A newly released survey by Explore Worldwide has found that two-thirds of Canadians (68%) are ready to take an extended break and to take it within the next two years.

The small group adventure tour operator commissioned the poll of 2,000 employed individuals to take a deeper dive into what is described as ‘micro-retirement.’

The survey found that while the concept was sparked by Gen Z, the polls show strong support from Millennials (40%) and Gen X (36%) who are ready to step away from their desks and into new destinations.

Travel ranked among top reasons (38%) for taking extended time off, with nearly half saying one to three months is the ideal window.

Results show Europe as the top travel destination (34%) along with long-haul trips to Asia (23%) and Australia (16%).

In terms of experiences, top responses ranged from spending time in nature (23%), road tripping (19%), round the world trips (16%) and slow travel experiences like rail trail (15%).

Katy Rockett, Regional Director of North America for Explore Worldwide, observed: “We are seeing a real shift in how people are thinking about spending their time, and the results show that micro-retirements are not a far-off dream, but there is real demand for them right now.”

And Rockett continued: “Midlife, as represented by Millennials and Gen X, is a time of major change and can be a pressure cooker of career demands and family obligations, so taking a break can be both restorative and practical.”

Nearly three-quarters (70%) of respondents agree with the growing belief that sabbatical should be a standard benefit, seeing extended breaks as investments in personal growth and wellbeing.

Of those surveyed who have taken a sabbatical, 75% felt positive about returning to work afterwards, and 90% said the sabbatical had given them a renewed sense of purpose, showing that that temporary time away can spark lasting transformation.

While the biggest barriers to taking a micro-retirement, based on survey results, were finances (50%), uncertainty around employer support (25%) and family or home responsibilities (18%).

Said Rockett: “What used to be reserved for retirement is happening sooner and in smaller bursts. We are living longer and working for longer than ever, and people are not waiting until their 70s to live fully. They are choosing to reset and reconnect with the world now.”

The survey coincides with the launch of a smart online tool from Explore Worldwide that matches users to their ‘perfect’ micro-retirement trip.

The tool asks users to input their age, job status and stress levels before crunching the numbers to suggest the ideal time to take the leap, and even suggests the perfect continent for your micro-retirement adventure.

Those who complete the quiz will have the option to enter a competition to win CAD $9,550 to use toward a micro-retirement trip with Explore. Promotional period starts Sept. 15 through Dec. 21, 2025.

For more about micro-retirements with Explore Worldwide, and to view the terms and conditions of the contest, go to https://www.exploreworldwide.ca/micro-retirement.

All Photos – Credit – Explore Worldwide