Summer is the most popular time of year for Americans to travel, and despite concerns about inflation, 2024 could be a bustling year for summer vacations. A Nerdwallet travel report showed that more than 2 in 5 (45%) Americans plan to take a summer trip that involves booking a flight or hotel.

Family is a big component of summer plans. Four out of 5 surveyed are either planning to vacation with family or visit family this summer. With children out of school during the summer months, this is the time of year that families tend to take their longest venture away from home—and for many, that means an international trip.

Others want to get away from home to immerse themselves in a bucket list-worthy adventure. A trend report by American Express found that 65% of people looking to travel this year plan to splurge on a major trip, from off-the-beaten-path journeys to vacations through multiple European countries.

Whether travelers intend to make memories with family and friends or take the trip of a lifetime, many will look to international destinations for their summer vacations. To find out which global cities will be at the top of the list, Airalo compiled a ranking of the five most popular international summer travel destinations, according to Google Flights search data collected between January 2024 and March 2024.

Read on to see if your dream travel destination made the list.

#5. Cancun

Cancún has long been a favorite resort destination and in 2022 alone, 9.5 million international passengers arrived by plane, which made the city México’s most popular flight destination. Its close proximity to the United States and abundant direct flights help boost its rankings among American travelers. Perhaps the biggest draws for tourists are the white sand beaches and the temperate Caribbean Sea.

Travelers can choose from more than 35,000 rooms at different price points across dozens of Cancún resorts and hotels. Once visitors have had their fill of the Yucatán peninsula’s beautiful beaches, many enjoy visiting nearby historic ruins, including Chichén Itzá and Tulum.

#4. Rome

History buffs love Rome for its ancient architecture, which still stands among more modern parts of the city. The best-known tourist site is likely the Colosseum, the massive amphitheater that has hosted gladiator fights, animal hunting, and other public spectacles beginning in the first century. Visitors walking around the Eternal City may also see other landmarks of its long, storied history including ancient aqueducts, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. Food lovers can get a taste of authentic local cuisine, such as its celebrated carbonara, cacio e pepe, and suppli.

Nearby is Vatican City, the Roman Catholic church headquarters and the site of art masterpieces including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling and Raphael’s The School of Athens.

#3. Tokyo

Japan welcomed a record-setting 3.1 million international visitors in March 2024, many of whom came to the nation’s capital city, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. Travelers enjoy visiting the busy Sensō-ji temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, which features a golden icon of the Buddhist goddess of mercy. If you want a unique taste of the city, head to Harmonica Yokocho to find delectable dishes from tiny, unassuming restaurants.

Before tourists leave, many make a stop at Shibuya Crossing. Surrounded by stores and restaurants, the world’s busiest intersection is flooded by seas of strangers crossing under the bright lights of nearby advertisements.

#2. Paris

Paris remains one of the busiest tourist cities in the world, and it’s gearing up for an even bigger summer this year as the host of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. Many tourists beeline to the Eiffel Tower to snap a picture of the most visited monument in the world, but most don’t know about the gardens below the tower, which are free to access and a great place for a picnic.

Another iconic stop in Paris is the world’s largest museum, the Louvre. Of course, you can find art all over the City of Love—near the Pont de Grenelle bridge, for example, is a roughly 38-foot-tall replica of New York City’s Statue of Liberty. Of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without sampling the city’s many breads, cheeses, and pastries.

#1. London

Packed with plenty of things to see and do, the capital city of the United Kingdom is this summer’s most popular international destination for U.S. travelers. One of London’s top sites is also one of its oldest: once a royal palace, the Tower of London was built in 1066 by William the Conqueror and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buckingham Palace, another former residence of the British monarchy, is also a favorite tourist attraction today.

Westminster Abbey is another must-see. Buried or commemorated here are 3,300 notable individuals, including William Shakespeare, Sir Isaac Newton, and Queen Elizabeth I. When you’re ready to move on from historic sightseeing, check out the London Eye, where glass capsules offer a 360-degree view of the city.

With all travel comes finding accommodations, and one of the best ways to have a unique stay is to book via a service like Airbnb. While hotels can feel posh and offer luxe amenities, the rooms function equally across national chains. On the other hand, Airbnbs often provide a one-of-a-kind stay curated by thoughtful hosts.

However, one caveat that comes with each unique Airbnb property is that the standards at one location differ from the other. For example, while one property welcomes all pets, another may only allow documented service animals, which is why reading through the listing is essential.

