5 Best Micro-retirement Destinations for Gen Z

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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The micro-retirement trend is growing fast among Gen Z and Millennials. This lifestyle offers a fresh way to see the world without waiting for old age. Micro-retirement refers to planned career breaks that last from a few months to over a year.

People take these breaks to avoid burnout or prepare for a big life change. Unlike traditional retirement, these are short pauses taken throughout a working life.

Andrew Harrison-Chinn, CMO of Dragonpass, says the younger generation values well-being over old-school career climbing. "Work patterns have also changed, with hybrid roles, remote work, and portfolio careers making it far easier to pause between positions or relocate temporarily," he noted as reported by Euronews.

Flexible Travel

In the travel world, micro-retirement lets people enjoy slower, more flexible journeys. Travelers can find authentic cultural experiences that only happen during long stays. The main drivers for this trend include self-growth, fear of missing out (FOMO), and the need to recover from exhaustion. Taking this time off often improves long-term productivity and work-life balance.

These trips are usually self-funded. Most travelers do not have a firm plan to return to their old jobs. Instead, they might combine their break with freelance work or part-time remote gigs while they plan their next move.

Data from the platform Joveo shows that over 10 percent of workers considered micro-retirement in mid-2025. Another survey by SideHustles.com found that 54 percent of people believe these breaks prevent burnout.

As a result, several global cities have become top choices for these long-term stays. Here are five destinations that offer the best mix of healthcare, adventure, and digital nomad facilities.

Micro-retirement Destinations for Gen Z

1. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is a top choice due to its low cost of living compared to Europe. It offers high-quality healthcare that is very affordable. This allows for deep, long stays without financial stress.

Travelers can explore ancient temples, busy night markets, and world-famous street food. You can visit huge malls like IconSiam or take a quiet cruise along the river. For rest, the city is full of yoga, meditation, and spa centers. It is also a cheap gateway to the rest of Southeast Asia.

2. Hanoi, Vietnam

The capital of Vietnam offers a vibe similar to Bangkok but with its own charm. Many areas are easy to walk in, and the lakes keep the air cooler than other regional cities.

Hanoi has very low living costs and fast internet. A friendly expat community makes it easy to settle in. You can explore a mix of French and Vietnamese history or try local dishes like pho and bun cha. For a unique view, visit "Train Street," where cafes sit right along an active railway.

3. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon appeals to travelers because it is safe, sunny, and rich in culture. It is one of the most affordable major cities in Europe, beating London, Paris, and Dublin on price.

Lisbon is easy to explore on foot or via its famous yellow trams and metros. Most locals speak English, making it easy to join professional communities. You can wander through historic Alfama or enjoy the trendy vibes of Bairro Alto. Don't forget to try a pastis de Nata (custard tart) while you are there.

4. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest offers top-tier food, housing, and fun at much lower prices than Western Europe. The city has excellent public transport and great healthcare.

Residents can admire iconic sites like the Hungarian Parliament Building or take in the panoramic views from Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle. Beyond the iconic landmarks, the city’s Jewish Quarter and numerous thermal baths offer a unique blend of history and wellness, providing the perfect environment for a "reset" before returning to the workforce.

5. Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Though often overlooked, Tashkent has emerged as a promising Central Asian frontier for the micro-retirement destination. It is an affordable, historically rich city that offers a distinctive, slower pace of life ideal for creative inspiration.

Tashkent seamlessly blends its ancient Silk Road heritage with Soviet-era architecture and modern digital infrastructure. The city is notably safe and accommodating for newcomers. As a gateway to the rest of Central Asia, it provides a unique cultural vantage point for those looking to wander truly off the beaten path during their time away from the office.