As I transition into my thirties, the appeal of a tightly packed trip, with several cities, outfits, and coordinated Instagram posts has lost its charm. With the pulls of our careers, partners, and families reaching new peaks, the idea of “escaping” to another set of commitments seems daunting. Increasingly, I am finding more of my friends leaning into low-key, minimally-planned, head-empty vacations. Sidharth Malhotra seems to be similarly inclined.
Malhotra, who has collaborated with Hilton’s ‘It Matters Where You Stay’ campaign to drive deeper engagement with its global marketing platform and emphasize the importance of the stay as a pivotal part of any travel experience, belongs to a growing number of travelers who are anchoring an otherwise itinerary-free trip in an elevated accommodation experience. To him, the perfect accommodation makes the perfect vacation – it provides both peace of mind and the freedom for spontaneity that so many of us crave.
Malhotra’s tips for maximizing a hotel stay reflect this evolving perspective on travel. “I always believe in making the most of the experience of a hotel stay,” he notes, detailing how he balances relaxation with activity. His advice includes booking a spa session in advance to start the holiday on a relaxed note, hitting the gym to balance indulgence, and consulting with the hotel concierge to explore local activities. These tips reflect a focus on making the most of each day without being bound to a rigid schedule. “I rely on the hotel concierge to try and see how Kiara and I can explore some local activities, see the cultural spots and try local food,” he explains. This method allows for a more organic and enjoyable experience, where the emphasis is on immersion rather than obligation.
In a world where the trend cycle shifts gears every week, travelling like this provides an opportunity to be truly present. Rather than adhering to a set agenda, Malhotra highlights the importance of living in the moment. “I’m the type who wants to soak in every moment of a holiday,” he explains. This philosophy involves early mornings to explore local cultures, savor regional cuisine, and simply enjoy the essence of a place.
Malhotra’s practice of engaging with his surroundings, whether through local activities or cultural explorations, exemplifies this shift towards more immersive and spontaneous travel experiences, where the journey is as important as the destination.
Malhotra’s take on the perfect holiday indicates a growing prioritisation of rest and relaxation among young travellers. “If I had to pick a year-round favorite, it would definitely be just relaxing at the beach,” he shares. His preference for beach vacations over bustling city tours reflects a broader movement away from tightly packed travel schedules. For the actor, the beach represents a sanctuary where he finds peace and clarity – a sentiment that resonates with many seeking a respite from their fast-paced lives. He adds, “I find a lot of peace underwater, whether it’s scuba diving or snorkelling.”
It helps that Kiara Advani is a big fan of a good breakfast buffet – perfect to satiate those post-swim hunger pangs. “It has become a tradition for us to get to a breakfast buffet early and enjoy breakfast together.”
