Slow Travel Tip: Spend Time Wandering

One of the advantages of slow travel is having more time to spend in one place. Whether you have a month or only a couple of days to explore an area, I recommend not filling every moment with a jam-packed itinerary. Leave time for wandering.

Dictionary.com defines “wander” as: to ramble without a definite purpose or objective; roam, rove or stray. Try this the next time you venture to a new city, town or village. Ditch the itinerary, your expectations and any plans to see anything in particular. Step out of your car or your hotel room and roam. Enjoy the delicious feeling of having nowhere special to go and nowhere you must be at any particular time. The day is completely open, just for you — to wander and explore.

Wandering along the Oust River just outside the village of Josselin in Brittany France.

Years ago, I started going on what I called my Saturday adventures, usually by myself. I’d recently moved to a small coastal town, and I was anxious to explore the surrounding area. Those weekend escapes were completely unplanned. I’d glance at a map, pick a direction and head off, not knowing what or whom I’d find along the way. My only itinerary was my intention to wander and see something new.

Sometimes I’d spot an intriguing estate sale. Or I’d drive through a small town and tour a historic home open to the public. Often, I’d meet a local who’d steer me to a favorite restaurant or to a nature trail leading to a majestic outlook.

I was free to go with the flow, to follow my instincts and my inner yearnings. If a thrift shop beckoned, I’d stop and shop. If the tide was out, I’d stroll along a deserted beach. If a herd of cows drew my attention, I’d pull over and gaze contentedly at the pastoral scene.

Not only did I find beautiful places and people along the way, I learned a lot about myself. It was the beginning of a personal shift in the way I travel that continues today. I’m still in the habit of going on Saturday Adventures, although not always on Saturdays. And in Europe, wandering is my favorite way to explore a new city, town, village or countryside.

Wandering gets you off the beaten path

How boring it would be to only stick to the main roads and tourist sites. When you wander, you’re far more likely to take the road less traveled and to discover local treasures that are not in the guidebook. Don’t be afraid to veer off the main drag and drive or walk down a side street. This is where real life happens. This is where you can discover those hidden gems. My favorite city to wander around and get lost in is Venice. Once you step away from Piazza San Marco and take one of the quiet, winding streets, you might discover a vintage bookstore and the most interesting antique shop you’ve ever laid eyes on.

Wandering creates more spontaneity

Without an itinerary or schedule, you are free to explore whatever you find along your way: a museum, a restaurant, a beautiful garden, a quiet neighborhood. You can be as spontaneous as you like. If a street looks interesting, go down it. If someone tells you about a festival in the next village, you have no plans — just go.

Wandering leads to new discoveries and adventures

Some of my most memorable travel adventures (and misadventures) were the direct result of wandering — sometimes a little too far. Like the time my then boyfriend and I were hiking across farmer’s fields in Ireland, having no idea of where we were going, but certain that a gorgeous view of the coastline was just on the other side of the hill. Yet every hill we climbed revealed another field and another hill. As we crested the next hill, it wasn’t a view of the coast we saw, but the eyes of a snorting bull staring straight at us. I never jumped over a fence so fast!

Wandering becomes a mindful experience

When we’re not rushing around and thinking about where we must be next, we can be more present and mindful. We’re simply enjoying the sights, sounds and smells around us, appreciating each moment and implanting these special moments into our memory. By being a more mindful traveler, we create more memorable experiences.

Wandering is guided by your intuition

I believe in the power of our intuition to steer us in the right direction. No matter where you wander, trust your inner knowing and listen to your intuition. As your inner (tour) guide, your intuition is there to keep you safe. If you turn down a street and something doesn’t feel right, turnaround. Of course, it’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and the people around you. Couple that practical knowledge with the power of your intuition and you’ll know who’s approachable or not. When you trust your intuition, you’ll enjoy wandering and even getting a little lost at times. Remember: “Not all those who wander are lost.” This quote by J.R.R. Tolkein is one of my favorites.

Wandering requires one secret ingredient

That secret ingredient is unscheduled time. When you're planning your trip to Europe (or wherever you go), don't overbook your itinerary. To experience the freedom and the adventure of freestyle exploring, leave as many unplanned days or half days as possible — and just wander.