Best Slow Travel Experiences Around the World
Before the pandemic that changed the world, traveling was so accessible and easy, it seemed that the priority of checking off bucket lists was more important than experiencing each destination authentically, through a local’s lens. Fortunately, the slow travel movement has been gaining momentum, and rest assured it is here to stay.
For us, besides being ‘slower’, this traveling approach also involves prioritizing meaningful travel experiences and learning how to connect with locals, their culture, food, and music, while practicing sustainability and seeking positive impacts for the local communities and their environment. Similar to the slow food movement - an idea looking to conserve local farming, cooking methods, and regional cuisine - slow travel is more than the pace at which one moves from place to place on a trip.
In addition to our post highlighting slow travel destinations in Latin America, below you’ll find our list for top slow travel experiences throughout the rest of the world.
Top slow travel Destinations and experiences around the world
Africa:
Morocco
Not all unforgettable experiences are by the beach, in this case, it happens to be in the desert, and not any desert, but in the Sahara desert. In Morocco, it is possible to join Berber camps to immerse yourself in their unique culture, experience an unforgettable camel ride amongst sweeping desert landscapes, and sleep under the sky while admiring the stars and breathing in the clear air. Other adventures in the country include exploring the traditional Moroccan markets, or discovering an oasis excursion complemented with a delicious picnic and a bunch of games. Exploring Morocco has endless treasures to uncover, every corner has a story, so dive in to the experience and be sure to engage and learn from locals along the way.
Berber camp in the Saharan desert of Morocco.
Kilimanjaro
Known for being tough and challenging, yet rewarding and unforgettable for the mind, the body, and the soul, Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant stratovolcano, the tallest mountain in African, and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Kilimanjaro’s uniqueness is due to its diversity of ecological systems, from rainforests, alpine deserts, moorland, and even an arctic summit. Hiking this summit is a satisfying challenge for a slow traveller, packed with unique landscapes that will offer never-ending stories to tell your grandchildren.
Europe:
Hidden culinary gems in Cinque-Terre, Italy
Italy
It is typical when traveling to Italy to feel tempted to check off as many big cities as possible. However, the best way to explore Italy is to focus on fully discovering a couple of neighboring regions, in order to make the most of your time and genuinely appreciate the uniqueness found in each province of the country. Taking your time to wander through the seaside villages of Liguria or the vineyards and olive gardens in the Tuscan countryside — which truly reflect the food culture in the region — is what will truly make any traveler feel connected to the alluring Italian way of life, much moreseo than a whirlwind journey trying to cover the breadth of the country in just a couple of weeks.
Greece
Who else has daydreamed about a vacation from an iconic travel movie, like the scenes from the movie Mamma Mia? Greece is the perfect destination to spend your days traveling by boat from island to island, over the clearest of waters, past picturesque landscapes, and stopping by stunning ports to discover little towns with cobble-stoned streets. It’s what travel dreams are made of! Island-hopping and traveling over the sea has a special impact on the traveler, whether it’s the lull of waves rocking you to sleep every night or the gorgeous coastal vistas you pass as you travel from port to port, there’s no doubt that it transports you into a fresh and relaxed mindset. Of course, enjoying the fresh Mediterranean cuisine is another treat that cannot be understated when in Greece! From the delicious olive oil, yogurt and honey, to the seasonal vegetables, and fresh seafood there’s plenty to savor… while sipping on a crisp glass of local wine.
Ireland
As with many destinations, it’s understandable to want to see as much of this beautiful island as possible when visiting. With such a variety of landscapes, local traditions and unique activies to explore many opt to traverse several regions when they travel to Ireland. However, it is also the perfect place to pick one beautiful gem (preferably along the west coast), and fully immerse oneself in the welcoming traditions of the area. Irish hospitality is world-renowned, and for good reason! Spending a week or two in one town will have you feeling like a local in no time, and since the country is chock-full of off-the-beaten-path treasures you’ll never run out of incredible sites and natural beauty to explore. Look for experts with on-the-ground knowledge to plan your independent and custom slow-travel vacay in Ireland in order to make the most of the idyllic settings.
Asia/Oceania:
Taking in the view from Pokhara, Nepal
Nepal
Nepal is a destination that naturally lends itself to slow traveling. Due to its cultural richness and vast landscapes it is a location that deserves to be patiently explored and experienced to its fullest. The Himalayan nation calls for embracing each present moment as it comes, and if you’re opting for the incredibles hikes up into the mighty mountains you’ll find yourself at heady altitudes which require a slower pace. Taking on a trekking adventure in Nepal is a popular activity for a reason as it exposes you to challenge yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally, with ultimate rewards!
Cambodia/Vietnam/Laos
Southeast Asia is an amazing destination for jaw-dropping locations, from the green canals of the Mekong Delta to the fresh crab markets and pepper farms of coastal Cambodia, tucked away villages in Laos living by traditional values and stunningly impressive sites like Angkor Wat. Every corner in this area of Asia is packed with ancient history, rich culture, and unique traditions. To experience the region to the fullest, just as locals, we highly recommend the experience of exploring by bike — which is a healthy, eco-friendly, and culturally immersive alternative to bus tours. Additionally, learning and supporting the sustainable initiaves and community-led projects being implemented from local non-profits and social enterprises is a great way to support the growth and improvement of these beautiful destinations.
New Zealand
For those who enjoy immersive, overnight hikes to fully take in the incredible nature of a destination and get away from tourist crowds, New Zealand is truly hard to beat. Connecting with nature in New Zealand by hiking amongst towering peaks and waterfalls, submerging in rejuvenating turquoise lakes, seeing the most majestic sea creatures in the world, and interacting with indigineous Maōri traditions makes for an unforgettable adventure. The diversity these unique islands have to offer will astound even the most seasoned travelers, so be sure to take your time as you explore. From rainforests to snowy peaks, and sweeping white-sand beaches to stunning starry skies, it’s truly a nature lovers paradise.
As slow travel enthusiasts, taking the time to fully grasp the local way of living is a form of cultural immersion. Not only will it minimize your impact on the environment, but it also provides you with the time to truly appreciate the beauty in your surroundings. Choosing quality over quantity is what traveling should be all about!
Curious to explore one of these destinations on your own or immerse yourself in another region or slow travel around the world? In addition to small group trips we also offer self-guided itineraries or we can plan a fully customized trip just for you!