8 Slow Travel Destinations in Asia, Including in Indonesia

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Slow travel is currently a popular new trend among travelers. No more fast-paced travel to visit as many destinations as possible in a short period. In Asia, international travelers are now focusing more on less explored destinations rather than the popular ones. 

This trend shows a more relaxed pace of travel while seeking immersive experiences, cultural connections and escape from crowded tourist destinations. In Asia, travel booking platform Agoda analyzed data to identify Asia's top slow travel destinations.

It found that Khao Lak in Thailand topped the list, followed by Seoul in South Korea and the Perhentian Islands in Malaysia. Citing the Travel and Leisure Asia site, below is the list of slow travel destinations in Asia.

1. Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a small village in Phang Nga province, Thailand. It is known as a surfer’s paradise with white sand beaches, crystal clear water, and fewer crowds. The wide sandy beach is also surrounded by rows of pine and coconut trees, with rock formations of various sizes and shapes interspersed with the sand. This area is also known as one of the most stunning sunset spots on the Andaman coast.

2. Seoul 

Despite being the fast-paced capital city, metropolitan Seoul also has unique places to relax. You would want to enjoy the beauty of Korean culture in places like the backstreet of Bum-dong, Baeksasil Valley, and Seongbuk-dong.

3. Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are located in Beirut District, Terengganu, Malaysia. The area known as the slow tropical paradise is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving through the coral reefs around Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar.

4. Tokyo

Known as a fast-paced city, Tokyo also has destinations for slow travel, such as the lesser-known neighborhoods of Yanaka, Koenji, Shimokitazawa, and Sangenjaya. Those places offer out-of-this-world experiences that make you forget you are in the city. 

5. Pulau Siargao

The Siargao Island is located in the Province of Surigao del Norte, the Philippines. This teardrop-shaped island is known as the surfing capital of the Philippines. Tourists can also explore natural beauties such as Sohoton Cove and Hagukan Cave. Siargao Island can be reached via Sayak Airport, which is about a 10-minute drive from Del Carmen Municipality and a 40-minute drive from the main tourist town of General Luna.

6. Pekanbaru

Indonesia also has a slow travel destination, which is in Pekanbaru. Malay culture, history, and nature beautifully blend with the vibrant city of Pekanbaru. Travelers can relax at Kayangan Lake, Kampung Bandar, and Muara Takus Buddhist temple.

7. Ho Chi Minh City

The capital of Vietnam stretches along the Saigon River north of the Mekong Delta. Slow down and feel the rhythm of Ho Chi Minh City, where experiencing the local culture and cuisine is one of the main attractions.

8. Ahmedabad

It may come as a surprise when Ahmedabad turns out to be a slow travel destination in India. Explore the city's streets to experience rich Gujarati culture at the Manek Chowk market and learn about the nation's history and industry at the Sabarmati Ashram and the Calico Museum of Textiles.

LIFESTYLE ASIA

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