While it may seem unnecessary, making a travel checklist can actually save you from last-minute travel disasters.

Every seasoned traveller would agree that the quality of a travel experience often depends on your luggage and packing. Forgotten essentials, overstuffed suitcases, missing paperwork, or an incompatible charger—packing right is an art. National Geographic notes that well-thought-out, pre-planned packing can significantly reduce travel stress. Here are a few tips to help you have a smoother journey. A 2024 Behavioural Science & Digital Health trial also showed that travellers using packing checklists experience 40% less anxiety and 50% fewer forgotten items than those who pack without guidance.

1. Pack light and smart

With many travel plans centred on capturing the perfect Instagram picture, overflowing luggage has become a common problem. However, for a truly stress-free experience, the golden rule of packing is to take half the clothes you were planning to bring and twice the money. This not only lightens your load but also leaves room for local fashion finds to make it into your suitcase. Pack versatile clothing, especially in neutral colours and wrinkle-resistant fabrics, that can be layered and mixed to reduce the need for multiple outfits.

2. Use packing cubes or organisers

Whether it’s your wardrobe or your suitcase, compartmentalisation works wonders. Studies in cognitive psychology suggest that proper organisation reduces mental load, freeing up resources for other tasks and lowering stress. The same principle applies to travel: packing cubes or organisers help maximise luggage space and make it easy to find what you need without rummaging in a panic.

3. Carry travel-sized toiletries

There’s no need to carry unnecessary weight with full-sized toiletries, especially for short trips. Use small refillable bottles to pack your favourite lotions, hair care products, and more without straining your shoulders. Smaller bottles also reduce the risk of spills and leaks. Additionally, many airlines have strict rules about liquids, gels, and creams—selective packing helps you comply without sacrificing your essentials.

4. Prepare a “must-have” carry-on bag

Whether travelling by road, air, train, or cruising through your destination, it’s impractical to carry your main luggage everywhere. With frequent complaints of lost, delayed, or even stolen luggage, dividing your belongings becomes essential. Keep a separate carry-on bag with all your essentials handy: important documents, medications, a change of clothes, electronics, chargers, and snacks. For international trips, passports, visas, and travel insurance documents should be easily accessible at all times.

5. Make a checklist

While it may seem unnecessary, making a travel checklist can actually save you from last-minute travel disasters. Whether it’s a toothbrush, a makeup essential, or an adapter plug, creating your checklist in advance helps you avoid the rush. You can categorise it into sections like clothing, toiletries, electronics, documents, and accessories. It also prevents overpacking and ensures that you don’t leave behind important items, including clothes, gadgets, travel-sized toiletries, and personal essentials. For added convenience, keep a digital copy of your checklist on your phone for easy reference.

Discover the 10 most relaxing destinations in the world for 2025. From sun-soaked San Diego to serene Helsinki, explore cities with lush parks, wellness retreats, and peaceful vibes perfect for recharging mind and body.

In a world that never seems to slow down, more travellers are seeking peace, serenity, and a chance to recharge. According to Holafly’s 2025 research, over 60% of U.S. travellers now prioritize vacations that nurture mental well-being, fueling the booming $1 trillion wellness travel industry. Whether it’s wandering through lush parks, indulging in soothing spa treatments, or simply soaking up sunshine by the water, modern travellers are putting relaxation front and centre, and as per research, the world’s most relaxing cities for 2025 were ranked based on air quality, access to parks and nature, number of spas and wellness centres, sunshine hours, public happiness, and traffic conditions—offering sun-drenched coastlines, leafy urban retreats, and the perfect places to slow down, breathe deeply, and let the stress of everyday life melt away.

1. San Diego, United States – Sunshine & Serenity

Topping the list, San Diego is the ultimate sunny escape. Picture sprawling beaches, 266 parks and nature reserves, and 359 spas and wellness centres, all bathed in over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year. This laid-back Californian city makes unwinding effortless, whether you’re strolling along the coast or lounging under palm trees.

2. Singapore, Singapore – Green Oasis in the City

Modern, efficient, and surprisingly peaceful, Singapore proves a bustling metropolis can still be calm. With 242 parks, 698 wellness centres, excellent air quality, and 2,022 sunshine hours, the city-state effortlessly blends urban living with nature. Add high public happiness scores and moderate traffic, and you have a city break that’s as relaxing as it is vibrant.

3. Vienna, Austria – Classical Calm

Vienna is a symphony of calm and culture. 91 parks, 137 spas, pristine streets, and more than 2,000 hours of sunshine a year create the perfect environment to unwind. Whether it’s a slow stroll along the Danube or a leisurely afternoon in a historic café, Vienna lets visitors soak in beauty at a gentle pace.

4. Sydney, Australia – Beaches & Bliss

Sydney pairs cosmopolitan energy with oceanic serenity. From iconic beaches to 239 parks and 368 wellness centres, plus 2,468 hours of sunshine, the city encourages outdoor living and spa indulgence alike. Here, relaxation meets adventure in a sun-soaked playground for the soul.

5. Melbourne, Australia – Botanical Beauty & Balance

Melbourne knows how to unwind in style. Its 215 parks and nature reserves, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, 249 wellness centres, and 2,360 hours of sunshine, make it ideal for a slow-paced, restorative city break—perfect for travellers craving a blend of culture, greenery, and self-care.

6. Berlin, Germany – Urban Calm Meets Culture

Berlin’s wide boulevards, leafy parks, and vibrant wellness scene create a city that’s as relaxing as it is creative. Here, history and modernity coexist while you enjoy quiet corners and urban green spaces for rejuvenation.

