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Murray Out Of Office
United States
Приєднався 17 тра 2024
Hi, I’m Natalie! After years of chasing deadlines and routines, I decided it was time for a change. My husband and I hit pause on work and set out on a year-long career break to travel, explore, and figure out what’s next.
Murray Out of Office is where I share the highs and lows of this adventure-what it’s like to leave the 9-to-5 behind, discover new places, and reflect on what really matters. You’ll find travel stories, honest conversations about taking a career break, and tips/cost breakdowns for anyone dreaming of doing the same.
New videos every week (as long as we have Wi-Fi 😉). Thanks for stopping by, and as Jimmy would say, Happy Days!
Murray Out of Office is where I share the highs and lows of this adventure-what it’s like to leave the 9-to-5 behind, discover new places, and reflect on what really matters. You’ll find travel stories, honest conversations about taking a career break, and tips/cost breakdowns for anyone dreaming of doing the same.
New videos every week (as long as we have Wi-Fi 😉). Thanks for stopping by, and as Jimmy would say, Happy Days!
How Much We Spent in One Month in Thailand ($3,400 Budget Breakdown)
🔔 Subscribe for more career break & travel budget breakdowns!
Ever wondered what it really costs to spend a month traveling in Thailand? I tracked every baht, and in this video, I’m breaking down exactly where our $3,400 went during this month of our career break. 💸
I start with the total cost and then dive into my biggest spending categories-accommodation, transport, restaurants, etc. Was it more or less than you expected? Let’s find out!
📍 Where we stayed & how much it cost
🍜 How much we spent on food
🚗 Transport costs-tuk-tuks, Grab, and more
🛍️ Shopping & extras you shouldn't forget
If you’re planning a trip or thinking about traveling in Thailand for a month, this breakdown will give you a realistic idea of what to budget for midrange spend. Let me know in the comments-how does this compare to what you’d expect?
#ThailandBudget #CostOfLivingThailand #TravelCosts #CareerBreak #ThailandExpenses
Ever wondered what it really costs to spend a month traveling in Thailand? I tracked every baht, and in this video, I’m breaking down exactly where our $3,400 went during this month of our career break. 💸
I start with the total cost and then dive into my biggest spending categories-accommodation, transport, restaurants, etc. Was it more or less than you expected? Let’s find out!
📍 Where we stayed & how much it cost
🍜 How much we spent on food
🚗 Transport costs-tuk-tuks, Grab, and more
🛍️ Shopping & extras you shouldn't forget
If you’re planning a trip or thinking about traveling in Thailand for a month, this breakdown will give you a realistic idea of what to budget for midrange spend. Let me know in the comments-how does this compare to what you’d expect?
#ThailandBudget #CostOfLivingThailand #TravelCosts #CareerBreak #ThailandExpenses
Переглядів: 32
Відео
Why Ko Lanta Wasn’t What We Expected
Переглядів 2989 годин тому
Thinking of visiting Ko Lanta? Watch this before you go! 🔔 Subscribe for more career break videos: www.youtube.com/@MurrayOOO After five months of travel, we were looking for a place to slow down in Thailand. Ko Lanta seemed like the perfect choice-beaches, nature, and a relaxed vibe. But when we arrived… it wasn’t quite what we expected... In This Video 0:00 Intro 0:29 🚐 Getting There & First ...
Oh, So THIS is Why People Love Thailand! A Day at Ko Lanta National Park
Переглядів 13812 годин тому
After a gloomy two weeks in the Krabi Province, the sun finally came out, and I couldn’t be happier! ☀️ We hopped on our motorbike and made our way to Mu Ko Lanta National Park, one of the most beautiful spots in Ko Lanta, Thailand. 🏝️ What’s in this video? 00:00 ✅Intro to our adventure 00:26 ✅ A scenic ride through Ko Lanta & park entry 02:35 ✅ Walking along the park’s stunning beach 04:19 ✅ H...
