As the summer sun beckons and holiday plans take shape, many travellers find themselves caught between the excitement of a getaway and the chaos of planning it. From booking flights to packing bags, travel stress can sneak in quickly. But with a few smart strategies, your vacation can be as relaxing as it’s meant to be. Here are some practical tips to help you enjoy a stress-free summer escape.

1. Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible

Advance planning is the cornerstone of a smooth trip. Book your flights, accommodations, and major activities well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. Use travel apps and digital planners to keep your itinerary, tickets, and reservations organized. However, leave room in your schedule for spontaneous exploration—it’s often the unplanned moments that become the most memorable.

2. Pack Smart, Pack Light

Overpacking is a common travel mistake. Stick to essentials and check the weather forecast of your destination. Opt for clothes that can be mixed and matched. Use packing cubes to keep items organized and avoid clutter. Don’t forget essentials like chargers, medications, travel documents, and a refillable water bottle.

3. Beat Airport Anxiety

Airports can be overwhelming during peak travel season. Check in online, arrive early, and keep your identification and boarding passes handy. Consider using services like TSA PreCheck or airport lounge access to ease the process. If travelling internationally, double-check your passport validity and visa requirements.

4. Choose the Right Travel Companions

Travelling with friends or family can be fun—if you’re on the same page. Discuss expectations, budgets, and daily plans beforehand to avoid conflicts. A bit of compromise goes a long way in maintaining harmony during the trip.

5. Stay Healthy and Hydrated

Travel fatigue can dampen your holiday spirit. Stay hydrated, eat balanced meals, and get adequate sleep, especially before and during long-haul journeys. Carry basic first-aid supplies and any prescription medications. Also, keep a copy of your medical insurance and emergency contacts handy.

6. Protect Your Peace of Mind

Consider travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Keep digital and hard copies of your important documents. Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.

7. Embrace Digital Tools

Use mobile apps for navigation, translation, currency conversion, and local recommendations. Apps like Google Maps, Duolingo, and TripIt can save time and reduce stress. Offline downloads of maps and guides can also be a lifesaver when Wi-Fi is unavailable.

8. Disconnect to Reconnect

While it’s tempting to post every moment on social media, try to unplug and immerse yourself in the experience. Put your phone down and soak in the sights, sounds, and culture. Real relaxation often comes when we disconnect from screens and connect with the present moment.

Final Thought

Travel is about discovery, joy, and creating lifelong memories. By staying organized, calm, and open-minded, you can transform your summer holiday from a stressful ordeal into an enriching adventure. So take a deep breath, pack your bags, and get ready to make the most of your summer getaway.

In 2025, some states in the US are much cheaper to live in than others. These states have lower costs for housing, food and everyday needs. Many people choose these places to save money and enjoy a good life without spending too much. Check the list of top-10 cheapest states to live in.

Living in the United States can be expensive, but some states are much cheaper than others. In 2025, many people want to find places where they can live comfortably without spending too much money. This article will tell you about the top-10 cheapest states to live in the United States. These states have low costs for homes, food and other daily needs, making them good choices for saving money.

Top-10 Cheapest States to Live in the United States in 2025

In 2025, some states in the US are much cheaper to live in than others. These states have lower costs for housing, food and everyday needs. Many people choose these places to save money and enjoy a good life without spending too much. Here are the top-10 cheapest states to live in:

• Arkansas
• Mississippi
• Alabama
• West Virginia
• South Dakota
• Oklahoma
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Missouri
• Tennessee

Arkansas

Living in Arkansas costs about 4% less than most of the U.S. Houses are very cheap – about 22% lower than the national average. Cities like Conway and Jonesboro are especially affordable. Bills for electricity and food are also low, making it a great place for families or anymore wanting to save money.

Mississippi

Mississippi is often the cheapest state in the U.S. Living here can cost 10-17% less, depending on the city. Home prices are 26% lower, and the average houses costs about $151,000. Gas is cheap, property taxes are low and retired people may not pay income tax. Tupelo and Gulfport are very budget-friendly.

