It's a normal goal when travelling to hit as many tourist spots as you can, especially if you're a budget traveller, tight on time, or just want to make the most of your trip. A few years ago, I'd tire myself out with a very intense itinerary. I would have an average of 30,000 steps a day. There were even times that my muscles were too sore to walk properly.
I don't think I'm so old, and that has not been a long time ago, but I have suddenly shifted to preferring slow, comfortable travel. And if you're planning to do so yourself, here are some tips that might help you out:
Book a nice hotel.
Forget the usual mindset of "we're just going to sleep in there anyway." If you want your travel to be comfortable, pick a hotel or an Airbnb that will surely provide you comfort. This time, you might be spending a huge chunk of your time there anyway.
Want to enjoy a nice bath after a long day? Make sure the hotel has one.
Looking forward to spending the entire day in the hotel room, not caring about the world? Pick an accommodation that has a nice ambience.
Check out hotel room tours and reviews to make sure they match your comfy travel goals.
Pick only a few places to visit in the destination.
We're not doing intense itineraries this time, so it's okay if you pick and choose which spots to go to. Why not do just one or two spots a day?
Research the popular things to do or places to visit in your destination. Watch travel vlogs on what it's like in there during peak hours and decide if that's something you can tolerate. If not, then it's okay if you don't go there this time or try going very early in the day.
Another tip is to ask in online forums what locals like to do that is not touristy. They're usually the less crowded spots.
Don't completely let go of your comfort food.
I know one of the best ways to immerse yourself in a local culture is to try out their food. At times, the local dishes are way out of your comfort zone. However, remind yourself that in stress-free travel, you don't have to try it if you don't want to.
If you're too scared to risk a stomach flu, then just go for what feels closest to home. Savour what tastes familiar to you if that's what will provide you comfort. There's always a chance to try out new dishes.
Go all-inclusive.
I personally haven't tried the all-inclusive packages yet, but from what I've heard from friends and family, those packages sound like a delight. A trip where you don't even have to think about the extra expense of food in a really nice hotel is on top of my list.
Countries like Mexico, the Dominican Republic, the Caribbean, etc. have tonnes of all-inclusive packages. If you're looking for just the ultimate staycation, I think these are the way to go. I usually window shop for them on Expedia: https://www.expedia.com/lp/theme-vacations/all-inclusive-vacations.
This is definitely something I'd like to do one day.
Hire a private car for the day.
Want to see the city but don't want to keep commuting or booking an Uber? A private car is your best bet. They are a little expensive, but I think it's the price you pay for comfort. Most private car companies allow you to set the itinerary for the hours you hire the car for. Not only do you skip the stress of being in a tour group, you'll also get to skip the spots you are not so enthusiastic about.
You can book through a verified travel agency, or you can also contact the hotel you're staying at.
You can also book online via Klook, and just make sure to book the ones that have higher reviews for your peace of mind. Get $5 off when you sign up through my referral link:
https://www.klook.com/invite/6P44YD?c=USD
Happy travels!
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