Benefit 1 – Slowing down
Slow Travelers are less stressed. An open travel itinerary gives time to linger, exchange with locals and dive into places. Slowing down contributes to the well being and prevents a holiday burnout. Instead of overspend oneself Slow Travelers prefer to travel relaxed.
Benefit 2 – Sustainability
Slow Travel is ecologically and socially more sustainable than other travel types. To travel by foot or to use trains, bikes or boats is more eco-friendly than taking the plain or cruise ship.
One who chooses routes aside mass tourism is not contributing to Over Tourism and therefore not the destruction of human and animal habitats. Conscious travelers have almost no to not existing impact on the people on site. For example exploitative tour operators are not supported. Furthermore, attractions that support social nuisances or animal torture are avoided.
Slow Travelers support products from locals and local businesses. The consciously choice of local services is for the advantage of the locals. Through supporting the local economy the travel becomes sustainable. It also makes the region visit-able for future travelers.[1]
Benefit 3 – Less costs
Slow Travel is often cheaper than the average travel. Travelers save transport costs when they stay longer in one place. Travelling by train, bus or bike does not cost as much as taking an airplane. A hiking tour barely has transportation costs.
Additionally, private or small accommodations are less expensive than luxurious rooms of hotel chains. One who can cook in the accommodation saves not just money for restaurants, but can also use local products himself. At Home Stays or Farm Stays meals are often included. And one who looks after a house (House Sitting) does not pay for accommodation at all.
Benefit 4 – Inner growth
Another advantage of Slow Travel is inner growth. To engage oneself with other cultures is challenging and intensive. Travelers have to overcome language barriers, learn about cultural customs and sometimes they have to ask for help. The travel can take adventurous features. Slow Travelers can reach their own limits. They are rewarded with unforgettable experiences, new abilities and more confidence.[2]
Benefit 5 – Social relationships
Slow Travelers are consciously seeking exchange with their surrounding. This often forms new acquaintances. These can lead to intercultural friendships or even to job opportunities and creative collaborations.[3]
[1] See Lori und Angelo (2020): The Power of Slow Travel (How To Experience More By Slowing Down), In: https://www.travlinmad.com/blog/slow-traveling-what-it-is-how-to-do-it (26.09.2020).
[2] See Schlichter, Sarah (2007): The art of Slow Travel. Avoid post-vacation burnout and take time to enjoy your journeys, In: http://www.nbcnews.com/id/20429755/ns/travel-travel_tips/t/art-slow-travel/ (26.09.2020).
[3] See Lori und Angelo (2020): The Power of Slow Travel (How To Experience More By Slowing Down), In: https://www.travlinmad.com/blog/slow-traveling-what-it-is-how-to-do-it (26.09.2020).