Alabama

In Alabama, living costs are 12% below the national average. Homes are about 30% cheaper, with prices between $179,400 and $216,600. The state has very low property taxes (only 0.39%), affordable healthcare, and good roads. It is a great state for families and homeowners looking to save money.

West Virginia

West Virginia is one of the most affordable states to live in. Homes are cheap, and daily needs like food and bills don’t cost much. If you want a peaceful life and don’t want to speed a lot, this is a great choice. It’s perfect for nature lovers and retires too.

South Dakota

South Dakota has a low cost of living and cheaper homes. A big plus is that there’s no state income tax, which helps people save more money. It’s good place for families and retires. Overall, it is a quiet, budget-friendly state with clean air and beautiful open spaces.

Oklahoma

Living in Oklahoma costs 14% less than the U.S. average. People spend about $38,650 a year to live here. Homes are very cheap – around $170,500 to $183,733. Rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is just $840. Many cities also offer programs to help you financially. It’s a great place to live affordably.

Kansas

Kansas has a low cost of living – about 12% less than most states. The average home price is $189,300. Food is cheap and there are good job options in fields like tech, healthcare and factories. Kansas is a smart choice for people who want an easy life with stable work.

Kentucky

Kentucky is one of the most affordable states in the U.S. Home prices and utility bills are low, making life easier for both families and single people. You can live comfortably here without spending too much. It’s a peaceful state with a mix of small towns and friendly cities.

Missouri

Missouri offers low living costs and affordable housing. Taxes aren’t very high, which helps keep overall expenses down. Cities like St. Louis and Kansas City give you access to fun things to do without breaking the bank. It’s a good place for both workers and retires who want to save money.

Tennessee

Tennessee is about 11% cheaper than the national average. The average home costs $232,100. One big plus is there’s no state income tax. Housing is affordable and cities like Nashville and Memphis are full of music, food and outdoor fun. It’s perfect for people who want city life and nature too.

Whether it’s New York’s financial might, Silicon Valley’s tech dreams, or Singapore’s tax-friendly embrace, each city offers its unique recipe for attracting and retaining the world’s wealthiest individuals.

Money talks, but it has a preferred ZIP code. While some of us are still figuring out how to afford avocado toast, there are entire cities where millionaires outnumber the local coffee shops.

In 2025, the global wealth landscape continues to evolve, with some cities attracting money like magnets while others watch their wealthy residents pack their Louis Vuitton bags and head for greener pastures.

Wealthiest Cities in the World

According to the latest data from Henley & Partners in collaboration with New World Wealth, here are the 10 cities that are richest in the world.

1. New York City

New York City maintains its iron grip on the title of world’s wealthiest city, home to an astounding 384,500 millionaires, 818 centi-millionaires, and 66 billionaires.

The Big Apple’s financial ecosystem remains unparalleled, with Wall Street continuing to serve as the global nerve centre for finance and investment. Despite sky-high living costs that make a studio apartment cost more than most people’s annual salaries, and safety concerns that occasionally make headlines, NYC’s magnetic pull for the ultra-wealthy remains undiminished.

The city’s wealth concentration stems from its diverse economic base, encompassing not just finance but also real estate, media, technology, and luxury retail. Manhattan’s luxury real estate market alone represents billions in assets.

2. The Bay Area

The Bay Area, encompassing San Francisco and Silicon Valley, has witnessed explosive wealth growth, now housing approximately 305,700 millionaires. This represents a staggering 98% increase over the past decade, making it the fastest-growing wealth hub globally.

The region’s tech-driven economy has created unprecedented wealth through IPOs, venture capital investments, and the continued dominance of tech giants like Apple, Google, and Meta.

Silicon Valley’s unique ecosystem of innovation, venture capital, and entrepreneurship continues to mint new millionaires at an unprecedented rate.

The area’s concentration of tech talent, combined with a culture that celebrates risk-taking and innovation, has made it the modern equivalent of the California Gold Rush.

3. Tokyo

Tokyo stands proudly as Asia’s wealthiest metropolis, boasting 298,300 millionaires. Japan’s capital has maintained its economic prominence through decades of stability, technological advancement, and corporate excellence.