While some descriptions get lengthy, there could be vital things you’re missing simply because you don’t know where to look. So, to ensure that you’re compliant while also aware of obscurities, here’s what to look for in every Airbnb listing, according to hosts and frequent guests.

Reviews reveal the pros and cons.

The overwhelming majority of experts suggest looking at reviews from prior stays. Airbnb shows a star designation for each property, which calculates an average based on previous ratings, but be sure to delve into the actual words of former guests. You never know what you’ll find — good or bad.

“Look for consistency in the reviews,” says Elliott Beenk, an Airbnb host in Los Angeles. “There will always be the random upset traveler. However, if multiple people are complaining about the same cold shower or broken AC, this may be something you should ask about before booking.” Reviews may also contain positive information about the property that the host hasn’t listed, such as how the sunrise hits the landscape or its proximity to the best coffee in town.

Scouring reviews is also a smart way to gauge the temperament and responsiveness of the host. Brittany Merriman is a blogger and travel specialists who often books Airbnb stays for a month — which makes finding a great host especially important to her. “Pay particular attention to reviews that mention an issue with the apartment,” she says. “If there was an issue, how did the host react?” Of course, problems can arise with any property, but how quickly and effectively a host remedied the situation is important to note. Often, guests will include this in their feedback, and hosts can also leave responses on reviews. “If the host didn’t react in a favorable or timely manner, I move on to another Airbnb listing,” says Merriman.

WiFi may be nonexistent or slow.

Some folks book Airbnbs for a weekend getaway and only need WiFi to scroll social media. Others need a strong internet connection to ensure that their midweek Zoom call isn’t cut short. So, if WiFi is a must, the first thing to do is see if your location has it, as some do not. Having internet access is an expectation in North America. However, it’s not uncommon for apartments in Europe and Asia to go without. “We have stayed in Airbnbs where we didn’t check that there was WiFi, and it turned out there wasn’t,” says Celeste Klassen, a freelance writer who frequently travels throughout Portugal and Bulgaria.

Also, be aware that just because an Airbnb has WiFi doesn’t mean that you can stream your favorite show, check emails, and conduct an online meeting all at once. “Ensure the WiFi is strong enough for how you plan to use it,” travel blogger Hanna Ashcraft tells Apartment Therapy. “Reading emails is different from streaming Netflix.” The Airbnb app allows hosts to check their WiFi speed and add the results to their listing page, which helps guests determine whether or not the internet can handle their particular needs.

Cameras could be on the property.

For the safety of guests and hosts alike, Airbnb has rules about cameras — the main ones being that they have to be disclosed and visible. “Outdoor security cameras are common and allowed and may even aid in your check-in,” says Beenk. In addition, many hosts use devices, such as doorbell cameras, to make sure that folks arrive safely and to count the number of guests on site.

However, Airbnb is very clear in its policies on cameras and recording devices inside and doesn’t allow hosts to monitor private spaces, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and central areas (such as a living room) used for sleeping. Beenk says, “Indoor cameras in private spaces are against Airbnb’s terms of service, illegal in several states, all-around creepy, and should be reported immediately.”

Kitchens may not be well stocked.

Access to cooking areas can vary with Airbnbs. If you book a whole house rental, chances are there should be a kitchen. However, with shared accommodations, you may only have access to a shared kitchen or a bare-bones kitchenette with just the essentials. Plus, just because a home has a place to prepare food doesn’t necessarily mean that it has the cookware and utensils to make a gourmet meal.

Ashcraft prefers to book an entire house to use the kitchen unabashedly, and she faithfully double-checks the appliance list to plan accordingly. “I’ve been put in a pickle when there was no oven, but I had hoped to throw in a frozen pizza or cook something else,” she recalls. “Another time, there was no way to make coffee.” The filter function at the top of the Airbnb page allows you to curate a list of accommodations that includes kitchen facilities.

Cancellations may cost you.

When booking your Airbnb, check to see when — and especially if — you can cancel your reservation without a penalty or fee. Especially in today’s climate, unexpected changes can cause a last-minute cancellation. Each Airbnb owner sets their policy on refunds, ranging from reimbursing day-of cancellations to allowing no refunds whatsoever.

“It is extremely important to pay attention to the cancellation policy,” says Mollie Krengel, who often books Airbnbs for women’s retreats. “At the beginning of COVID, I lost a lot of money to Airbnb due to their cancellation policies. I will always pay closer attention to this moving forward.” For some properties, there is an option to get a nonrefundable booking at a lower price, but only make that selection if you are 100 percent certain about your trip.

