Most of us live in a crazy state of rush, hardly stopping to eat, let alone fuel our bodies properly. Some of us find brief moments of pause in a yoga class or through meditation, only to hurry back to make dinner or get kids to practice. Others carve out quick weekend camping trips or getaways with the intention of escaping the rat race, only to find just as much chaos as we pack up, keep everyone happy, and come home to clean up and prepare to jump right back into our busy lives. So it’s no surprise that our trips and vacations often feel just as hectic as our regular routines!
Slow travel is a refreshing invitation to take a deep breath, pause, and truly immerse ourselves in new experiences. But what exactly is slow travel, and why are more and more people drawn to this mindful way of exploring the world?
What is Slow Travel?
Slow travel is about quality over quantity. Instead of rushing from one attraction to the next, it’s about savoring each moment, connecting with people, cultures, and fully engaging with your surroundings. It's a mindset shift that focuses on being present wherever you are.
The Benefits of Slow Travel
Deeper Connections: More opportunities to interact with locals and fellow travelers, experiencing life from different perspectives.
Reduced Stress: A relaxed pace allows for more spontaneity and fulfillment.
Mindful Presence: Helps you truly see and appreciate your surroundings.
Lasting Memories: Meaningful experiences often stick with you longer.
What Slow Travel Looks Like
Slow travel isn’t always about staying put—it’s more about moving with intention. For example, in our Savoring Peru retreat, we’ll explore multiple destinations while focusing on savoring each experience, connecting with our surroundings, and staying grounded in the present.
We’ll use journaling prompts to reflect on moments and ask ourselves meaningful questions. Yoga isn't just about moving our bodies; the practice will help us tune into our surroundings, like noticing how our breath feels different at Machu Picchu’s altitude. We’ll practice mindful eating by closing our eyes while enjoying a traditional Peruvian meal to fully experience flavors and textures instead of eating fast and rushing to the next activity.
Slow Travel is More Than Just a Trip
Trips are fun and exciting! They can also be overwhelming and leave us needing a vacation after our vacation. But what if it didn't have to be that way? It’s easy to fall into the mindset of, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I have to see and do it all because I’ll never have another chance.” But how much better could our experience be, and how much more lasting will the memories and feelings be, if we slowed down?
Our Recharge Retreat to Belize this year & our up-coming Savoring Peru retreat are examples —they are hybrid experiences that blend the best of slow travel with the excitement of exploring new places. It’s about finding a balance between adventure and restoration, returning home with incredible memories and a deeper sense of connection—to yourself, to others, and to the world around you.
A Personal Invitation
Travel has been a part of my life since I was born in Jerusalem to parents from 2 very different countries & cultures (The Netherlands and Canada.) I’ve spent my life exploring the world—visiting 44 countries and experiencing everything from bustling cities to remote villages, luxury hotels to humble huts, and hectic itineraries to peaceful days by a mountain lake.
Along the way, I’ve learned that packing in every sight is easy, but savoring the moments is rare. That’s why I’ve created a different way to travel. On my trips, I handle the logistics so you can focus on being present. We’ll explore through cultural immersion, mindful movement, and moments of stillness—blending fun, fitness, mindfulness, and adventure along the way.
Ready to experience travel at a different pace? Join us on this unique retreat to Peru or other upcoming retreats and see how slowing down (even just a bit) can transform the way you feel and experience the world.
Warmly, Tamara
What Past Participants Are Saying:
Our last slow travel retreat to Belize left participants feeling renewed and inspired. Here's what they had to say:
"I loved how we were encouraged to really take in each experience. It felt so different from any other trip I’ve been on!"
"The balance of activity and reflection was perfect. I came back home feeling more connected to myself and just totally refreshed... except for the bug bites"
"I’ve never felt so present while traveling. It was a beautiful experience."
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