Why Slow Travel Is the New Status Symbol – Medium

It took me years to realize I didn’t need to see four cities in seven days.

I used to chase itineraries like they were lottery tickets. If I packed enough into the trip, it would feel worth it. I’d post the highlights, then return home with a full camera roll and an empty soul.

Slow travel is the antidote. It’s the act of choosing stillness in motion. You land somewhere and stay long enough to learn the bus schedule, recognize the fruit stand owner, and forget what day it is.

In 2025, that’s becoming aspirational.

The trend reports say Gen Z is ditching the influencer blueprint. They’re not interested in a reel of beach drone shots or bougie breakfasts. They want connection, meaning, soft mornings, and enough time to breathe. The “flex trip” is out. Presence is in.

I watched this play out firsthand in Mexico City. My wife and I booked one place for three weeks. We went to the same taco cart almost daily. We learned our neighbors’ dogs’ names. We found the best coffee within walking distance and stopped caring about museums we “should” see. I remember the…