After spending several years in Australia, the marketing professional decided to return to her home in Northern Ireland for work. Seeking a reset and inspired by Australia’s wellness culture, she paused in Bali, Thailand, for a silent retreat. “I wanted to be sure of my decision,” she mentioned regarding her upcoming 2024 move. “There’s no better way than being alone with just your thoughts.”
Upon arrival, she relinquished her phone and other devices — an act that initially filled her with anxiety. “You also lose track of time, which I find the most challenging part,” she admits, noting that such retreats demand the right mindset, as being silent for days necessitates adjustment. Additional restrictions, such as avoiding caffeine and sugar, are also enforced.
This retreat cost around £100 ($134) for three days, although other options can run into the thousands. “I do consider it a luxury, but it’s something I genuinely value,” she states. Her most recent retreat in April, which occurred on the border of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, was a more structured silent meditation weekend that cost £400 ($537).
Although owning a home remains a long-term aspiration, Donnelly feels it is currently out of reach. In the meantime, she is concentrating on what she can influence — planning to attend at least one retreat each year in addition to shorter events. “I like to enjoy my life now instead of constantly focusing on the future,” she reflects. “Travel helps fill that void for me.”
THE WIDER TREND
Younger generations are increasingly traveling for wellness retreats — defined as trips aimed at enhancing mental, physical, or spiritual wellbeing — more so than older generations, according to McKinsey’s 2025 Future of Wellness survey, which indicates that Gen Z and millennials, making up 36% of the US adult population, account for over 41% of annual wellness spending.
Uchechi Kalu, a certified financial planner based in Los Angeles and founder of Greenlight Financial Planning, suggests that wellness spending can be viewed as an investment, within reasonable limits. “After these experiences, people generally feel clearer, less anxious, and more relaxed,” Kalu notes regarding silent retreats. “They find themselves better prepared to navigate life’s challenges.”
Nonetheless, she emphasizes the necessity of responsible spending. “If it involves travel, consider not just the ticket cost — think about gas, hotels, and food as well,” Kalu advises. She also encourages utilizing free activities or engaging in volunteer opportunities.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Wellness expenditure illustrates a generational trend. For some young people, investing in retreats is a response to economic uncertainties. It reflects a reaction to a world where homeownership, family, and stability seem increasingly elusive. “My wellness is something I can control,” Donnelly observes.
Avoid accruing debt for it. Those facing financial instability should tread carefully when it comes to spending significantly on wellness travel. Financial pressure can negate the benefits if someone returns home with new debt or insecurities.
Affordable wellness options can be just as effective. Local or lower-cost alternatives may satisfy the same emotional needs without generating financial strain. Kalu advises individuals to “scrutinize every line item … You can either save for it or realize that it’s not sustainable.”