Not Every Day Is a Dream - Overcoming a Tough Travel Week in Thailand
Переглядів 4116 годин тому
Travel isn’t always sunshine and adventure. This week in Thailand, I struggled. The rainy, gloomy weather wasn’t what I expected, I got sick (hello, parasite!), and being away from family during the holidays hit harder than I thought. But even in tough moments, I found ways to reframe my mindset-through gratitude, affirmations, and a little self-compassion. I hesitated to share this because, le...
My Favorite Place in Chiang Mai - And It’s Not What You Think!
Переглядів 124День тому
Chiang Mai is full of incredible temples, markets, and cafes-but my favorite place in the city might surprise you! In this video, I’m taking you to Chiang Mai University and its vibrant night market, a lesser-known gem that I keep coming back to. ✨ Wondering about the details? Here’s what you need to know: 📍 Where is it? Chiang Mai University (CMU) is located west of the Old City, right at the ...
Mae Salong Loop Part 3: Mae Salong to Chiang Rai
Переглядів 11214 днів тому
While many travelers to northern Thailand have heard of the famous Mae Hong Son Loop, we chose a slightly less touristy adventure: the Mae Salong Loop. Over six days, we rented a car (yes, a car-not a motorbike!) and explored this stunning region, filled with winding mountain roads, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes. With little information available about driving this loop by car,...
Mae Salong Loop: Chiang Dao to Mae Salong PART 2
Переглядів 12614 днів тому
While many travelers to northern Thailand have heard of the famous Mae Hong Son Loop, we chose a slightly less touristy adventure: the Mae Salong Loop. Over six days, we rented a car (yes, a car-not a motorbike!) and explored this stunning region, filled with winding mountain roads, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes. With little information available about driving this loop by car,...
Mae Salong Loop PART 1: Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao
Переглядів 16521 день тому
While many travelers to northern Thailand have heard of the Mae Hong Son Loop, we chose a slightly less touristy alternative: the Mae Salong Loop. Over six days, we rented a car (yes, a car-not a motorbike!) and explored this beautiful region. With little information available about this loop for car travelers, we’re sharing our full experience in a three-part series to inspire your journey. In...
Travel Monthly Budget Breakdown: $3,800 for 6 Cities in 4 Countries
Переглядів 57Місяць тому
This month, we traveled from Scotland to Croatia, Istanbul, and Thailand, exploring six cities while sticking to a travel budget of $3,800 for two people. In this video, I’ll break down exactly how we spent our money on transportation, accommodations, food, and more. Whether you’re planning your next big adventure or curious about managing travel costs during a career break, this video will hel...
Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai Thailand: Full Day Adventure
Переглядів 503Місяць тому
Join us for a full day at the Chai Lai Orchid Elephant Jungle Expedition in Chiang Mai, where we had the chance to get up close and learn more about these beautiful rescued elephants while exploring the stunning Thai countryside. From hiking through lush jungles to rafting down the Mae Wang River, this experience was unforgettable. Chai Lai Orchid is more than just a sanctuary-it’s a place comm...
Future Me, Are You Listening? A Letter to 2025
Переглядів 17Місяць тому
This week, I’m writing a letter to my future self-2025 me-to reflect on where I am now and where I hope to grow. Taking a career break has been a mix of freedom, challenges, and lessons I didn’t expect, and this letter is my way of checking in, reminding myself (and anyone listening) why stepping away can be so powerful. If you’ve ever thought about taking a break, pursuing the unknown, or just...
From Sunrise Temples to Night Markets: My 40th in Chiang Mai
Переглядів 447Місяць тому
For my milestone 40th birthday, I started the day with a stunning sunrise temple tour in Chiang Mai. This magical experience was booked through an Airbnb experience (link below), and it was the perfect way to reflect on this special day. From the peaceful chants of the monks to breathtaking views from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the morning felt truly unforgettable. Later in the evening, I explor...
