Vibes Over Velocity: My Top 5 Itinerary Hacks

With Thanksgiving around the corner, I’ve been thinking about what I’m grateful for… and honestly? One of my biggest blessings is that I feel zero pressure to rack up 30,000 steps just because I’m in a new city. I am deeply, spiritually thankful for my chill-girl itineraries. These are the ones that let me sip a slow matcha, wander at a human pace, bee-bop in and out of stores, and not return to my hotel feeling that both my attitude and Apple Watch are…dead. So, I am sharing my top 5 hacks to truly enjoy and soak in a new city.

1. Build in “Soft Mornings” as a Non-Negotiable

Instead of jumping straight into sightseeing, block your mornings for slow rituals: coffee on the balcony, a long shower, journaling, a cute breakfast cafe, reading in your hotel robe with breakfast room service. If you plan slow mornings, you’ll never feel behind. It just becomes part of the itinerary for the day.

2. One “Anchor” Activity Per Day

Choose one main thing you must do per day whether a museum, a viewpoint, a cooking class, a monument, etc. Everything else is optional bonus vibes. It instantly lowers the pressure and prevents the power walk marathon itinerary.

3. Cluster Your Day in Micro-Zones

Group activities by neighborhood so you’re not crisscrossing the city. Pick a single area per day and explore it gently: walk a few blocks, wander into a cute shop, grab a snack or cocktail, head back when you’re done. It makes the day feel effortless, not exhausting.

4. Pre-Pick “Vibe Breaks”

Add intentional chill moments into the itinerary! Examples could be a 3PM gelato stop, rooftop cocktail pause, quick nap/recharge back at your hotel (your phone probably needs it too), or an aesthetic cafe for a late-afternoon reset. These micro-breaks keep energy high and prevent burnout or hanger (iykyk).

5. Plan Transit Like a Luxury, Not a Chore

Instead of walking 45 minutes “because it’s nice out,” choose comfort! I love hitting my steps as much as the next girl but anything over 15K (especially day 1!) can wear them feet out for the long haul. I recommend to budget for Ubers or taxis, use public transit for long stretches, or pick hotels/Airbnbs central to the experiences you care about. Also bonus points if you take a tuktuk!

Happy early Thanksgiving! May your Apple Watch stay calm and your itinerary stay cute. Soft travel 4eva. Text you when I Land !