Some might just call them eccentric!
But I am one of those travellers who likes to look outside, makes no contact with people, stays aloof and quiet and just likes to be by myself. People, including my family have showered me with the choicest of adjectives for this very reason. Some called me cavalier, some called me an introvert, some called me nonchalant, some called me disconnected, some even called me unsocial. BUT sometimes it feels right to disconnect from the world and live in your own bubble for a while.
But did you know this is a type of travel trend? Had I known back then that it was one, I would have definitely educated those sceptics who were so generous with their choice of words!
What is This New Travel Trend?
During the numerous lockdowns, when travel had come to a standstill, that is when “Silence Travel” emerged amidst the uncertainty. With the ease of travel restrictions, people were encouraged to resume outdoor activities. While a section of people indulged in “revenge travel”, the other section did not welcome this transition. People have been prompted to reevaluate their priorities during the pandemic and they 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
The Shift in The Mental Construct Post-Covid
According to Rikant Pittie, Co-Founder of EaseMyTrip, post-pandemic people are looking for activities that promote well-being. This has brought traction to silence travel or silence retreats. This assists the travellers to disconnect from everyday chaos and immerse themselves in the healing power of nature.
The Locations Preferred For Silence Travel
Several destinations in India fit the bill and offer solitude like Rishikesh which is located at the foothills of the Himalayas or Kerala that is known for its serene backwaters and Ayurvedic wellness centres.
The international destinations that Rikant Pittie thinks 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 to cater 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 forefront – the desire to focus on mindful, meaningful and purposeful travel grows.
Every year the travel trend changes but one steady thing is – we all are moving 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 this 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.
While there are lots of groups and sites that curate activities, seldom will you come across the ones offering mindful travel. Mostly of them either curate activities or treks/hikes.
BUT again there is also Tripoto's Mindful Retreats which many people are unaware of where experiences are curate to balance fun with relaxation.
From unwinding at A-framed cottages in Mukteshwar to trekking Tungnath, Chandrashila and Deoriatal in Chopta to enjoying a cozy camp-stay near a waterfall in Rishikesh to engaging in ATV rides at a dome-shaped glamping site in Jaipur to staying amidst forests and plantations in Munnar to cooking authentic Rajasthani food in a 200-year-old boutique property in Mandawa - each itinerary is carefully curated to provide the best experience to the those who want to focus on mindful travel.
The temptation of "doing nothing" during a short vacation that one takes to rejuvenate one's mind and body, can become a reality only when you have options to choose from and not be badgered to follow an itinerary to the "T". You should have the flexibility to opt for an experience or just relax - the Tripoto's Mindful Retreats is a great way to look for these options!
In fact, I have been to three of these retreats and planning to cover the rest, when are you booking yours?
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