Tokyo’s wealth stems from its role as the economic heart of the world’s third-largest economy. The city’s blend of traditional business practices with cutting-edge innovation has created a unique environment for wealth accumulation.

From multinational corporations to family-owned businesses that have operated for centuries, Tokyo represents both stability and growth potential that continues to attract high-net-worth individuals from across Asia and beyond.

4. Singapore

Singapore has emerged as the preferred destination for Asia’s wealthy elite, now home to 244,800 millionaires and 30 billionaires.

The city-state’s meteoric rise in wealth rankings can be attributed to its pro-business policies, political stability, and strategic tax advantages. Singapore’s transformation into a regional financial hub has been nothing short of remarkable.

Singapore offers world-class infrastructure, exceptional safety, and a highly educated workforce, and serves as the perfect gateway between East and West.

Its regulatory environment is conducive to business, while its multicultural society and English-speaking environment make it attractive to international investors and entrepreneurs looking to establish their Asian operations.

5. Los Angeles

Los Angeles, the City of Angels, hosts 212,100 millionaires, 516 centi-millionaires, and 43 billionaires.

While Hollywood glamour initially put LA on the wealth map, the city’s economic base has diversified significantly. Today, LA is a major center for technology, aerospace, international trade, and luxury real estate, in addition to its entertainment industry dominance.

The city’s wealth ecosystem benefits from its position as the entertainment capital of the world, but extends far beyond movie studios and record labels. LA’s tech scene, often called “Silicon Beach,” has grown exponentially.

6. London

London, with 227,000 millionaires, has experienced a 15% decline in its wealthy population over the past decade. Brexit uncertainty, increased taxation, and changes to non-domiciled tax rules have prompted some wealthy individuals to relocate.

However, London’s status as a global financial centre, its rich cultural heritage, and its role as a gateway to Europe ensure it remains attractive to international wealth.

Despite recent challenges, London’s fundamentals remain strong. The city continues to serve as a major financial hub, with the City of London and Canary Wharf hosting numerous international banks and financial institutions.

7. Paris

Paris maintains its position as mainland Europe’s wealthiest city, home to 165,000 resident millionaires. The City of Light combines cultural sophistication with business acumen, serving as headquarters to numerous multinational corporations and luxury brands.

The city’s wealth ecosystem is built around luxury goods, fashion, finance, and tourism.

Paris serves as the global centre for luxury brands, from fashion houses to fine wines, creating wealth not just for business owners but for the entire ecosystem of suppliers, artisans, and service providers that support these industries.

8. Hong Kong

Despite political uncertainties and a slight decrease in numbers, Hong Kong remains a significant wealth centre with 154,900 millionaires.

The city’s strategic location, sophisticated financial services sector, and role as a gateway to China continue to attract substantial wealth, even as some residents have relocated to other places.

Hong Kong’s unique position as a bridge between China and the rest of the world ensures its continued relevance in global finance. The city’s free-market economy, rule of law, and established financial infrastructure provide advantages that are difficult to replicate elsewhere in the region.

9. Sydney

Sydney has climbed the wealth rankings impressively, now home to 152,900 high-net-worth individuals.

Australia’s largest city benefits from the country’s strong economy, abundant natural resources, political stability, and exceptional quality of life.

The city’s growth is supported by Australia’s mining boom, growing tech sector, and increasing integration with Asian economies.

Sydney offers an attractive lifestyle with beautiful beaches, excellent climate, and a growing business environment that appeals to both local entrepreneurs and international investors.

10. Chicago

Chicago rounds out the top 10 with 127,100 millionaires. The Windy City’s central location, diversified economy, and status as a major transportation hub contribute to its wealth concentration.

The city’s advantages include lower costs compared to coastal cities, strong educational institutions, and a business-friendly environment.

Chicago’s role as the economic center of the American Midwest, combined with its cultural attractions and lower cost of living relative to other major American cities, makes it an attractive location for both businesses and wealthy individuals.