Parking could be off-site.

Read information about where to park, especially if you are booking an urban location. Many cities don’t allow on-street parking unless you have a permit, or you may have to move your car on street sweeping days. Luca Sforza, who photographs Airbnb rentals in Seattle, has noticed a variety of parking situations. “Street parking is very tough, and parking lots can be expensive and sometimes several blocks from the rental,” he says. Of course, a complimentary parking garage or dedicated space is always helpful as accommodation costs can skyrocket if you need to factor in additional funds for parking.

Property-specific rules are in the fine print.

Again, unlike the consistency of booking a chain hotel everywhere you go, each Airbnb has its own set of ground rules. For example, you may be sharing common areas with other guests, and there may be additional instructions about quiet hours or bringing your own towels deeply embedded in the details of the listing. As far as hosts and Airbnb are concerned, if it’s outlined in the listing, you are accountable for the information.

Jennifer Smith is a current Airbnb host who encourages guests to familiarize themselves with the property before arrival. “Read through the additional rules where hosts can add their own specific rules for their properties like signing a rental agreement or requiring a security deposit,” she says. Then, scour the listing to find details, such as when to check in and check out, to avoid having to query your host. “Most of the questions that I receive can be answered by either reading through the listing or the additional materials that are sent to them after booking,” Smith says.

With a bit of research, you can confidently book your stay and enjoy the uniqueness that comes with booking an Airbnb property.

As the summer sun beckons, it is time to start planning a proper summer vacation with the family and friends. Whether you want to make an easy trip to a tropical paradise or to plan a multiple hopping a bustling city, or a serene mountain retreat to reach your final destination once.

William Hall, Vice -President of Marketing and Digital, RCI EMEM, India and APAC, suggested some essentials which each traveller needs to have this summer vacation to make the most of the travel and create unforgettable memories –

1. Choose destinations wisely and plan your travel in advance: Shortlisting a destination thoughtfully and planning your travel effectively are key to saving time, money, and ensuring safety. Popular tourist spots can be overly crowded, leading to less enjoyable experiences. Exploring lesser-known destinations can offer a more tranquil and relaxing vacation. Consider places with cooler temperatures or opportunities for water activities to enhance your summer travel experience. By making informed choices, you can make the most of your journey while avoiding common pitfalls associated with busy tourist areas.
2. Keep yourself hydrated: Water is universally known to be essential, yet we often forget to drink enough of it. During summers, it’s crucial to keep your body hydrated and eat well to avoid losing out on any location due to dehydration, fatigue, or other health issues. Proper hydration and nutrition can enhance overall mood and improve the travel experience.
3. Packing Essentials: Creating a checklist beforehand saves time and money by preventing the need to purchase necessities while on the go. ensuring you have all the essentials for a stress-free trip, including medications, travel documents, and chargers, to avoid unnecessary inconveniences. Moreover, packing comfortable and breathable fabrics is crucial to avoid discomfort during your journey. Remember to include summer travel essentials such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and scarves in your packing list.
4. Travel First Aid Kit: Having a well-stocked first aid kit can provide peace of mind and ensure that you are prepared for any medical situation that may arise during your travels. In addition to your regular medications, it’s important to carry certain common medicines and supplements when planning a summer trip. Multivitamins, fiber supplements, and other sources of instant energy are must-haves in your travel medicine kit to replace all the minerals and salts that you may lose during travelling in India in the summer.
5. Travel Early: It is suggested to travel early during summers because it can help you if you wish to do outdoor activities. The cooler temperatures in the morning and evening make it easier to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, or exploring. Additionally, travelling early can reduce the risk of exhaustion from the hot weather. Planning the perfect summer trip requires preparation and excitement, and with the right mindset and planning, you can make the most of your time at your destination. Starting your day early can also give you more time to explore and experience all that your destination has to offer.

Travelling is the best way to learn and experience new cultures, places, people, and cuisines. The tips mentioned for summer travel will help you plan a safe trip. So, pack your bags and get ready for the adventure you’ve been waiting for!

Backache after a long car ride? Sore neck from trying to sleep on a plane? Try these tips before the next time you head out of town.

I love taking vacations, but travel has an uncanny way of making me feel old. I inevitably pull a muscle trying to lift my bag into the plane’s overhead bin. My lower back aches during long car rides. My neck throbs after a short airplane nap.

It’s not surprising that travel causes pain and, sometimes, injury. “You’re out of your norm, you’re changing your patterns,” said Dr. D.J. Kennedy, a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. You’re doing things like pulling a 30-pound suitcase for what feels like six miles as you sprint to catch your connecting flight, which is probably not something your body has trained for.

