Slow Travel: Why Less Is More This Summer

In a world driven by speed and instant gratification, travel is also evolving. More travelers are choosing to slow down, savor the moment, and experience destinations more mindfully. Welcome to the world of slow travel—a movement that emphasizes quality over quantity, depth over distance, and meaningful connections over rushed checklists.

What Is Slow Travel?

Slow travel is about embracing the journey rather than racing to tick off landmarks. It prioritizes staying longer in fewer places, using eco-friendly transport, supporting local communities, and immersing yourself in a region’s culture and rhythms.

Why Choose Slow Travel This Summer?

As the summer season draws millions to crowded tourist hotspots, slow travel offers an antidote:

• Less stress: Avoid burnout from packed itineraries and long travel days.

• Lower emissions: Traveling by train, bike, or foot significantly reduces your carbon footprint.

• Deeper experiences: Connect with locals, enjoy regional cuisine, and participate in community life.

• Sustainability: Fewer flights, longer stays, and conscious spending support eco-tourism.

Slow Travel Destinations to Consider

These destinations are perfect for embracing a slower pace and traveling sustainably this summer:

1. Ljubljana, Slovenia – A compact, walkable capital with green spaces, local markets, and car-free zones.

2. Provence, France – Stay in a countryside cottage and explore lavender fields, villages, and vineyards by bike.

3. The Scottish Highlands – Travel by rail, hike through rugged landscapes, and stay in eco-lodges.

4. The Azores, Portugal – Ideal for nature lovers, with geothermal springs, hiking trails, and whale watching.

5. Peloponnese, Greece – Skip the islands and discover ancient sites, olive groves, and authentic tavernas without the crowds.

   
   

How to Embrace Slow Travel

• Limit stops. Instead of five cities in a week, choose one and explore thoroughly.

• Travel overland. Take the train or a scenic bus route—part of the adventure lies in the journey.

• Stay local. Opt for family-run guesthouses or eco-lodges that reflect the region’s identity.

• Engage with the community. Learn a few local phrases, take a cooking class, or volunteer.

• Unplug. Turn off the notifications and focus on presence over posts.

Activities That Align with Slow Travel

• Meandering farmers’ markets and tasting regional specialties

• Journaling or sketching in nature

• Exploring walking trails or cycling paths

• Reading under a tree instead of rushing to an attraction

• Spending a day learning traditional crafts or skills

Final Thoughts

Slow travel reminds us that the best experiences aren’t always the most famous or fastest. They’re found in quiet moments, local interactions, and personal discoveries. This summer, consider trading speed for stillness, and see how much more meaningful your travels become when you choose to slow down.