Mandy Haakenson

I’m Mandy, a writer, content creator, and photographer with a passion for exploring the world in a way that respects and sustains the places we love. Originally from Seattle, I now call London home. With a Master’s degree in sustainable tourism and decades of experience in the travel industry, I’ve spent my career championing meaningful ways to see the world.

As an UnFluencer, I’m proud to promote travel that goes beyond ticking off destinations. For me, slow travel is about quality over quantity; it’s about connection, culture, and a deeper understanding of place. Staying in one location longer allows you to connect with the culture and the people who bring it to life. A conversation with a market vendor, learning a family recipe from a local cook, or simply observing daily life in a neighbourhood café can offer a deeper sense of place and a more meaningful travel experience.

Over the years, I’ve also learned that slow travel isn’t just for new discoveries—it can deepen your love for a place you already know. Returning to a familiar destination and seeing it through a slow travel lens, you'll discover new layers of beauty and connection that you might have missed the first time around.