Top Asian Destinations for Slow Travel |

As slow travel gains traction as a prominent travel trend, Agoda, a digital travel platform, shares insights into the top Asian destinations ideal for prolonged stays. Thailand‘s Khao Lak emerges as the leading spot where travellers choose to linger, embracing the essence of slow travel.
The concept of slow travel advocates for a leisurely approach to exploration, encouraging visitors to extend their time at a destination.This deliberate pace fosters deeper connections with local cultures and communities, enriching travel experiences beyond the surface.
According to Google Trends, searches related to slow travel have surged threefold over the past five years, reflecting a growing interest in immersive and meaningful travel encounters. Agoda’s analysis of booking data from the initial quarter of 2024 reveals the destinations across Asia where travelers tend to extend their stays the most.
In India, Ahmedabad is the preferred destination for longer sojourns, closely followed by Goa and Faizabad. Internationally, Seoul captivates Indian travellers seeking a leisurely travel experience.
Krishna Rathi, Senior Country Director for India Subcontinent and Maldives at Agoda, comments on the appeal of slow travel amidst today’s fast-paced world.“It’s easy to understand why slow travel is one of the most fascinating travel trends right now. In today’s fast-paced world, many travelers will recognise the desire to use their holiday to disconnect from day-to-day life and form a deeper connection with the people and places they visit. It’s something we love to see and encourage at Agoda, as we are passionate about bridging the world through travel. For travelers looking to fully submerge in a holiday destination, whether it’s lazing around in a beach villa or settling in a chic city hotel, the destinations on our slow travel ranking are great places to start.”
The destinations featured in Agoda’s slow travel ranking offer diverse experiences, blending rural serenity with urban vibrancy. From the tranquil beaches of Khao Lak to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, each locale presents opportunities for immersive exploration.
Khao Lak, Thailand
Surfing paradise Khao Lak is Asia’s most popular slow travel destination, and for good reason. Its many lesser known but beautiful beaches and nature spots are perfect places to unwind and let any day-to-day worries drift away. In the evening, the bars and restaurants around Phet Kasem road are great places to enjoy some live Thai folk music and perhaps even a game of snooker against the local talent.
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul, a vibrant and dynamic city, also conceals isolated corners for those looking to enjoy a slower pace. The quiet backstreets of Buam-dong offer a unique mix of classy modern cafes and nostalgic shops from the 1960s-70s, like traditional rice mills and barbershops. The tranquil Baeksasil Valley invites travelers to leave behind the city’s rapid pace and immerse themselves in a refreshing natural retreat with pristine water and a well-preserved forest. Literature lovers can explore Seongbuk-dong which houses the historic Hanok living quarters of famous Korean writers from as early as the 1930s.
Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
Escape to the Perhentian Islands, Malaysia’s quintessential beach paradise off Terengganu’s coast, which offer slow-paced tropical bliss. Where crystalline waters meet soft sandy shores, the islands of Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar make an ideal sanctuary for relaxation and aquatic adventures like snorkeling and diving amidst colorful coral reefs.
Tokyo, Japan
A bustling megacity that is a top global destination, Tokyo is known for being impossible to experience in one trip. That’s why it’s best to slow it down and take the time to immerse in the little pleasures of Japan’s capital. Experience Tokyo’s charms like a local by wandering around some of the lesser-known neighborhoods such as Shimokitazawa for vintage shopping, Yanaka for a traditional atmosphere, and the bohemian neighborhood of Koenji for some alternative music and punk rock.
Siargao Islands, Philippines
Siargao Island, a serene gem off Surigao del Norte, lures travelers away from the flurry of city life. Dubbed the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” its famed surf spot ‘Cloud 9’ faces the open seas and entices surf enthusiasts with some of the best waves year-round. The island’s size notwithstanding, Siargao has an abundance of natural marvels worth exploring.
Pekanbaru, Indonesia
Pekanbaru, the bustling capital of Riau province on Sumatra Island, beautifully intertwines vibrant city life with rich Malay culture and history. Idyllic locations like Lake Siak and Lake Kayangan offer a leisurely day out on the waters; rent a boat, swim, or simply unwind among the picturesque surroundings.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Famous for its bustling streets, Ho Chi Minh city pulses with vibrant energy that’s best enjoyed when embraced fully. Step into the rhythm of the locals and experience the city slowing down by enjoying a traditional Ca Phe Sua Da, Vietnamese coffee, in the morning. Taste the culture of Vietnam by indulging in the epic street food variety and then take a break from the buzz and seek solace among a collection of over a thousand trees in one of the city’s oldest parks, Tao Dan Park.