When feeling overwhelmed, stressed or depressed, travel forces us to be present. It’s not distraction or running away, but choosing to be present instead of dwelling on the problems. Travel itself, is a form of meditation.
The terms ‘wellness’ and ‘wellbeing’ are often associated with getting pampered and having some kind of spa treatment. In meditation, however, wellness means being present. It’s about training our attention, awareness, and emotional calmness by focusing on a specific object, thought, or activity. Travel does the same thing.
When did you last stop to smell the roses?
We don’t often get time to be present. Many people replay old memories daily, often thinking about situations that might be over, but we haven’t fully processed all the associated emotions yet. Watching TV and doomscrolling on social media are numbing distractions. Other times, we’re thinking about the future: planning what to do on the weekend, planning a holiday to escape from the stress of daily life, planning when to catch-up with friends.
In meditation, we’re taught to be present focus on our breath, in for four counts, out for eight counts. We’re guided to direct our attention to the sensations arising in our body, from head to toes. With your prime sensory device, your eyes, closed, the other senses are heightened, and you involuntarily become more aware of other sensations surrounding you.
When travelling or on holiday, particularly when travelling solo, you can achieve a similar awareness: you’re finally present and actively conscious of your surroundings and how they make you feel.
You notice the difference in air in comparison with how it feels at home – is it fresh, or more humid, dense or lighter? You smell the fresh fish as you walk past a market, and feel the warm tingles of your skin as the sun bathes your face. You hear the foreign chatter of locals going about their day. You savour every meal you have, taking your time to enjoy every new flavour. The pace slows down and you take notice of everything around you.
As the world spins ever faster, we’re digging our heels in
Slow travel is one of the largest trends forecasted for 2026. As life continues to get faster and more demanding for many people in major cities, this trend will likely grow. Escapism is no longer only about a detailed itinerary and wild beach parties. It’s about savouring meaningful moments, giving over to unplanned exploration and embracing serendipity.
Tara Cappel, Founder of FTLO Travel, believes solo travellers are more interested in longer, slower trips because travel is becoming more personal and intentional. She says, “Staying longer gives travellers the freedom to wander, follow their curiosity and see where the experience takes them.
“At the same time, I think people are burned out with planning and slow travel takes the pressure off of crafting the “perfect trip.” Longer, slower trips create room for a mix of planned time and going with the flow. Solo travellers can literally slow down and be present instead of rushing from one highlight to the next.”
Whether you’re going through something difficult or simply planning your next trip, travelling with intention can have the same benefits as meditation. Offering a break from daily routines, it can reduce stress and boost mental health, as well as enhance cognitive flexibility and perspective.
