You know how vacations are supposed to be relaxing but somehow end up feeling like a marathon? Yeah, same here. If you’re over that whole “see it all, do it all” hustle, maybe it’s time to give this soft travel thing a go.
The “One Spot, All the Feels” Rule
Here’s the deal: instead of bouncing from one tourist trap to another, just pick one place. For real. Park yourself there and let the magic of that spot sink in.
Like, imagine you’re in Rome—don’t stress about hitting every Insta-famous landmark. Skip the crowds and head to a chill neighborhood like Trastevere. Grab a cappuccino, sit your butt down at a cozy café, and watch the locals do their thing. Trust me, you’ll love the slower pace.
Burn the Itinerary
You don’t need a strict schedule to have fun. In fact, toss that thing in the trash. Wanna spend the whole day lying around your Airbnb? Go ahead. Feel like wandering aimlessly and discovering random cute streets? Do that. The whole point is to let your trip surprise you—no rules, no pressure, just vibes.
Stay Somewhere That Feels Like Home
Hotels? Meh, they’re fine, but let’s spice it up. Rent a house or an apartment instead. Airbnb, VRBO—whatever floats your boat. You’ll feel way more at home when you’ve got your own kitchen and a comfy couch to crash on.
Pro tip: hit up the local market, grab some fresh ingredients, and whip up your own meals. It’s cheap, fun, and way more personal than eating out every single day. Bonus points if your rental has a killer view for you to enjoy while you eat!
Forget Crowds, Find Peace
Yeah, yeah, big attractions are cool, but have you tried skipping them altogether? Instead of squeezing into packed tourist spots, look for quieter, more unique experiences.
Like, if you’re in Tokyo in December, check out a temple for the Joya no Kane bell-ringing ceremony on New Year’s Eve. It’s low-key, it’s peaceful, and it’s way better than fighting crowds at some big event.