I've worked for a big private corporation for almost three years. I am planning on taking time off and travelling - about 6 months. Because of a reorganization I had to start a new job six months ago and so my leave of absense request was kind of laughed at. My boss said he would talk to the VP, but I suspect they'll either offer me two months or, even more likely, nothing at all.

It is convenient that I hate my career anyway and am looking for an excuse to get out. So I've decided that I'm probably going to quit.

My friends tell me that if I am offered a leave of absense I should accept it and then quit when the time comes if I still want to. Just as a safety net.

Is this acceptable or , rather, "professional"??
They tell me it's fine ("everyone does it!"), but I'd feel a little weird calling from india to tell my boss I'm not coming back - if that's the case.
What do you think?? Also - I don't want to burn bridges with my boss in case I need a reference.