60% of Korean workers are using vacation days to rest and recharge — not just to take time off
With warm spring weather rolling in, worn-out professionals are turning their attention to quick escapes that do more than just pause the routine. As the first quarter wraps up, many are eyeing short overseas trips that make the most of a few vacation days.
On the 28th, a Skyscanner survey found 59% of Korean workers are planning to use annual leave to get away from work and daily life. The top travel motivation? Rest and recharge — chosen by 60% of respondents.
When planning trips, people cited challenges like finding the right timing to take leave (35%), locating great trips that fit their budget (32%), and the mental strain of heavy workloads (26%).
Jessica Min, a travel expert at Skyscanner, said, "If you're feeling burned out after setting goals at the start of the year and pushing through an intense first quarter, it's time to step away and check into a trip that's just for you. Skyscanner's tailored destination suggestions and practical tips for different leave patterns make planning simpler and less stressful."
Shanghai, China — a budget-friendly short getaway for those who want a compact but rewarding trip
Shanghai has been catching attention among younger travelers thanks to visa-free entry options and travel times of around two hours. Night flights that depart after work make it easy to minimize the days you need off.
Beyond the Bund's glittering skyline, you'll find xiaolongbao and hong shao rou, cozy cafes, and lively shopping streets — all perfect for a short but satisfying escape.
If you want to save both vacation days and travel costs, try Skyscanner's "flexible dates" feature in the app to compare lowest fares and lock in the best leave schedule.
Manado, Indonesia — for travelers who want to fully log off and stop thinking about work
About three in ten workers (34%) admit they constantly check their phones, worried a work message might pop up even when nothing urgent is happening.
If you need to truly log off, head to Manado, Indonesia — roughly a six-hour flight — and embrace slow, restorative downtime.
From leisurely snorkeling in Bunaken Marine National Park, a world-class diving spot, to lounging at ocean-view accommodations after water activities, Manado is ideal for a recuperative break.
Want extra hotel chill time? Use the "breakfast included" and "spa" filters in Skyscanner's hotel search to quickly find properties built for unwinding.
Sydney, Australia — for travelers who can take extended leave and want a longer trip
If your leave policy is flexible or you want to burn through leftover vacation days in one go, Sydney — about a 10-hour flight — offers a relaxed local vibe perfect for a longer getaway.
Mix contemporary culture at the iconic Sydney Opera House with nearby natural gems like the Blue Mountains and the sand dunes at Port Stephens to make an extended trip feel varied and worthwhile.
Planning to visit other Australian cities on the same trip? Use Skyscanner's multi-city search in the app to set different in/out airports (IN-OUT) and craft a richer itinerary.
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