For this guest feature, Kyle Patel, President and founder of global private jet company Bitlux, sheds light on how private aviation seamlessly connects with the silent travel trend, allowing wonderers to reach remote and secluded places far removed from the usual tourism magnets.

In an era dominated by the constant buzz of social media, where experiences are often measured by their shareability, a refreshing countertrend is gaining momentum, that of quiet travel, according to the Pinterest “Summer 2024 Travel Report”. This movement goes against the frenetic pursuit of tourist traps and instead proposes a more contemplative, introspective approach to exploring the world.

At its core, quiet travel is about creating space for mindfulness and self-reflection. It’s a rebellion against the pressure to constantly perform and document our adventures, instead inviting us to inhabit the present moment fully. This might mean rising early to watch the sunrise over an ancient temple, sitting alone in a quaint café to scribble in a notebook, or taking a solitary stroll on a secluded beach.

Of course, private jet travel is known for being exclusive and flexible and maintains total privacy. It is the natural partner to the trend of quiet travel as it takes away the stress of commercial travel and the hassle of the airport. You can travel from a small local airport with excellent facilities, and the whole travel process is expedited. The experience of travelling by private jet is unparalleled, and the time saved compliments the quiet travel ethos.

Quiet travel is not necessarily about isolation but more about choosing meaningful relationships over superficial ones. It might involve striking up a conversation with a local shopkeeper, learning a few words of the native language to appreciate its rhythms better, or simply observing the way of life in a new place. In an age of highly filtered, perfect vacation images, the quiet travel movement embraces the authentic and unique instead.

Where to go
As an alternative to the famous party island of Mykonos, a quiet traveller could take a private jet to the tiny Greek island of Kastellorizo. The airport (IATA: KZS ICAO: LGKJ) can accommodate a Bombardier Dash 8 aircraft or general aviation aircraft, or you can reach the island by ferry. It is a picture-perfect destination, unmarred by tourism. There is the Blue Cave, a pretty grotto to explore, and a visit to an old taverna at the picturesque harbour with a sparkling bay is a must.

Our growing recognition of the importance of mental health and self-care is helping drive this shift in travel. The relentless pace of modern life can be exhausting, and quiet travel offers us the chance to unplug from our devices, recharge our inner batteries, and tune back into ourselves and what brings us joy. Wellness travel is on the increase as we try to escape the busyness and stress of life and be relieved of a digital detox and the stream of news.

In the Pinterest study, one of the most popular destinations is the English countryside, so a visit to God’s Own Country and the historic spa town of Ilkley might be in order. The town is surrounded by the beautiful Yorkshire Moors, where you can meander to the Cow and Calf Rocks in solitude.

The beautiful River Wharfe skirts Ilkley, and a visit to Betty’s Tea Rooms is a must for the ideal taste of Yorkshire. Nearby is the historic town of Haworth, home to the Bronte sisters. The local airport is Leeds Bradford Airport (IATA: LBA ICAO: EGNM).

Of course, quiet travel will not appeal to everyone, but that’s perfectly okay. The beauty of exploration is subjective in the countless ways we can engage with the world. Those who crave action and adrenaline, who delight in the hustle and bustle of foreign cities, will continue to do so. But for those yearning for a deeper, more introspective journey, quiet travel offers a powerful path forward. It allows you to take solace in the serene and feel rejuvenated.

Pinterest noted that their travel-related searches over the last year were increasing, with ‘quiet places’ and ‘calm places’ increasing by 50%.

The islands of Okinawa in Japan are another trending place for quiet travel. Okinawa is a world heritage site with beaches that can be accessed all year round and a gentle climate. The national park on Iriomote Island covers 90% of the island and has mountainous jungle and lush mangroves to navigate and create the perfect quiet travel experience. Okinawa is popular with foodies, too, and has a flourishing food scene. The nearest airport is Naha Airport (IATA: OKA ICAO: ROAH).

The phrase’ cabin in the mountain’ also trended in the report. If a mountain retreat and focus on wellness are more your thing, the VIVAMAYR Altaussee at Lake Worthersee in Austria might be an option. The famous wellness clinic offers the Mayr health concept and relaxation to create a tailored and unique well-being journey. The closest airport is Klagenfurt Airport around 20 minutes away (IATA: KLU ICAO: LOWK).

For a spiritual journey like no other, you could visit the Ananda, a destination spa set on a hillside in the foothills of the Himalayas. The spa overlooks the ancient spiritual city of Rishikesh in India, and they offer holistic experiences such as ayurveda, yoga and meditation, fitness, massage, and much more.

The nearest airport is Dehradun Airport or Jolly Grant Airport as it is sometimes known (IATA: DED ICAO: VIDN), followed by a 40-minute picturesque drive through the Himalayas. Helicopter transfers are also available to the resort’s own helipad.

As we move through the world with greater intention and awareness, we may just discover that the best souvenirs we collect are the insights we glean about ourselves. In the stillness and the present moment, one can take time to enjoy the beauty that awaits just beyond the next horizon. So, if you find the quiet travel revolution appealing, embrace it. Take a private jet to somewhere remote and secluded and get away from it all.

About Bitlux
Bitlux delivers various services across the air charter industry, but Executive Travel is closest to heart. Whether you are flying for business or leisure, Bitlux provides a top-tier private jet service that actively exceeds expectations.