Jomo is the latest travel trend that’s taking over the industry, where travellers are embracing soft travel and the joy of “missing out”.
Positioned as the antidote to the restless, tickbox trips that are still popular, the ‘jomo’ trend appeals to those who want to visit a place and really sink into the experience, rather than chasing full itineraries.
The travel experts at Lotus Car Rental have revealed the destinations which offer visitors the best chance at relaxing and gaining some peace and quiet.
To identify the best and worst locations to achieve a sense of ‘jomo’, they analysed multiple metrics to determine the most relaxing cities, including noise pollution, light pollution, population density, and air quality. Each city was then scored for each metric, with the lower the score, the less overwhelming the destination.
Alexander Haraldsson, CEO of Lotus Car Rental, said: “With the growing awareness around mental well-being and the impact of our surroundings, we wanted to help travellers make informed decisions. Our research into the most and least overwhelming countries, particularly for the senses, aims to guide those looking to avoid environments that might feel too chaotic, so they can focus on enjoying a more serene and enjoyable travel experience.”
Top 10 destinations to achieve a sense of ‘jomo’
Rank | City | Country | Air Quality Rank | Light Pollution Rank | Noise Rank | Traffic Congestion Rank | Overall Rank |
1 | Stockholm | Sweden | 4 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 |
2 | Copenhagen | Denmark | 9 | 1 | 8 | 12 | 7.5 |
3 | Vienna | Austria | 13 | 5 | 1 | 23 | 10.5 |
4 | Lisbon | Portugal | 8 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 11.25 |
5 | Prague | Czech Republic | 17 | 7 | 16 | 9 | 12.25 |
6 | Zurich | Switzerland | 11 | 4 | 4 | 30 | 12.25 |
7 | Dublin | Ireland | 5 | 2 | 10 | 38 | 13.75 |
8 | Melbourne | Australia | 1 | 13 | 22 | 20 | 14 |
9 | Munich | Germany | 14 | 20 | 5 | 18 | 14.25 |
10 | Sydney | Australia | 3 | 13 | 22 | 23 | 15.25 |
- Stockholm, Sweden
Topping the list as the most relaxing city is Stockholm, Sweden. The city’s air is one of the cleanest in the world, ranking fourth on the list. Stockholm also ranked low for sound pollution (seventh lowest and light pollution (ninth lowest). The average 10km journey across the city takes 15 minutes 30 seconds, which can be attributed to the fewer people and less industry than most capital cities.
Visitors looking for a slower paced experience can stroll across this wondrous city, exploring open-air museums and locally sourced food without too many distractions.
- Copenhagen, Denmark
The second least overwhelming city is located in another Scandinavian country, Denmark. Ranking in the top 10 least air polluted, built-up and densely populated cities, the Danish capital also ranked within the top 10 quietest cities.

Copenhagen also ranks as the least light polluted location. Actively working to minimize its impact through initiatives like using smart LED lighting systems, turning off lights at landmarks during certain hours, and focusing on energy-efficient solutions to reduce overall light usage, the city is a good place for urban stargazing compared to many other major cities.
Visitors to this city can explore at a calmer pace for a more relaxed break.
- Vienna, Austria
The capital of Austria, Vienna, ranks as the third most ‘jomo’ suited city. Vienna ranked in the top 10 least densely populated, built-up and humid locations, and also takes the title as the location with the quietest noise levels.
For holidaymakers looking for an altogether cultural yet serene escape, Vienna could be the perfect spot.
However, for those travellers still keen on jam-packed holiday itineraries and cities that are very sensory stimulating, Delhi, Bangkok and Istanbul top the ranking.