In planning my retirement slow travel options, the current scenario would include beginning in the U.S. for the first year or so and then transitioning overseas – for many reasons. Slow travel (traveling 30+ days in a single destination) is an extended version of vacationing and an abbreviated version of expatriation. Slow travel has become quite popular among retirees and digital nomads and is attractive to me in sampling many destinations before (if ever) settling on a single location to reside longer.
To that end, I have begun mapping out an itinerary for my initial year of slow travel in the U.S. I have mapped that here:
The map might seem odd, unless you know my slow travel goal of staying within the 50 – 70-degree range temperature wise as often as possible. If I had my way, I would stay in that range year-round. The U.S. itinerary also takes into consideration visiting friends around the country and so includes a few stops I might otherwise not.
- Greensboro, GA
- Florida Panhandle – 30A
- St. Augustine, FL
- Key West, FL
- Ocracoke, NC
- Wilmington, NC
- Mackinac Island, MI
- Taos, NM
- Whidbey, WA
- Sequim, WA
This itinerary assumes a winter start and ends up in Washington state in the summer since that is the location I have found to have the mildest summers on average.
Greensboro, GA
Surrounded by natural beauty, Greensboro offers access to Lake Oconee and the expansive Oconee National Forest, perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting. I have a good friend who retired to the Lake Oconee region here and so would ideally start my slow travel year visiting her.
Florida Panhandle – 30A
Located in Northwest Florida, 30A is a scenic highway that winds through 16 unique beach communities, each offering a distinct blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and outdoor adventures. This 24-mile stretch along the Gulf of Mexico is renowned for its sugar-white sand beaches, rare coastal dune lakes, and vibrant community spirit.
30A is home to a variety of communities, each with its own character.
Seaside: Known for its pastel-colored cottages and white picket fences, Seaside is a symbol of New Urbanism and was famously featured in the movie “The Truman Show”.
Rosemary Beach: Offers European-style architecture and a sophisticated beachfront experience.
Alys Beach: Features a more modern, upscale design with a focus on luxury living.
Weather in the winter is perfect here. And bonus – you probably won’t get sunburned!
St. Augustine, Florida
Everything old is new again in St. Augustine, Florida. America’s oldest city is the perfect getaway, just a two- and half-hour drive from Orlando. Discoveries await whether you stay near the Old Town/Historic District or the beaches, Villano or Anastasia Island. Manageable traffic and crowds even during the Spring Break season, with mild temperatures, cool sea breezes, and sunshine galore. I prefer the holidays in St. Augustine. Lights and cheer all around.
Key West, Florida
Located at the southernmost tip of the United States, Key West is a vibrant island city in the Florida Keys, renowned for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and lively cultural scene. This charming destination offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and exploration, making it a must-visit for travelers from around the world.
I almost moved to Key Largo in my early twenties, but if you only have time for one stop in the Keys, it has to be Key West.
Ocracoke, NC
Located at the southern end of the Outer Banks in North Carolina, Ocracoke Island is a tranquil and historic destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Accessible only by ferry, Ocracoke is a place where time stands still, with its picturesque village, pristine beaches, and rich maritime history.
Anyone else obsessed with Outer Banks? LOL – but seriously, it is a gorgeous location.
Wilmington, NC
Located on the Cape Fear River in southeastern North Carolina, Wilmington is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its picturesque historic district, scenic riverfront, and nearby beaches, Wilmington offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to all interests.
Both North Carolina destinations are perfect for late winter/early spring.
Mackinac Island, MI
You can’t have grown up in the 1980’s and not loved the movie, Somewhere In Time. And once you watched it, you just knew at some point in life, you had to visit the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Although summer is high season on the island, I am more curious to see it before the crowds set in.
Taos, NM
Located in the heart of northern New Mexico, Taos is a vibrant town that seamlessly blends rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. From its historic landmarks to its breathtaking landscapes, Taos offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to all interests.
Whidbey Island, WA
Located in the heart of Puget Sound, Whidbey Island is a tranquil and scenic destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures. From its stunning coastlines to its quaint towns, Whidbey Island is a haven for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation.
Sequim, WA
Located on the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, Sequim is a charming town known for its sunny weather, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene. Often referred to as the “Lavender Capital of North America,” Sequim offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and relaxing activities.
Sequim is locally known as the least soggy area in the PNW, getting less rain on average than anywhere else in Western Washington.