Planning a Year Off: My Strategy for a Fulfilling Career Break
Переглядів 29Місяць тому
Taking a career break? Planning can make all the difference! In this video, I share how I divided my year off into quarters, setting intentional goals for personal growth, rest, and exploration. Whether you're dreaming of a sabbatical or already planning your own time off, this video offers inspiration and guidance to help you make the most of it. Ready to design your dream break? Start with th...
Bangkok First-Timers: Highlights & Unexpected Moments
Переглядів 11 тис.Місяць тому
Bangkok took us by surprise! As first-timers, we weren’t sure what to expect, but this vibrant city completely won us over. From marveling at the Reclining Buddha in Wat Pho to exploring the colorful flower market during a rainy afternoon, and even a visit to the riverside Asiatique, there’s so much to see and do. While Bangkok wasn’t on our must-visit list initially, it quickly became a favori...
Am I Lazy For Taking A Career Break?
Переглядів 18Місяць тому
Ever feel like taking a career break means you're lazy or can’t handle the grind? Trust me, I’ve been there. In this video, I dive into the guilt and self-doubt that can creep in when you hit pause on work, especially when it seems like everyone around you is still hustling. But here’s the truth: taking a break isn’t about laziness-it’s about investing in yourself. I share three key reasons why...
72 Hours in Istanbul: Impressions, Surprises, and Cats
Переглядів 155Місяць тому
72 Hours in Istanbul: Impressions, Surprises, and Cats
Budget Smarter: Plan Your Career Break Finances
Переглядів 342 місяці тому
Budget Smarter: Plan Your Career Break Finances
From Split to Zagreb: Our Career Break Through Two Cities
Переглядів 642 місяці тому
From Split to Zagreb: Our Career Break Through Two Cities
One Month in Portugal & Scotland: Career Break Costs Explained
Переглядів 912 місяці тому
One Month in Portugal & Scotland: Career Break Costs Explained
How much we spent in 6 weeks in the UK
Переглядів 3452 місяці тому
How much we spent in 6 weeks in the UK
Rocks of Solitude, Edzell: A guide to the Blue Door Walk
Переглядів 442 місяці тому
Rocks of Solitude, Edzell: A guide to the Blue Door Walk
Places to Visit in Scotland! Loch Lee Falls of Unich
Переглядів 782 місяці тому
Places to Visit in Scotland! Loch Lee Falls of Unich
Paradise or Pass? Lagos Portugal Vlog
Переглядів 1,1 тис.3 місяці тому
Paradise or Pass? Lagos Portugal Vlog
Facing Your Biggest Career Break Fears (And How to Overcome Them!)
Переглядів 243 місяці тому
Facing Your Biggest Career Break Fears (And How to Overcome Them!)
Could This Be Home? 3 Days in Grantown-on-Spey
Переглядів 4953 місяці тому
Could This Be Home? 3 Days in Grantown-on-Spey
2 Months In: My Honest Reflections on a Career Break
Переглядів 383 місяці тому
2 Months In: My Honest Reflections on a Career Break
1 Month in Germany: Full Cost Breakdown
Переглядів 1403 місяці тому
1 Month in Germany: Full Cost Breakdown
From Work to Wander: My First Month on a Career Break in Germany
Переглядів 1654 місяці тому
From Work to Wander: My First Month on a Career Break in Germany
From Resignation to Exploration: My Year-Long Career Break Begins in Germany
Переглядів 524 місяці тому
From Resignation to Exploration: My Year-Long Career Break Begins in Germany
Glad that the rain lifted and you were able to enjoy the island. I've heard great things about Koh Lanta, but never been. Kind of an escape from the more touristy, well-known islands.
@@othandmark yes, after this we decided not to go to Phuket (our original plan). We appreciated for what it is. I would probably recommend coming Jan-Mar for more blue skies
❤❤❤❤ ฉันอยากแนะนำให้คุณมาเทศกาลเล่นน้ำในช่วงฤดูร้อน 13-15 เมษายน คุณจะประทับใจและสนุกสนานมากๆ ua-cam.com/video/KmnYYeRdEak/v-deo.htmlsi=FlKlwhFwOHWrke28
Koh Lanta is my favorite island. Thank you for the video.
