Last time I went 'away' was in 2010 winter holidays, went to Bali for a week.
I go away for weekends every now and then for running events (I am a distance runner) and car shows (All Holden Day, Motorfest).
Last weekend away was for Canberra Half Marathon; next time I am going away it will be for All Holden Day or the City to Surf
When I go to sydney for motorfest or a running event I make a weekend of it, do some shopping/sightseeing etc.
I am due to start a teaching career beginning term 3, we get 11 weeks holidays a year but most of those are taken up with marking and lesson prep
Next year I am looking at doing an overseas marathon, most likely doing the Berlin Marathon, dependent on funds, of course.
I too am not a great flyer, I am generally anxious. I find booze helps....
just some thoughts.....