Most people have at least day dreamed about what it might be like to swap their nine to five existence for something a bit more exciting. Instead of the grind of your daily commute, imagine white water rafting on the Zambezi, taking a helicopter ride over Iguassu Falls or whizzing around Bangkok in a tuk-tuk. Here's a just a few reasons to turn these day dreams into a reality.

1) Change of job
If you're planning on changing jobs, it could be the perfect time to take the plunge and go travelling round the world. It's a natural break and will look good on your CV, showing potential employers that you're an interesting person who's not scared to step into the unknown. You could also learn new skills, eg take a Spanish course in South America.

2) Landmark birthday
Whether it's 30, 40 or 50, landmark birthdays more often than not seem to be something to dread rather than get excited about. What better way to buck the trend than to embrace it and celebrate this milestone by taking some time out to travel the world?

3) Major event
If you've lost a family member or friend, or gone through a divorce or separation, it's important to take some time out for yourself. Taking a career break to travel the world will give you the time and distance you need to come to terms with your loss.

4) Realise a dream
If you've always fantasised about following a different career path to the one you're on, embarking on a round the world trip could be the key that unlocks the future you've always dreamed about. Whether it's being a travel writer, a wildlife photographer or a diving instructor, taking a break from your current career and giving it a go is the only way to know if you can achieve it.

5) Give something back
It may be a cliche, but there are few things more rewarding than donating your time and skills to help others. There are people all over the world in desperate need of things that we take for granted. People in the third worlds do not have things we have such as clean water and clothing. Volunteering for a charity or project as part of your round the world trip, will give you an opportunity to change people's lives and will undoubtedly also give you a fresh perspective on your own life.