Picking the Perfect Slow Travel Destination to Call Home For A Month
As full-time slow travelers, one of the most common questions we get is, How do you choose where to stay, and what does it cost? Today, we’re diving into the details of how we pick the perfect place to call home for a month, how we keep our stays budget-friendly, and our best tips for planning your own slow travel adventures.
Table of Contents
QUICK NOTE: This post contains affiliate links and Two Traveling After One may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
1. Location, Location, Location
We start with the big picture—choosing a continent or region to explore. To minimize long-haul flights, we limit ourselves to about two a year, often combining them with repositioning cruises. From there, we use local buses, trains, or short flights to get around.
When booking, we recommend coordinating your flights and accommodations together to adjust dates for the best deals. This avoids the stress of last-minute travel plans.
2. Bucket List Spots
Our bucket list is a mix of recommendations from friends, fellow travelers, and travel bloggers, as well as places that have simply caught our eye. Before finalizing our itinerary, we cross-check it against our list to make sure we’re hitting those dream destinations.
Watch the Video!
3. Family Considerations
Our college-aged daughter often joins us during her school breaks, so we plan around destinations that are easy and affordable for her to access. Whether it’s factoring in family visits or planning for loved ones to join you, incorporating family into your travel plans is a smart way to stay connected.
4. Walkability and Transportation
We prioritize walkable cities with great public transportation, making it easier to explore without needing a car. When necessary, we rent cars—but we recommend checking out smaller, local rental companies for better rates.
Before committing to a neighborhood, we use Google Maps and YouTube to virtually explore the area. It’s a great way to get a feel for walkability and nearby amenities.
5. Affordability of Accommodations
Our monthly accommodation budget averages around $1,300 USD, with a ceiling of $2,000 USD when necessary. We start by browsing Airbnb and Booking.com, then explore local property managers, rental agencies, Facebook groups, and direct bookings for better deals.
Balancing pricier destinations with more affordable ones helps us stay on budget. For example, when our daughter joins us or when we visit high-cost locations, we plan ahead to adjust our spending.
6. Things to Do
One of the joys of slow travel is having time to fully experience day trips and local activities. We choose destinations with plenty to explore—historic sites, beaches, nature trails, museums, and markets. Researching blogs, joining Facebook groups, and reading travel guides helps us find hidden gems and must-see spots.
7. Food Adventures
As foodies, discovering local cuisine is a major highlight of our travels. From street food to family-owned restaurants, we love exploring the flavors that make each destination unique. Finding diverse and affordable dining options is key to our decision-making.
8. Climate
Chasing warm weather is a priority for us. We aim for destinations with temperatures between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This not only keeps us comfortable but also simplifies packing. That said, we make exceptions for destinations that are too enticing to skip!
9. Timing: Bridge or Off-Seasons
Traveling during shoulder seasons (the periods between high and low tourist seasons) offers the best of both worlds. Fewer crowds, lower costs, and a chance to connect with locals make this our favorite time to visit most destinations. Just be sure to research seasonal closures to avoid surprises.
Slow Travel Considerations
Choosing where to stay as a slow traveler is all about balancing budget, location, and the experiences you want. With a little planning and research, you can create a travel experience that’s both affordable and fulfilling.
Got tips or questions? Share them in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
Looking for more tips? Check out our Slow Travel Resources or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from Two Traveling After One.
