Do you know what it’s like, when you’re sitting in a crowded bus making your way through the rush-hour traffic and the honking, screaming, revving and everything else in between makes for an endless noisy backdrop? And when you take out your headphones and plug them in the world goes very quiet? That is what slow travel feels like. A switch, an escape or an adventure away from everyday life.

Slow travel can be an intimate dialogue with nature, culture, and the very essence of our being. After a short stay at this gorgeous property by Tenpy Homes in Coorg, the writer in me has been inspired to dedicate this love letter to the world through slow travel, an ode to its power and beauty.

Forging connections with nature

Slow travel unfolds like an unused paper map. You don’t know how to use it, but you will figure your way out with every step taken on untrodden paths. It is the rustle of leaves underfoot, the scent of pine carried by a gentle breeze, and the dance of sunlight on a quiet stream. Through slow travel, we forge connections with nature, turning each landscape into a canvas for our emotions while learning to be quiet and still, just like the oceans, mountains and trees.

Building connections

Each town, city, or village is a page in the book of our slow adventures, a testimony to the diverse cultures that make our world vibrant. It is the taste of local cuisine, the resonance of traditional music, and the warmth of shared stories with strangers. We dive deep into cultural nuances, fostering a genuine understanding and appreciation for the tapestry of humanity of which we are just a small part.

Experiencing the “now”

Slow travel forces you to experience the ‘now’, savour the moment and tune into your feelings. It's the joy of laughter shared with locals, the reflection in a quiet café, and the serenity found in the hush of a historic site. Through slow travel, we look, not just at the external world, but also at the internal landscapes of our hearts.

Getting lost on purpose

Rushing from one tourist hotspot to another can cause us to miss the hidden treasures tucked away in the corners of the world. Slow travel encourages us to get lost intentionally, to stumble upon undiscovered gems – the charming bookstores, the hole-in-the-wall eateries, and the secret viewpoints that only locals know. These hidden places will punctuate our stories and add depth to our travel narratives.

Understanding our impact on the world

Beyond being a personal journey, slow travel is a sustainable and responsible way to express our love for the world. It fosters a connection with local communities, encourages environmentally conscious choices, and promotes a deeper understanding of the impact our travels have on the places we visit. It is a pledge to care for and preserve the beauty we encounter.

This love letter to the world through slow travel is an acknowledgement that the world is not just a destination but a living, breathing entity deserving of our attention, respect, and love. So, the next time you head out, travel with an open heart, so that the stories you meet on your way, become a part of yours creating a story of connection, discovery, and enduring affection.