As slow travel gains traction as a prominent travel trend, Agoda, a digital travel platform, shares insights into top Asian destinations ideal for extended stays. Thailand’s Khao Lak is emerging as the main place where travelers choose to hang out, embracing the essence of slow travel.
The concept of slow travel encourages a leisurely approach to exploration, encouraging visitors to extend their time in a destination. This deliberate pace fosters deeper connections with local cultures and communities, enriching travel experiences beyond the surface.
According to Google Trends, searches related to slow travel have tripled in the last five years, reflecting a growing interest in immersive and meaningful travel encounters. Agoda’s analysis of booking data from the first quarter of 2024 reveals the destinations across Asia where travelers tend to extend their stay the most.
In India, Ahmedabad is the preferred destination for longer stays, followed by Goa and Faizabad. Internationally, Seoul captivates Indian travelers looking for a peaceful travel experience.
Krishna Rathi, Senior Country Manager for the India Subcontinent and Maldives at Agoda, comments on the appeal of slow travel in today’s fast-paced world “It’s easy to see why slow travel is one of the hottest travel trends. fascinating now. In today’s fast-paced world, many travelers will recognize the desire to use their vacations to disconnect from everyday life and form a deeper connection with the people and places they visit to see and encourage at Agoda, as we are passionate about reaching the world through travel. For travelers looking to fully immerse themselves in a holiday destination, whether in a beach villa or a chic city hotel, the destinations on our slow travel rankings are great places to start.
The destinations featured in Agoda’s slow travel rankings offer different experiences, combining rural serenity with urban vibrancy. From the quiet beaches of Khao Lak to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, each location presents opportunities for immersive exploration.
Khao Lak, ThailandSurfing paradise Khao Lak is Asia’s most popular slow travel destination, and for good reason. Its much less known but beautiful beaches and nature spots are perfect places to relax and leave all your daily worries behind. In the evening, the bars and restaurants around Phet Kasem Street are great places to enjoy live Thai folk music and maybe even a game of snooker against the local talent.
Seoul, South KoreaA vibrant and dynamic city, Seoul also hides secluded corners for those looking to enjoy a slower pace. The quiet streets of Buam-dong offer a unique mix of classy modern cafes and nostalgic shops from the 1960s-70s, such as traditional rice mills and barbershops. The peaceful Baeksasil Valley invites travelers to leave the fast pace of the city and immerse themselves in a refreshing natural refreshing with pure water and a well-preserved forest. Literature lovers can explore Seongbuk-dong which houses the historic Hanok living quarters of famous Korean writers from the 1930s.
Perhentian Islands, MalaysiaEscape to the Perhentian Islands, Malaysia’s quintessential beach paradise off the coast of Terengganu, offering slow-paced tropical bliss. Where crystal clear waters meet sandy beaches, the islands of Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar make an ideal sanctuary for relaxation and water adventures such as snorkeling and diving among the colorful coral reefs.
Tokyo, JapanA bustling megacity that is a leading global destination, Tokyo is known for being impossible to experience in one trip. That is why it is better to slow down and take the time to immerse yourself in the small pleasures of the capital of Japan. Experience the charm of Tokyo like a local by walking through some of the lesser-known neighborhoods, such as Shimokitazawa for vintage shopping, Yanaka for a traditional vibe, and the bohemian Koenji neighborhood for alternative music and punk rock.
Siargao Islands, PhilippinesSiargao Island, a serene gem off Surigao del Norte, takes travelers away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Called the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines”, its famous surf spot “Cloud 9” makes the sea open and attracts surfers with some of the best waves all year round. Despite the size of the island, Siargao has an abundance of natural wonders that are worth exploring.
Pekanbaru, IndonesiaPekanbaru, the bustling capital of Riau province on the island of Sumatra, beautifully blends vibrant city life with rich Malaysian culture and history. Idyllic places like Lake Siak and Lake Kayangan offer a peaceful day on the water; rent a boat, swim, or simply relax among the picturesque surroundings.
Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamFamous for its lively streets, Ho Chi Minh City pulses with a vibrant energy that is best enjoyed when fully embraced. Step into the pace of the locals and experience the city slowing down, enjoying a traditional Ca Phe Sua Da, Vietnamese coffee, in the morning. Taste the culture of Vietnam by indulging in the epic variety of street food and then take a break from the buzz and seek solace among a collection of over a thousand trees in one of the city’s oldest parks, Tao Dan Park.
end of the article
