Feelin’ groovy: Exploring slow(ness) in tourism experience

This chapter examines the meaning and value of the slow tourism experience in the world today. The sense of slowness is perhaps not so remote for people who have now endured lockdown during a pandemic but the original development of the ‘slow movement’ was a reaction to the accelerated pace of change and homogenization of experiences. Mass package tourism with its affordability and easy access has often led to tourists being willingly disconnected from place especially with all-inclusive offers and perceived interchangeability of destinations with sun, sea and sand. So, going slow is a reaction to that disconnect by actively involving people with the places visited. The subsequent emotional attachment created by more personal links with localities also fits with the drive for a more sustainable and authentic experience benefitting both hosts and guests. The chapter’s exploration of slowness in tourism therefore draws from insights about the historical development of tourism with its origins of tourism experience in a world perceived as simpler and less complicated.