Gap Years for Retirees

DECADES creates adventures for active retirees who want to explore the world with likeminded others, at their own pace.

No tour buses. No big groups. No rushed schedules. Just freedom, discovery, and the time of your life.

Join Chapter One : South East Asia
✈️ Departs January 2026

(only 8 places available!)

  • beautiful scenery mountains ocean

    1 month in Vietnam

    Example Itinerary

    Wander lantern-lit streets in Hội An, learn to cook fragrant dishes with a local chef, or glide through emerald waters on a bamboo boat.


    You might volunteer in organic farming or offer conversational English support at a community centre — a slower way to experience the country's depth.

  • 1 month in Thailand

    Example Itinerary

    Visit gilded temples, sip iced tea in bustling night markets, or unwind on a quiet island beach.


    There’s space to volunteer at an ethical elephant sanctuary, support reef restoration, or simply soak up the rhythm of local life.

  • yacht side tilt ocean

    1 month in Cambodia

    Example Itinerary

    Start your mornings with sunrise at Angkor Wat, cycle past rice paddies and floating villages, and take time to explore Phnom Penh’s creative scene.


    You could join a heritage preservation project or teach English — contributing while getting under the skin of this rich, complex country.

What’s included

  • Major intercontinental flights, plus local transport—simply turn up with your backpack.

  • Comfy beds, air conditioning, and inviting shared spaces to relax (with private rooms for solo travellers). Always with a swimming pool!

  • Your go-to person for booking excursions, answering questions, and ensuring smooth travel days—always just a call or message away.

  • You’ll get a personalised schedule in advance of each location outlining one organised trip a week. The rest of your time is free for your own adventures and relaxation.

  • Live, travel and explore with a small group of 8 handpicked individuals.

Here’s how DECADES stacks up

Tired of being herded and rushed in group trips with packed itineraries? Done with queueing to get on and off ships with the 5,000?

Here’s how DECADES is different.

An average month with DECADES

Time to Relax 🧘🏽

I arrive, drop my bags, and let the pace shift. The sun warms my face, a book finds its way to my hands, and there's talk of a card game in the cool, quiet of the living area. No plans, no pressure — just space to unwind after the journey.

Time to Adventure 🏞️

Each week brings something new — a guided hike through hidden trails, a visit to the local market with stories behind every stall, or maybe lending a hand at a community project. Some adventures take you to the postcard views, others off the beaten path.

Time to Immerse 🌞

I find my rhythm here — morning walks, a favourite café, the bartender who remembers my order. Whether it’s 10,000 steps a day or a new yoga class, this place starts to feel familiar. Not just a stay — a real sense of living.

Time to Explore 🥾

Sometimes, I want to go further — so I pack a light bag and head up the coast, or discover a village with stories tucked into every corner. With DECADES, I’m free to follow whatever catches my curiosity.

Time to Connect 🧡

Evenings bring new faces around the table — sharing stories, laughter, or a local bottle of wine. Some connections feel instant, others grow over weeks. Whether it’s a shared excursion or a slow-burn friendship, there’s something powerful about being here, together.

Three months. Three countries. One unforgettable chapter — from £5,000/month.

Apply by May 31st to lock in your 15% early bird saving — that’s up to £3,775 off.

Limited places - only 8 available!

What it costs

How to apply

  • Secure your spot with a small deposit (refundable if you don’t get a place). Then check your inbox — you’ll receive a short survey to complete your application. We use this to understand your interests, goals, and travel style, so we can build a thoughtful, likeminded group. That’s why it’s not just a sign-up — it’s an application.

  • Once we’ve curated a brilliant mix of people, we’ll let you know if you’ve been offered a place. If not, your deposit comes straight back to you, and we’ll keep your details on file for the next trip. If yes — it’s time to get planning.

  • We’ll send over everything you need: packing tips, visa and vaccination guidance, itinerary dates and locations, plus a peek at your new home. This is where the trip starts to feel real.

  • When the year winds down, it’s time to lay out your shorts and get ready for something new. We’ll let you know who you’re travelling with, where to meet, and what to expect — all before takeoff.

  • Meet your new travel crew (probably at the airport), and get ready to swap grey skies for golden ones. It’s lift-off — your very own mini gap year begins.

 FAQs

  • It’s perfect for retirees or semi-retirees (anyone 50+) looking for a low-stress way to travel the world, volunteer, and form new friendships. But if you crave a slower pace and meaningful experiences, you’re welcome too!

  • Activities are typically moderate. You choose which volunteer projects suit your comfort level. No foreign languages required—our guide and local co-ordinators will help navigate any language barriers.

  • Volunteering is flexible. We organise low-fee, community-driven projects in each region. You can participate as much or as little as you like, typically once a week or more.

  • We book monthly rentals or villas at discounted rates. Couples share rooms, solo travellers get their own, and our guide also has a private room.

  • Yes. We cover major international flights plus internal transport within each region. Side trips beyond the set itinerary are at your own cost to give you the freedom to create the trip you want!

  • They co-ordinate logistics, assist with language issues, handle emergencies, and make local activity bookings. They’re “part-time” in schedule but fully available when you need them.

  • We select places with stable infrastructures, strong tourism track records, and trusted local partners for volunteering. We stay in safer neighbourhoods or towns for extra peace of mind.

  • Your package includes comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, disruptions, and belongings. We also advise on recommended vaccinations and healthcare options in each region.

  • Plenty! Generally, we schedule one volunteer project and one group cultural outing per week. The rest of the time is yours—explore independently, rest, or socialise at your own pace.

  • Depending on your nationality, you may need tourist or temporary residence visas. We’ll guide you through the process, but specific fees vary by passport.

  • No. We find most travellers prefer the freedom to dine out or cook for themselves. We’ll share the best spots and local markets, but meal costs are your responsibility.

  • Complete our application or book a consultation call. Once approved, a deposit guarantees your place, with the remainder paid in instalments before departure.