Slow Life is all about the journey – whether that means a train ride to another continent, cycling your daily commute or just noticing the details of everyday life that are lost to those who constantly rush. But when you’re preparing for a lengthy trip, how can you ensure you make the most of the experience without letting boredom creep in?
Before going on a journey, many people will gather together as many ‘distactions’ as they possibly can – essentially so they don’t have to experience it. These might be puzzles, portable video games, books or magazines, or anything else that takes the mind from its present situation. This is because travelling requires us to sit still, which is certainly a daunting prospect if you’re used to rushing around. But the Slow Life attitude to journeys is quite different: your holiday starts as soon as you start moving, and getting there is half the fun.
If you’re going somewhere new, you’ll want to remember the journey as it takes you through unfamiliar territory; each new area subtly different from the last. Make sure you’ve got your camera charged up and ready to go so you can record the changing scenery, as looking back on your images will make fascinating viewing that brings back memories. You might want to find a landmark, or a distinctive object from nature that represents each place you stop.
Another great idea, particularly for those with children, is to make a holiday scrapbook. Equip yourself with pens, scissors, glue and a large, sturdy notebook which you can use to chart your progress.
Music is welcome on any journey, so before you leave, prepare some playlists that you can listen to depending on your mood. You might want one for calming frayed nerves, another for getting energised on an early morning start. Make sure you’ve got all the equipment you need to play your music on your chosen mode of transport, and are well stocked with any batteries or chargers you may need. Music shouldn’t distract from your journey, but will enhance the experience you’re having –so think carefully about where you’ll be travelling through and what you’ll want to play. Do you know any bands or artists from those areas?
Maps are essential on any journey, but make sure you’ve got a large-sized hard copy that everyone can see. You might want to bring some stickers or post-it notes to make notes on places of interest you encounter along the way. Even better, get your research done first referring to guidebooks and online sources so you can stop off at places of interest en route.
Image: R.P Piper
