TRAVEL TIPS

Top destinations for ‘slow travel’ and authentic experiences

A Booking.com survey reveals travelers prioritize authenticity and sustainability, as 47 percent seek local connections in less-traveled areas and 53 percent favor eco-friendly accommodations with natural elements like green spaces.

A 2023 American Express study found 85 percent of respondents want to travel to destinations where they can genuinely engage with local culture, and 78 percent are interested in vacations that benefit local communities.

Slow travel emphasizes meaningful connections with destinations and cultures. The style, which prioritizes quality over quantity, is increasingly popular among Americans. Travelers are encouraged to spend more time in fewer places and truly savor experiences rather than rushing through them.

A 2023 Carl Friedrik survey found half of those who have tried slow travel say local culture and scenery was their favorite part. About one-third value unique experiences at less crowded sites. Overall, the main appeal of slow travel is meeting locals, immersing in culture, and exploring at a relaxed pace, with nearly one-third motivated by environmental concerns.

This movement encourages travelers to move away from the typical checklist mindset and embrace a more meaningful exploration of the world, savoring each journey at a leisurely pace.

As more Americans adopt this mindful approach, it may become a defining tourism trend in the future.

Top ‘slow travel’ recommendations

Explore diverse destinations across various regions for a truly immersive slow-travel experience. While popular spots like Italy, Spain, Japan, Morocco, Bali, and Portugal offer unique adventures, opt for offbeat locations to avoid crowds and deeply connect with local culture.

India

India offers vibrant cultures, diverse cuisines, and a rich spiritual heritage, from majestic mountains to pristine beaches. Festivals such as Holi and Diwali highlight colorful traditions, while hidden gems like Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Lakshadweep provide unique opportunities.

During my recent visit to Goa, I stayed at Cancio’s house, which embodies the Portuguese concept of “susegad,” or “relaxed living.” I explored Goa beyond the beaches and parties. They’ve restored a 500-year-old ancestral home, incorporating sustainable practices like wells, gardens, and solar panels. While there, I also visited a beautiful waterfall and dam and drove on scenic lands of interior Goa.

“Having traveled a month each to India and Mongolia, I believe slow travel is the only way to approach these destinations. The country’s vastness in India requires time to travel, often involving suffering through 12-hour journeys squeezing on hard benches in unreserved 3rd class trains. However, accidental moments led to an invitation to an elaborate marriage ceremony and free camping on a secret beach for three days,” says Cat Xu of Nomadicated.

Sabah, Borneo Islands (Malaysia)

The Sabah region in the Borneo Islands is ideal for slow travel. Engage in diverse activities like climbing Mount Kinabalu, spotting wildlife in the Kinabatangan region, and snorkeling and scuba diving in one of the world’s best diving spots.

The Semporna area, including Mabul and Kapalai resorts, offers coral reef exploration. With ample time for activities, you can even become a certified diver, making the most of a slower, more immersive travel experience.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is another perfect place for slow travel. Its varied landscapes, including Victoria Falls, Lake Kariba, Gonarezhou National Park, and Hwange National Park, are ideal for relaxing exploration.

Great Zimbabwe’s ancient ruins offer insights into the country’s history, and the local communities provide authentic cultural experiences. Matopos National Park features 3,000 well-preserved rock paintings dating back to the Stone Age, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.

Kyrgyzstan

While Kazakhstan has gained popularity over time, Kyrgyzstan is still underrated. It is, however, perfect for slow travel with its stunning natural landscapes, rich nomadic culture, and warm hospitality. Its mountains, pristine lakes, and expansive plains provide relaxed exploration through trekking, horseback riding, or just enjoying the scenery.

Traditional yurt stays and vibrant local markets offer authenticity, connecting travelers deeply with Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic heritage.

Mongolia

Mongolia offers vast, unspoiled landscapes and a deep connection to nomadism. The country’s expansive steppes, rugged mountains, and serene deserts provide a tranquil backdrop, whether on horseback or on foot.

Travelers can immerse themselves in nomadic life by staying in traditional gers and experiencing local customs and hospitality firsthand. Mongolia’s low population density and minimal tourist crowds allow visitors to enjoy a tranquil, reflective journey. There, visitors connect deeply with the land and its people while embracing a slower pace of life.

“We spent 15-20 days in Mongolia, focusing solely on the northwest region to experience a festival and visit the Tsaatan people, one of the last tribes to ride reindeer. Slow travel is the best way to explore Mongolia – by dedicating time to a single region, you can truly connect with its culture. Mongolia is vast, and it deserves the time to be properly explored. We’re planning to return for more festivals and national games, embracing this deeper, more meaningful way of travel.” shares India-based travel influencer Radhika Nomllers.

Give slow travel a chance

Slow travel provides a welcome break from the usual travel rushes. You can fully engage with local cultures and environments by staying longer in fewer destinations.

This method fosters genuine experiences, enabling you to form meaningful connections with people and places. It also encourages sustainability through eco-friendly practices and minimizes travel impact.

This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks. – Chhavi Agarwal | Wealth of Geeks