As one of those travellers who likes to look outside, likes to be in her bubble and capture frames of the most random things, I have had people calling me cavalier, an introvert, nonchalant, unsocial but what is prefer being called is ‘socially disconnected‘ . Sometimes it feels right to disconnect from the world and live in your own bubble for a while. Known as Silent Travel trend, its picking up fast among the masses.
What is Silent Travel?
‘Silent Travel‘ emerged amidst the uncertainty during the COVID lockdowns, when travel had come to a standstill. Ease on travel restrictions that came post it encouraged people to resume outdoor activities. While a section indulged in ‘revenge travel’, the other section did not welcome this transition. Instead, they reevaluated their priorities and chose to seek peace and calm amidst the chaos around.
Where do travellers seek Solace?
They seek tranquility in
- Silence retreats where meditation, breathing techniques, expressive therapy and leisurely walks form part of the curriculum.
- Secluded mountain cabins
- Hillside quaint, quiet cafes.
- Resorts
- Monasteries
- Wellness retreats
- The natural soundscape or Geophony
When did the shift start?
According to Rikant Pittie, co-founder of EaseMyTrip, it was post pandemic that people started looking for activities that promoted well-being. This also brought traction to Silent Travel or Silent Retreats that guided travellers to disconnect from everyday chaos and immerse themselves in the healing power of nature.
Best locations for Silent Travel
Several destinations in India offer solitude that travellers are looking for. Places like Rishikesh which is located at the foothills of the Himalayas or Kerala that is known for its serene backwaters and Ayurvedic wellness centres or Leh Ladakh with its rugged rocky mountain deserts are few that are frequently scouted by solace seekers.
International destinations that can offer similar trend of travel are New Zealand, Sedona, Arizona and the pristine beaches of Maldives.
Shift in Online and Offline Agents
With this growing trend of silence travel, both online travel agents (OTAs) and offline ones have started catering to the audience. While OTAs curate travel packages, offering comprehensive information and search options and can reach a larger audience (across regions and countries) with their online presence, offline agents offer a more personalized guidance and create tailor-made itineraries.
Mindful Travel
As the world of travel evolves, and eco-conscious travel, digital detox retreats, wellness tourism experimental travel and transformative travel experiences come into the forefront – the desire to focus on mindful, meaningful and purposeful travel grows.
Every year the travel trend changes but one thing remains uncompromised – our need to move towards a more sustainable, slow and mindful travel curriculum that allows us to appreciate the natural wonders around us, seeking respite from the chaotic cacophony that surrounds us. And silent travel is a more holistic way of understanding and appreciating the smaller things that the world has to offer us.
Where Can You Find Mindful Travel Itineraries
Pandemic taught people the value of time and most importantly life’s uncertainty which provided an opportunity to rethink their priorities. That led to the concept of being a mindful traveller and focussing on experiences that bring about tranquility in one’s continuance.
Considering seismic shift that travel preferences have gone through, there are several travel groups and agencies that have opted to create wholesome immersive itineraries that doesn’t feel like a ‘must-do’ or ‘must-visit’. They focus firmly on providing a well-thought of experience for the patrons.
Among several below is a list of responsible travel groups that promote mindful, insightful and experiential travel in a conscientious manner.
Grassroutes – Check here
Himalayan Ark – Check here
India Untravelled – Check here
Kipepeo India – Check here
Swadesee – Check here
Spiti Ecosphere – Check here
Tons Trails – Check here
Village Ways – Check here
Sometimes all we need is to use ‘Silence‘ as an equity to free us from the clutter and help us attain clarity.
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