Why did he feel the need to post on SM. It just draws attention to the trip. If he hadn’t posted then chances are we would be aware that he wasn’t around. It’s not really the fact that he has taken the break, but by posting it has opened himself to the criticism and makes him appear has if he isn’t putting the hard work in and taking this seriously.
Most sensible people would read the mood of the room and think that posting at this time may not be the most intelligent thing to do.
Take the trip, take the photos just don’t post them at this point in time. Save all the posting s and communications to show the hardworking that “is or maybe” going on.