Travel behavior is changing. Previously, we sought to see as much as possible during a trip, visit as many interesting places, gain as many impressions as possible, and take as many photos as possible.
Such travel can be overwhelming. Impressions become jumbled and overlap, preventing us from fully experiencing emotions. After such a “vacation,” we return home tired and can barely remember the places we visited.
Travel habits are changing. More and more people are seeking a leisurely, relaxing vacation. We don’t want to rush off to a new destination. We’d like to experience the atmosphere of the place we’re currently in, simply relax and enjoy the unhurried pace of life.
Slow tourism is becoming a new trend in the tourism industry. According to surveys, more than 50% of travelers are interested in slow tourism, which allows them to spend more time in one place without rushing.
In fact, there’s nothing new about this phenomenon. Previously, tourists would come to one place and spend their entire vacation there. This is what true relaxation is all about!
I’ve been down this path too. There was a time when I was in a hurry to see as many places as possible when arriving in a new city. In recent years, I prefer to take my time. My familiar lifestyle brings me more pleasure. I love to visit a favorite café again, have a coffee on my favorite terrace, take another stroll in the park or along the embankment. Visit a new place or event? Yes, as long as it doesn’t take much time and doesn’t require a lot of travel.
How to travel leisurely (secrets of slow travel):
No rush is an essential condition for a pleasant vacation.
Don’t try to experience too many vivid emotions; try to enjoy the place you’re in.
Try to get to know the local cuisine, the way of life of the locals, the local culture, and nature.
Dare to disconnect from the internet and social media. Try to experience real life, not digital life.
No rush. No need. Do only what you want!
If you want to visit one (or two, or three) more places during your trip, discard that desire immediately. Spend as much time as possible in one city, on one beach.
Examples of good planning!
- Trip to the Solovetsky Islands. Incorrect:
First, we arrive by train in Kem, then rush to the pier (for a boat to the islands).
Correct: We arrive by train in Kem, stay at a hotel, spend the day in Kem, and the next day leisurely drive to the pier.
We wish you pleasant travels.
- Trip to Antalya.
Incorrect: Fly to Antalya with a layover in Istanbul.
Correct: Fly to Istanbul. Spend a few days in Istanbul, and then fly to Antalya. - Trip to Karelia.
Incorrect: We’re planning a route: the Ladoga Skerries, the Ladoga beaches, and Petrozavodsk.
Correct. We’re only going to one place for vacation. We’re saving the others for next year.
We wish you pleasant travels.