By Michele Nagi
As life has become busier for us all, we sometimes struggle with its ever-growing demands. Could slow travel and the natural pause it invites be the tonic we seek? After years of rushing around and taking whistle-stop tours of cities and, sometimes, whole countries, I have begun to dip my toe into the appealing world of being mindful about eating, resting and now, travelling.
For me and countless others, the goal is to step away from that harried feeling of arriving somewhere new with the flustered sense that I must see EVERYTHING on my must-do list. Surely, I left ‘work’ behind when I packed mine and my children’s bags (ok, and probably my husband’s, too!)?
This relatively new, mindful approach to travel enriches our experiences and offers numerous benefits for both travellers and the environment. We can now stop rushing and start savouring and truly experiencing the destinations we visit, perhaps even living like the locals.
So, How Can Slow Travel Benefit Us?
Is it more than just a trend? Something coveted by those of us who consume the happiness of others daily on social media as we mindlessly scroll?
By allowing ourselves extended time to experience a new place, we can fully connect with the places we visit, support local economies, and reduce our environmental impact.
Let’s explore the benefits of slow travel, check out some practical tips for sustainable and eco-friendly practices, and see how unplugging and immersing in local cultures can enhance both our personal well-being and the health of our planet.
Stress Busting
We are all guilty of trying to cram lots into our travel experience, but travelling at a relaxing pace, free from the restraints of time (mostly!), can allow you to properly explore and truly enjoy your trip.
This new take on travel results in proper rejuvenation and mental rest, diminishing feelings of exhaustion when you return home.
Money Saving
Weirdly, a longer stay often means a cheaper stay. Wait, hear me out.
Accommodation bookings stretched beyond the norm can help lower costs thanks to discounted rates for extended stays. We can also eliminate additional transportation costs from multiple train or flight journeys as we squeeze every drop from a strict, self-imposed itinerary.
The Gift Of Time
Pausing. Taking a breath. Looking around. Avoiding the rush allows us to connect with the local culture and understand what it means to experience a destination on a deeper level.
Trawling through a ‘must do’ list of eating, exploring, and sightseeing may be part of the experience, but is that what makes travel, in whatever form, so important? What if we removed the word ‘trawling?’ Does that change our perception?
Instead of rushing through a tourist experience, we should allow ourselves more space to be fully immersed in the daily life and customs of the location.
Live Like A Local
Slow travel persuades you to think beyond that well-worn path. An extended stay brings desirable insider knowledge: the best food in town, a hidden gem or even something unique is often missed as we attempt to curate perfection.
The Planet Will Thank You!
Travelling the world slowly enriches our experience and promotes sustainability and eco-friendly living if we factor the environmental impact of our travels into our plans. As slow travellers, we can rethink our carbon footprint and significantly reduce carbon emissions. Choosing more sustainable modes of transport helps mitigate the destructive pollution that planes and cars cause.
Green up your getting around by using your own engine! When feasible, explore cities on bikes or take walking tours. Skipping that car rental or not hailing a taxi minimises the overall environmental impact of your journey.
Sleep soundly by choosing eco-friendly slumber options. These days, many hotels, hostels and even campsites pride themselves on their sustainability efforts by considering energy efficiency, water conservation and waste reduction.
Support Local Businesses
Choose local when it comes to accommodation, dining, and tour operators. Shop at the delicious local markets for a more authentic experience.
This welcome boost to the local economy ensures that your money stays within the community, allowing the preservation of local culture and traditions.
Chill out, stay a while and relax in one place. Learn the language, try local cuisine, and have a go at understanding customs or traditions so unlike your own. Your mental and physical health will benefit as the stress and exhaustion associated with travel melt away as you enjoy a more relaxed and mindful journey.
Resting and acclimatising allows you to fully engage with your surroundings. By adopting slow travel and taking the time to unplug and immerse yourself fully without any rush or sense of immediacy, you will enhance your personal experience while promoting the health of our planet.
So, where are you off to next? Let us know in the comments below!