Four ways to keep retro travel alive

Thanks to apps and digital technology, retro travel seems to be falling by the wayside. Many people dismiss it as a relic of the past. But is it really? Not so fast. While we might feel like the world has gone fully digital, the truth is, there’s still a lot of the globe that operates in its own time bubble.

Plenty of places feel frozen in time - sometimes by decades, sometimes even by centuries. And for those willing to seek them out, these spots offer a kind of magic that modern travel just can’t match. Here’s how to embrace retro travel and keep that old-school charm alive in your adventures.

Choose Old School Transportation

Airports and highways might get you from point A to point B efficiently, but they’re also some of the most soulless ways to travel. If you want to truly immerse yourself in the journey, opt for transportation that lets you savour the ride. 

Why not hop on a train that cuts through North America or Asia? These long distance rail journeys offer breath-taking scenery, quirky little stops, and a chance to experience travel the way it was meant to be - at a slower pace. Or, for a more intimate adventure, rent a vintage car and take it for a spin through Europe’s countryside. Skip the motorways and stick to rural roads where you can soak up the charm of small villages and picturesque landscapes.

For the truly adventurous, sailing between destinations can be the ultimate throwback experience. Sure, it requires a bit of skill (or at least some good company who knows their way around a boat), but there’s something uniquely satisfying about moving with the wind and waves.

Stay in Traditional Accommodation

Modern hotels with keyless entry and iPad room service? They’re convenient, but they lack soul. Retro travel is all about embracing accommodations that offer a glimpse into the past.

Seek out motels, campgrounds, or historic inns that have preserved their original charm. Better yet, stay in places that double down on their old-school vibes - traditional hotels, restored castles, centuries old pubs, or quaint bed and breakfasts where time seems to stand still. These places don’t just provide a bed for the night; they give you an experience.

Bring a Film Camera

Want to make your trip feel even more retro? Leave your digital camera (or smartphone) in your bag and pick up a film camera instead. The beauty of film is that it forces you to be intentional with your shots. There’s no endless snapping, no instant gratification - just you, your surroundings, and a limited roll of film. 

When you get home, you can always digitise your prints, but while you’re on the road, enjoy the slower, more thoughtful process of analogue photography.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Retro travel isn’t just about how you get there or where you stay - it’s about what you do. One of the best ways to feel like you’ve stepped back in time is to immerse yourself in local traditions.

Visit a village fair, explore an old fashioned market, or join in on a classic car show. Attend a cultural festival or religious ceremony to experience life the way it’s been lived for generations. These moments often become the most meaningful parts of your trip.

So, no, retro travel isn’t dead - it’s alive and well for those willing to look for it. And sure, you can bring your phone, but maybe don’t let it take over. Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to take a step back.