Travelling with a dog naturally changes the rhythm of a journey. And slower travel means fewer plans and more presence.

WORDS BY Roy (with a little help from Ruth Zammit DeBono because paws don’t type!)

Humans like to travel quickly. They make lists, rush from place to place, and try to see everything all at once. I, on the other paw, prefer a slower approach. Although I suspect my mama would move faster if I didn’t insist on inspecting every interesting smell along the way. Travelling with a dog naturally changes the rhythm of a journey. Walks are no longer just a way of getting somewhere – they become the experience itself. A quiet street, a shaded park, a small corner café… I don’t drink coffee myself, of course – but I do consider myself an expert in choosing the best table. These are the moments I tend to notice most. And, over time, my mama has started to notice them too. Slow travel means fewer plans and more presence. It’s about starting the day with a gentle walk rather than a strict itinerary, stopping when something feels interesting, and allowing time for rest for both of us. Cities feel different this way: softer, calmer and somehow more welcoming.

I’ve also discovered that mama seems to relax more when she travels like this. She sits a little longer, looks around a little more, and worries a little less about what comes next. For a dog, this is ideal. Perhaps that’s why I think my mama enjoys it too – especially in a month that gently celebrates the ones who care for us so instinctively, and never quite travel alone. It means more time together, more shared moments, and more opportunities to simply be. Also, more snack breaks, which, in my opinion, should always be part of the itinerary. Of course, every good journey begins with a comfortable start. Travelling from Malta to nearby European cities with KM Malta Airlines is surprisingly simple, and when you can stay close to your mama throughout the journey, it makes the experience all the more reassuring. In the end, slow travel isn’t about doing less. It’s about noticing more. And if you ask me, that’s where the real adventure begins.

PASSAĠĠI POINTS

Travelling with your pet in the cabin

Key rules

• PETC is available for small dogs or cats only.

• The pet, including the carrier, must not exceed 10kg in total weight.

• Only one pet container is permitted per adult passenger.

• The pet must remain inside the carrier for the entire flight.

• The carrier must be placed under the seat in front of the passenger during the flight.

Planning your next trip with your pup? Find out more here