While we invariably choose to holiday to relax and unwind, there’s also the temptation, given that we only have a couple of spare weeks a year, to pack in as much as possible and end up holidaying in a way that leaves you needing a holiday to get over your holiday. This year, however, we’re see-ing a definite shift in vacation culture towards slower paced and more relaxed holidays.
Slow tourism is a concept that essentially means embracing a more conscious pace on your breaks, spending quality time in each destination, and immersing oneself in local culture. By resisting the urge to tick off a never-ending bucket list, slow travellers choose depth of experience over quantity.
Travel by Train, Bus, or Bike
One of the core principles of slow tourism is to opt for relaxed, scenic modes of transportation (such as trains, buses, or bikes) instead of flying whenever possible, as the airport is comfortably the most stressful part of any holiday. Journeys by rail or road offer you a close-up view of the landscapes that planes fly over, creating opportunities to witness the changing scenery, mingle with locals, and truly understand the region’s geography.
For more active travellers, cycling routes provide an excellent way to explore towns, villages, and countryside at your own pace. Don’t be afraid to try different routes; they might reward you with hidden gems like small markets, lesser-known nature spots, or impromptu conversations with friendly residents.
Spend More Time in Fewer Places
An essential component of slow tourism is allowing yourself enough time in each location to dis-cover it beyond the typical tourist hotspots. Rather than dashing from city to city, commit to a smaller number of destinations and truly get to know them and immerse yourself in daily life, learn-ing the local customs, and observing the unique rhythms of the community.
You can even extend this slow approach to cruising, as tours by ship are a wonderful way to explore coastal areas while maintaining a laid-back schedule from one central location. You can even skip the airport entirely by taking cruises from Southampton to some of the most popular destination in Europe and further afield. If you want to take things really slow, consider a transatlantic cruise, which will give you at least a week to chill at sea.
Disconnect from Technology and Be More Present
A significant part of slow living is learning to be present in the moment and that means disconnect-ing from our ever-present devices. By limiting phone usage and social media engagement, you can fully appreciate your surroundings, engage with locals in meaningful conversations, and cultivate genuine cultural experiences that are not coloured in any way by how you think they’re going to look on Instagram.
Consider implementing a digital detox in the days leading up to your holiday. Even temporary breaks from technology can heighten your awareness of new environments and help you form last-ing memories. If you have young children, it will also help you forge genuine bonds with them. Pulling them away from their phones, however, might be easier said than done!