiler: I didn’t become a marine biologist—but I got way closer to that dream than I ever thought I would.
Missed the first chapter of my sabbatical? Read about my adventures in Mexico here.
Why Choose South Africa for a Sabbatical?
After a transformative month diving and exploring in Mexico, I wanted something equally rich in learning and nature. Enter South Africa: a bucket-list destination with world-class diving, unique marine ecosystems, and the kind of natural beauty that makes you stop in your tracks every five minutes.
Cape Town is a dream. It’s one of the rare cities where beaches, mountains, wildlife, and culture all exist side by side. One day you’re hiking Table Mountain, the next you’re diving in kelp forests with pajama sharks. Seriously—how many cities can offer that?
My Close Encounters Below the Surface
The field course was two weeks of intense, hands-on learning focused on oceanography, marine conservation, and advanced diving skills—all based in False Bay, a unique marine hotspot just outside Cape Town.
Although summer brought slightly murky waters, the marine life made up for it. I swam through towering kelp forests that looked like underwater jungle gyms. I passed bright, spiky sea urchins in vivid purples and reds. A school of pajama sharks darted by—adorable, striped little creatures that truly live up to their name.
But the most magical moment? A curious octopus reached out and wrapped one of its arms around my hand. For a few surreal seconds, we just floated there together—two beings from different worlds sharing a connection. It was humbling, strange, and completely unforgettable.
And that’s not all—I dove with speedy Cape fur seals, practiced buoyancy control next to dramatic reefs, and gained a whole new respect for the intricate web of marine life that exists off South Africa’s coast. Learn more about the marine biodiversity in False Bay here.
Additionally, there is a beach in Simon’s Town near False Bay where I was diving, full of playful penguins!
Lastly, Cape Town has some AMAZING hikes right in the city. You can hike up Lion’s Head, a smaller quicker option, or hike up Table Mountain, a longer challenging hike with multiple routes. My route took me scrambling up rocks and ladders right through the jungle 🙂
What This Sabbatical Taught Me
This sabbatical wasn’t just a break—it was a reset. It helped me remember who I was before the burnout, before the career ladder started to feel more like a cage than a climb.
And if you’re considering a sabbatical too, here are some takeaways that might help you design one that actually feels worth it:
1. Follow the Fascination
Your sabbatical doesn’t need to be career-aligned. Follow what excites you. I was working in consulting and still chose marine science because I’ve always been obsessed with the ocean. It wasn’t “strategic”—but it was life-giving.
2. Mix Learning and Leisure
I planned the course in advance, but left room for spontaneous exploration of Cape Town. That balance made the whole experience feel expansive, not rushed. You don’t need to schedule every day—let curiosity guide you.
3. Let Go of Linear Career Thinking
The sabbatical didn’t derail my career—it deepened it. I came back more energized, more curious, and with a broader sense of who I am and what I want to bring into my work. Harvard Business Review even backs this up.
4. You Don’t Have to Choose Just One Life
I used to think I had to pick a path: consultant or marine biologist. Now I see it differently. Maybe I’ll volunteer in marine conservation. Maybe I’ll take another course. The point is—you don’t have to give up one identity to explore another.
Final Thoughts
If your soul’s been whispering, I need a reset—listen. Whether you dream of becoming a digital nomad, working abroad, or simply taking time to breathe and explore, a sabbatical can give you clarity, purpose, and unexpected joy.
You don’t need a grand plan. You just need the courage to start.
Hi, I’m Megan, your Work Abroad Specialist and working nomad.
I help people design intentional, meaningful pathways to live and work abroad—whether that’s through digital nomad visas, local jobs, remote work, or personal sabbaticals like mine. Learn more about me here.
✅ Ready to explore your own journey? Book a free 1:1 Work Abroad Exploration Call and let’s map out your next big move. 🌍