Slow Travel – Noun (sloh trăv′əl) – 1. an approach to exploring the world that prioritizes deep, meaningful experiences and local connections over rushing through a checklist of major tourist sites.
Of course, if you ask a dozen people what their definition of “slow travel” is you will probably get a dozen different answers. The term will mean different things to different people. The idea is to travel at a gentler pace, linger longer, and allow time to let it all soak in. If this doesn’t sound like your vibe, that’s okay – but if it does, I’m glad you’re here.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for experiencing famous attractions and big cities, but if we allow ourselves extra time to spend outside of the big cities, or to simply not have an agenda for the day, you may just discover something that awakens your curiosity and leaves you feeling more fulfilled by the end of your trip.
My first experience with slow travel occurred quite by happenstance. Initially, it was about saving money and making our travel dollar stretch a little bit further. This happened about 8 years ago while researching accommodations for our stay in Venice, Italy. I realized quite quickly that staying in the heart of the ancient city not only came with a hefty price tag, but it also meant staying in much tighter quarters. Many of the accommodations I looked at in the city were very small with little to no views.
What I ended up booking instead was a charming house on the Biancolino Canal in the village of Pontemanco in Due Carrare, roughly 30 minutes by train outside of Venice. This was our very fist stay during our visit to Italy, and right out of the gate we were met with authenticity, charm, and relaxation. To boot, the accommodation had a very large roof-top terrace with a spectacular view where we enjoyed a lovely glass of prosecco and an afternoon nap to sleep off the jet lag. Oh, and the price tag? It was very reasonable. The village was old and quiet, and I remember hearing the gentle flow of water and the sweet songs of birds. There was a bakery across the street and a restaurant nearby. The restaurant was in the unique old mill of Pontemanco. This was where I experienced my first (and best) Aperol Spritz, and I have never had one this good since. What a treat it was to come back to this lovely place at the end of the day.
One of our favorite memories of our trip to Venice, was getting lost in the city. We had no plans per se, which allowed us to wander and explore the many streets and bridges in an unhurried fashion. We try to do this now in every city we visit – usually on the first day. Getting lost in Venice seemed to be the theme of our visit, but it allowed for some spontaneity, and we discovered some great places to eat that we would have never found if we didn’t venture out a little bit further.
Slow travel is not about doing nothing, it’s about slowing your roll long enough to allow time to discover, experience, unwind, and let the unexpected magic of a place unfold before you.
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