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Do you recognize that feeling? You just got back from a crazy vacation, yet you feel like you spent more time traveling around and planning than really enjoying yourself. The days flew by, and before you knew it, you were back on Dutch soil. Slow travel is the way to travel in 2025. It's all about delay, conscious choice and maximum enjoyment. In this article, we share all the ins and outs of slow travel and how you can embrace this way of traveling.

What is slow travel?

Slow travel is not about the travel destination, but about the journey itself. Slow travel is a way of traveling where you take the time to really get to know a place, dive deep into the local culture and consciously choose a more sustainable mode of transportation. These include taking the train instead of the plane, as well as staying longer in one place and exploring lesser-known regions.

night train Bangkok Chiang Mai
Land travel: by night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
carnaval de Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Immerse yourself in local culture: carnival in Tenerife

Why choose slow travel?

We live in a world where time, rest and well-being are increasingly valuable. Travelers no longer want to travel from highlight to highlight, but more often choose quality over quantity. Moreover, slow travel fits perfectly with the focus on a more sustainable and conscious life. It is therefore one of the tips we give in our article: 'How can you travel more sustainably? These are 11 tips for an eco-friendly vacation!'. If you can relate to the points below, then slow travel might be a good fit for you, too:

Authentic experiences

Slow travel gives you the chance to really experience and live a place. Instead of completing a checklist, you can participate in local workshops, visit markets or spend hours in that one cute coffee shop around the corner. Building memories is much more valuable than shooting a quick Instagram snapshot at a popular landmark.

Less stress, more connection

Because you choose to stay in one place longer, you automatically get more time for spontaneous encounters, unexpected adventures and you can simply enjoy the destination where you are more as well. No rushing to catch your train or feeling like you're missing something. You travel at your own pace and make deeper connections with the places and people you encounter.

How do you start slow travel?

Slow travel sounds wonderful, but how do you go about it? These are our tips to make your next trip a slow travel adventure. And did you know that you can always call on us as your personal travel consultants? We are happy to help you realize your slow travel adventure. 

  • Choose one destination: Instead of visiting several countries in two or three weeks, focus on one destination and explore it in depth;

  • Travel by land: Choose the train, bus or bicycle to travel from one destination to another, and enjoy the changing scenery along the way;

  • Plan less, experience more: Leave room for spontaneous moments and unexpected encounters. Don't fix everything in a tight schedule;

  • Support the locals: Choose accommodations and restaurants run by locals. This way you will experience the local culture best and support the local community.

Traditional cooking Patacancha Peru, slow travel, culinary travel experience, local gastronomy, travel tip Peru
An authentic experience: traditional cooking with the Patacancha tribe in Peru
itinerary Scotland Isle of Skye
Scotland is an ideal destination for slow travel

These are ideal destinations for slow travel

There are, of course, a number of destinations that are perfect for slow travel. This is due in part to their culture, nature and opportunities for more sustainable travel. The best places for slow travel are:

Tuscany, Italy

With its rolling hills, vineyards and medieval villages, Tuscany is in Italy A paradise for slow travelers. Explore the region by bike, enjoy local cuisine and get lost in the narrow streets of cities like Siena and Lucca.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto's peace and serenity make it an ideal place to slow down. Visit ancient temples, hike through bamboo forests and enjoy traditional tea ceremonies. The city is also easily accessible by train, making it a sustainable choice.

The Scottish Highlands

The vast landscapes, castles and picturesque villages of the Highlands in Scotland invite slow travel. Take the train on the famous West Highland Line and enjoy walks through unspoiled countryside. Are you curious about a road trip through Scotland? Pull out a little longer and take a scenic 2-week road trip through Scotland

Peloponnese, Greece

This lesser-known region offers everything Greece so beloved, but without the crowds. Explore historic ruins, taste local wines and relax on tranquil beaches.

More helpful travel tips for your next trip

Want to make your trip even more sustainable, efficient and stress-free? Then check out these handy travel tips! From smart packing tips to the best sustainable travel products and indispensable travel apps, these articles will keep you well prepared for your next adventure:

customized travel proposal - Travander

An unforgettable slow travel adventure

Want to experience slow travel, but don't know where to start? Let us help you with the perfect planning! We arrange everything from sustainable transportation options and unique accommodations to authentic experiences that fit your needs. Whether you dream of relaxing vacations in Tuscany, experiencing the tranquility of Kyoto, or exploring nature in the Scottish Highlands, we'll create a travel proposal that's completely tailored to your ideal way of traveling. 

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Lois Weeterings

A dreamer and adventure seeker, always on the lookout for new experiences. But also a hard worker with a thousand ideas racing through my mind. As a personal travel consultant and travel blogger, I share my passion for faraway destinations, thrilling adventures, and winter sports. With deep knowledge of places like Namibia, Colombia, the ABC Islands, and the Middle East, I’m here to help you craft a trip you’ll never forget. Through my personal stories and expert tips, I aim to inspire you to explore the world your way. Always with my camera in hand, I’m determined to capture every magical moment and share it with you.