Retirement used to be reserved for those who’d dedicated decades to work, a welcome reward at the end of a long career.
Plenty of those in their 60s, 70s and 80s will pack their bags to go and see the world without the burden of a job back home.
But nowadays, more and more young people are seeking ‘micro-retirement’ and a chance to travel – without having to wait for the traditional retirement age.
This new trend offers a solution for those interested in travel but who are on a budget.
Plus, with rapidly rising rates of burnout among young workers, many are looking for an alternative lifestyle – and micro-retirement is one such option.
It’s a planned extended career break that can last between a few months and sometimes more than a year.
The main motivation for this type of travel is often burnout recovery.
In fact, a study by Mental Health UK, the Burnout Report, revealed 91 per cent of adults experienced high or extreme stress in the past year, Euro News reports.
The city of Bangkok in Thailand boasts incredibly beautiful sights and temples
Hanoi in Vietnam is another affordable destination for micro-retirement
The January 2025 survey of 2,060 people, conducted by YouGov, found one in five workers (21 per cent) took time off due to poor mental health caused by pressure or stress.
Workers aged 18-24 were the most likely to take time off as a result of stress (35 per cent), compared to just 10 per cent of workers aged 55 and over.
So where as these young ‘retirees’ heading to?
Bangkok, Thailaind is one of the most popular cities for micro-retirements.
The main reason for this? Its low cost of living – especially in comparison with Europe.
It’s also a hub of culture – and its most popular locations for expats to retire include Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Pattaya and Hua Hin.
Similarly, Hanoi in Vietnam lures in expats due to its affordability – as well as its bustling Old Quarter.
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is also becoming increasingly popular as a destination for micro-retirement.
Lisbon, Portugal has a magnificent skyline above its Sao Jorge Castle
Architecture is at its fines in Budapest, Hungary, another popular spot
Indeed, according to rankings published by Funeral Guide last year, Portugal was one of 10 European nations that stand out as ideal destinations for retirement.
The next spot that’s highly recommended among young travellers seeking a break from the working world is Budapest, Hungary.
With low costs, beautiful architecture, great food, thermal baths and history to explore, it’s becoming increasingly popular.
Finally, Tashkent is drawing in a greater number of travellers. Uzbekistan’s capital has beautiful mosques and much to explore.
