Newbie from Florida! Going on vacation for 4-5 weeks. Help!

I just found your forum. What a blessing! I've never had a pool or spa before. Bought this swim spa 10 months ago. Have been brainwashed by pool store. Never was told about cya. Now at about 100. I am going to purchase one of the two test kits you all recommend and drive this baby myself! I have spent about a week reading various threads on this site and have learned so much! Bought my bleach today (a big no-no from the spa store I bought from)!? Anyway, I know I need to dump and refill. Makes me sick because I have mothered this water for 10 months and feel like it's my baby! I've had no issues. Now cya. I've heard I shouldn't empty this thing when I leave (spore growth in the lines). So racking brain on what to do. Spa guy told me to put two @ease chlorine replacement bottoms in filter box set on #1 setting. Thoughts or suggestions?