Well, I'm in a similar situation. Not exactly, though.

I have asked for two 3 month leaves of absence from work this winter/fall and have many miles and not alot of dough.

I'm planning on the Middle East (Saudi, Dubai) in September, home in late October. Western, Eastern Europe, and Russia in November, early December.

Home for xmas then Hawaii, and Asia (Thailand, China, Etc.) in Jan, Feb, March...

I'm hoping to maximize my HHonors stays... and by visiting the cheaper countries, make an adventure while sticking to the budget.

Time is so precious, why not have fun right....