Returning home from a vacation only to feel like you need another holiday to recover has been a pitiful paradox in the world of travel for decades. The demands of a 48-hour workweek persist, leave balances remain coveted and yet, ironically, the traditional vacation has become a sprint through destinations – a checklist of places visited, sights seen and islands hopped. The pressure to relentlessly complete all these tasks, supposedly “making the most” of the trip in a limited timeframe have left vacationers more exhausted than recovered. For those who aren’t so lucky as to live in sought after holiday spots and must make do with the grime and grit of fast-paced cities, perhaps the true key to rejuvenation lies not in the hustle and bustle to and from landmarks, but in the art of slowing down. Offering an innovative antidote to the conventional narratives of vacationing, Slow Travel, a burgeoning phenomenon, speaks a simple truth amid the chaos of modern tourism – the essence of a vacation lies its invitation to savour. This approach, lending itself to multiple interpretations, be it food, sceneries, inner thoughts, connections or relaxation, is steeped in tranquillity over indulgence. For luxury travellers looking to leave their daily lives behind in their home cities, incorporating these Slow Travel practices can welcome a transformative outlook to annual time-off, where we can reclaim our attention and redirect it to spaces and ideas we rarely focus on in our everyday. Digital Detox Many of us have found ourselves mindlessly scrolling through our devices, detracting from the opportunity to savour and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings while on holiday. Embracing the principles of slow travel, which encourages a more immersive and mindful exploration of destinations, has become increasingly important. Recognizing this need, resorts now offer digital detox programs that serve as a beacon for those seeking to unplug. At JW Marriott in Mussoorie – the Walnut Grove Resort and Spa, besides offering a serene environment in the hills, has also introduced Digital Detox Boxes in guest rooms, a thoughtful arrangement providing a secure space for guests to temporarily stow away their phones and disengage from screens. “Innovative features such as Digital Detox Boxes create a perfect haven for individuals seeking refuge from the digital clamour…” says Anoop Pandey, the general manager of JW Marriott Mussoorie. Similarly, commenting on the inception of their digital detox program, Sushmita Sarangi the Commercial Director of J Wellness Circle at IHCL says, “As the pandemic waned and people resumed inperson interactions, it became evident that many had become overly reliant on digital tools, making it challenging for them to connect with others in real life.” In this light, J Wellness Circle inaugurated their digital detox initiatives with Dristi, an eye therapy product designed to refresh and relax tired eyes, marking only the beginning of this journey of device-free zones, Digital Detox retreats. By opting to take a break from the incessant buzz of technology in these small ways, travellers can fully engage with their surroundings, fostering a deeper connection with the local culture, nature, and the people they encounter. Wellness In the constant whirlwind of our personal and professional lives, the concept of wellness often takes a back seat as we tirelessly strive to achieve external goals. Slow Travel, aptly named for its encouragement of a decelerated pace, provides an opportunity to shift this paradigm. Beyond the commonly perceived idea of connecting with one’s external surroundings, slow travel also invites individuals to turn inward and foster a connection with their inner selves which can be achieved through practicing wellness while on holiday. “Encouraging guests to slow down is about providing a counterpoint to the speed of modern life, offering a space where time feels a little more expansive.” says Randal Whelpdale, the General Manager at Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa. Here, personalised wellness experiences are integrated into the pristine wilderness of Coorg. In fact, personalised wellness has been adopted by most luxury resorts in an attempt to go beyond standardised procedures. At Chenot Palace Gabala for instance, a proficient medical team provides check-ups and stateof-the-art diagnostic equipment, to assess guests’ current physical wellness status to tailor each person’s treatments and action plan according to their individual needs. Furthermore, the General Manager at Chenot Palace, Rishad Sharifov posits a shift from traditional spa getaways to a stronger emphasis on preventive care within wellness tourism. He explains, “This change mirrors a broader societal trend where people are increasingly value proactive health measures.” In response to travellers’ shifting priorities, resorts across the globe have begun offering such proactive measures such as in the case of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray’s award-winning spa, listed among the best 10 spas in Dubai in 2022 for its signature Turkish Hammam. Among a range of services, the beachside resort offers two Thalassotherapy pools that help release tension from the muscles and improve blood circulations, speaking to the preventative care that guests seem to be seeking. Luxury Train or Yacht Travel Since forming a connection with ones surroundings and nature is an experience often missed in the haste of covering numerous spots in a single 12|LUXEBOOK |MAR/APR 2024 MAR/APR 2024 |LUXEBOOK|13
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