Destination nowhere

Li Yu, 30, is a good example of the swing to low-intensity travel. Originally from Anshun, Guizhou province, and with roots in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, Li spent years working in hotel marketing communications, and was constantly on the move. Over time, her idea of a perfect vacation changed dramatically due to her work experiences.

"Instead of the usual adventure-filled trips, I found myself increasingly drawn to the idea of 'staycations' — trips that focus on relaxation, comfort, and minimal effort," said Li.

As part of her job, she had explored countless hotels and resorts, often reviewing new properties, highlighting their features, and marketing them to potential guests.

However, it wasn't until she visited a boutique guesthouse in her hometown, that she understood the appeal of staying put and immersing herself in a place, rather than rushing to experience all the nearby attractions.

"This guesthouse, perched on a cliffside with stunning views of Karst mountains, sparked my curiosity about how the space itself could become a destination, not just the surrounding attractions," said Li.

Her first staycation in a hotel was triggered by the impact of the pandemic, which inspired her to take a break from her hectic life. For two years, Li traveled to 50 cities and two countries, seeking out hotels and resorts where she could truly relax.

"Instead of trekking through popular tourist destinations, I focused on finding unique places to stay — places that offered quietude and a chance to disconnect from the pressures of work and daily life," said Li, who still earns an income from marketing work.

One of her memorable experiences was in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan province, where she stumbled upon a local bar that became her evening retreat.

"The atmosphere was laid-back, with locals enjoying the night over drinks and casual conversations. I soon realized that this was exactly what I needed in my travels — moments of connection, relaxation, and no sense of urgency," she said.

Li's experiences changed her view on what makes a trip worthwhile. Whether in the charming city of Quanzhou in Fujian province where a local mother and daughter took her to a hidden restaurant, or in Laos, where she decided on the spot to take a train ride to Luang Prabang, Li discovered that the joy of travel came from slowing down and letting the journey unfold naturally.

"By focusing on the comforts and details of the places I stayed — be it the thoughtful design of boutique hotels or the tranquillity of a mountain retreat — I gained a deeper connection to the culture and environment around me," said Li.