Side Quests are optional extensions to our Slow Travel and Reading Retreats designed for guests who want to continue the adventure. They begin when the core retreat ends and offer a different kind of experience. Same intention. Slightly different energy.
Where our retreats are rooted in private villas, shared meals, and a slower daily rhythm, Side Quests move into the heart of a city or to the next big adventure. We stay in beautiful boutique hotels. We explore museums and neighborhoods. We dine out at exceptional local restaurants. We build in structured highlights alongside open time to wander.
Side Quests are designed to feel like the natural next chapter of your retreat experience
What Makes a Side Quest Different from a Retreat?
Both are fully coordinated and hosted by Slow Travel Co.Both are seamless.Both allow you to simply show up and enjoy.
Retreat Experience
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Private villa accommodations
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On-site chef-prepared meals
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Structured daily rhythm
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Intimate, restorative setting
Side Quest Experience
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Boutique hotel accommodations
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Curated restaurant reservations
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Cultural and city-based exploration
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More flexibility and free time
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Urban or secondary destination focus
Who can attend a Side Quest?
If you’ve ever said, “I wish we had a few more days,” this is your answer.
Side Quests are not retreats. They are add-on adventures.
They are open to anyone who wants to join, whether or not you attended the core retreat. We trade private villas for city hotels. We swap private chefs for restaurant reservations. We keep the planning light and the expectations realistic.
You’ll know where we’re staying. You’ll know what the host is planning to do. You’re welcome to join in, skip it, or design your own day. Some Side Quests may feel urban and cultural, like Athens after Santorini. Others may be more rugged and physically demanding, like hiking Volcán de Fuego after Antigua, Guatemala.
They are communal, flexible, and occasionally gritty. That is part of the appeal.
Is a Side Quest right for me?
Side Quests are ideal for guests who:
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Want to maximize international travel time
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Prefer not to navigate a new city alone
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Enjoy the balance of structure and independence
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Want to continue bonding with retreat friends
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Have a longer flight home and want to make it worth it
What's included in our Side Quests?
All Side Quests are 3-5 days (depending on the destination) of extended time in the country or region as a base Retreat.
Each experience includes:
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3-5 nights in a hotel
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Restaurant meals included
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Curated activities or excursions custom to the area
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Flexible schedules with time to relax, explore, or simply do nothing
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Recommended flight and/or travel coordination with other attendees
We handle all travel logistics (except booking your flights or submitting visas), so you can show up and fully enjoy the journey.
Upcoming Side Quests
Sri Lanka
February 6-12, 2027
Explore Sri Lanka through vibrant cities, ancient temples, rolling tea country, and tropical beaches, where your days are spent discovering local culture, enjoying incredible food, taking in breathtaking scenery, and experiencing the country's many contrasts without having to plan a thing.
Guatemala Volcano Hike
Side Quest
March 8-12, 2027
Challenge yourself on Guatemala's iconic Acatenango Volcano, where your days are spent hiking through volcanic landscapes, watching Volcán de Fuego erupt beneath the stars, witnessing sunrise above the clouds, and celebrating an unforgettable accomplishment with fellow adventurers.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Side Quest
July 14-18, 2027
Extend your adventure with a few days in Edinburgh, Scotland's historic capital and the world's first UNESCO City of Literature. Wander the Royal Mile, explore Edinburgh Castle, browse charming bookshops and cafés, and enjoy the perfect blend of history, literature, and local culture at your own pace.
Kenya Beach
Side Quest
July 28–31, 2027
Extend your adventure with a few days on Kenya's stunning Indian Ocean coast at Diani Beach. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park, relax beneath swaying palm trees, enjoy breathtaking ocean views, and embrace a slower pace at one of Africa's most beautiful beach destinations.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Side Quest
August 28 - September 1, 2027
Extend your Croatian adventure with a few days in Dubrovnik, one of Europe's most spectacular coastal cities. Wander the UNESCO-listed Old Town, enjoy exceptional local restaurants, hike to beautiful waterfalls, visit iconic Game of Thrones filming locations, and soak in breathtaking Adriatic views at your own pace.