With summer travel approaching prepandemic levels in the United States, I’m sure I’m not alone in experiencing — and wondering what can be done to ease — travel-induced aches and pains. So for this week’s newsletter, in part because I have a cross-country flight in a few days, I talked to a physical therapist and two physicians to get advice.

Make travel plans with your body in mind

When you’re planning a vacation, keep your body’s strengths and limitations in mind, Dr. Kennedy suggested. If sitting in a car for long periods tends to hurt your back, a weeklong road trip might not be your best option.

That said, if you really want to take the trip that might make your body unhappy, you can take steps to prepare for it in advance. If you have arthritis in your knee and walking is painful, you can still go on a walking tour, but you might want to see a physical therapist or physical medicine doctor in the months leading up to the trip to improve your range of motion and endurance, Dr. Kennedy said. Or, he added, you might think about getting a shot to reduce swelling and pain. Be sure to bring any doctor-recommended pain medications with you in case you need them, too, he said.

Limit the weight you must bear

When it comes to handling luggage, the best approach is to pack lightly so your bags aren’t heavy. But that’s simply not possible for some people (including me). Thankfully, there are ways to make heavy luggage more manageable.

Dr. Kennedy said that roller bags are less likely to cause injury and pain than bags you must carry by hand or on your shoulder. He prefers bags that move on four wheels rather than two, because moving them requires less effort. The big pushcarts you can rent from the airport can also be helpful for moving luggage, he said.

If you need to carry a bag on your body, a backpack is the best option, said Dr. Deborah Venesy, a physician in the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Spine Health in Ohio, and she said you should use both straps to distribute the weight evenly. Colleen Louw, a physical therapist based in Iowa and a spokeswoman for the American Physical Therapy Association, added that backpacks should hang evenly in the middle of the back — not down against the low back — and that straps should be adjusted to make it easy to take the backpack on and off.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you struggle to lift your luggage, Dr. Kennedy said. (He is a former competitive powerlifter, but said he has a shoulder injury and often asks for help lifting his bags into the plane’s overhead compartment.)

If sitting causes pain, take movement and stretching breaks

An hour or so into every car or plane ride, the side of my back starts aching, and that’s in part because bodies aren’t meant to stay stationary. “Movement is essential to keep blood flowing to your muscles and joints to help prevent stiffness and pain,” Ms. Louw explained. Ideally, you’ll want to stand up and walk around at least once every hour if you’re feeling pain, Dr. Kennedy advised. If you have trouble remembering to do this, set a timer or drink lots of water so you need frequent bathroom breaks, he suggested. (Dr. Venesy said she prefers aisle seats so she can get up regularly.)

As for how to sit, Ms. Louw said that sitting upright, or with a slight recline, is generally the best position for the spine. Dr. Venesy added that rolling up a sweatshirt or fleece and resting it behind your lower back could also provide pain-relieving lumbar support.

Stretching can also be useful. One good stretch to do while sitting is a spine twist, where you put both hands on one leg and gently twist your upper body in the same direction, then repeat on the other side, Dr. Venesy said. A good seated stretch for the low back and hips is a figure four stretch, where you rest your right heel on your left knee and lean forward, and vice versa, she added. Dr. Kennedy said that it may feel good to stand up and do a slight back bend, too. (If you’re in pain from standing for a long time, the opposite could ease your pain — leaning into a forward fold, he said.)

If you experience leg cramps while sitting, try pumping your ankles — alternately pointing and then flexing your feet — with your knees bent and extended, Ms. Louw suggested.

Prevent neck pain by reading or watching tablets at eye level and using a neck pillow

If you’re anything like me, you look down a lot during flights or as a car passenger — at your phone, a tablet or a book. But this position can cause neck pain, Dr. Kennedy said. It’s far better to bring things closer to eye level. Some airplanes now have devices that allow you to hang your phone or tablet on the back of the seat in front of you, he said, and you can also buy accessories that will do this for you (or even fashion one out of a sickness bag).

If you think you’ll doze off in the plane or car, you may also want to invest in a neck pillow. Dr. Kennedy prefers designs that are thinner in the back than on the sides, because they don’t pitch the head forward too much when you lean against the seat.

I’m not going to be able to put all these suggestions into practice for my upcoming trip — I’m sure my suitcase will be just under the maximum weight limit, as usual — but I’ll certainly make some changes to my travel habits.