Bottom Line

These 10 cities represent more than just concentrations of wealth; they’re economic powerhouses that shape global markets, drive innovation, and set trends that ripple across the world.

Whether it’s New York’s financial might, Silicon Valley’s tech dreams, or Singapore’s tax-friendly embrace, each city offers its unique recipe for attracting and retaining the world’s wealthiest individuals.

So the next time someone tells you location doesn’t matter, just remind them that apparently, millionaires didn’t get that memo.

Planning a trip in 2025? You might want to skip these overcrowded hotspots in favour of quieter, equally stunning alternatives.

Travel is booming again in 2025, but that’s not all good news. Some of the world’s most iconic destinations are buckling under the pressure of overtourism — with long queues, overwhelmed locals, and fragile landmarks bearing the brunt. If your idea of a holiday doesn’t involve shoulder-to-shoulder crowds or battling for a photo op, it might be time to rethink your bucket list. We’ve picked six overcrowded spots to avoid this year, along with less chaotic alternatives that offer just as much charm, culture, and scenery — minus the stress and sea of selfie sticks. Your sanity will thank you.

Here Are 6 Overcrowded Destinations Around The World And Their Alternatives:

1. Venice, Italy

The City of Canals has been dealing with overtourism for years, and it’s only getting worse. In 2024, Venice introduced a minimal day-tripper fee during peak times — and it’s still swamped. With over 20 million visitors annually (pre-pandemic numbers are back), locals are fed up, and you’ll feel it.

Alternate Destination:

Trieste, just two hours away by train, offers waterfront charm, Austro-Hungarian architecture, and a far more relaxed pace. It’s Venice without the elbow-jabbing gondola gridlock.

2. Machu Picchu, Peru

Peru has announced new daily visitor caps for Machu Picchu (just 4,500 per day) and a stricter permit system. The site has suffered major wear from the hundreds of thousands who visit each year. In 2023, UNESCO even threatened to put it on the endangered list due to overcrowding.

Alternate Destination:

Choquequirao, dubbed the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, is similarly spectacular but sees a fraction of the foot traffic. It’s a challenging trek to reach — which is exactly why it’s still peaceful.

3. Bali, Indonesia

Bali’s tourism boom has spiralled into an environmental crisis. In 2023, the local government introduced new “tourist etiquette” rules after a string of incidents involving disrespectful behaviour. Beaches are crowded, traffic is a nightmare, and locals are pushing back hard.

Alternate Destination:

Lombok, Bali’s quieter neighbour, has similar beaches and surfing without the Instagram-fuelled circus. Or check out Flores for untouched nature and the gateway to Komodo National Park.

4. Santorini, Greece

The whitewashed buildings and caldera views may be stunning, but Santorini is bursting at the seams. With up to 10,000 cruise passengers per day during peak season, it’s become more of a backdrop for social media than a Greek island experience.

Alternate Destination:

Head to Milos or Naxos. Both islands have charming villages, turquoise waters, and half the crowd. You might even score a table at a seafront taverna without booking weeks ahead.

5. Kyoto, Japan

After Japan reopened in late 2022, tourism surged — and Kyoto bore the brunt. In 2024, Gion residents called for tourists to stop photographing geishas and even restricted access to certain streets. The city is overwhelmed, especially in cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons.

Alternate Destination:

Check out Kanazawa, sometimes called “Little Kyoto”. It’s home to one of Japan’s top three gardens, a preserved samurai district, and plenty of traditional charm — minus the crowd control signs.

6. Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland’s tourism has grown over 400% in the last decade. Most travellers head straight for Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, leading to packed car parks, overwhelmed hot springs, and serious strain on fragile ecosystems.

Alternate Destination:

Venture to the Westfjords, one of Iceland’s least visited regions. It’s rugged, remote, and breathtaking – and you’ll feel like you have it to yourself.

Tourism should benefit both visitors and the places they visit. As travellers, it’s on us to make mindful choices. So skip the overcrowded icons and seek out the next great (but still under-the-radar) spot – you’ll have a better trip, and the planet will thank you for it.