Taking the scenic route
Ready to embark on a leisurely trip that lets you lose track of time and return refreshed? According to research firm Mintel, market analysis suggests that revenge travel may have ended. At the same time, the desire for holidays continued strong. Growing to 16.3 M posts and counting on TikTok, one interesting 2024 travel trend stands out in “Slow Travel.” Much like the culinary counterpart of the Slow Food movement, this form of travel relies less on tick-the-box experiences and more on appreciating things on a deeper, more meaningful level. Join us as we investigate this “take it slow” approach!
Budget to luxury options
In addition to seeing a higher demand for hiking, biking, and trekking, travelers increasingly prioritize itineraries that avoid internal flights. For example, Tuscany, Southern France (Provence, Nice, Antibes), Switzerland, Antigua in Guatemala, and Hoi An in Vietnam allow travelers to experience a lot within a relatively small region. These spots contain culture, opportunities to connect with locals, superb dining, and nature-filled experiences. Some tour companies have also added “slow travel” to their marketing and outreach to capitalize on the trend, like Travel Well Adventures Tuscany itinerary.
Forbes notes that other travel trends are building around this slow, more purpose-driven momentum. These include “slowcations” to prioritize rest and wellness travel. Quality over quantity, sustainability, and eco-minded experiences have conquered the forefront. Interestingly, more travelers are using AI to help plan and organize, helping ensure the travel experience remains calm.
While many might think slow travel would come at a higher cost, just as with beauty “dupes,” “Destination Dupes” are becoming popular. A “Destination Dupe” allows visiting a locale with a similar vibe to a more popular destination without a high price tag. These vacation spots are often less crowded with tourists. If you are living in the Americas – how about rather than visiting Madrid, consider the sister city Lima, Peru’s capital and largest metropolis. The city offers grand explorations and cultural experiences, such as Huaca Pucllana, an archaeological site with a pyramid and museum. Instead of Paris, experience Buenos Aires, the “Paris of South America,” and consider an adventure over all others: Ultimate Argentina. In addition to a private bike tour and marble mausoleums at Recoleta Cemetery (90 of which have been declared National Historic Monuments), you will watch a dynamic tango show while eating dinner. “Menopause Retreats” offer another growing slow option that ties into “Silent Travel.” Bali, Indonesia, may offer the perfect destination here, from the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary to the Tanah Lot Temple to beautiful beaches and lush gardens.
Quest for nostalgia, spectacle, and authenticity leads to a rise in train tourism.
Directly linked to the novelty of slow travel, we see growing interest in traveling by train. The highly anticipated return of the Eastern & Oriental Express, which departs from Singapore’s Woodlands station and winds through Malaysia, beckons journey seekers. Aboard the revamped train, it features eight sleeper carriages, two restaurants, a Piano Bar, and an open-air Observation Car. Gatsby-esque in feel and far removed from contemporary hustle culture, they serve breakfasts in cabins so you can luxuriate in the very epitome of slow travel. In response to the slow travel trend, Eurail has announced new routes, offering European Sleeper and OBB Nightjet options. The latter features a state-of-the-art night train with the first mini cabins designed for solo travelers, connecting Vienna, Innsbruck, and Hamburg.
Ultimately, spend time doing what you are in the mood for and letting your vacation unfold naturally. Travel should consider slowing down to enjoy the journey, avoiding a “vacation from your vacation” when you return home. Comment below on which ideas appeal to you and how you plan to enjoy the view below!
