As a full-time traveler, one of the frequently asked questions I get asked is “How many countries have you been to?”... People sometimes assume that I’m on a mission to tick every country in the world off some imaginary bucket list. Well, I’m not, and here’s why.
Slow > fast
Slow travel is always better than fast travel.
Traveling slow allows you to spend more time visiting a country. Instead of a few days of rushing to and from airports, taxis and hotels, barely glimpsing overhyped tourist attractions, traveling slow lets you spend more time living in one place, and gives you a truly authentic experience immersed in the local culture. You can take your time, go at your own leisurely pace, and ultimately, get to see, do, and eat so much more.
Being a traveler instead of a tourist earns you the right to confidently tell your travel tales because you truly experienced the country and made lasting memories.
Quality > quantity
Not all countries in the world are ideal tourist destinations.
Some countries restrict or prohibit entry. Some require lots of time and money just to get an approved visa to visit prior to travel. Others impose strict rules or laws once you are allowed in, such as requiring a tour guide to accompany you, registering with police, or prohibiting emergency care. Sometimes visitors just aren’t welcome.