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!

Whether it’s a grouchy work morning, a first date, or a desperate hangover fix, coffee is often the first thing we reach for, rain, or shine. As Lorelai Gilmore famously taught us, it’s not just a beverage—it’s a lifeline.

Sure, there’s joy in brewing it yourself in a moka pot at sunrise. But let’s be honest: coffee just hits differently when it’s handed to you over the counter at your favorite café, plucked off a hand-lettered whiteboard menu next to a display of flaky pastries. Turns out, part of what makes it taste so good might just be the price tag.

According to Deutsche Bank’s 2025 “Mapping the World’s Prices” report, the cheapest cup of cappuccino in the world is in Cairo, Egypt, at just $1.57. While Zurich in Switzerland tops the chart at a steep $6.77 per cup.

In India, the numbers are more comforting. A cappuccino in Delhi averages $2.07, while in Mumbai it’s slightly pricier at $2.58. Italy, home of the cappuccino and entire espresso-fueled mornings, unsurprisingly lands on the affordable side too. In Rome, you can still sip on one for $1.79, making it the second cheapest city in the world.

Here’s where your caffeine craving might just make your wallet wince a little:

The most expensive places in the world to grab a cappuccino

1. Switzerland (Zurich): $6.77
2. Denmark (Copenhagen): $6.77
3. United States (New York): $5.95
4. United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi): $5.84
5. United Kingdom (Edinburgh): $5.28
6. Finland (Helsinki): $5.13
7. Sweden (Stockholm): $5.10
8. Hong Kong (Hong Kong): $5.09
9. Qatar (Doha): $5.08
10. Austria (Vienna): $4.96