After spending a few years in Australia, the marketing specialist chose to return to her home in Northern Ireland for her career. Seeking a fresh start and inspired by Australia’s wellness culture, she made a stop in Bali, Thailand, for a silent retreat. “I wanted to be certain of my decision,” she explained regarding her 2024 transition. “There’s no better way than being alone with just your own thoughts.”
Upon arrival, she surrendered her phone and other devices—a choice that initially filled her with anxiety. “You lose your sense of time, which I find the most challenging aspect,” she shares, noting that such retreats demand the right mindset, as remaining silent for several days requires adjustment. Additional restrictions, including no caffeine or sugar, also apply.
This retreat cost approximately £100 ($134) for three days, although others can run into the thousands. “I consider it a luxury, but it’s something I value,” she states. Her most recent retreat in April, located on the border of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, was a more structured silent meditation weekend priced at £400 ($537).
While owning a home remains a long-term aspiration, Donnelly currently sees it as unattainable. In the meantime, she is focused on what she can manage—planning to attend at least one retreat yearly, alongside shorter events. “I prefer to enjoy my life now rather than always focusing on the future,” she expresses. “Travel helps fill that void for me.”
THE WIDER TREND
According to McKinsey’s 2025 Future of Wellness survey, younger generations are more inclined to travel for wellness retreats—defined as trips aimed at enhancing mental, physical, or spiritual health—than their older counterparts. The survey revealed that Gen Z and millennials, comprising 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, argues that wellness spending can be viewed as an investment, within limits. “Afterwards, people often feel much clearer, less anxious, and more relaxed,” Kalu remarks about silent retreats. “They can actually make progress despite life’s challenges.”
However, she emphasizes the importance of responsible spending. “If it involves travel, don’t just think about the ticket price—you must consider gas, hotels, and food,” Kalu advises. She also encourages individuals to engage in free activities or volunteer opportunities.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Wellness spending reflects a generational reality. For some young individuals, investing in retreats is linked to economic uncertainty. It serves as a reaction to a world where achieving housing, family, and long-term stability might seem more difficult. “My wellness is within my control,” Donnelly states.
Avoid accumulating debt for wellness. Those experiencing financial instability should exercise caution in overspending on wellness travel. Financial stress can negate the benefits if one returns home burdened with debt or insecurity.
Free and low-cost wellness options can be just as effective. Local or more affordable alternatives may satisfy the same emotional needs without adding financial strain. Kalu recommends analyzing expenses carefully: “Break it down line item by line… From there, you can either save for it or recognize that it’s not sustainable.”
