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ACCORDING to Agoda’s digital travel platform, the best destination in Asia for slow travel is the coastal city of Rayong in Thailand, where tourists can slow down and spend more time.
While some tourists prefer a busy schedule to explore as many places as possible in a short time, others find happiness in a longer stay to absorb the local charm more deeply. Slow travel offers the perfect opportunity to fully immerse yourself in a destination, providing ample opportunity to experience the culture, cuisine, and local community in a meaningful way.
According to Agoda data, slow travelers chose to stay the longest in Rayong (Thailand), Kalegowa (Indonesia), Seoul (South Korea), Tokyo (Japan), Nha Trang (Vietnam), Boracay Island (Philippines), Taipei (Taiwan), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), and Chennai (India).
In Indonesia, Kalegowa, Bali, and Jakarta emerged as the main destinations for longer stays. Meanwhile, Indonesian tourists traveling abroad tend to spend more time in Tokyo to enjoy a more relaxed travel experience. From calm beaches to busy city streets, these destinations prove that the best way to travel is sometimes to enjoy it casually.
Rayong, Thailand
This coastal paradise is an ideal place for those who crave peace and calmness. Its beautiful beaches offer the perfect escape from the crowd. Tourists can enjoy fresh seafood directly from fishing boats, explore islands such as Koh Samet, or relax under the shade of coconut trees.
Rayong’s quiet rhythm of life and natural beauty make it the perfect choice for those who want to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Kalegowa, Indonesia
Kalegowa is a hidden gem that invites tourists to slow down and enjoy its lush green landscapes and rich Bugis cultural heritage. The area is famous for its fertile rice fields, traditional Bugis architecture, and friendly inhabitants.
Visitors can explore the local market, sample authentic Indonesian cuisine, or stroll along soothing natural paths. Kalegowa’s charm lies in its simplicity, making it a perfect destination for those looking for a more relaxed, meaningful travel experience.
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is a dynamic and busy city, but it is also a place to enjoy a leisurely trip. From strolling along the historical streets of Bukchon Hanok Village to relaxing in traditional teahouses and exploring hidden alleys, Seoul offers many ways to experience the city at a slower pace.
Tokyo, Japan
With its blend of history, innovation, and culture, it’s no wonder tourists can spend days in Tokyo and still discover new things. From the hustle and bustle of Shibuya to the calm charm of the Yanaka area and a variety of tempting cuisine, Tokyo offers many reasons to stay longer, making it the perfect destination for those who want to explore at their own pace.
Nha Trang, Vietnam
With its stunning beach and relaxed atmosphere, Nha Trang is a paradise for beach lovers who want to spend a lot of time under the sun and in the sea. Nha Trang offers more than just a beach; it also offers a variety of interesting experiences, ranging from exploring the historic Cham Po Nagar tower to rejuvenating with a mud bath. Nha Trang’s relaxed nuances make it the perfect destination for a calm, memorable trip.
Boracay Island, Philippines
With its white sandy beaches and clear waters, Boracay is the ideal place for those who want to relax and enjoy the island’s beauty. In addition to its iconic beach, Boracay offers an array of experiences for slow-traveling tourists, from snorkeling and diving to explore the underwater world to sailing at sunset in traditional paw-paw boats. Boracay’s warm atmosphere and charming panorama make it a place where time stands still.
Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei offers a blend of modernity and tradition with night markets, hot spring baths, and hiking trails that entice visitors to linger and savor the city. Slow travel tourists can stroll along the historic streets of Badaocheng, sample traditional dishes such as xiao long bao, or visit a tranquil national park. The hospitality of the locals and the rich cultural experiences make Taipei a city that is best enjoyed slowly, one moment at a time.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Slow travelers can enjoy exploring various regions of Kuala Lumpur, ranging from the colorful streets of Little India to the bustling market of Chinatown. The city’s impressive architecture, including the Petronas Twin Towers and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, provides many photo opportunities.
Food lovers can enjoy casual meals from street vendors or fine dining in high-class restaurants, tasting everything from nasi lemak to char kway teow. The combination of tradition and modernity makes Kuala Lumpur an interesting destination for those who want to stay longer.
Chennai, India
Its wealth of cultural heritage, lively arts scene, and coastal charm make Chennai an ideal destination for tourists who want to slow down and absorb the culture of South India. Visitors can explore historic temples, stroll along Marina Beach, and enjoy Carnatic classical music performances. The friendliness of the people and the cultural richness of Chennai provide a memorable experience for those who take the time to explore.
Gede Gunawan, Agoda’s Senior Country Director for Indonesia, said that in the midst of an increasingly fast-paced lifestyle, destinations such as Kalegowa in South Sulawesi are in high demand among Indonesian tourists looking for slow travel experiences.
“This travel style is not just a trend, but a mindset that allows tourists to fully connect with the places they visit. At Agoda, we are enthusiastic about supporting this travel style by offering attractive accommodations and activities that allow tourists to slow down and enjoy every moment of their travels,” Gunawan said.
He concluded that with so many unique destinations in Asia, now is the right time to stop, explore, and enjoy every second. With more than five million vacation accommodations, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, Agoda makes planning slow travel adventures easy. [sources/photo special]
