Asia is more than just a continent. It’s a diverse and vibrant region with rich cultures, histories, and landscapes. That’s why it’s the perfect place to try slow travel, a way of traveling that lets you immerse yourself in the local life and environment. Slow travel is not about rushing from one place to another, but about taking your time to explore, learn, and appreciate. Whether you choose to stay in a cozy homestay, join a community project, or hike a scenic trail, you will discover the beauty and charm of Asia in a deeper and more meaningful way.
According to a survey by Carl Friedrik Luggage, over 94% of Americans want to experience slow travel in the future. The trend is also growing in other markets, as travelers seek more meaningful and memorable experiences. Slow travel allows travelers to enjoy the journey as much as the destination, and to appreciate the beauty and diversity of Asia.
Slow travel is a movement that promotes sustainable, authentic travel experiences. It’s about spending more time in fewer places, immersing yourself in the local culture, and connecting with the community. Slow travel has become a popular alternative to traditional tourism, which often involves rushed visits to multiple destinations.
In this article, we will introduce you to three Asian destinations that are ideal for slow travel. These places offer rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or inspiration, you will find it in these destinations.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a tropical island nation that boasts a wealth of attractions, from ancient temples and colonial forts to lush tea plantations and pristine beaches. Sri Lanka is a perfect destination for slow travel, as it offers a variety of activities and experiences that cater to different interests and preferences.
You can explore the cultural triangle of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya, where you can marvel at the ancient ruins, rock paintings, and giant statues of Buddha. You can also visit the sacred city of Kandy, where you can witness the Temple of the Tooth, which houses a relic of Buddha’s tooth, and enjoy the colorful Esala Perahera festival.
If you are a nature lover, you can head to the hill country, where you can hike through the scenic trails, visit the picturesque waterfalls, and learn about the tea production process. You can also go on a safari in one of the national parks, such as Yala, Udawalawe, or Wilpattu, where you can spot elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and birds.
For a relaxing getaway, you can choose from the many beautiful beaches that dot the coastline, such as Unawatuna, Mirissa, or Arugam Bay. You can also indulge in the Ayurvedic treatments, yoga sessions, and meditation retreats that are available in many resorts and spas.
Maya, a 35-year-old graphic designer from New York spent three weeks in Sri Lanka, traveling by train, bus, and tuk-tuk. She said, “I loved Sri Lanka because it had everything I was looking for: culture, nature, and relaxation. I learned so much about the history, religion, and traditions of the people, and I was amazed by the diversity of the landscapes and wildlife. I also had a lot of fun trying the local food, shopping at the markets, and meeting the locals. Sri Lanka was a perfect place to slow down and savor every moment.”
Kyoto
Kyoto is the former capital of Japan and the cultural heart of the country. It is home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, as well as gardens, palaces, and museums. Kyoto is a great destination for slow travel, as it offers a glimpse into the past and the present of Japan, and a chance to experience its unique aesthetics and values.
You can visit the iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Pavilion, the Silver Pavilion, and the Fushimi Inari Shrine, where you can admire the architecture, art, and gardens. You can also explore the less-known gems, such as the bamboo forest of Arashiyama, the moss temple of Saihoji, and the philosopher’s path of Tetsugaku-no-michi, where you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature.
If you are interested in the traditional arts and crafts, you can participate in the workshops and classes that are offered in Kyoto, such as pottery, calligraphy, tea ceremony, and flower arrangement. You can also watch the performances of geisha, kabuki, and noh, which are the classical forms of entertainment in Japan.
For a taste of the local cuisine, you can visit the Nishiki Market, where you can sample the fresh and seasonal ingredients, such as tofu, pickles, and sweets. You can also try the kaiseki, which is the refined and elegant multi-course meal that showcases the culinary skills and creativity of the chefs.
One of the travelers who enjoyed slow travel in Kyoto is David, a 28-year-old teacher from London. He spent two weeks in Kyoto, staying in a traditional ryokan, or inn. David explained, “Kyoto was a place where I could immerse myself in the culture and history of Japan. I was fascinated by the temples and shrines, and the stories behind them. I also enjoyed the simple and elegant lifestyle, and the attention to detail and harmony that I saw everywhere. Kyoto was a place where I could relax and appreciate the beauty and wisdom of Japan.”
Laos
Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia that is known for its mountainous terrain, Buddhist culture, and French colonial influence. Laos is a wonderful destination for slow travel, as it offers a laid-back and authentic atmosphere, and a variety of activities and attractions that suit different tastes and budgets.
You can visit the capital city of Vientiane, where you can see the mix of Lao and French architecture, such as the Patuxai, which is a monument inspired by the Arc de Triomphe, and the Wat Si Saket, which is the oldest temple in the city. You can also stroll along the Mekong River, where you can enjoy the sunset and the night market.
If you are looking for adventure, you can go to the northern town of Luang Prabang, where you can explore the natural wonders, such as the Kuang Si Waterfall, the Pak Ou Caves, and the Mount Phousi. You can also visit the cultural sites, such as the Royal Palace Museum, the Wat Xieng Thong, and the Alms Giving Ceremony, where you can witness the daily ritual of the monks collecting food from the locals.
For a more rural and rustic experience, you can head to the southern region of Laos, where you can discover the Bolaven Plateau, which is famous for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and ethnic villages. You can also see the 4,000 Islands, which are a group of islands in the Mekong River, where you can relax, kayak, and spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphins.
Anna, a 32-year-old nurse from Sydney spent a month in Laos, traveling by boat, bus, and bike. For her Laos was more than a destination, “I loved Laos because it was a place where I could experience the genuine and friendly hospitality of the people, and the rich and diverse culture and nature of the country. I learned a lot about the history, religion, and customs of the Lao people, and I was impressed by their resilience and optimism. I also had a lot of fun exploring the stunning scenery, and trying the delicious food. Laos was a place where I could have fun and meaningful adventures.”
The Journey Continues
Asia is a continent that offers many opportunities for slow travel, a movement that promotes sustainable, authentic travel experiences. Slow travel is about spending more time in fewer places, immersing yourself in the local culture, and connecting with the community. In this article, we introduced you to five Asian destinations that are ideal for slow travel: Sri Lanka, Kyoto and Laos, but there are many more opportunities to explore.
As Anna, David and Maya learned, these places offer rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. We also shared the stories of some travelers who enjoyed slow travel in these destinations, and how they learned, explored, and relaxed. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or inspiration, you will find it in these destinations. So, why not slow down and savor the beauty and diversity of Asia?