Thank you for watching! Do you have any favorite places to visit/things to see that you would recommend to others?
We loved northern Thailand more than the south as well.
@@cdabuddha it's a special place! That being said, I'd like to try other Thai islands at another time of year ❤️
We need to learn to drive a scooter!:(
@@cdabuddha the scooter is a game changer! I'm going to get my motorcycle license when I get home... If only so that I can legally drive scooters abroad 😁
The views from the lighthouse 😍
@@julieallen917 So beautiful, right?!
I think people are craving to hear what a real career break experience is like. It's very easy to only show the good parts. I'm sure the parasite had an effect on your mood, too. When you're sick, it's harder to spin things in a positive light -- like the rainy weather. Hope you have been feeling better.
@@othandmark thanks for understanding - and yes, I'm feeling much better now! The sun did in fact shine in Koh Lanta for a couple days, so things turned around. But not everyday is an amazing vacation, as I'm sure you can relate!
You're keeping it real Natalie. Your experience isn't uncommon. We were so looking forward to Vietnam. Same thing you said, we'd done the research, choose the time of year that was supposed to give the best weather, avoiding 'burning season' . The air quality was so poor, we moved on from place to place quickly and even cut out of the country sooner than planned. I've had some very grumpy days, usually when I've not slept well. Agree with you, we are human. We can't be 'up' 100% of the time. Thanks for sharing. 🤗
@@julieallen917 Thank you so much for sharing your experience in Vietnam, Julie! While I know we are so fortunate to be doing this, its also good to share with others that you can feel grumpy, disappointed, or down at times. But hey, it never lasts too long :-)
This is my most honest and vulnerable chit chat yet, so please be kind. This week I show up NOT as my best self, which I'm not always proud of. But more importantly, I tried different things to help me get over my feelings of irritability and disappointment. Have you ever had a similar experience? Anything you want to share that can help others? P.S. - I learned a common side effect of having a parasite is irritability, so there can always be multiple factors at play to your moods!
Wow !
Another great narration.👍 I'm surprised to say that, based on your video, i preferred Zagreb. Suprised because I love being by water. Spilt, whilst pretty, felt like a lot of other coastal Mediterranean towns. So many to choose from. We looked at going to Split last year. It was the height of the summer season, I couldn't swallow the high accommodation price. We went to Albania instead.
@@julieallen917 oh Albania is high on my list! I think you might like visiting Split more in a shoulder season like we did in October. I was honestly still surprised by how busy it was. Zagreb really surprised me in the best way. We still talk about our cake and tea nights in the city 🍰🍵
We spent 6 weeks in Portugal, Sept 2021. 4 of those weeks in the Algarve. Lagos was my favourite.
Great attitude "reframing" I like it. I'm so glad you faced the fear, took that break, because we'd have never met you guys on the Mekon River. 😊 ❤
@@julieallen917 I'm glad too that we got to meet mi Julie and Chris! Hopefully this resonates with just one person who might be having reservations ❤️
My favourite so far because of your beautiful story telling and the breathtaking footage. Bravo 👏
@@julieallen917 It's so easy to fall in love with these beautiful places... Sometimes we have to make sure we don't over romanticize a place. But Grantown-On-Spey felt special.
You honesty and vulnerability in this one is endearing. How's the writing coming along? 😊
@@julieallen917 Thank you - it's important for me to be candid on this journey in the hopes it may help others. You know, I stopped putting a requirement on it, like wrote every day. Lately I've enjoyed just taking notes of our surrounding to help paint a picture and deepen my memories with smells, sounds, and feelings 💕
Ah what a lovely local man walking you to your accommodation. Wow, the loft view! Haha, Catching Jimmy off guard and him scurrying away in the background. There's nothing quite like the foitball (soccer) crowd in America.
