‘Slow Summer Vacations' Are Trending In Popularity For 2025
Slow summer vacations are all the rage for getaways in 2025. getty
Summer is just around the corner, and it's time to plan vacations if you haven't already. But the tanking economy, jammed airports, travel disruptions, canceled flights and flight delays--plus lost luggage claims up 18%--are causing vacationers to rethink how they want to spend time off. There's a new trend of vacationers opting out of the rat race for 'slow summer vacations.' Experts predict that summer 2025 memories won't be made at packed camps or faraway resorts but instead during slow mornings, spontaneous outings and unplanned afternoons at home.
Almost one year ago to the day I was writing about 'hushcations' for Forbes.com in which younger workers were sneaking vacations without calling off work or disclosing their location to their employers. The 'hush movement' grew among remote workers across the country as they tried to find risk-averse ploys to combine remote working with their desire for job flexibility.
Now, as summer nears, Americans hit a 15-year low in travel planning, according to Fortune, explaining that job insecurity from DOGE layoffs and tariffs are shattering 2025 vacation plans. Instead, they are turning to a different kind of break called 'slow summer vacations.' Vacationers this summer are shying away from packed schedules and pricey plans, scaling back activities, cutting costs and allowing more unstructured time for both kids and parents. Interest in the idea is rising, with Google searches for 'Slow Summer' up 30% over the past month.
The movement stands in stark contrast to the typical American summer, which often revolves around packed schedules filled with camps, structured programs and costly vacations. This new summer pattern is trending in a parallel direction of how work rules are evolving from hustle culture to micro-retirements and a greater emphasis on flexibility, spontaneity and work-life balance. Five Aspects Of 'Slow Summer Vacations'
I spoke with Brooks Lape of Start Your Recovery who describes how the 'slow summer' trend includes five aspects:
Lape told me by email that many parents are now limiting organized activities to one or two per week maximum, compared to the typical four or five activities many families try to juggle. 'Families are creating 'activity-free days where the only plan is to have no plans, allowing for spontaneous family adventures or simply relaxing at home,' he says. 'This deliberate under-scheduling is helping families reduce the logistical stress of summer while creating space for more meaningful connections.' 2. Embracing boredom
There's typically an initial "boredom detox" period of three to seven days where children may complain about having nothing to do. After the initial period of resistance, Lape finds that boredom eventually leads to greater creativity, self-direction and imaginative play. And kids begin developing their own games, returning to forgotten toys, or diving into creative projects. 'We've seen examples of children creating elaborate backyard obstacle courses, writing and illustrating their own books and developing neighborhood games that evolved over weeks of summer play," he states.
Lape observes that families are establishing "tech-free zones" both in time and space to encourage outdoor exploration from bike rides at dusk to spontaneous backyard games and local adventures, children are reconnecting with the joys of close-to-home freedom. 'Many are connecting with other neighborhood families to create informal play groups that meet regularly at local parks or rotate between backyards,' he notes. 'We're seeing a resurgence of classic summer activities like catching fireflies, setting up lemonade stands, and organizing impromptu sports games that include children of various ages.' 4. Choosing budget-friendly fun
Instead of splurging on costly entertainment, families are turning to simple pleasures—sprinklers in the yard, homemade popsicles, visits to the library and walks in nature. "With inflation concerns, families are embracing "experience challenges" like trying to visit every free museum, park, or splash pad in their area," according to Lape. 'Many are creating summer bucket lists focused on free or low-cost activities rather than expensive outings. There's increased interest in family skill-sharing, where parents teach children practical skills like cooking, gardening or basic carpentry through summer-long projects.' 5. Building flexible routines
Rather than sticking to rigid schedules, Lape explains that many are adopting loose daily rhythms that allow room for spontaneity and following their children's interests—perhaps morning reading time, midday outdoor play and evening family activities—while remaining flexible enough to pursue spontaneous opportunities. He adds that many families are implementing "yes days" where kids get to make the decisions (within reasonable parameters), fostering autonomy and creating memorable experiences. The Mental Health Benefits of 'Slow Summer Vacations'
Slow Summer vacations are providing something children desperately need but rarely get in today's achievement-oriented culture, according to Lape, which is unstructured time to play, daydream and process their experiences. 'When every moment is planned and directed by adults, children miss opportunities to develop intrinsic motivation and self-regulation. They become dependent on external stimulation and struggle with independent problem-solving,' he concludes. "The mental health benefits of slowing down include reduced anxiety, improved sleep, stronger family connections and the development of crucial coping skills.'
