As the pace of modern life accelerates, slow travel is emerging as a countermovement. Instead of rushing through destinations to check off itineraries, slow travel encourages a deliberate, unhurried approach, where travelers spend meaningful time engaging with local cultures and communities.
Listed as a top trend in the recent Hilton 2025 Trends Report: The Vacation Maximized, slow travel is a concept that emphasizes a more mindful and immersive travel experience or “The growing desire to travel like a local.”
According to Hilton, immersing oneself in a destination for an extended time to fully experience the culture is gaining popularity. Driven by a desire to reduce speed and build connections with others and one’s surroundings during a stay, slow travel encourages a leisurely approach.
“With Slow Travel on the rise, more travelers are exploring secondary cities and destinations instead of the overcrowded tourist hotspots. For instance, Sardinia, a longtime getaway for Italians, is now seeing an uptick of travelers. Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia has seen a 90% year-over-year increase in U.S. travelers and 15% increase in Irish travelers, from 2023 to 2024. Baia di Chia Resort Sardinia, Curio Collection by Hilton, has seen a 150% increase in U.S. travelers and 45% year-over-year increase in both UK and Czech Republic-based travelers, from 2023 to 2024.” – Hilton
Hilton also lists the trend of “hurkle durkling,” a Scottish word for lounging in bed, even while traveling.
A reflection of this is Conde Nast Traveler tapping train travel as something to watch. The resurgence of luxury train travel aligns with slow travel, where the focus shifts from speed to savoring the journey. With high-end rail experiences like the La Dolce Vita Orient Express offering slower, scenic routes to less-explored destinations, travelers can immerse themselves in local cultures and landscapes at a more relaxed pace. The experience encourages a deeper connection to places visited. As luxury trains cater to travelers seeking unique, meaningful experiences, they highlight the value of slowing down and appreciating the entire journey rather than just the destination.
This trend is connected to concerns about sustainability, as fewer destinations can mean a lower carbon footprint. Hilton’s report also states that 62% of respondents consider communications about a hotel’s sustainability programming to be important, and 73% agree it’s important to minimize their environmental impact while traveling. Slow travelers are interested in eco-friendly accommodations and might also choose sustainable transportation methods like trains or bicycles.
Slow travel contrasts with the typical “bucket list” travel style, where people rush to check off multiple destinations in a short time. Slow travel promotes less touristy activities like visiting local markets, eating at family-owned restaurants, attending cultural events or festivals, and participating in activities that support the local economy.
Slow travel not only reduces the carbon footprint but can offer a more fulfilling, less stressful travel experience. It aligns with broader trends like luxury minimalism and quiet luxury, focusing on wellness and mental well-being, rather than just consumption and fast experiences.
Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com.