Traveling as a digital nomad is different than traveling as a tourist. One thing we quickly learned about traveling and working, is that it’s better to take your time to get to know a new place, rather than trying to see as much as possible in a short time. Ofcourse, this is also a matter of preference, but we’re happy to share our experience with fast travel vs slow travel in this blog.

If you are going to be away for several months, you want to have enough time to explore new places, but also plan enough moments to work and rest. Instead of having to pack your bag every two days, it may be nicer to stay in one place a little longer.

Get to Know the Place like a Local

Ever feel like you’re just skimming the surface of a place? Slow travel flips the script. When you’re not rushing from one spot to the next, you get the chance to truly know a place. Dive into the local culture, find hidden gems, and develop a deep connection that goes beyond the usual tourist checklist. Slow travel is like the VIP pass to experiencing a destination like a local.

Ready to get off the beaten track? Hassle-free tour operators like TripAdvisor and GetYourGuide offer a combination of the more popular destinations, but also some of the more discovered spots! When you’re far off the beaten track, make sure you can reach your friends and family: using an eSim ensures you stay connected at all times, for a fraction of the cost of buying a local simcard.

Build Friendships beyond Small Talk

Fast travel means fleeting friendships – you meet awesome people, share a laugh or two, and then poof, you’re off to the next spot. Slow travel is the game-changer for friendships. You have the time to forge real connections. Attend local meetups, work in coworking spaces, and let those “nice to meet you” moments turn into lasting friendships. Because let’s face it, life’s richer when you’ve got friends scattered around the globe. If you’re looking to meet others that are also staying in the city for some time, try out co-living spaces. (Unsure about how to meet people in the first place? Check out our blog on meeting people as a digital nomad.)

Are you looking to join a community of like-minded working travelers? You can sign up to our free community now!

Last but not Least: Get enough Rest!

Being a digital nomad can sometimes feel like a non-stop adventure. Fast travel might seem efficient, but it often leaves you exhausted. Slow travel is your ticket to sanity. Take breaks when you need them, find cozy spots to work, and recharge your batteries. It’s not just about seeing places; it’s about ensuring you’re at your best to tackle whatever the nomad life throws your way.

What is your experience? How long do you usually prefer to stay in one place?