Slow Travel, Slow Hospitality and Well-being through Design

The New Art of Slowing Down in Portugal

  • 11 Nov
  • 11-11-26 (18h00)
  • Laufen Roca Lisboa Gallery
  • Event format:In Person

Portugal is establishing itself as a leading destination for discerning travellers, particularly as the demand for slow travel and slow hospitality continues to grow. From mountains and vineyards to the Atlantic coastline, boutique hotels are redefining the concept of luxury, placing greater emphasis on tranquillity, authenticity and meaningful experiences that invite guests to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters.

On 11 November at 6:00 pm, LAUFEN Roca Lisboa Gallery will host a Slow Travel, Slow Hospitality and Well-being through Design – The New Art of Slowing Down in Portugal event, in partnership with Piscina Barcelona. Following the event in Barcelona 2025, this initiative now arrives in Lisbon to explore a new approach to hospitality and wellness with Well-being through design and slow hospitality taking centre stage.

More than simply offering wellness services, Well-being through design represents a different innovative way of thinking about spaces and experiences. Architecture, interior design, lighting, materials indoor Air Quality and the relationship healthy buildings all contribute to creating spaces that enhance physical, emotiona and cognitive well being. True luxury is no longer defined by abundance, but by the quality of time, a meaningful connection with a place and the freedom to slow down.

As travellers increasingly seek more mindful experiences, longer stays and a deeper connection with the culture and identity of their destinations, design becomes essential to a new vision of hospitality that places people and their well-being at its heart.

The discussion will be moderated by David Cámara, Director of UNEX and a pioneer in the development of the contract channel in Spain, Latin America and the Caribbean, alongside Motti Essakow, an entrepreneur and global pioneer in Regenerative and Wellness travel and tourism and Sustainable and Responsible Hospitality. With over two decades of experience, he is recognised as one of the leading advocates of Slow Hospitality.

Meet the speakers:

  • Amber Case – Founder of the Calm Tech Institute

  • Saskia Wheeler – Researcher, experience strategist and speaker working at the intersection of Neuroaesthetics, Sensory Design and Environmental Pychology

  • Ana Beatriz – Founder and CEO of ABC Sustainable Luxury

  • Cédric Etienne – Interior designer and founder of Studio Cédric Etienne and Studio Corkinho

  • Ulf Bohman –  Director Quiet Parks International, Executive Director
  • of Urban Quiet Parks Stockholm and Quiet Stays

  • Vitor Santos – Founder of AHAVA Collective. International hospitality management and operations executive.

This initiative invites participants to reflect on the next evolution of hospitality and explore how architecture and design can contribute to a new culture of well-being, authenticity and a slower pace of life.

About Piscina Barcelona

Piscina Barcelona is a leading international trade fair dedicated to swimming pools, wellness and outdoor spaces, organised by Fira de Barcelona. It brings together companies, manufacturers, architects, designers and other industry professionals to showcase products and solutions, share emerging trends, drive innovation and create new business opportunities.