@@julieallen917 We loved that little loft ❤️ Can you believe Jimmy is camera shy?! 😂🤷 Thanks for watching - you all got it good with the footy ⚽🏟️
Been there, can relate!
@@julieallen917 thanks for sharing, Julie! So many people may feel the same, but don't always share
Need to be taking a fishing rod on these walks!!
@@colinmurray7464 Haha! I think the University would prefer you to feed the fish rather than catch them 😉😀
This spot quickly became my favorite place in Chiang Mai! Have you been to Chiang Mai University or the night market? What’s your go-to hidden gem in the city? Let’s swap
Cool
@@KarenWard-w5u thanks!
Cool video, I really like the first temple with all the stairs. I want to visit national parks in the US and Canada on a road trip.
Have you ever taken a road trip like this? 🌍 Whether it’s a sabbatical, a gap year, or just a vacation getaway, I'd love to hear about your favorite travel experiences! What destination would be on your must-visit list for a break from the usual routine? Let’s swap ideas and inspire each other! ✨🚗
Thanks for the video. Best to stay 2 nights or more everywhere unless you hate the town. Take a look at Goran BMW overlander videos for road coverage.
Agreed on staying for 2 nights for each stop. Thanks for the suggestion and for watching!
hi :) great video! we're planning to visit Chai Lai this year but are hesitant due to ethical issues ~ would you say that the elephants there are being treated well? kind regards
Thanks for watching! Wonderful, I really believe you'll enjoy your visit. Both my husband I felt the elephants are treated with great care. You will notice that each elephant has a mahout (elephant caretaker) who may move/redirect them from time to time to ensure they are safe, but not with force or any unethical practices. Chai Lai has been a highlight of our trip so far. Enjoy!
awesome! so happy to know about your trip :) this helped us a lot ~ thank you 💜
@ddx4506 My pleasure, enjoy!
Have you ever explored northern Thailand? Would you consider driving the Mae Salong Loop by car, or do you prefer motorbiking? Let me know if you have any questions about planning your own trip-I’d love to help!
If you're not in a hurry, I would recommend spending 2 nights in Chiang Dao to have enough time to visit everything nearby. We stayed 1 night and it was manageable - but we easily could have stayed an extra night. Have you been to Chiang Dao? What's your favorite thing to see and do in the area?
So beautiful ☺
@@Pa-DarChannel thank you, it was a beautiful day and experience ☺️💗
Metro MRT lines, You can use your Visa or Mastercard card to tap in. No need to buy the tickets. :)
This is a great tip, thank you so much for sharing!
Many expat Americans living there?
I'm sure there are, but I didn't meet many American expats during our visit. Plenty of tourists from America, but most of the expats we met were from the UK.
Wish you guys had a great time there
@@mamananakkrakatau absolutely!
Are you planning your next big trip or considering taking a career break? What’s your biggest budgeting challenge?
สวัสดีค่ะ ยินดีต้อนรับสู่ไทยแลนด์ 👍♥️🌹🎉🎉
It is not surprising that Bangkok is nowadays New York City of Asia, because Ayutthaya (which was once the capital of “the Empire of Ayutthaya”, which was called “Siam” by most foreigners, including most French people) in the Ayutthaya Period was once as prosperous as Paris. The television series 'Sri Ayodhaya' - Part 1: ua-cam.com/video/BfrwQPr4I0M/v-deo.html Part 2: ua-cam.com/video/AVTyYy5Etf0/v-deo.html Suchart Na Bangxang; PhD (France), MSc (Virginia Tech, USA)
true 🎉🎉🎉ayudhaya was once prosperous😊
Welcome to Thailand everyone
You are amazing 🙏🏼
@@LauraCapannari thanks Laura, excited for all that this year will bring... Including reuniting with our friends and family in Cincy!
