Sabbatical Story: Marc Wiingaard
Exploring the World, Strengthening Family Bonds: Marc Wiingaard on His Sabbatical
When our LEMAN colleague Marc Wiingaard decided to take a sabbatical, he and his family set out on a journey that would take them far beyond their everyday routines – and deep into some of the world’s most unique cultures and landscapes. Over the course of four and a half months, they travelled through French Polynesia, Australia, the United States, Colombia, Guatemala and Belize.
Dreams and discoveries across the globe
For Marc, the choice of destinations was about fulfilling lifelong dreams while creating shared experiences with his wife and children:
“I had always dreamed of sailing in French Polynesia, while my wife had long wished to visit Australia. We wanted to show our kids not just different places, but different ways of life – from modern Western societies to developing regions, so they could see that the world is much bigger than their safe rooms at home with PlayStations and iPads,” he says.
A family closer than ever
The sabbatical proved to be more than a collection of stamps in a passport – it became a deeply personal and family-defining experience:
“We were together 24/7 for months, often in close quarters like a ship cabin or a campervan. That kind of intensity brings you closer as a family. We now have shared memories and reference points that we carry into our daily lives – whether it’s climbing a volcano, snorkeling with whales, or just remembering how different the world can look.”
Perspective that lasts
Personally, Marc also found the time away gave him clarity. While the break allowed him to reflect on work, life, and priorities, it also reassured him that his family’s “busy life” back home was one they truly valued:
“We realised there wasn’t really anything we wanted to cut out. It gave us peace of mind to know that the way we live – even when it feels hectic – is the life we actually want,” he explains.
Advice to future sabbatical travellers: Step out, look back, and grow
When asked what he would tell colleagues considering a sabbatical, Marc is clear:
“It’s a unique opportunity, and if you have the chance, take it. Whether you travel the world or simply dedicate time to something you’ve always wanted to do at home, it’s a chance to step out of the web of everyday tasks and see life from a different perspective. For me, that was invaluable.”
At LEMAN, sabbaticals are offered to all colleagues every three years as part of our commitment to giving them space to grow, recharge, and explore – both professionally and personally.
