Why I’m taking the slow route

Originally, I had more grandiose plans to make this more of a world trip in the true sense of the word. I was going to hang out in South America, the Middle East and Oceania. However, I realized that I wanted to stretch my budget as much as possible, and I didn’t want to feel like I was hopping from destination A to B.

One of the things that I’m hoping to rediscover on this trip is patience. The life of a journalist is a constant stream of information and change to make sure that readers or viewers get the most updated and accurate information. That’s fine for those who enjoy it (and I work with a lot of them), but it’s about 500 miles per hour faster than I want it to be.

I want to take my time and absorb the culture that I am experiencing. Spending a month in each country won’t give me that opportunity. I want to learn the local language (primarily Spanish), spend my days on the beach surfing and trek landscapes that I won’t find at home.

One thing I’ve discovered since I’ve shifted from early to now late 20’s is that I’m calmer when I’m not in a constant rush. I enjoy taking things at a slower pace. Let the crowd rush ahead; I want to understand what I’m seeing and gain a deeper appreciation rather than knock something off of my itinerary.

What do you think? Do you prefer travel that’s fast-paced and always on the move, or do you enjoy the slower pace that allows you to “stop and smell the roses?” Let me know.