I adore this (and not because me and my pink dress made an appearance..😂). It's because of the content. 👍 The creative writer in you is coming to the fore more and more. I hope you're keeping a diary. I want to buy your book when you write it AND, I'll buy the audio book version too. You do a great voiceover. Maybe a sideline career to consider? 🤔
@julieallen917 thank you so much, Julie! Sometimes it feels a little weird to put yourself out there on the Internet - but I'm grateful for this year and the time I have to reflect and answer some big questions
What an amazing way to celebrate your birthday ❤the tours were so peaceful looking and stunning architecture
@@LauraCapannari it was definitely worth waking up early to experience the temples with less crowds. Very peaceful indeed 🙏
Movies like the Hangover have done irreversible damage to Bangkok's reputation. Glad you enjoyed your stay.
@@PCVP4729 I've never seen the Hangover, but do agree movies don't always paint big cities in the best light. I'm glad we visited and already have plans to come back through while we're in this area of the world ❣️
Cool to get a glimpse of your experience with the elephants. It's kind of a one of a kind experience and helps you understand how elephants became so prominent in Thailand as a symbol.
@@othandmark Absolutely, they are so well cared for. We also really appreciated how much it helps the locals as well through employment, farming, and other eco tourism opportunities it brings to the area
Love for all your detailed descriptive explanations of the Reclining Budha. 108 is the wholely blessing, have a good blessing and Thailand is will always your second home.🙏😊
@@annnuchsaeng3781 thank you so much for watching and sharing that info on 108. I look forward to returning.
welcome to thailand have a funny days.
@@jonechannarongkul2881 thank you!
Welcome to Thailand ❤
@@TouTube-o4p thank you!
This is one of the best videos I’ve seen about Lagos. I will be staying there for 5 weeks in Feb-March. All the info you provided in the video was super helpful. I’m glad I chose Lagos as a base for my winter snow bird destination. Thank you! 😊
@@evyd222 Oh wonderful, I'm so glad you found it helpful. Wow, 5 weeks there will be bliss! I hope you enjoy it as much as we did ☺️ Thank you for watching!
😊😊😊😊
Over the past year in Southeast Asia, we have always found ourselves coming back to Bangkok...we love this city! Glad it exceeded your first expectations! Always nice to see your videos pop up on our feed.
It's such a great city and hub to revisit. We're already adding to our list of experiences for next time. Thanks for the comment and wishing you both a Happy New Year!
@ thanks! Wishing the same for you, too!
Please explore Thailand more. You will find more and more impression. Have a good trip.
@@craxysunv.1620 Yes, we're spending 2 months in this beautiful country ❤️ Thanks for watching!
Each region of Thailand has What's different about food, nature, air and culture?
@@sathitphemsoot9375 Yes! The hustle and bustle of Bangkok is quite different from the mountainous north or the laid back beaches in the south. Lots to offer in this country!
Great!!!!😊
@@sathitphemsoot9375 thanks for watching
Thanks for sharing. I love Thailand. Plan to go back this year
@@linehand21 A wonderful country and people! Where do you want to visit next?
Glad that you enjoyed BKK. Hope that you come back and visit other provinces too.
@@supriyawilawanthanaphum7443 Thank you! Yes, spending a little time up north and down south for this first visit to Thailand. Do you have any favorite places you recommend?
If you like Thailand in 2025, come visit again.
@@sathitphemsoot9375 We are already planning our next trip back ❤️
Hello welcome to Thailand
@@sathitphemsoot9375 Thank you so much!
Lovely video on Lagos which l love. I have holidayed twice here and visited a few times on day trips. I did find a smaller version of Lagos in my opinion which was Vila Real San Antonio. It's beautiful too. It has it's own beach but it's a bit of a walk. However it has another beach which is a 10 minute drive in Monte Gordo which is a stunning beach. VRSA has a similar vibe and look. It's also on the border with Spain and you can just go on the ferry across the Guidianna River to Spain, Ayemonte in 20 minutes. Thanks for sharing your videos. 🙂
@@lesleysmith8300 Oh wonderful, thank you so much for sharing about your experience with Vila Real San Antonio. We haven't made it there yet, but will gladly visit on your recommendation. Thank you for watching!