Young couple having lunch at outdoors cafe.
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Even the biggest travel fiends will admit that a busy travel schedule can leave you feeling more tired and in need of a vacation than before you actually left on vacation. That’s why the concept of “soft travel” is so key for holiday-makers who want to experience a culture-packed getaway while still feeling like they’re getting some rest and relaxation.
If you’re looking to plan a relaxing holiday getaway this year, here’s how to practice “soft travel” while abroad and ensure you’re making the most of your travels without overextending yourself:
Choose a single destination
Instead of planning multiple stops, Yulia Saf, CEO and Founder of Miss Tourist, suggests choosing just one location for your entire stay. You can spend your time slowly getting to know the destination by relaxing in cafes and just watching the world go by. “There’s no pressure to see everything or go anywhere else,” says Saf. “The goal is to settle into the gentle pace of this storybook setting and truly unwind.”
Consider leaving your itinerary open
“Instead of scheduling daily activities, allow yourself the luxury of completely unstructured time,” suggests Saf. “If you’re in Rome, resist the urge to visit major tourist sites. Instead, choose a charming neighborhood like Trastevere and spend your day there with no set plans.”
The goal of soft travel is to experience the rhythm of local life rather than rushing from tourist site to tourist site and giving yourself permission to slow down — even in an unfamiliar city — will give you that rest and relaxation that you crave.
Book home-like accommodations
Don’t opt for a hotel if you want to unwind and really feel at home while traveling. Instead consider booking a vacation rental on a platform like Airbnb or VRBO, or a hotel with its own fully functional kitchen. This will allow you to do things like cook your own meals with fresh ingredients from the local market or spend the day on the couch with a good book if you feel so inclined.
Connect with local culture
You might be tempted to spend your time visiting all the different must-sees while traveling, but Saf suggests opting for quieter, more relaxed local experiences instead. “If you’re in Tokyo in December, consider visiting a local temple for a peaceful Joya no Kane bell-ringing ceremony on New Year’s Eve,” she gives as an example. “These experiences offer a calm way to connect with local culture without the hustle and bustle of large events.”
