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In January of 2023, I discovered a significant shift in how I like to travel.
Prior to this discovery, I'd go out-of-country－just once a year－for two weeks of "vacation time" that muddled down to a whirlwind tours, brief stops to check sights off a list, and of course, overeating and indulging in the local food, because, well, who knew when I'd be back. I'd also just barely get enough sleep, feeling in a constant state of a zombist (zombie tourist) where you can't fully take everything in－you're too tired, hungry, or worse, hangry!
When the two week countdown started, it was go-go-go and I found this type of vacationing not to be a vacation at all－it was a lot of work! And I returned from my vacation, needing a vacation. So for me, this was the challenge. I started rethinking the traditional approach and wondered－why can't I stay longer?
That's when I discovered "slow travel" but at the time, only knew it as "digital nomads" or "remote workers"－those who can live their daily lives working from any location that had strong wifi and coffee. Rather than breaking from work-life for a two week vacation, they integrated travel into their life. This type of slow travel isn't a vacation, it's a lifestyle－you still work, still do things you'd normally do day-to-day, you just take the opportunity to live in different cities for extended periods of time.
Why take this approach? Here are a few of the reasons that make sense to me, and the things I've learned along the way.
PHOTO: ABBY @ AIRBNB RIAD | MARRAKESH, MOROCCO
ONE →
Deeper cultural immersion
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Staying longer in one place gives you the freedom to move beyond the surface-level tourist experience. We've all done it - we have two days in one city, three days in the next, in the end it's a whirlwind of jumping from one city to the next and getting a taste of things but not fully immersing and experiencing what the location has to offer.
Staying longer means there's time to do more. You can pick up some of the local language, stumble upon things happening in the community that are impossible to plan ahead for, and develop a more nuanced understanding of the culture.
This deeper immersion can lead to more meaningful and enriching experiences.
PHOTO: ABBS LEARNING TO COOK LAMB TAJIN | MARRAKESH, MOROCCO
TWO →
Reduced travel stress
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Let's face it, traveling can be stressful! From long lines at the airport, to rushing around and almost missing your plane to trying to find the restrooms, it can be a lot. To add - if you're traveling frequently you're doing this on repeat; since traditional travel often involves hopping from one city to another, which can be plain exhausting but staying longer in one location helps you eliminate the frequent packing and unpacking, required with constant travel. This stability allows you to relax and enjoy your surroundings more fully much like Anya shown below.
PHOTO: ANYA TRAVELING | MARRAKESH, MOROCCO
THREE →
Cost-effectiveness
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Longer stays can be more economical. Many accommodations offer discounts for extended rentals, and you can save on transportation costs by not moving around so much. Additionally, you can shop at local markets and cook meals, further reducing your expenses.
PHOTO: ABBS @ AIRBNB RIAD | MARRAKESH, MOROCCO
FOUR →
Enhanced Personal Connections
－ When you stay longer in one place, you have the opportunity to build lasting relationships with locals and other travelers. These connections can provide a deeper sense of belonging and offer insights into the local way of life that you wouldn't get from staying in a hotel for a few nights.
PHOTO: WALID & THREE WILD DOGS | ESSAOUIRA, MOROCCO
FIVE →
Opportunity for Personal Growth
Immersing yourself in a different culture and way of life can be a profoundly transformative experience. It challenges you to adapt and grow, enhancing your understanding of the world and yourself.
PHOTO: ABS PRACTICES HENNA | ESSAOUIRA, MOROCCO
SIX →
Increased productivity for remote workers
For those who work remotely, staying in one place longer allows you to establish a routine that can lead to increased productivity. You can set up a dedicated workspace, and the consistency helps maintain a healthy work-life balance while traveling.
PHOTO: ABBS WORKING REMOTELY | ESSAOUIRA, MOROCCO
SEVEN →
Local living experience
Extended stays give you the chance to live like a local. You can have your favorite coffee shop, become a regular at a neighborhood restaurant, and truly feel like part of the community. This authentic experience is something short-term trips cannot offer.
PHOTO: ANYA AT CHRISTMAS TIME | MALAGA, SPAIN
EIGHT →
Environmental Benefits
Slow travel is more sustainable compared to flying multiple times over a short period. By minimizing your flights and focusing on exploring one area, you significantly reduce your carbon footprint, contributing to more environmentally friendly travel habits.
PHOTO: SHEEP IN THE DESERT | LA PAUSE, MOROCCO
NINE →
Discovery of Hidden Gems
With more time in one place, you can explore beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. This exploration often leads to discovering hidden gems — be it a cozy café, a quaint bookstore, or a scenic hiking trail — that can become the highlight of your stay.
PHOTO: DRAGON SANDCASTLE | BARCELONETA, BARCELONA
TEN →
Flexibility and Spontaneity
A longer stay gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. There’s no need to rush through attractions. You can take days off when you feel like it, be spontaneous, and truly immerse yourself in the moment.#### ConclusionChoosing to stay longer in one location is a rewarding approach that offers a richer, more relaxed, and meaningful travel experience. By embracing slow travel, you open yourself up to a world of deeper connections, personal growth, and unforgettable memories, all while enjoying the unique rhythm of life in a new place.
PHOTO: CANDLE LIT CONCERT AT CHRISTMAS TIME | MALAGA, SPAIN
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