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
JetBlue is pulling out of the Miami airport, but will remain at FLL. See details
JetBlue Airways will halt service at Miami International Airport, the airline said on Saturday. The Long Island City-based carrier cited poor financial performance. JetBlue has a small footprint at MIA, with one or two daily flights between MIA and Boston. But 'to free aircraft for new routes, we've recently made the decision to end a small number of unprofitable flights including between Boston and Miami,' Derek Dombrowski, director of corporate communications, said in an email statement sent to the Miami Herald. The changes are effective Sept. 3, he said. Travelers booked on cancelled flights 'will have the option to fly via Fort Lauderdale or receive a full refund to their original form of payment,' Dombrowski said. The move was a business decision. 'We continually evaluate how our network is performing and make changes as needed,' Dombrowski said. JetBlue informed MIA of the changes on Friday, Greg Chin, communications director for Miami-Dade Aviation Department, said in a phone call with the Miami Herald on Saturday. He didn't elaborate on other details. JetBlue will continue to fly to Boston from nearby Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport as well as West Palm Beach, Dombrowski said. The airline has a strong presence at FLL. In 2024, JetBlue served about 6.8 million passengers at FLL, down 2.1% from 2023 but still the second largest carrier at that airport, only behind Spirit. It carried 19% of all travelers to and from the Broward County airport. This year, JetBlue remains FLL's second largest carrier. Through April 30, the airline had 2.2 million passengers, even though that's down 6% from the same period in 2024. In 2021, to make a larger bet on South Florida as the COVID-19 pandemic was still in full force, JetBlue expanded at MIA, adding as many as 14 daily flights, including as many as four times a day to Boston. The airline also added direct flights between MIA and New York-JFK, Newark, Los Angeles and Hartford. Since then, JetBlue has scaled back service in Miami due to falling demand. It was also slowed down by the 2024 ruling of a federal judge in Massachusetts that blocked an attempted merger with Broward-based Spirit, citing anti-competitive laws. On Saturday, JetBlue had a total of two arrivals at MIA, each one from Boston, according to the airport's flight tracker. And it had one departure, also to Boston.
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Yahoo
Canada issues new warnings ahead of summer travel season
The 2025 summer travel season arrives under closer scrutiny than in previous years. Global Affairs Canada has updated a long list of advisories shaped by war, crime and environmental disruption. Countries in the Middle East are under strict warnings to limit or avoid travel, and South American destinations popular with Canadian visitors have been flagged for instability. Even the United States has entered more uncertain territory, though it is still carrying a green 'take normal safety precautions' rating. A national poll in May found a majority of Canadians no longer felt welcome south of the border, and more than half believed travel to the country was no longer safe. On June 7, Canada updated its advisory for the U.S. to reflect large-scale demonstrations in Los Angeles. Domestic travel is seeing a rebound, driven by rising caution abroad and a new dose of civic pride at home. Ottawa expects record hotel bookings ahead of Canada Day, with tourism officials crediting a drop in U.S. trips and growing appetite for homegrown destinations. Skyscanner data shows flight searches from Ottawa to Edmonton have risen 95 per cent since the start of the year, followed by Calgary and Winnipeg. Round-trip flights beginning and ending in Ottawa increased by 49 per cent, reflecting interest in regional tours or multi-leg vacations within Canada. The federal government is actively trying to keep travelers inside Canada's borders. Between June 20 and September 2, a Canada Strong Pass offers free or discounted admission to national parks, museums, galleries and VIA Rail trips. 'Canadians can enjoy free or discounted admission as they make Canada their travel destination this summer,' the program states, describing it as a way to 'celebrate what unites us … our shared experiences, natural wonders and cultural richness.' The view inside Canada may be bright, but international travel can be fraught with warnings. Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories); Why: Canada updated its travel advisory for Mexico on June 19 in response to two serious safety risks. Hurricane Erick made landfall on the western coast of Oaxaca, bringing violent winds and heavy rainfall across southern Mexico. Authorities have warned of flash flooding, landslides and severe disruptions to essential services, including transportation, power, food and water supply, telecommunications, emergency response and medical care. In Sinaloa, escalating violence has led to clashes between rival armed groups near Culiacán and Mazatlán. Armed individuals have blocked major highways and attacked vehicles, prompting warnings about road safety and security conditions in the region. This satellite image provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows Hurricane Erick making landfall in Mexico early Thursday. What to do: Avoid non-essential travel to the stretch of coast between Bahías de Huatulco and Acapulco, where Hurricane Erick has caused widespread disruption. Those already in southern Mexico should monitor local news and weather reports, prepare for possible outages and follow all instructions from emergency officials. In Sinaloa, travellers near Culiacán or Mazatlán should limit movement, stay off major highways and take extra precautions due to armed violence and security threats in the area. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Widespread shortages of food, bottled water, medication, fuel and even tap water have affected daily life in Cuba, leading to travel disruptions and stranding some tourists. Long waits at gas stations have triggered occasional conflict, and service interruptions have been reported at some resorts due to limited water or fuel access. As of July 1, 2025, all travelers will be required to present electronic visas upon arrival. Anyone entering Cuba via a third country must obtain this visa in advance. What to do: Travelers should arrive prepared, especially when visiting areas outside the main resort zones. Bringing supplies like toiletries, prescription medication and a basic emergency kit is advised. While resort areas like Varadero, Cayo Coco, and Playa Santa Lucia are considered lower-risk, fuel and water shortages may still affect transit and services. Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories); Why: Sporadic demonstrations continue in Bangkok and other cities, while legal provisions give authorities broad powers to restrict movement, impose curfews, censor media and control public gatherings. Emergency measures may be enacted without warning. In the country's deep south, violent attacks by separatist insurgents have led to a blanket advisory to avoid all travel to the provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala. Martial law is in place across much of that region. Additional security risks exist along the borders with Myanmar and Cambodia, where occasional clashes, criminal activity and border closures have been reported. What to do: Avoid all travel to the southernmost provinces of Thailand due to the risk of violence. In other parts of the country, including Bangkok, remain alert to the potential for demonstrations or sudden security crackdowns. If visiting areas near the borders with Myanmar or Cambodia, stay informed about local developments, carry required documentation and only cross at designated points. Be prepared for delays or closures, and exercise increased caution in any region where military presence has been stepped up. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Hostilities between Israel and Iran have created serious security risks across the Middle East. Although Qatar remains relatively stable, regional tensions have led to reports of falling military debris in various locations and the potential for sudden flight disruptions, airspace restrictions, or border closures. The risk of escalation across neighbouring states is high, and Canada has warned it cannot guarantee the safety of Canadians abroad. What to do: Travelers in Qatar should monitor local and international media and follow the instructions of local authorities at all times, including shelter-in-place directives. Ensure all travel documents are current in case departure becomes necessary. Note: Canadians in nearby high-risk regions such as Iran, Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank are advised to stay close to bomb shelters or hardened structures and to follow civil defence warnings. Those wishing to leave are advised to sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive updates on evacuation options. Take normal safety precautions with regional advisories; Why: As of June 12, a state of emergency was in place in Bocas del Toro Province following weeks of protests, while nationwide demonstrations since late April had caused recurring travel disruptions, including roadblocks and halted public transport. High levels of crime are reported in parts of Colón Province, San Miguelito and several Panama City districts. Travelers were also warned to avoid all travel to the Mosquito Gulf and the area south of Metetí in Darién Province due to violent crime, drug trafficking and human smuggling. What to do: Travelers should check routes in advance and be prepared for delays or closures due to protests. In affected areas, it is essential to carry a valid ID and to follow instructions from local authorities. In urban areas with high crime rates, maintain a high level of awareness, especially after dark. Demonstrations may occur without warning in additional regions. