5-Minute Read
Posted on May 3rd, 2025.

Imagine this: you’re sitting on a beach, toes in the sand, sipping on a fresh coconut as the waves roll in. There’s no rush, no to-do list, no frantic itinerary. Just you, the beauty of the world around you, and the simple joy of being present. That’s the heart of slow travel - a way of exploring that focuses on savoring the moment instead of racing through it.

Slow travel isn’t just about moving slower; it’s about experiencing deeper. Let me tell you a story.

My Bali Wake-Up Call

Bali is one of the most incredible places I’ve ever visited. It’s bursting with life, color, and endless opportunities to capture jaw-dropping photos. But when I was there, I made a mistake - a big one. For nearly two weeks, I was on a mission to see it all. From sunrise to well after sunset, I dashed from one location to another, camera in hand, determined to soak up as much content as possible. And while I saw and did some amazing things, I forgot one very important part of travel: actually living in the moment.

It wasn’t until the second-to-last day of my trip that I finally slowed down. I decided to spend the whole day at Pandawa Beach - no agenda, no rushing, just pure relaxation. I grabbed a beach chair under an umbrella, cracked open a fresh coconut or two (with a Coca Cola chaser, of course), maybe a Pina Colada, and just watched the waves roll in.

At some point, I couldn’t resist jumping into the water. That’s when I discovered my new favorite game: Body Surfing (and no, not like the concert-style Body Surfing). I’d swim out just to the point where I couldn’t touch the bottom, wait for the perfect wave, and let it carry me all the way back to shore. I must have spent hours doing this - laughing, floating, and feeling like a kid again along with the other people in the water with me. It was so simple, yet it was one of the best days of my life.

That day, I was on Bali Time - where the clock moves with the rhythm of the ocean. From the Body Surfing, eating an absolutely DELICIOUS hot dog and fries (with a dessert of ice cream) at the nearby Warung Komeng, and talking to a local vendor selling kites (which somehow, a pirate ship one made its way home with me 😋). I ended the day with a plate of Mie Goreng and fresh fruit by the pool at my villa, watching the sun set and the moon rise. Absolute paradise.

Looking back, I realized I had spent so much time chasing content that I’d forgotten to appreciate the beauty of where I was. That day taught me an invaluable lesson: life is too short to rush through it. It taught me to view life like the locals do - to be thankful for that exact moment. It’s okay to slow down, to breathe, and to simply be.

What Is Slow Travel, Anyway?

Slow travel is all about quality over quantity. Instead of cramming as many destinations as possible into one trip, it’s about truly experiencing a place - connecting with its people, culture, and rhythm. It’s less about checking off a bucket list and more about creating memories that stay with you long after you’ve left. And the memories I have of Bali will be with me for a lifetime!

How to Embrace Slow Travel

If you’re ready to slow down and savor your next adventure, here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Stay Local: Choose a locally owned guesthouse, villa, or homestay. It’s a great way to support the community and get a more authentic experience.
2. Pick One Destination: Resist the urge to hop between cities. Spend more time in one place and really get to know it. I am so glad I resisted the initial urge to hop around to different villas and hotels!
3. Travel Off-Season: Avoid the crowds and experience the destination like a local. One thing I like to do, and strive to do - is simply walk around the neighborhood on the first day after arriving. Not only does this familiarize yourself with your surroundings, but it also creates a unique experience that can't be booked from a tour. Shopping the local market nearby, seeing the curiosity and excitement of local children run up, eager to meet a new traveler, and just seeing the countryside slowly is something that isn't easily replaced.
4. Learn the Language: Even a few basic phrases can open doors to meaningful connections. You don't need to be fluent, or even good at it, really - many cultures will simply appreciate the effort of trying. It shows a mutual respect, and that you value the local people, customs, traditions, and culture. I briefly touch on this in a 🖱️ TikTok video I recorded on Pandawa Beach, and like I said - trust me - it will be appreciated!
5. Leave Room for Spontaneity: Some of the best travel moments happen when you let go of rigid plans and follow your curiosity. Never forget: Life can't be scripted, so it's ok to wing it from time to time.

Why It’s Worth It

Slow travel isn’t just good for your soul - it’s also good for the world. By spending more time in one place, you’re reducing your environmental footprint and supporting local economies. Plus, you’ll come home with richer stories, deeper connections, and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of slowing down. 

Next Week on the Blog

Next Saturday at 11 AM PST, we’ll explore “Eco-Friendly Travel Photography: How to Capture the World Without Leaving a Footprint.” I’ll share practical tips for sustainable photography and how we can protect the planet while doing what we love.
Island Vibes, Anytime, Anywhere

If you’re feeling inspired by the idea of slowing down and soaking in the moment, why not carry a little bit of that energy with you? My 🖱️ Merch Shop has a range of travel-inspired apparel that’s perfect for keeping those island vibes alive - whether you’re lounging on a beach or just dreaming of your next adventure!

From comfy tees featuring tropical designs to cozy hoodies that remind you to “Live on Island Time,” there’s something for every traveler. One of my favorites? The 🖱️ “Why We Travel” design—a little reminder to always remember that travel enriches our souls. And if you’re a fan of Bali’s stunning beaches, the 🖱️ “Dreamland Beach” print will transport you straight back to the shoreline.

Check out the shop and find something that speaks to your inner adventurer. Who says you can’t bring a piece of paradise home with you? 🌴✨