The joy of slow travel: See more, spend less

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Travel has become synonymous with getting from one place to another as quickly as possible, so it might feel strange to suggest slowing down. But there’s a growing appeal to taking your time, where the journey itself becomes as rewarding as the destination. 

Understanding slow travel

Slow travel is a shift in how we approach our journeys. Rather than ticking off a checklist of must-see sites, you look to immerse yourself in one location for a longer time. It’s about taking the scenic route, whether that’s through a small town in Tuscany or a village in the Scottish Highlands, and connecting more deeply with the culture and people. 

By taking your time, you’ll notice the local rhythms and learn the history of quiet corners. You might even pick up a new hobby like pottery or cooking a traditional dish. 

How lingering longer saves money

This form of travel can actually help you save. The key is in how you manage your accommodation and transport costs. Staying longer in one place means you can often find cheaper rates for rentals, especially if you opt for homestays, and enjoy reduced expenses because you’re not hopping from city to city.

Instead of booking expensive guided tours, choose to discover a city on foot or by bike, making each day an exploration of hidden gems you might have otherwise missed. If you’re looking for cheap holidays, slow travel offers plenty of opportunities to stretch your budget without sacrificing the quality of your experience.

Reducing your travel footprint

Frequent flying and rapid movement between destinations significantly contribute to your carbon footprint. With an extended stay in one location, you reduce your reliance on long-haul connections. 

For example, rather than getting on a plane to explore the next destination, you could take a picturesque train ride or even use public transport to uncover less-visited areas. This not only helps you see the landscape in greater depth but also gives you a much more sustainable way of experiencing the world.

Building genuine connections

Instead of rushing through attractions, you can engage in activities that foster community, whether it’s volunteering or attending local events. These experiences often lead to more meaningful interactions, and you may even find yourself with new friends in far-flung parts of the globe.

Slow travel is an invitation to rediscover the art of enjoying the journey. Consider prioritising experiences that allow you to slow down and see a place in a way that most others miss. After all, the beauty of travel lies not just in the places you go but in the people you meet and the stories you collect along the way.