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Slow travel Portugal: A new way to journey
In a world where everyone is in a rush and where we rely on technology to speed everything up, a new movement has emerged to challenge this reality: slow travel.
We’ve become used to doing everything quickly – meals, commutes, shopping trips, and even holidays. However, this fast-paced lifestyle can take a toll on both our physical and mental health. That’s the reason why slow travel aims to go in the opposite direction, slowing down our hectic lifestyle.
Why embrace the slow travel movement?
Travelling slowly is much more than just reducing speed. It’s about having the freedom to choose what to see and do, without rushing. When you choose slow travel, you create unique memories and enjoy authentic experiences.
This new way of travelling allows you to reconnect with yourself, ease of everyday life, and appreciate the beauty of the little things – a quiet cafe in a hidden village, an unexpected conversation with a local, or simply the silence of a natural landscape.
Tips to become a slow traveller
If you’re looking for a slow travel experience, there are few tips you should follow. Forget everything you see on social media and all the crowded places suggested by viral travel websites. Xtracars has some tips to help you enjoy your next journey.
Immerse yourself in the local culture
Getting to know a place isn’t just about visiting the most famous tourist attractions and ticking it off your list. When you visit a new city or country, dive into its culture and connect with its people. Chat with the locals, find out how they live and even consider staying with a local host – it's the best way to enjoy an authentic experience.
Plan longer trips
This is the key element for slow travelling. To enjoy your trips at a relaxed pace, you need time. Trying to squeeze in as many attractions as possible in the shortest time can be exhausting. So, don’t plan a two-day trip packed with every tourist hotspot.
The goal of a holiday is to unwind, not to stress over to-do lists and tight schedules. Break away from your daily routine and take things slow. Plan longer trips – 3 days minimum – so you can enjoy every moment without rushing.
Try the local food
Explore the local cuisine by tasting the traditional dishes and products. Don’t just stick to the most popular restaurants and cafés. Ask locals where to eat and what flavours you shouldn’t miss – it's the best way to truly experience a place through its food.
Sustainable practices
Slow travel is also about respecting nature and adopting sustainable habits to minimise your environmental impact. Respect protected areas and cultural heritage, keep places clean, and always take your rubbish with you.
Even before your trip begins, there are sustainable choices you can make. If you're travelling with a group of friends, one vehicle is enough — consider a 9-seater van rental or hire a minivan. And if you're travelling solo, choose an electric car? Xtracars offers several eco-friendly options.
Driving tips for slow travellers
Here are some driving tips to truly embrace slow travel:
- Take alternative routes instead of always sticking to motorways;
- There's no rush — drive slowly and calmly. This way, you’ll enjoy every part of the journey and travel more safely.
Slow travel with Xtracars
If you're thinking of joining the slow travel movement, Xtracars is the perfect partner for your journeys. Subscribing to a car goes perfectly with this way of travelling. With a car subscription, you enjoy flexibility and have access to an all-inclusive car with zero hassle.
And to enjoy your trip like a true slow traveller, without any worries, don't forget to add Wheels and Glass Protection to your booking. This complementary product responsibility for the isolated breakage of any glass and damage to wheels, guaranteeing your maximum peace of mind.
Try switching on slow travel mode and turn every journey into an enriching and more conscious experience.
