In an age consumed by lavish living when it comes to jet-setting around the world, it’s easy to forget the concept of slow travel. With social media influencers boarding flights every other week and wealthy individuals spending extortionate amounts of money on private jets for 1-hour flights, it is more important than ever to reconsider the benefits of travelling slower.

What is slow travel?

Slow travel refers to the approach whereby travellers are encouraged to cultivate meaningful connections with a country’s locals, culture, food and music. It stems from the belief that travel should simultaneously be an educational and emotional experience whilst trying to be as sustainable as possible. Rather than focusing on rushing to do everything on the bucket list at once or which backdrop is going to look better in an Instagram post, slow travel promotes a slower and more conscious mindset when it comes to travelling.

Sustainability

First and foremost, perhaps the most obvious advantage of travelling less regularly and for extended periods is that you will have a much less harsh impact on the environment and its ecosystems. Residing in environmentally friendly accommodations such as an eco-lodge opts for a much greener stay, reducing your carbon footprint. Eco-lodges tend to be in more natural environments and are great for building relationships with the local people.

Stronger connections with locals

Forming bonds with the locals of the country you’re visiting is a…