If you’ve been paying attention to trends in the world of tourism, then you might have stumbled across the term ‘slow travel’. This is a name given to a kind of travel that emphasises conscientiousness and contemplation – and, for many, it’s helped to make the average holiday that little bit more enjoyable.
Despite this, the term slow travel has been somewhat overused – often to the point of meaninglessness. It’s about more than simply staying in a wellness focused resort, and not doing very much with your time.
Let’s consider a few basic principles that might allow you to get a little more from ‘slow’ travel.
Fewer locations, deeper stays
If you’re constantly rushing from one place to the next, then you might find yourself feeling drained. Constant travel can be exhausting, after all.
By contrast, if you give yourself time to settle in one place for several days, then you’ll give yourself a chance to really appreciate the pace of life, and the little things that make each location unique.
If you don’t have time to venture beyond the more tourist-focused parts of any given location, then you might find that every town and city seems remarkably similar to the last – which defeats the purpose of moving from one place to the next.
Travel days that don’t drain energy
If you know that you’re going to be spending a lot of time on the move on a particular day, then you might think about making the travel itself part of the experience. For example, you might cruise from one sun-drenched island to the next, or book a seat on a luxury train. Certain routes, like the Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient Express, are a great match for the unhurried style of travel we’re looking for.
Space for routine rather than constant plans
Just because you’re staying in a new place doesn’t mean that you have to abandon all of your routines. Going for a walk every morning can help you to feel grounded and present in your new surroundings. You might even elect to start new routines when the opportunity arises. For example, if you find a cafe that you like, you might make a point of grabbing a coffee there each morning.
These little rituals can help you to maintain a sense of focus and direction, and reduce the mental fatigue that comes with deciding what to do next.
Time to engage with local life
The best, most rewarding holidays are often the ones where you have a chance to delve into the local culture. This is where small festivals and markets come in. Keep your schedule open, so that when you learn about these events, you can find time for them.
Comfort that supports rest, not excess
If you’re not staying in the right accommodation, then you might find it difficult to truly unwind, and to acquaint yourself with your surroundings. Take the time to find lodgings that are high-quality, and that won’t force you to go too far out of your way in search of something to do.