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Pure Michigan says to take it slow when it comes to travel

By Mary Ellen Murphy Jan 24, 2025 | 8:07 AM

Grand Haven, MI (WGHN) – On this Pure Michigan segment Good Morning Grand Haven was joined by Kelly Wolgamott, VP of Pure Michigan. Kelly talked about “slow travel” and how travelers can make an “un-resolution” to enjoy vacation time in a more meaningful way.

Hear the interview below.

Slow Travel Explained

  • Inspired by slow food and slow living movements, slow travel encourages travel at a more natural pace to discover deeper connections to the environment and community for richer, more fulfilling experiences.
  • The slow travel trend is predicted to surge in 2025 as travelers seek quiet, natural, and multisensory experiences.
  • With its rich outdoor, cultural, and agricultural resources, Michigan is a prime destination for slow travel experiences that visitors can see, hear, taste, touch, and feel.

Slow Travel Experiences

  • Authentic flavors: Savoring in-season and farm-to-table dining, craft breweries, and award-winning wineries that showcase Michigan’s rich agritourism and culinary traditions.
  • Honoring things that grow: Michigan’s natural and agricultural landscapes have given rise to dozens of festivals and destinations that celebrate different flora and fauna.
  • Woods and water: Meandering trips across roads, forests, waterways, and trails on foot, on wheels, on skis, blades, boards or boats to appreciate and experience the splendor and serenity of each season.

An “Un-resolution” Revolution

Pure Michigan is encouraging travelers to make an “un-resolution” for 2025 (and beyond) – a commitment to yourself to slow down and immerse yourself in your surroundings.

Slow Travel is Trending Upward

  • Google Trends shows an increased interest in the search term “slow travel” over the last five years, particularly from 2022 onward.
  • Michigan welcomed 128.3 million travelers in 2023 who spent an estimated $29.3 billion (up 7% over the prior year) translating into $53.2 billion in economic impact for the state
  • Visitors to the state spent $4.2 billion on recreation and $7 billion on food & beverage in 2023

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