KL joins ASIA’s top cities for ‘slow travel’ as tourists seek meaningful escapes

IN a world increasingly weary of high-speed living, Kuala Lumpur has emerged as one of Asia’s top cities for ‘slow travel’ — a growing tourism trend that favours depth over speed, and experience over itinerary.

Ranked eighth in Agoda’s list of Asia’s nine most ideal destinations for slow-paced holidays, KL now finds itself among the continent’s most leisurely-loved locations.

According to Agoda, the ranking is based on the average length of stays booked on its platform between January and March 2025 — a reliable proxy for destinations where travellers choose to linger.

Kuala Lumpur joins the likes of Rayong in Thailand (which took first place), Kalegowa in Indonesia, Seoul, Tokyo, Nha Trang, Boracay, Taipei and Chennai.

“While some tourists still enjoy fast-paced trips filled with non-stop sightseeing, more are now slowing down to truly absorb the essence of a place,” said Fabian Teja, Agoda’s Country Director for Malaysia and Brunei.

“Slow travel offers a chance to embrace a destination’s beauty, understand its culture, savour its cuisine, and connect with locals — not just pass through it.”

He noted that Kuala Lumpur, with its fusion of tradition and modernity, provides the perfect backdrop for such immersive experiences.

“Slow travellers can explore iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and Sultan Abdul Samad Building, or simply meander through Little India and Jalan Petaling to absorb the capital’s cultural rhythms,” Fabian said. “Whether dining leisurely at a roadside stall or indulging in refined cuisine, Kuala Lumpur offers something for every kind of traveller.”

Kuala Lumpur’s appeal, he added, lies not just in its attractions but in the atmosphere it cultivates — a city that invites one to stay, rather than rush.

In Malaysia, Langkawi took second place for domestic ‘slow travel’ stays, followed by Johor Bahru. Notably, Pulau Perhentian, which topped the list last year, fell out of the top three.

As for Malaysians travelling abroad, Tokyo remains their preferred destination for a longer, more laid-back holiday, proving that “sometimes, the best kind of travel is the kind that takes its time,” Fabian said.

Topping the regional list, Rayong — a quiet coastal province in Thailand — was praised for its serenity, clean beaches, and unspoilt island charm. “Visitors can feast on fresh seafood straight off fishing boats, explore nearby islands like Koh Samet, or simply relax under coconut trees. Rayong’s tranquil beauty makes it a dream escape for slow travellers,” Fabian remarked.

In an age of hyper-connectivity and digital fatigue, the rise of slow travel signals something deeper: a shift in how we understand holidays — less about ticking boxes, and more about reconnecting with ourselves and the places we visit. Kuala Lumpur’s presence on the list is a testament to its ability to welcome the modern wanderer seeking more than just motion. – May 26, 2025