The Joy of Slow Travel: How to Make Travel Less Rushed and More Enjoyable
In a world that celebrates speed—fast planes, express trains, whirlwind tours—travel often feels like a race against the clock. For years, I packed my itineraries with as much as I could, ticking off every major site and attraction. But somewhere along the way, I realized I was missing the point. Travel isn’t about how much you can see; it’s about how deeply you can experience a place.
Enter the art of slow travel.
Slow travel is about quality over quantity, depth over breadth. It’s an antidote to rushed vacations and burnout. By savoring the journey instead of hurrying through it, you can forge a more meaningful connection with the places you visit and the people you meet. Let me share how you can embrace this more deliberate way of exploring the world.
Start with Fewer Destinations
One of the simplest ways to slow down is to resist the temptation to cram multiple cities or countries into one trip. I once tried to visit six European cities in ten days. By the end, the cities blurred together, and I barely remembered what I saw.
Now, I focus on one or two destinations per trip. Spending more time in fewer places allows you to explore beyond the tourist hotspots. You can wander into quiet neighborhoods, linger over meals, and truly get to know a place.
For instance, on a trip to Kyoto, I dedicated four days to the city. Instead of rushing from temple to temple, I spent a morning sitting by the Kamo River, watching locals bike past and children play. That moment stayed with me far longer than a quick photo of a shrine ever could.
Extend Your Stay
If you have the flexibility, spend more time in one place. Staying a week or more allows you to settle into the rhythm of daily life. You can find a favorite café, get to know the barista, and start to feel less like a tourist and more like a resident.
During a month-long stay in Lisbon, I rented an apartment in the Alfama district. Every morning, I’d walk to the corner bakery for pastéis de nata and chat (in my broken Portuguese) with the friendly baker. By the end of the trip, I felt like I belonged—a feeling that’s hard to achieve with a packed itinerary.
Prioritize Experiences Over Attractions
Slow travel is about experiences, not checklists. Instead of rushing to see every landmark, focus on activities that immerse you in the local culture.
Take a cooking class to learn how to make a regional dish.
Attend a local festival or event.
Spend a day at a community market, tasting and shopping alongside locals.
In Chiang Mai, Thailand, I skipped a few well-known temples to spend a day volunteering at an elephant sanctuary. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, far more memorable than visiting another historic site.
Travel Like a Local
Slow travel often means adopting the habits of locals. Walk, bike, or take public transportation instead of relying on taxis or tours. Shop at local stores and eat where the locals eat.
I’ll never forget a day in Amsterdam when I rented a bike and spent hours pedaling along canals, stopping at small cafes and boutiques. It was simple, unplanned, and utterly delightful—a day that made me feel like I belonged.
Savor the Downtime
One of the most underrated aspects of slow travel is downtime. Sitting on a park bench, watching people go about their day, or sipping coffee at a café without any agenda can be deeply restorative.
On a trip to Paris, I spent an afternoon reading a novel in Jardin du Luxembourg. It was a welcome break from sightseeing and allowed me to recharge while still soaking up the city’s ambiance.
Final Thoughts
Slow travel is a mindset, not a formula. It’s about being present, letting go of the need to see everything, and embracing the beauty of doing less. By slowing down, you’ll not only enjoy your trips more but also create memories that linger long after you’ve returned home.
