Rafi Brier

Keep the first day close to the apartment and plan one main outing per day around naps and meal times.

Compare each coach's pickup, arrival at the mountain and departure time; total snow time is the useful measure. Check whether lift access, equipment and resort entry are separate costs.

If the flights and luggage arrangements leave a comfortable buffer, choose one central stop and a breakfast rather than a multi-stop tour. Store bags only with a service whose hours fit.

First check whether your arrival and departure terminals let you enter the lounge at that stage of the journey. Some lounges require a boarding pass for a specific flight or have time limits.

Choose one region and a small number of cellar doors, with a designated driver or a local tour. Check tasting reservations and meal opening days.

Start in the CBD for galleries, markets and neighbourhood meals, then choose one coastal base with frequent transport rather than several hotel moves.

Reserve a table and confirm transport before committing to wine. A return driver or overnight stay removes the pressure of a dark drive.

Check whether the ticket specifies a gate or reserved section and plan the return trip after the crowd exits.