7 years of wandering the globe: lessons from the ultimate slow travel journey

Motivated by the desire to embrace life more fully after losing a friend, Tom Turcich from New Jersey set out to explore the world on foot.

After graduating college and saving up enough funds, Turcich, accompanied by his dog Savannah, began a seven-year journey through 38 countries. Now residing in Kentucky, he shared his travel philosophy and insights with Dinogo Planet’s Sara Stewart.

Every moment contributes to the journey

I sought to be thrust into adventure, as I was shy and introverted. I desired a slower travel experience. It ultimately came down to understanding what I wanted from this limited time I have. If your aim is to explore the world, you’ll embrace that – even if it means forgoing hotel stays or living on peanut butter and jelly. That’s all part of the journey.

I realized that walking meant I couldn't bypass any place. On a bike, if someone warned me, 'Hey, the town ahead is risky,' I could just zoom past. I didn’t want that option; I wanted to experience the world as it truly is.

Wherever you go, it’s just people living their lives. You might have a preconceived notion of a place, but when you arrive, you think, Oh, this is just like anywhere else, except the food is different. The world consists of individuals striving to make a living and enjoy time with friends. I was cautioned about places like El Salvador and Honduras — which are, by objective standards, more perilous than other areas. Yet, in any neighborhood, there are children going to school and people heading to work. You’re merely a visitor passing through a place where others live their daily lives.

In Colombia, particularly, the older generation carries the scars of La Violencia, a 50-year span of political turmoil. Every town I reached, people warned me, 'Watch out for the next town; it’s dangerous!' And upon reaching the next, it was always, 'Be cautious about the following town!' But when I engaged with the younger generation, they were free from such fears; it was only the elders who held those memories.

Exploring every town in every country

Whenever I arrived in a new town, my first stop was always the square. Almost every country embraces this concept, except the USA. It’s a gathering place where you can wander without a specific agenda. It’s an excellent way to experience culture and community, especially during the day or after sunset. The essence of it lies in happiness, sharing ideas, and providing a space for kids to ride their bikes and for teens to hang out and engage in quirky conversations.

In Argentina, during a particularly hot day, I needed a shady spot to relax for a few hours. I found a square with a tree to rest beneath. While there, a restaurant owner approached me and asked, 'Would you like to join my family for lunch?' I was welcomed inside, where we enjoyed a delightful meal together, sharing coffee and homemade spaghetti and meatballs.

The case for slow travel as the ultimate travel style

I've come to truly value the perks of inefficiency. Our fixation on efficiency is quite misguided. You think you’re making progress by moving quickly, only to return home and plop down on the couch, thinking, Wow, I got to the supermarket really fast. Yet, at what cost? If you embrace slow travel, you discover the joy of simply existing in the world. It mirrors the experience of being in a public square: you interact with your surroundings, have spontaneous encounters, feel the pleasant breeze, and hear the birds singing. You’ll find pockets of time in your day to savor. Remember, you’re not a flawless efficiency machine. Spain embodies this relaxed approach, much like older cultures such as those in North Africa, particularly Morocco and Algeria. Turkey also shares this laid-back vibe.

[The Republic of] Georgia is truly incredible. It’s vibrant and free-spirited. As a young democracy, it boasts a rich cultural heritage. You can genuinely sense the desire for democracy and fresh ideas, especially in contrast to the neighboring dictatorship of Azerbaijan. The art is exceptional, the cuisine delightful, and the conversations are engaging. Plus, the architecture is stunning.

Getting ready for a global walking adventure

Before I set off, I practiced by walking for two days to my college, covering about 60 miles—definitely earned some blisters! If you're thinking about a two-day trek, consider camping in an unusual patch of woods for added adventure. Use Google Maps to find a spot around 20 miles away. You’ll likely need about two liters of water each day. The USA has many roads, but you can find quiet backroads, especially in places like Ohio or the Great Plains. If you’re out for two days, a backpack will do just fine. I wouldn't recommend hiking boots; without that support, your ankles will strengthen, making you more agile. Just make sure to wear wool socks.

America has a unique sense of territoriality that’s uncommon in many parts of the world. Much of the land is enclosed, and people are protective, often armed. It’s wise to be aware of this and to approach situations thoughtfully. Yet, I've found people to be incredibly kind everywhere. Walking across the US offers an amazing perspective on the country, revealing its vastness and beauty. My time out West was truly awe-inspiring.