Well all miss friends, don’t we? But… Travelling to the most expensive luxury destinations in the world is an experience defined by exclusivity, personalised service and exceptional attention to detail. From the moment one arrives, every element—from private airport transfers to tailored itineraries—is curated to meet the highest standards.Accommodations are often architectural masterpieces, offering breathtaking views, top-tier amenities, and complete privacy. Gourmet dining, often led by world-renowned chefs, transforms each meal into a sensory event, while wellness experiences go beyond the typical spa, integrating holistic practices and advanced treatments. Take a look at some of the wolrd’s most luxurious destinations.

7. Norway | Norway offers stunning natural beauty paired with high-end experiences, from Arctic lodges to fine dining beneath the sea. Its remote locations and strong economy mean prices for food, accommodation and transport can be steep. Travellers looking for luxury can expect exceptional service in pristine, dramatic landscapes.

6. United Arab Emirates (UAE) | The UAE is a land of ultra-modern architecture and lavish hotels, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Experiences like indoor skiing, gold-plated coffee and private desert safaris come at a premium. Luxury is woven into everyday life here, and spending quickly adds up for those indulging in the best.

5. Maldives | The Maldives is known for its secluded villas over turquoise waters, often accessible only by private seaplane. Many resorts offer all-inclusive luxury with personal butlers, spa treatments and curated menus. The cost of such exclusivity, paired with remote logistics, makes this a pricey tropical escape.

4. Monaco | Monaco radiates glamour, from superyachts in the harbour to its elite casinos and boutiques. Hotel rooms command staggering prices, especially during major events like the Grand Prix. With a small footprint but enormous wealth, even a short visit can become a costly indulgence.

3. Iceland | Iceland combines raw, untouched beauty with high-end adventure, including private glacier hikes and luxury geothermal spas. Limited infrastructure and high import costs drive up prices across the board. For those seeking rare natural wonders without sacrificing comfort, it delivers at a premium.

2. Switzerland | Switzerland blends precision, natural beauty and understated elegance, particularly in its alpine resorts and lakeside towns. High living costs extend to luxury hotels, gourmet cuisine and first-class transport. Whether skiing in St Moritz or dining beside Lake Geneva, the refinement comes with a high price.

1. Singapore | Singapore stands as one of the most expensive urban destinations, with sleek skyscrapers, designer malls and rooftop infinity pools. Its hotels, restaurants and attractions cater to high-end travellers seeking comfort and convenience. The city’s efficiency and cleanliness only enhance its polished, upscale appeal.

Connection and experience top the travel checklist as families are choosing wellness, cultural immersion, and quality time.

Family vacation dynamics are changing. No longer are they only about ticking off touristy spots, posing for photos, or strictly adhering to packed itineraries. Families are reshaping travel on their own terms, prioritising unique experiences over the whirlwind of sightseeing. These experiences vary, including immersive wellness activities, interactive engagements, or quality time spent across generations.

Stephan Kapek, Vice President Operations and General Manager of Shangri-La Singapore, shared the emerging trends in how families are reimagining their vacations.

Since experiences are coming to the forefront of family vacations, travel is changing to be more holistic. Stephan elaborated, “The way families travel has fundamentally changed. Today’s travellers are seeking more than just relaxation; they’re looking for experiences that foster connection, learning, and meaningful time together. Travel has also become a rare opportunity to pause, reflect, and bond across generations.”

Stephan listed out four key travel trends that families are leaning towards, where meaningful experiences take centre stage, whether it’s exploring with grandparents, taking short trips for busy families, or opting for wellness-focused getaways:

1. Multigenerational travel

• Families are increasingly travelling in multi-generational groups, grandparents, parents, and children vacationing together. These trips are about togetherness and creating shared core memories.
• Destinations that offer a balance of comfort, accessibility, and diverse activities for all ages are becoming more appealing for family reunions.

2. Microvacations

• Time-strapped families are embracing shorter, high-quality getaways that allow for meaningful relaxation and quality time without the need for extended travel.
• These quick, refreshing breaks are perfect for busy families who may only have a weekend or a few days to spare.
• Close-by destinations that are easy to reach become ideal choices for these micro vacations, offering a quick yet satisfying escape.

3. Experiential travel

• More families are moving away from traditional sightseeing in favour of experiences that immerse them in local cultures.
• These include cooking classes to nature excursions, and hands-on learning experiences, which are becoming a core part of family vacations.
• These experiences help families bond while gaining a deeper understanding of the places they visit, making their trips not just fun but enriching as well.

4. Wellness-focused travel

• Wellness travel is no longer exclusive to adults. Families are increasingly seeking out trips that focus on health and well-being for all ages.
• Wellness holidays that offer mindful activities like yoga and healthy eating are gaining popularity, as parents and children alike seek ways to relax and recharge while maintaining their mental and physical health.

