[tomcam]

You gave us the answer already!

> 1. part of me feels like I am pushing myself to travel not because I am truly excited about it..

> 2. I also have plenty of side projects I've been itching to work on.

> 3. I rent a very affordable place that I really like in a very high COL city

You aren't crazy about travel. You're burned out on your job, but NOT on your side projects. You have a nice place in a nice city.

To me it's very clear. Quit. Stay home. Veg out until you feel ready to play at your side projects. Play with your side projects when you feel like it. You have all the makings of an awesome "staycation", if people are still using that word. Like you, I enjoy working on my own stuff and I've made a great living at it. Even if you don't, you're looking at some low bandwidth time off. Feel free to contact me to chat. I've been in your place.