The rising trend of ‘quiet tourism’ is gaining popularity as more people seek peace and tranquillity away from the noise and chaos of urban life. The desire to escape to calm retreats is fueled by the increasing levels of noise pollution around the world, which can lead to health problems such as sleep disturbance and high blood pressure.
According to a report by Pinterest, searches for ‘quiet places’ and ‘calm places’ have increased significantly since 2023, with users showing interest in mindful activities such as forest walks, mountain cabins, and island retreats. One app, SoundPrint, measures sound levels in cities, highlighting the need for quiet escapes.
In Europe, destinations like Powys in Wales, Zurich in Switzerland, Parc del Montnegre in Spain, Bohuslän coast in Sweden, and the Hoh Rain Forest in Washington provide opportunities for travelers to turn down the volume and enjoy peaceful surroundings. Powys, with its low population density and dark sky sites, has been named the best place for peace and quiet. Zurich, despite being a city, is the least noise-polluted in the world and offers snow-capped mountains and tranquil lakes. Parc del Montnegre offers a quiet escape near Barcelona, while Bohuslän coast in Sweden is known for its picturesque villages and nature reserves. The Hoh Rain Forest in Washington is a protected zone free of noise pollution, air tourism, and roads, making it a sanctuary for silence.
As noise pollution continues to increase, more travelers are seeking out these serene destinations for a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
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