How to have an awesome retirement gap year

Now that you’re retired, why not enjoy your freedom and travel overseas to do that gap year you always dreamed about in your 20s? It doesn’t even have to be an extravagant and expensive experience, nor do you need to be an expat to live abroad in retirement. There are so many affordable and fun options for extended travel in your 60s.

What do you reckon? Have you ever thought about taking a retirement gap year?

1. Airbnb

The Airbnb website provides a platform to rent unique accommodation from local hosts in over 190 countries. The idea is that you can feel at home anywhere you go in the world. Before you book, you can look at the host profiles for recommendations, reviews and ratings. It a very secure and reliable site to facilitate your gap year. The price range varies in accommodation depending on the city and house/apartment. Typically it is cheaper than staying in a hotel.

2. Volunteer abroad (paid experience)

Increasingly, retirees who have the time and financial resources look to volunteer abroad. You have to pay for the opportunity but at the same time you get to see a new part of the world and give back to society. They’re usually priced from $2,890, which includes food, accommodation, a trained team leader, emergency medical, 24-hour emergency phone access, orientation supplies, and pre-departure tips. The dates are flexible in length so you can work and live in a new environment for whatever time frame suits you best. The Global Volunteers organisation provides one to twenty-four week placements all over the world.

3. Couch surfing 

Although couch surfing may be regarded as only suitable for 20-year-olds, there are still over 60s who enjoy travelling the world this way. Do your necessary checks – identity and location and then give it a try. Not only it is a financially viable way to travel abroad but you’ll also meet local (amazing) people the moment you arrive in a new town.

4. Casual work overseas 

Understandably, you may not want to work again now that you’re retired but another option is to travel abroad and find work. Use your life skill or favourite hobby to get a casual job. This will allow you to set up a home-base abroad. From there you can travel on weekends without heavily dipping into your retirement savings. Plus, it’s a great way to meet some new people and experience another country’s work culture.

5. Volunteer abroad for accommodation 

The website Workawayers is used by budget travellers who are looking for help with accommodation abroad. You are required to volunteer 4-5 hours a day in exchange for food and accommodation, with visits ranging from a few days to a few months. This way you are able to travel cheaply and make a difference to the communities you visit.

Have you thought about taking a retirement gap year? What do you think about this idea? Share with us below.