“Slow down, you are doing fine,
you can’t be everything you want to be before your time.”
In the fast-paced world we live in, these lyrics from Billy Joel’s famed song ‘Vienna’ encapsulate what we all need to be reminded of every once in a while. The pace at which everyone wishes to do, be and achieve everything, even travel, sometimes takes away the joy of the journey.
Travellers fly from place to place, checking off as many destinations as possible from their list. And in doing so, the experiences they have are often, well, rushed.
Does visiting the Eiffel Tower entail the entire experience Paris has to offer? A highlight, yes, but dropping by the Eiffel Tower and rushing to another destination without immersing oneself in the beauty of Paris just doesn’t seem ideal. And people have started to understand this and embrace the concept of slow travel- a form of travel that implies taking your sweet time, being mindful of your surroundings, and absorbing yourself in the experience of travel.
10 Reasons Why Slow Travel is Worth It
A More Authentic Experience
Slow travel allows you to experience a place in all its authenticity, like a local, discovering its hidden gems and exploring its story.
A Sustainable Alternative
Travelling slower reduces your carbon footprint and contributes to sustainable tourism.
Elicits Mindfulness
When you slow down and pay attention to your surroundings, you can be more present in the moment and be more mindful.
Let’s you Unwind
There’s no rush to tick off a list of sights and activities, allowing you to relax and unwind.
Saves you Money
Travelling slower means you spend less on transportation and accommodation, allowing you to make the most of your budget.
An Immersive Cultural Extravaganza
You can learn more about the local culture, customs, and traditions when you take the time to connect with the people you meet.
Pushes you to Grow
Travelling slowly can be a transformative experience, helping you gain new perspectives, learn new skills, and grow.
Has its Health Benefits
Slowing down can be good for your physical and mental health, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Gives you Time to Form Connections
Slow travel allows you to connect with other travellers and locals, building friendships and creating lasting memories.
An Adventurous Affair
Slow travel can be an adventurous affair as you venture off the beaten path and discover new experiences in a place you might not be able to in a rush.
10 Ways to Travel Slower
- Take the scenic route on a train, bus, or boat.
- Rather than rushing from place to place, stay in one location for an extended period
- Limit your use of technology
- Explore your destination on foot or by bike
- Prioritize experiences over sightseeing like dining with locals, attending cultural events, or trying new activities
- Take the time to learn a new skill, such as cooking
- Allow yourself to be open to unexpected experiences
- Connect with locals by striking up conversations, joining community events, or volunteering
- Avoid over-planning and give yourself plenty of downtimes to relax
- Travelling solo can help you slow down and be more present in the moment
10 Tips for Slow Travel
- Do your research to find off-the-beaten-path destinations and hidden gems
- Travel with just the essentials to reduce your burden
- Make reservations and plans ahead of time
- Stay in locally owned accommodations like guesthouses or Airbnb rentals
- Try local cuisine and support local businesses by eating at small restaurants and cafes
- Use public transportation like buses or trains to get around
- Keep a travel journal to document your experiences and reflect on your journey
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions
- Don’t rush to pack in too many activities or sights
- Embrace the unknown and allow yourself to be open to new experiences
Slow travel allows you to take your sweet time exploring and experiencing everything in a new place. No rush.
So, what do you say? Would you like to fly to a new place and immerse yourself in its culture and ethos?
If yes, head to www.travelunravel.com to book flights for your Slow Travel journey to begin!
