India, Dec. 10 -- As 2025 ends and you plan 2026 travels, how can you keep vacations stress-free? Popular destinations often mean crowds, long queues, and hot spots, which can turn a relaxing trip into a stressful one. The key is planning smartly-choosing the right destination and travel window helps you avoid peak-season chaos and enjoy better weather for a memorable vacation. Yasmin Ikrami, CEO of JourneyLabel, tells HT Lifestyle that a stress-free 2026 vacation requires an 'unhurried' itinerary. 'Crowded spots make it hard to slow down. The real beauty of travel lies in experiences that feel personal, unhurried, and emotionally rich,' she says. Take a look at her 5 hacks to enjoy calmer and enriching experiences in 2026: Shoulder seasons-just before or after peak tourism-offer fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and a relaxed pace. Travelling then also allows more meaningful interactions with locals. Skipping popular attractions for nearby towns, lesser-known neighbourhoods, or quieter sites can make your trip more authentic and relaxed. Visiting attractions early morning or late afternoon avoids crowds, offers peaceful surroundings, and makes the day more enjoyable. Travel apps and digital tools help avoid crowds, track peak hours, and keep bookings organized, making trips smoother and less stressful. When one designs the trip based on their interests, they naturally move away from crowded tourist circuits. Personalised travel might include quiet nature walks, art workshops, food trails, hidden cafes, local markets, slow-travel experiences, or wellness activities. These experiences often take place in smaller, less crowded settings that allow deeper connection and more meaningful moments....