How do you self manage when traveling?

[Jeffrey Holst]

I recently acquired 3 additional duplexes and currently am self managing those along with one other duplex I have had for 7 or 8 months now.  I have other properties that are not self managed but these properties are near me and so I figured I could save a little cash by managing them myself.  

I travel somewhat regularly and I wonder how people who self manage handle the times when they are not around.  Any thoughts or descriptions about how you handle this would be great.  I'd really like to keep managing these properties since it creates significant extra income for me but I also want to be able to unplug occasionally.  I recall hearing that on show 35 that Paula just hires a temporary property manager to handle it.  Has anyone else had good luck with that?  

Thanks in advance for your replies