Nonchalant Getaways: Top Destinations for Those in No Hurry
Slow travel and relaxation are becoming increasingly popular among travellers seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These destinations offer a gentle pace, stunning natural beauty, and authentic local experiences that allow travellers to unwind, connect with their surroundings, and enjoy meaningful experiences at a leisurely pace.
One such destination is Costa Rica, where eco-adventures coexist with the laid-back mindset of 'pura vida' (pure life). Towns like Nosara and Puerto Viejo offer a lifestyle shaped by surf tides, sunset yoga, and meals made from scratch. For those seeking a slower pace, early mornings in Kyoto, Japan, offer a chance to wander through bamboo forests before the crowds, visit lesser-known temples tucked into the hills, and find hidden alleyways with tiny restaurants.
The South Aegean Islands in Greece, featuring islands like Santorini, Kos, Rhodes, Paros, and Mykonos, offer crystal-clear waters, gorgeous beaches, ancient history, and charming villages. This area is perfect for slow exploration, allowing travellers to savor sunsets, explore ruins, and enjoy fresh seafood at a leisurely pace.
New Zealand's South Island, known for its dramatic landscapes from snow-capped mountains to blue lakes, is ideal for hiking and scenic travel by car or slow train along routes like the Tranz Alpine. The region encourages disconnecting and immersing in nature with opportunities for relaxed walking holidays and wine tasting.
Southern Spain (Andalusia) exemplifies a lifestyle of long lunches, siestas, and late dinners. Towns like Granada, Sevilla, and Cádiz offer wine tours, flamenco, and unhurried walks that allow visitors to soak in the atmosphere rather than rushing through sights.
Chiang Mai, Thailand, offers a gentler alternative to Thailand’s busier islands, with a calm northern vibe, street food markets, bike rides, temple visits, and creative coffee shops. It is perfect for slowing down, studying local crafts like Thai massage, or simply relaxing with minimal pressure to plan.
Malaysia, with its diverse cultures, easy transport, accessible medical care, and friendly locals, is ideal for budget slow travelers. Places like Kuala Lumpur and other regions offer a “soft start” to slow travel with the blend of urban and natural experiences, plus English widely spoken.
Roatán, an island located off the coast of Honduras, is known for its slow pace and coral reef, part of the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. Turks and Caicos offers beaches with soft sand and turquoise waters. Both destinations provide underwater moments that offer a sense of connection to something greater and ancient.
Lourmarin and Roussillon are quiet villages to base yourself in Provence, while Grace Bay is a famous beach in Turks and Caicos, but quieter corners like Taylor Bay and Sapodilla Bay can be found. Turks and Caicos villas offer luxurious accommodation with stunning views, plush decor, spacious living areas, and pools.
In Provence, meals are long and farmers' markets are savoured. Rainforest cruises in Costa Rica offer relaxation and exploration with private guided tours and wildlife spotting. Roatán offers various resorts to suit different travellers, whether solo, with friends, family, or partners. West End and Camp Bay are small beach towns in Roatán, offering slow wandering, casual seafood dinners, and scenic boat rides at sunset.
Slowness in Kyoto is sacred and intentional, teaching one how to be still without feeling bored. Choosing an unhurried escape isn't about doing nothing, but rather doing things that are intentional, filling you up instead of wearing you down. Slow travel isn't about packing more in, but to be more aware, connected, and present.
This article is a collaboration with a content partner, meant to inspire a slow, simple, soulful, and sustainable lifestyle. Embrace the pace of pura vida and discover the beauty of slow travel today.
Home-and-garden: After unwinding in Costa Rica's eco-friendly lodgings, such as treehouse cabins and yurt-style tents, one can appreciate the Slow Living movement while preparing homemade meals using fresh, local ingredients.
Lifestyle: In graceful Provence, embracing the Slow Living philosophy is effortless with long, savored meals enjoyed between farmers' market visits, and relaxation in luxurious villasboasting stunning views and plush décor.
