I wanted, on a recent trip to Ljubljiana, Slovenia, to pay attention to the travel experience. I was only partially successful as I became so wrapped up in the joys and wonders of a new place that I failed to adequately pay attention. On reflection however, I realize this is one of the great benefits of travel – particularly to places that are new and different. You really live in the present, absorbed in all that is grabbing your attention, interest and enthusiasm because it is novel.

Intimate Ljubljiana

One outcome of this is that time expands. It is absolutely marvelous. You spend much less time thinking about the past and the future. You concentrate on what is happening right now. The result is that time slows down. You are living fully in the moment, soaking it all up. Days are full with all your senses engaged.

There is an active night life here

I realize this is partly true due to the way Kristi and I travel. We do not run from place to place, town to town bagging sites and sights. We travel by going to one place and staying put – slow travel! One delightful benefit is you are not constantly worrying about the next train or bus or plane to catch, how to get from here to there. We love the intimacy this creates because you get to know a place. You see how people live, you get into the local rhythm. This, for us, is the best way to travel. It is fuller, richer, more rewarding, less hectic, more enjoyable. It is also how we run our trips with Adventures in Italy.

The time aspect is one thing I noticed by trying to pay attention to the travel experience. Time flies, but not when you live in the moment absorbed in the place.

There is a fun cafe culture along the river in Ljubljiana

Kristi and Bill Steiner began leading “learning vacations” to Orvieto, Italy in 2003 and were founding members of Slow Travel Tours. Through Adventures in Italy they provided a cultural immersion experience. Many trips included the pursuit of some kind of creative work that complemented and reinforced exploration of Italy’s culture. Relationships built over the years enabled Kristi and Bill to provide experiences that a typical visitor to Orvieto never gets. The Steiners retired in 2017 and sold Adventures in Italy to Michelle Logue, who has continued as a member of the Slow Travel Tours group. Michelle continues to offer trips in the same format and with the same spirit that Kristi and Bill hosted for 14 years. Learn more about Adventures in Italy small group trips in Orvieto. Slow Travel Tours is an affiliation of small-group tour operators who offer personalized trips in Italy, France and other European countries.