Let’s admit, flying for long hours can be one of the most taxing things to do. But thanks to modern aircraft, there’s an increase in demand for non-stop aircrafts for long distance travel. You’ll be surprised to know that there are direct flights which stretch past 17 hours, covering over 10,000 miles in just one leg!

On this note, let’s have a look at five of the longest flights in the world.

1. New York (JFK) to Singapore (SIN)

Duration: 18 hours 40 minutes

Distance: 15,346 km

The number one name on the list is of a Singapore Airlines flight between New York and Singapore. The flight from JFK to Singapore is the longest commercial flight by both time and distance in the world. It is operated by the ultra-modern Airbus A350-900ULR. There are no economy seats, only premium economy and business class. The best part of being on this flight is the mesmerising and surreal views you get of the North Pole.

2. Singapore (SIN) to Newark (EWR)

Duration: 18 hours 25 minutes

Distance: 15,325 km

Again operated by Singapore Airlines, this flight is just a few minutes shorter than JFK one. Those aboard the A350-900ULR get several benefits including reduced cabin altitude, higher humidity, and advanced air filtration. Despite being such a long journey, the airlines manages to make the experience feel stress free.

3. New York (JFK) to Auckland (AKL)

Duration: 18 hoursDistance: 14,207 km

Operated by Air New Zealand, the flight between JFK and AKL is about 18 hours. This trans-Pacific route connects the US East Coast with New Zealand in one non-stop air travel. Air New Zealand’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is one of the best and most comfortable airlines to make such a long haul journey a memory!

4. San Francisco (SFO) to Bengaluru (BLR)

Duration: 17 hours 55 minutesDistance: 14,002 km

Connecting Silicon Valley with India’s Silicon Valley, this Air India flight is important for business travellers. The airline’s flight is designed for long-range operations and offers business, premium economy, and economy classes.

5. Los Angeles (LAX) to Singapore (SIN)

Duration: 17 hours 35 minutesDistance: 14,101 km

In the list, once again is Singapore Airlines flight operating between LA and SIN, and covering the Pacific from West Coast USA to Southeast Asia. No economy class on board! If you’re flying for business or high-end leisure, this ultra-long-haul is about as seamless and restful as it gets

Vacation season is here! Whether you are jet-setting across the country or hitting the road for a beach getaway, summer vacations often involve crowded airports, unfamiliar environments, and changes in routine, all of which can increase your chances of getting sick.

With a few simple precautions, you can protect your health and make the most of your well-deserved time off. Here’s some tips from David N. Mikhael, MD, Family Medicine physician at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, on how to travel smart and stay healthy while on vacation.

Wash Your Hands

Planes, trains, gas stations, and hotel rooms are full of high-touch surfaces. Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the easiest ways to prevent spread of germs. If soap and water aren’t available, carry hand sanitizer and use it often, especially before eating.

Stay Hydrated

Long flights and days in the sun can leave you dehydrated, which affects your energy levels and immune system. Bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Skip sugary sodas or too much alcohol, which can lead to dehydration.

Get Good Sleep

Changing time zones and jam-packed itineraries can throw off your sleep schedule. Try to maintain a consistent bedtime, and aim for at least 7 to 8 hours of rest per night. Bring ear plugs or an eye mask if you are a light sleeper. Rest is essential to keeping your immune system strong.

Keep a Travel Health Kit Handy

Pack smart by bringing a small travel health kit. Include pain relievers, allergy medicine, stomach relief, band-aids, hand sanitizer, and any prescription medications. It’s always better to have essentials ready in case something happens and you’re far away from a pharmacy.

Be Cautious with Food and Water

Trying new foods is part of the fun, but be mindful of where you’re eating. Stick to reputable restaurants and food vendors. If you’re traveling internationally, research whether local tap water is safe to drink. When in doubt, opt for bottled or filtered water.

Protect Yourself from Sun and Bugs

Vacation often means more time outdoors. Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. Inspect repellent is also important, especially if you’re heading somewhere with mosquitoes or ticks.

Stay Up to Date on Vaccines

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and boosters before you travel. If you’re going abroad, check if any additional vaccines are recommended for your destination.

Don’t Ignore Travel Fatigue

Travel itself can be taxing on your body. Between long hours of sitting, lifting luggage, or walking more than usual, listen to what your body needs. Take breaks, stretch often, and don’t feel guilty about building in some downtime.

Vacations should be about relaxing, exploring, and making memories, not getting sick. With a little preparation and awareness, you can protect your health and enjoy every moment. So pack your bags, take care of yourself, and get ready to feel your best wherever your travels take you!