Time to transform the way we travel?: A conceptual framework for slow tourism and travel research

Abstract

Slow food movement gave rise to subsequent movements including Cittáslow and slow tourism. This emphasises a steady state mindful approach to travel and consumption patterns. With consideration for pressing issues like overtourism, mass tourism and the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is pertinent to discuss viable alternatives to a fast-paced life and travel that we consider normal. One such alternative is slow tourism that accentuates sustainable tourism practices as well as tourism at a reduced pace. It endorses mindfulness in travelling and discovering destinations in a responsible manner. Furthermore, slow travel aims to promote tourists' consumption-oriented enjoyment of experience through slow-paced and low carbon emission travel patterns. An in-depth scientometric review coupled with a critical qualitative review highlights the state-of-the-art of slow tourism and travel research, offers an integrative multilevel and multistage framework, and proposes future research avenues drawing on the gaps within the slow tourism and travel research.