Seems like vacation from things you have to do to things you enjoy doing.

Exactly that, I have too many ideas for side-projects and never enough time for them.

The main activity was still the traveling, hiking and enjoying some calm time. But instead of spending the usual downtime reading or something else, I had a blast coding and experimenting.

According to Google AI > A vacation (American English) or holiday (British English) is a designated period of time for rest, recreation, or travel, often taken away from home. It involves a break from work or school routines, usually lasting several days or weeks. Vacations are crucial for mental health, reducing stress, and fostering better relationships.

So maybe different meaning for everyone. For me it’s getting away from technology and into nature.

> a break from work... are crucial for mental health

When I'm hacking on my Linux desktop automation scripts on my free time, I can assure you that my good mood is positively contributing to my mental health.

> So maybe different meaning for everyone.

Indeed.