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: High levels of crime, social unrest and the risk of strikes and demonstrations can disrupt travel. A state of emergency in Callao Province and parts of Lima includes districts like San Juan de Lurigancho, Villa el Salvador and Comas. Enhanced security measures are in place, including ID checks and restrictions on motorcycle passengers. In several regions, including parts of Ayacucho, Huánuco, and Junín, criminal activity linked to drug trafficking and domestic terrorism has prompted a separate advisory against non-essential travel. What to do: In Lima and Callao, individuals should carry valid identification at all times and follow local laws, including restrictions tied to the current state of emergency. Travel plans should account for potential delays or closures due to protests or blockades. Travelers should avoid all non-essential travel to the regions flagged for organized crime and guerrilla activity, including the VRAEM corridor and border areas near Colombia and Ecuador. It is recommended to monitor local news closely and to remain alert in both urban and rural areas. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: As of May 2025, tensions between India and Pakistan were high following cross-border airstrikes, though a ceasefire had since been announced. Areas within 10 kilometres of the Pakistan border remain under a strict 'avoid all travel' advisory due to the risk of landmines and unexploded ordnance. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is also flagged for all travel avoidance due to the threat of terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping. Anti-Canada sentiment in some regions has sparked protests, and consular services are temporarily unavailable in and around Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. What to do: Non-essential travel should be avoided in the northeastern states of Assam and Manipur due to insurgent activity. Canadians currently in India should exercise caution in public, avoid crowded places and protests and limit interactions with strangers, particularly in Delhi and surrounding areas. Those needing consular assistance should contact the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi or Global Affairs Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Authorities are maintaining heightened security measures in Germany due to concerns about terrorism, organized crime and irregular migration. Temporary border controls have been reinstated at all land-entry points and were expected to remain in place until at least Sept. 15, 2025. What to do: Those entering Germany from within the Schengen area should be prepared to show valid travel documents at border crossings. It is recommended to carry identification at all times. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Crime remains the main safety concern in Costa Rica, particularly in areas popular with tourists. Theft of passports and valuables is frequent, especially during high season. Pickpockets often work in teams, focusing on travelers in restaurants, bus terminals, hotel lobbies and national parks. Distraction techniques are common. Certain areas of San José, the Pacific coast, including Jacó and Manuel Antonio, and parts of the Caribbean coast, like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita see higher rates of reported incidents. What to do: Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark, and be cautious when withdrawing money or using public transit. Keep your passport on you, along with the Costa Rican entry stamp, but secure it when possible. Minimize signs of wealth, and don't carry more cash or valuables than necessary. Stay alert in crowds and in known hotspots and report any thefts immediately to local authorities. Take normal safety precautions; Why: Demonstrations in Los Angeles and other major cities have prompted an increased security presence and the possibility of sudden curfew orders. Local authorities may restrict movement with little notice, and gun violence can be a concern. The high rate of firearm possession and the legal right to carry weapons in many states contribute to the risk of being caught in a mass shooting, even if tourists are not typically targeted. What to do: At the border, be prepared for detailed screening by U.S. authorities. Entry is never guaranteed — even for travelers with valid documents — and border agents have wide discretion, including the authority to search devices and to detain individuals who are denied entry. Remain co-operative and ensure your documents are in order before travel. smisenheimer@ Our website is your destination for up-to-the-minute news, so make sure to bookmark our homepage and sign up for our newsletters so we can keep you informed. Canada Day tourism season looks strong as bookings climb in Ottawa Committee OK's airport-area housing project despite noise concerns
