KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 — Feeling overworked or stressed out?

Contrary to popular belief, taking time off work once in a while isn’t the mark of an idle employee, but rather a practice that should be encouraged: various studies have shown that a brief respite from the daily grind is beneficial to your well-being, from renewed focus to increased levels of productivity.

However, according to a 2015 survey by YouGov, a UK-based research group, only 44 per cent of Malaysian employees were able to actually finish off their annual paid leave towards the end of the year, with most having to "burn” the days left over. 

To improve your work-life balance this year, be sure to make full use of your annual leave by booking your holidays through Traveloka, an online flight and hotel booking platform. 

If you book from now until March 31, you’ll even be able to take advantage of special flight and hotel deals, thanks to the Traveloka Sale-abration! 

With flight promotions starting from as low as RM39 to domestic destinations and RM99 to international destinations, and over 100 hotel deals exclusive to Traveloka with up to 79 per cent discounts for destinations across South-east Asia, you’ll get the best bang for your buck for destinations near or far.

 Need more reasons to take some time off?

Here are six:

1. Mouth-watering culinary delights

So you like to eat... who doesn't? Plan a trip to one of the many culinary hotspots in Malaysia.

Have you been hankering for Penang char kuey teow or Kuching’s Sarawak laksa? Sure, you can learn how to make it at home, but we all know that it’s far better to enjoy it where it was made famous. Besides, now you have the excuse to plan that weekend getaway to satisfy those cravings!

2. Breath-taking natural wonders 

If you’re looking for a change of scene from the concrete jungle, take off to the nearest rainforests for a trek, such as Kinabalu Park in Sabah, or sink your toes into the soft sands of one of Thailand’s many gorgeous beaches with blue seas stretching as far as the eye can see.

3. Rich history and culture 

Gain a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures in the region by exploring colourful neighbourhoods such as Singapore’s Chinatown and Little India or the Kraton of Yogyakarta. You can also take a trip back in time by visiting historical sites like Yangon’s golden pagodas or Manila’s Intramuros.

4. Buzzing nightlife and entertainment

Bright lights, big city... go discover a city you've never been to. — Picture courtesy of Traveloka

Are you the sort to work hard and play hard? Check out the hotspots where the fun’s just starting after the sun goes down — party towns like Pattaya and Kuta or the urbane clubs in Hong Kong and Singapore should be right up your alley!

5. Heart-stopping thrills

Whether you’re travelling with kids or a kid at heart yourself, who doesn’t love spending the day at a theme park? South-east Asia has a good share of some of the best rollercoasters and rides around, from Universal Studios in Singapore to Legoland in Johor.

6. Disconnect and chillax

If you’re looking to truly disconnect from the outside world, what better place to find your zen than at a resort? Turn off your mobile phone and take a dip in a stunning swimming pool or have a relaxing spa treatment. You can find irresistible deals for popular resort locations such as Phuket or Langkawi via Traveloka.

Ready to plan your vacation?

Through Traveloka, booking holidays has never been easier: you’ll be able to get the best deals online, right in the comfort of your own home.

With all these awesome reasons to pack your bags, what are you waiting for? Click here to get unbeatable flight and hotel deals today!