Travel is supposed to bring renewal and invigorate the spirit, but the opposite is often shown through stressful planning so that more activities can be done during the stay. This predefined rhythm often leaves a feeling of disappointment after the overwhelming activities. Conversely, "slow travel" represents a new alternative to travel by privileging a real connection with the places visited.
Slow and enjoy, slow tourism
Slow tourism" consists of a simple principle: take the time to have a better experience and discover places during a trip. It aims above all to interact with local people by creating links with them through interpretations by a tour guide. The "slow" movement highlights the local economy through the consumption of local products and a stay in a native's home.
It should be noted, however, that this type of tourism often corresponds to independent travel, favouring areas with a certain difficulty of access or those that do not experience a large annual flow of tourists. The principle may seem "cliché", but the purpose of adding the term "slow" is more about the journey, rather than the destination itself. Bearing in mind the slower pace of travel, it provides more richness of experience and meaning, in contrast to visiting a country quickly in the same amount of time.
How to make a "slow travel"?
Making a "slow" travel may require practice, but there are certain actions that will ensure a satisfactory appreciation. Indeed, it is essential to leave a space between each itinerary to give way to more spontaneity when planning ahead. It is obvious that staying longer in a given place is imperative because it represents the nexus of the activity. In the event that there are many activities to be practiced, the "slow" tourists can benefit from local recommendations.
The road trip: a pleasant slow travel
The road trip is a concrete example of the key points of "slow tourism". In particular, travellers are forced to stop and take secondary roads to avoid traffic. Moreover, the association of this trip with the consumption of local products and the use of local services gives the stay a typical "slow tourism" atmosphere. Nevertheless, it is recommended to avoid any tourist attraction outside the established itineraries to maintain an ideal approach.