The beauty of slow travel and our tips to enjoy slow tourism

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Everyone is constantly on the go, rushing from one place to the next and rarely taking the time to truly appreciate our surroundings. That's where slow travel comes into play.

Considered among the current most exciting current trends in tourism, slow travel is a way of exploring the world at a leisurely pace, taking in everything a destination has to offer. Slow travel means immersing yourself in a new culture, trying new foods and communicating deeply with the locals. Instead of moving quickly from one destination to another, slow travel encourages us to slow down and appreciate the very act of travel, transforming it into an opportunity to deeply relax, recharge and reflect on ourselves.

The benefits of slow tourism: traveling in a different way to leave a positive impact

Traveling slowly allows you to experience tourism in a different, more mindful and sustainable way. It also gives you a chance to positively impact the communities you come in contact with, on the planet and on yourself.

For example, slow travel makes it possible to reduce the greenhouse gas footprint and economically support local businesses. When you run from one destination to another, you likely prefer fast means of transport such as cars or planes, which contribute significantly to pollution. Conversely, slow travel favors walking or cycling and therefore reduces the environmental impact. Furthermore, by staying in accommodations close to the travel destination and eating in local restaurants, it is possible to contribute to the well-being of local communities and have a more authentic overall experience.

And then again, another benefit of slow travel is the opportunity to connect with locals. When you're not rushing around, you can take the time to strike up a conversation with a shop owner, a fellow traveler or the inhabitant of an ancient village. It's easier to spot off-the-beaten-path destinations and get recommendations for hidden and spectacular spots to enjoy a sunrise or sunset. Connecting with locals is another excellent way to travel – and pause! – in a different way than what would be done by relying on a classic tourist guide.

And, of course, the psycho-emotional benefit that this approach to travel guarantees to the traveler should not be overlooked. In fact, slow travel allows you to relax your mind and rest your body, to unwind in a more profound and healthy way: for this reason, instead of returning from vacation exhausted and stressed, slow travelers feel rested and regenerated, full of memories that they will carry with them themselves for the rest of their lives.

Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

How to plan your slow travel experience

Slow travel is about taking the time to truly experience a new place, but how do you plan a trip that allows for a leisurely pace? Here are some tips to help you plan your next slow travel adventure:

• Choose your destination wisely: some destinations are better suited for slow travel than others. Look for places with a rich culture, plenty of outdoor activities, and a relaxed pace of life. Consider staying in a small town or village rather than a bustling city to really immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Stay as long as you can: when planning a slow travel trip, it's essential to stay in one place for an extended period of time. This allows you to truly get to know a place and its people. Consider renting an apartment or house rather than staying in a hotel for a more authentic experience.
• Plan your activities and don’t rush: instead of running from one tourist attraction to the next, take the time to really explore a place. Visit local markets, take a cooking class or hike. Look for activities that allow you to connect with the local culture and people.
• Embrace slow transportation: options like trains or buses are the best if you intend to truly enjoy and immerse yourself in your destination. Slow transit allows you to see the countryside and connect with locals. You can also consider walking or biking to slow down and appreciate your surroundings.
• Eat local: one of slow travel's best parts is experiencing the local cuisine. Look for local restaurants and markets to really immerse yourself in the culture. Don't be afraid to try new foods and flavors.
• Digital detox yourself: slow travel is also about disconnecting from our fast-paced world. Consider leaving your phone behind or only using it in emergencies. This allows you to truly appreciate your surroundings and connect with the people and culture around you.

Ready to plan your next slow tourism experience? First step: book your perfect stay! You will find plenty of extraordinary properties for rent on our website and, if in doubt, you can contact our experts at any time.

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Cover image: 畅 苏 from Pixabay