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Welcome to the weekly AST Briefing.

It’s clear that rising global temperatures are already affecting the tourism industry. The World Economic Forum did a great deep-dive on potential consequences last year, and we are already seeing them in front of our eyes today.

For this week’s Feature Story, we bring to you a story by our contributor Misha Paul, who recently sat down with leaders of the mindful and slow travel movement in India.

We hope you enjoy this story as much as we did.

Slow and Steady Wins The Climate Race in Travel

Have you heard of Dhajji houses? Derived from a Persian word meaning patchwork quilt wall, Dhajji Dewari is a traditional building method in the western Himalayas.

During the 7.6-magnitude earthquake of October 2005 in Kashmir, these traditional Dhajji houses proved earthquake-resistant, while nearly half a million other buildings made with modern building materials collapsed. After the earthquake, over 100,000 homes were reconstructed using the indigenous construction method of Dhajji Dewari. 

When you visit NORTH, a creative studio and a collective in Naggar, Himachal Pradesh, India, you get to live in its Dhajji cabin, an experience one can never imagine having while living in the city. 

But Dhajji Dewari isn’t the only indigenous form of architecture one can experience in the villages of Himachal. 

Located 5 km from Naggar, nestled in one of the largest Deodar forests in Himachal Pradesh, is another anomaly to the fast-paced world called The Lazy And Slow. 

Ayush Sureka, Founder of The Lazy and Slow, says, “In today’s world, where quick getaways are often the norm, slow travel offers a refreshing alternative for deeper connection and more meaningful experiences. Our name reflects our commitment to providing an environment where guests can unwind, reflect, and truly immerse themselves in nature.” 

At The Lazy and Slow, guests can experience the wonder of the beautiful and sustainable Kathkuni-style architecture.

“Using natural materials from the surrounding area minimizes environmental impact and enhances the connection with nature. This eco-friendly traditional architecture resonates with guests who appreciate the blend of comfort and sustainability. Our glass café and secluded apartheid shed offer guests a unique opportunity to spend time in the heart of the forest, promoting a slower pace of life.” 

These mindfully designed havens call for travelers to take their time to appreciate the cultural and historical richness of these beautiful places beyond just ‘quick vacation spots.’

But why are more hospitality and travel businesses creating these experiences that encourage slow travel? 

Shoba Rudra, Partner and Founder of Rare India, which promotes hotels and experiences that are community-inclusive and planet-sensitive, says, “Mindful and slow travel is the antidote to mass tourism, and its impacts are long-term, preserving the destination both for the residents as well as the travelers who seek to explore it.” 

Quick getaways often lead to a superficial experience and can contribute to environmental degradation. Slow travel, on the other hand, allows guests to engage fully with their surroundings, understand the local culture, and reflect on their own lives.

How is slow travel mutually beneficial for travelers, businesses, and communities? 

» » » Go deeper here.

But what are the challenges in making slow travel mainstream? 

Time and money constraints and group consensus. 

Specific destinations need more infrastructure and resources.

So, what specific strategies can businesses implement to support slow travel? 

» » » Go deeper into the strategies here.

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