So, how do you imagine taking a big break from work and normal life and go travelling for ages? I think you have to step outside of normailty to do it, and some help in the form of a book is great.

We got a lot of good out of a Lonely Planet book called The Career Break Book which has this evocative subtitle: Swap your briefcase for a passport and live your dream.

The book covers a lot, from how to arrange your current life and job to support a long break; things you can do on a long break; advice on working or volunteering overseas; studying; and how the break will look on your CV.