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After too many whirlwind vacations left me physically and mentally exhausted, I quickly questioned the value behind “trying to see it all.” Sure, I saw plenty of must-visit sites, museum-hopped around the area, took highly recommended tours, and ate at award-winning restaurants.
But by the end, I craved both more and less.
I wanted more transformative experiences, meaningful interactions and deeper connections. At the same time, I wanted less on my schedule, less running around, and less hurrying. Instead of checking off items on my itinerary, I wanted to savor the journey.
Then I discovered a more mindful approach to travel.
Why More Travelers Are Hitting the Brakes
As an antidote to rushed vacations with packed itineraries, a growing number of travelers are discovering the transformative power of slow travel. This mindful approach to exploring the world offers a refreshing alternative to the rushed, checklist-style trips that often leave us feeling more exhausted than rejuvenated.
According to the 2025 Hilton Trends Report, travelers are swapping tourist hotspots for hidden gems, embracing a slower pace that lets them live like locals and immerse themselves in new culture. The report notes that 74 percent of travelers prefer recommendations from locals, and they crave “experiences with a conscience” as they aim to travel with minimal environmental impact.
“Part of the reason the slow travel movement is growing is because it fits in perfectly with what people want these days when they travel,” explains Dori Saltzman, Senior Editor of Travel Market Report and author of Death of a Travel Advisor. “Nowadays, people are prioritizing experiences when they travel. They want to get to know the places they visit and the people who live in those places.”
What You Gain When You Slow Down
Slow travel is not just about the pace — it's a philosophy that prioritizes quality over quantity, immersion over superficial experiences, and meaningful connections over tourist traps.
“Slow travel allows people to take their time when they visit a destination. It's not about ticking off boxes,” Saltzman points out. “It's about getting a real feel for a place, staying long enough to eat locally, trying local activities, and meeting people,” Saltzman suggests reaching out to a travel advisor who can help you find experiences you wouldn't otherwise have access to.
But what if you don’t have weeks to immerse yourself in a destination? That’s totally fine, too. It’s more about your travel mindset than your trip duration. Even if you’re just spending a long weekend somewhere, travel pros suggest taking time to explore in a way that embraces a slower pace.
This deeper engagement leads to a more authentic understanding of local culture, reduced stress, personal growth and increased relaxation — elements often missing from conventional vacations.
Plus, slow travel allows people to spend more time in one place rather than hopscotching all over the place, resulting in a deeper connection with the destination. Going beyond the tourist hot spots also gives you opportunities to mingle with locals and keep your tourism dollars in the community. All of this reduces travelers’ carbon footprint.
Consider transportation, too. Hopping in a car or taking a train can be both mindful and more eco-friendly compared to taking to the skies. Ditto for renting bicycles, joining walking tours or using public transit once you’re in the destination. These methods not only reduce your environmental impact but also allow you to experience the rhythm of local life more intimately.
Finding Your Perfect Slow Travel Spot
When I think of slow travel, certain destinations come to mind.
For instance, I’ve traveled throughout the Caribbean, including Nevis, St. Maarten, Cayman Islands, the Bahamas and St. Thomas. That laid-back island life speaks to me — toes in the sand, barefoot beach walks, fresh seafood at mom-and-pop restaurants.
Plus, I’ve visited many historic U.S. spots, like Savannah, GA; St. Augustine, FL; New Orleans, LA; Daufuskie Island, SC; and Philadelphia, PA. Taking a step back in time to visit historic churches, masonry forts, public squares, and garden district neighborhoods transports me to simpler times and reminds me to slow down.
Of course, exploring destinations steeped in natural beauty — including the Florida Keys and Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park — beckons slow travel so you can soak in these scenic wonders. (On my slow travel bucket list? The Grand Canyon!)
Sustainable travel expert Kelley Louise emphasizes that any destination can be a great fit. She encourages travelers to consider places closer to home (easily accessible by car or train), allowing for more time in the destination itself rather than in airports and on planes. This approach is particularly beneficial if you work remotely, as it allows you to maintain your work routine while exploring a new area during evenings and weekends. (For remote workers, Louise recommends the Adventurely app — a great resource to find traveler-friendly coworking spaces and connect with a community of fellow travelers.)
Interestingly, Louise also suggests revisiting places you've been before. “So often, our society is focused on collecting stamps in our passports. But when you visit a place more than once, you feel less rushed and stressed about having to do everything,” she notes. This shift in mindset allows for a deeper, more relaxed exploration of a destination.
“Ultimately, slow travel isn’t about where you go — it’s about how you experience it,” Louise adds. “Whether you’re revisiting a favorite place, exploring your own backyard or jet-setting to a far-flung locale, a slow travel mindset encourages you to be present, curious and connected.”
Have you ever taken a "slow-travel" vacation? If so, where did you go? Let us know in the comments below.
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