In a world where everyone seems to be in a rush, slow travel is like that one friend who insists on reading every single menu item before ordering. Savoring the finer parts of a journey, doing the best to immerse in local culture, and maybe even learning how to say "Where's the bathroom?" in a new language. (Pretty important in countries that don't have a lot of public toilets!) 

For me personally, it's a reminder to slow down in this era of speed. With the rise of AI, I believe it's only going to get worse. Write a blog post everyday? Easy! Do it with AI! To be 100% transparent, I openly acknowledge using AI to assist with grammar and structure, recognizing that my writing can sometimes be all over the place. However, this particular article took me four days to craft. Why invest that time? Because I hope to provide meaningful insights and share something that may provide true value, drawing from my personal experiences and philosophy.

So, buckle up—or rather, loosen up—as we dive into the delightful world of slow travel. 

Slow travel is all about embracing the journey, not just the destination. I'm lucky that I don't care about the picture perfect instagram post. I think of it like the tortoise in the race against the hare, except you’re not racing anyone, and you’re probably not a tortoise. 

The Decision to Slow Down:

It started with my choice of trying to live as sustainable as possible. I started to use mesh bags, buy bulk, purchase organic, switch to an electric scooter. DIY a water collection system, the whole nine yards. But what about travel? I've always enjoyed going to new places, how do I integrate that into my as green as possible lifestyle? This is when the concept of slow travel naturally evolved for me. I didn't learn about slow travel until much later.

The Joy of Getting Lost: (But remember to stay safe!)
One of the best parts of slow travel? Getting lost. Seriously. I wandered down cobblestone streets, stumbled upon hidden cafes, and even found myself in the middle of a local festival. I danced (badly), laughed with strangers, and discovered that sometimes the best adventures are the ones you never planned.

But why should I  Slow Travel? 

Deeper Cultural Immersion

It takes around 2 WHOLE DAYS to really tour the Louvre. Did you know the average tour group spends just 2 hours? If you're not a fan of art or museums, don't be ashamed, do want you like and skip it! Trust me no one will judge you.  Ever wanted to know what it’s like to be a local?  Get up early and experience the rush hour. (Holy shit Tokyo) 

Reduced Environmental Impact:

As you probably already know, airplane flights are a big carbon producer. Unfortunately we sometimes have to use them to travel, especially if you choose to leave (most) countries. So try to take your time! Maybe try to get 2 weeks off instead of 1?  Think of it as using the best of those carbon emission! Plus you're saving yourself from that extra trip through airport security, hell yeah.

Maybe it's an opportunity to grow:

Slow travel can be like a self-help book you actually enjoy reading. If you're not franticlly rushing to places, maybe it's a good time to gasp take out that self-help book you've been putting off since you're usually too busy. Hey, but now you're on vacation and actually taking your time, you realize you have time to just go to the park an read.

Which leads to actual stress reduction
   Forget about tight schedules and packed itineraries. Have you ever experienced that you were more tired after a vacation? I sure have. You’ll have time to relax, unwind, and maybe even take a nap under a palm tree. Slow travel taught me to let go of the need to see everything. Instead of cramming my days with activities, I learned to savor moments. I sat in parks, watched sunsets, and even spent an afternoon people-watching from a cozy café (twice!).  It was liberating to realize that travel isn’t about how much you see, but how deeply you experience it. Also, isn't travel about blowing off steam! Rushing around in an unfamiliar location sure doesn't sound soothing! 

Unexpected Surprises
Without a strict itinerary, I found myself saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities. During my trip at Sydney, I stumbled upon a community garden near the hostel I was staying. Since I didn't really have anything particular to do, I went back a 2nd time and there was a volunteer working inside, which I started chatting with and then promptly started to help out with some chores. On the 3rd visit during their "working" hours, I met several other nice friendly locals. Off of a recommendation I learned about a new hiking app All trails!

Making New Friends:
When you slow down, you meet people—like, really meet them. We stayed in a homestead in Daylesford, Australia where the owner, Mara, treated us like family. We helped out with tasks at the farm, while she provided us food and accomedation. She taught me how to make soap, learned how they raised their own pigs, and we spent evenings cooking authentic Italian food. (Drowning it in olive oil)  By the end of my stay, We had met new friends we normally never would have. (Also met a wonderful Japanese girl, also staying there!) 

1. Stay Longer
   Why rush when you can linger? Spend more time in fewer places, and you’ll discover hidden gems that aren’t in any guidebook. Plus, you’ll get to know the local barista so well that they’ll start making your coffee before you even order.

2. Travel Overland
   Planes are overrated. Take a train, bus, or even a bicycle. You’ll get to enjoy the scenery, meet interesting characters, and during our trip from Seattle to Chicago via Amtrak, there were areas where no one had any reception. That means gasp actually talking to people! Maybe have a philosophical debate with a fellow traveler about the meaning of life? Or at least the best pizza topping (lol)

3. Live Like a Local
   Forget the fancy hotels. Opt for a cozy guesthouse or an Airbnb where you can pretend you’re a local. You’ll learn the art of haggling at the market and discover that the best meals are often found in the most unexpected places.

4. Engage with the Community
   This is talked a little above, make new friends, learn the local lingo, and maybe even join a community event. Who knows, you might end up as the guest of honor at a local festival, complete with a flower crown and a slightly off-key rendition of the national anthem.

The boring part of it, how?

1. Plan with Intention
   Choose destinations that resonate with your interests. Whether it’s art, history, or the quest for the perfect gelato, make sure your travels align with your passions.

2. Pack Light
   Travel with just the essentials. Remember, you can always buy that extra pair of socks or the world’s largest sombrero once you arrive.

3. Choose Sustainable Accommodations:
   Look for eco-friendly places to stay. Not only will you be doing your part for the planet, but you’ll also have a great conversation starter when you meet fellow eco-conscious travelers, check out our starting guide for more tips!

4. **Support Local Businesses:**
   Eat, shop, and explore local. You’ll get a taste of authentic culture and maybe even discover a new favorite dish—just don’t ask what’s in it until after you’ve tried it.

5. **Document Your Journey:**
   Keep a travel journal or blog. It’s a great way to capture memories, and you’ll have plenty of material for that novel you’ve always wanted to write.

6. **Practice Mindfulness:**
   Take a moment each day to appreciate your surroundings. Whether it’s watching a sunset or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, slow travel is all about being present.

Slow travel isn’t just a way to see the world; it’s a way to truly live in it. It’s about embracing the unknown, finding joy in the little things, and realizing that sometimes the best memories are made when you least expect them. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider taking it slow. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

 If you have any stories or experiences to share, We'll love to hear them!

Safe travels!