Travel is a human right. Since the start of Dina-Perla Lodges in 2016, thus my shared home hospitality concept, I have experienced this idea more than ever. The way that people interact during travel, how they can truly see each other within their full humanity and how they can learn about each other’s culture and so on is something to protect for the future. Never should we loose travel, or coerce people into not having the freedom to travel the way they want. Yes, even in times of environmental change. We can, however, focus on the conscious decision of slow travel, as the benefits are not just for the collective, but for the individual as well.

What is slow travel?

Slow travel means impacting the environment and its ecosystems in a less negative manner and staying at eco-friendly hospitality concepts, such as Dina-Perla Lodges, for a much greener stay and reduced carbon footprint. Slow travel means that travelers cultivate meaningful connections with the culture, food, arts – including music – and so on. It means that travelers form bonds with locals, have a greater appreciation for their customs and traditions and learn much more about a country’s history. Besides, slow travel usually means less stress due to rigid planning and more spontaneity. Exploring a place at a slower rate has a major positive effect on someone’s well-being. To sum up: slow travel combines an educational and an emotional experience whilst trying to be as sustainable as possible.

Listen to this (Dutch) podcast with chairman Maarten Bruinsma of Amsterdam Gastvrij, the organization that represents the interests of Bed & Breakfast entrepreneurs like myself, to hear more about the travel trends in Amsterdam, the Netherlands: