SlowTravel at Targi Kielce: meaningful journeys that inspire for longer

Meetings with travellers, local flavours, workshops and authentic stories – the SlowTravel Fair at Targi Kielce proved that more and more people are choosing to travel closer to nature, people and real experiences.

The SlowTravel trade fair brought together lovers of conscious travel, both distant and local. The event, in line with the idea announced before the start, showed that travelling can offer a deeper, more peaceful, and more genuine sense. The inauguration of the tourist season in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship was an important moment, emphasising the growing role of experience-based, high-quality tourism.

Throughout the weekend, meetings with travellers and practitioners took place on stage, featuring plenty of stories about expeditions to Asia and Africa, accounts of trekking in the Himalayas, and inspiration for discovering lesser-known places in Europe and Poland. Guests shared not only stories, but also specific knowledge: how to plan such trips, how to travel responsibly, and how to seek authentic experiences.

Flavours, expo stands and experiences in a slow rhythm

The variety of expo stands showed what slow travel looks like in practice - a major advantage of the expo as visitors could learn about the offers of organisers of small-scale trips, adventure tourism and exotic destinations, as well as suggestions for shorter trips, regional attractions, enotourism and thematic trips. There were also expo stands presenting the culture and traditions of various countries, as well as partners promoting local initiatives and lesser-known destinations.

There was also a zone of flavours and crafts, thanks to cooperation with the Polish Chamber of Regional Products; visitors could taste local products and learn about their history and significance in the regions' cultures. Workshops, such as pottery, were also very popular, as they allowed people to experience tradition in practice.  The event was complemented by activities that engaged participants, such as a trade fair game and competitions, encouraging them to share their personal approach to travelling.

The SlowTravel expo showed that the trend of conscious travelling is growing dynamically. In times of fast tourism and ready-made patterns, the event in Kielce reminded us that the most valuable things in travel are relationships, experiences and mindfulness, and these often begin closer than we think.