“Slow Travel with Laura”
What is “slow travel”, you may be wondering? I began hearing this term, and I too was curious as to what it meant. After a quick search, I soon discovered this trending phrase perfectly aligns with my style of travel and mindset. In the words of Sebastian Modak, “Slow travel means tamping down our own built-in, conditioned obsessions with time and allowing the world to move just a little slower so that we can actually notice it.”
For me, slow travel is all about embracing a flexible approach, prioritizing quality over quantity, and crafting a journey that’s uniquely mine, free from the constraints of typical vacation itineraries.
My slow travel journey began years ago, sparked by a somewhat hectic “13 cities of Italy in 14 days” trip back in 2011. That whirlwind experience taught me that less is indeed more. Last year, I fully immersed myself in slow travel for six glorious months – four months exploring the United Kingdom and another two months soaking up the charm of the East Coast of the United States. The experience was a resounding success, so I’ve decided to extend my slow travel adventure into 2024.
This year, I’m embarking on a slow journey through Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Join me on this journey of discovery and exploration as I dive into the beauty of slow travel, one destination at a time.
Personally, I’ve found myself gravitating away from the label of “tourist” and embracing the identity of a “traveler.” Travelers engage with curiosity, explore new places, and immerse themselves in the culture they encounter. In contrast, tourists often rush through activities, ticking items off a list without truly absorbing the essence of their surroundings.
Beyond travel, the concept of slow has transcended into a spiritual practice for me. It prompts me to ponder how I can apply the principle of slowness to my interactions with scripture and in seeking moments of divine presence in silence and stillness. By relinquishing the need to constantly fill my time, I’ve discovered a newfound appreciation for the subtleties of life.
In slowing down, I’ve learned to savor the simple joys around me: the chirping of birds outside my window, the aroma of vanilla wafting from a Brussels waffle stand, the intricate textures of vintage fabrics, or the heartwarming sight of a child navigating the bike paths of the Netherlands. Each moment, no matter how seemingly insignificant, holds its own treasure waiting to be discovered.
I invite you to join me on this journey of embracing slowness. Share in the comments below where you aspire to incorporate more slowness into your life or reflect on areas where you’ve already made progress. Let’s celebrate our victories and support one another as we navigate the path of intentional living, whether you are in one place or many.