Associated Press
5 hours ago
- Associated Press
Top Entertainment Options in Oahu, Honolulu, Waikiki: What Travelers Need to Know About Things To Do
Travelers Seek Safe, High-Quality Experiences — Here's How One Magic Show is Standing Out Among Honolulu's Best Things to Do 'One Clear Winner of the People's Choice: While Honolulu boasts four magic shows, one stands out with thousands of consistent 5-star reviews on both TripAdvisor and Google: The Magical Mystery Show!'— John Goodman HONOLULU, HI, UNITED STATES, June 22, 2025 / / -- With so many activities competing for attention in Waikiki — from boat cruises and luaus to live music and magic shows — visitors to Oahu often struggle to choose wisely. While glossy brochures and social media ads promise unforgettable evenings, the reality can sometimes fall short. Safety concerns, unexpected costs, or underwhelming experiences have prompted travelers to seek trusted reviews and verified recommendations. A closer look at popular entertainment options reveals both opportunities and red flags: Luaus: Know What You're Paying For Many Oahu luaus have faced rising costs, leading to reduced food quality and scaled-back offerings. Guests report that while some shows still impress, the dining experience may disappoint. Some, like MELE Luau, offer a lower-cost 'show-only' ticket option for budget-conscious visitors. Rock-A-Hula adds a rock-and-roll twist with an Elvis impersonator, though volume levels are high, and some walking is required. Always check parking costs, terrain, and mobility access before booking. Live Music: Blue Note Honolulu Remains a Trusted Option Located in the heart of Waikiki, Blue Note Honolulu continues to offer world-class music performances in a safe, upscale environment. With show-only or food-included ticket options, it remains a solid pick for couples and music lovers. Upcoming performers and tickets are available at Boat Cruises: Weather and Seasickness Are Real Considerations Sunset cruises can be breathtaking — but also unpredictable. Many operate in open ocean, not calm harbors, and seasickness is a common complaint. Rain or wind can lead to last-minute cancellations. Travelers are advised to book same-day, weather-dependent, when possible. While Ko Olina Ocean Adventures receives strong reviews, others like Star of Honolulu can exceed $200 per person. Magic & Comedy: The Magical Mystery Show! Takes Top Honors Among several Oahu magic shows priced under $99, one performance consistently outranks the rest. The Magical Mystery Show!, located at the Hilton Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, is currently rated the #1 Theater and Nightlife Experience in Honolulu on Tripadvisor. Housed in an ornate, Victorian-Hawaiian theatre with valet access, the show stars Shoot Ogawa, a Grand Champion of Magic internationally renowned for close-up illusions and engaging comedy. Audience members consistently describe the experience as 'astonishing,' 'interactive,' and 'unlike anything else on the island.' With adult tickets ranging from $69 to $89 and children's tickets starting at $49, it's a family-friendly favorite that combines world-class entertainment with luxury, comfort, and convenience. For official details and best pricing, visit Circus and Acrobat-Themed Events: Scale and Expectations While national-brand circus acts are present in Oahu, they are generally smaller in scope than their mainland counterparts. Some visitors are surprised by the modest scale and intimate setting. Full clown makeup may be unsettling for children. Check production size and visuals in advance to avoid surprises. Travel Tips for Safer Entertainment Choices in Waikiki: • Book day-of for outdoor events to avoid cancellations due to rain or wind. • Choose venues with valet or on-property access to minimize walking at night. • Bring rain ponchos and extra clothes for luaus without covered seating. • Read online reviews and check for consistent safety and quality feedback. Conclusion: Honolulu's Best Things to Do Include a Clear Standout While Oahu offers many entertainment choices, not all are created equal. For a safe, intimate, and world-class performance consistently praised by audiences worldwide, The Magical Mystery Show! continues to set the standard. Whether planning a romantic night out, a family activity, or a one-of-a-kind magical experience, visitors can count on this highly rated performance as one of the best things to do in Waikiki, Honolulu, and all of Oahu. For more information, visit or search 'Best Magic Show Oahu' online. John Goodman Hawaii Dining and Entertainment Magazine email us here Visit us on social media: Instagram Facebook Other Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
