No, it’s not moving at tortoise pace as you very slowly but steadily approach the airport… it’s actually a way to experience travel that encompasses ideas of connection, mindfulness and sustainability with consideration towards local communities and environments. In essence…it’s the opposite of travel for the gram.
Connection
In the same way that fast food is consumed at a considerable pace, fast travel and mass tourism contributes to this idea of travel becoming a fast moving, busy, monopolised industry that doesn’t allow for true connection or consideration of peoples, places or the environment. Packaged holidays and McDonalds are more similar than you think… so why not opt for Mama’s finest homecooked dining experience where you can take your time, enjoy the experience to a higher degree and fully immerse yourself in your environment. Slow Travel is the idea that travel should be enjoyed at a slower, kinder, more gentle speed where one can truly indulge in the experience and destination.
Mindfulness
In line with experiences based on a higher level of connection, Slow Travel goes hand in hand with Mindfulness and the concept of being present in the moment. Slow Travel, due to it’s calmer nature, allows the traveller to remain much more present in the destination – without the strains of overly commercialised areas or the mass hoards of tourists.
Sustainability
The slower you go, the greener you travel. This sums up Slow Travel rather beautifully. Instead of opting for fast paced flights, take slower methods of transport to reduce your carbon footprint and also have a deeper experience of your destination.
Finding sustainable ways to experience destinations also coincides with the idea of Slow Travel – and this doesn’t just affect the environment but local communities too! For example, with accommodation try opting for locally run hostels or AirBnBs which allow you to live more like a local and avoid large chains and mass tourism providers. Choosing local also includes restaurants and activities. Avoid the queues and head to true local areas of beauty instead of hitting up the hotspots. And while eating out make sure you’re supporting local businesses instead of opting for the chains you can find back home.
Slow Travel ripples across many areas of travel that benefit not only the traveller, but the environment and the local cultures of destinations. Why not practice some Slow Travel of your own on your next adventure?