As a digital nomad, choosing between the slowmad and fast nomad approach can be a dilemma. If you’re considering which approach is right for you, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each. As someone who has experienced both approaches, I’m here to share my insights.
Slowmad & Fast Nomad: Meaning
First, let’s quickly go over the difference between slowmad and fast nomad.
Slowmad/Slomad meaning
A slowmad is a digital nomad who prefers to take a slower approach to travel and spend longer periods of time in one place. Slowmads typically choose accommodations that offer longer-term stays and prioritize creating a routine and sense of community in each place they visit.
Fast Nomad meaning
A fast nomad is a digital nomad who prefers to maximize their travels by moving around frequently and spending shorter periods of time in each place. Fast nomads typically choose accommodations like hostels and Airbnbs that offer short-term stays, prioritize sightseeing and exploring each place they visit, and move on quickly when they’re ready.
The Pros of Being a Slowmad
If you’re like me, after months of moving around frequently, you might find that the slowmad approach is more suitable for you.
Here are some of the benefits of taking things slow:
- Allows for deeper cultural immersion and understanding, which can enhance your overall travel experience.
- More opportunities for off-the-beaten-path experiences, as you have more time to explore and get to know the place you’re in.
- You can save money in the long run by taking advantage of lower accommodation costs for longer-term stays.
- Allows you to build a routine, including a morning routine and night routine, which can help you stay productive and maximize your workday.
The Cons of Being a Slowmad
Of course, there are also some downsides to taking things slow:
- May require more planning and research, as you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need for a longer stay.
- Can be less efficient in terms of time and energy, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or need to move quickly.
- Might not be suitable for short-term travel or those with a packed itinerary, as it requires a more relaxed pace.
The Pros of Being a Fast Nomad
If you prefer to cover more ground and experience more in a shorter amount of time, the fast nomad approach might be for you.
Here are some of the benefits:
- Covers more ground and allows for more experiences in a shorter amount of time.
- More flexibility to change plans on short notice, which can be helpful if you’re traveling with a group or have unexpected opportunities arise.
- Can be better for those who want to maximize their travel opportunities without having to plan too far in advance
- This can lead to meeting many interesting people and forming valuable connections. Check out my article on how to avoid boring small talk to make the most out of your social interactions as a digital nomad.
How will I know which approach is right for me?
The short answer: You won’t know until you try both.
I suggest trying out the slowmad approach first, as it can give you a better sense of the culture and vibe of the places you visit. After that, you can decide if it’s the right approach for you or if the fast nomad style is more suitable.
There is no right or wrong
It’s important to note that there is no one “right” way to be a digital nomad, and the best approach depends on individual preferences and circumstances. Some digital nomads prefer the slowmad approach to create a sense of routine and community, while others prioritize covering more ground and experiencing as much as possible during their travels.
In addition, it is also possible to find the balance between the two approaches, and you may find that your experience changes over time as your needs and priorities evolve.
Last words
The beauty of digital nomadism is the ability to design a lifestyle that fits your personal needs and preferences. Whether you’re a slowmad or a fast nomad, the important thing is to find a style that allows you to work efficiently, enjoy your travels, and create a sense of fulfillment in your daily life.
Whether you decide to adopt a slowmad or a fast nomad approach, it’s important to remain open to new experiences and embrace the unexpected. After all, travel is an opportunity for personal growth, learning, and enjoyment. So, make sure to savor the journey and seize every chance to explore, discover, and have fun!
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