7. Auckland, New Zealand – Nature’s Retreat

Surrounded by rolling hills, sparkling harbours, and lush landscapes, Auckland is a natural haven for stress-free living. Outdoor activities, fresh air, and wellness retreats make it the perfect city to reconnect with nature and oneself.

8. Portland, United States – Eco-Friendly Escape

Portland’s lush greenery, river trails, and focus on sustainable living make it an urban escape with a natural twist. Relax in its parks, explore quiet neighbourhoods, or recharge at one of the city’s wellness hubs.

9. Rome, Italy – La Dolce Vita

Rome proves that relaxation and history can go hand in hand. From leisurely café mornings to tranquil piazzas and hidden gardens, the Eternal City offers a slower pace beneath its vibrant culture, letting visitors sip, stroll, and savour every moment.

10. Helsinki, Finland – Nordic Calm

Helsinki embodies Scandinavian serenity. Clean air, abundant nature, and countless saunas and wellness centres make Finland’s capital a haven for mental and physical restoration—ideal for travellers craving peace in an urban setting.

Travel ideas and tips abound on Shenaz Treasury’s Instagram. A recent interactive reel on responsible travel habits was shared by her. Check it out here

Although Shenaz Treasury has taken a hiatus from acting, she keeps creating a buzz on social media for her travel posts. From sharing tips on how to manage the budget effectively to suggesting ways for promoting the best travel experience, Shenaz’s Instagram is filled with effective travel hacks. Just a week ago, the former actress shared an interactive reel on how one can travel responsibly. “Let’s come together and leave a place a little better than we found it rather than leaving a mess behind when we leave,” said Treasury. Here are the hacks shared by Shenaz Treasury.

Tips to travel responsibly:

1. Pack Light: According to Shenaz Treasury packing light leads to a reduction in extra kg which can further reduce carbon emission in the atmosphere. So, the next time you travel only carry things that are required.
2. Public transport: Opt for public transport instead of private whenever possible. It isn’t only cost-effective but also reduces the possibility of carbon emissions.
3. Cloth bags: Say no to polythene bags. When shopping during travelling carry your own shopping bags, especially those made out of clothes to carry items.
4. Support local businesses: Along with trying the best brands, also find ways to support local businesses by purchasing goods from them. This also allows one to connect more with the ethnicity of the place.
5. Sustainable accommodations: “We’ve all heard about sustainable, green, ethical, and ecotourism. We are now finally hearing about destinations, hotels, airlines, and other tourism companies branding themselves as eco-friendly and sustainable,” says Shenaz Treasury. Hence, when choosing accommodation make sure they are sustainable.
6. Adapter: The actress-turned-travel blogger suggests, “Carry an all-in-one adapter to plug in your electronic devices.”
7. Carry Tiffin box: While exploring new restaurants and places make sure to carry a tiffin box for leftovers. It is better to take food home than to waste it.
8. Water bottle: Instead of purchasing plastic water bottles, carry your own. Refill it from time to time and reuse it. This also promotes self-hygiene.
9. No littering: Carry an extra bag for waste products during travelling, and collect it together instead of littering places. One can dispose of the waste when they find a garbage tin or dustbin.

Discover which cities top the global cost of living index and why they’re so expensive in 2025

Living abroad can be exciting, but the cost of daily life is a major factor for anyone considering relocation. Some countries and cities carry high rents, expensive groceries, utilities, and services that quickly add up. Knowing which destinations are the priciest helps travelers and expatriates plan and budget effectively.

Living expenses vary widely around the world, influenced by factors such as local wages, housing demand, import reliance, and taxation. While some destinations offer luxury and convenience, others provide more affordable options.

The Cost of Living Index by Numbeo, updated throughout 2025, compares everyday expenses in thousands of locations worldwide. Costs are measured against New York City, set at 100, meaning a score above 100 indicates higher prices than in NYC.

Based on the mid-year 2025 report, here are the ten most expensive places to live, ranked from least to most expensive.

10. Guernsey

The Bailiwick of Guernsey, a self-governing British Crown Dependency in the Channel Islands, features picturesque landscapes and luxurious residences. St. Peter Port, the main town, is filled with multimillion-dollar homes. While rent, groceries, and dining costs remain high, they are still slightly below New York City’s prices.

The island combines serene landscapes with strong community life, attracting expatriates seeking tranquility, safe neighborhoods, and access to local culture alongside moderately lower costs than major metropolitan hubs.

9. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a vibrant metropolis with a dynamic economy and abundant business opportunities. Rent and housing are particularly high due to limited land and population density. Dining out can be affordable in non-upscale restaurants, but overall living expenses remain elevated for residents and expatriates.

Hong Kong offers unmatched career opportunities, a dense international community, and vibrant cultural events, though residents must adapt to small living spaces and high urban congestion.

8. Luxembourg

Luxembourg’s strong economy drives up prices for groceries, dining, and other services. Higher wages help balance costs, while residents benefit from excellent healthcare and social support. The country combines high living standards with relatively manageable city sizes.

Luxembourg blends modern infrastructure with historical charm, providing top-quality education, international business presence, and secure neighborhoods that make the cost of living more tolerable for residents.

7. Denmark

Copenhagen is ranked among the top 15 most expensive cities globally, influencing Denmark’s overall cost index. Taxes and restaurant prices are high, though the country offers robust social support and quality healthcare, which contribute to its overall appeal despite the high living costs.

Denmark balances high expenses with excellent public transport, extensive social benefits, rich cultural life, and sustainable urban planning that enhances overall lifestyle satisfaction.

6. Norway

Norway’s major cities, such as Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim, have high housing, grocery, and restaurant costs. Residents enjoy excellent public services, safety, and access to stunning natural landscapes. High expenses are offset by strong social systems and a high quality of life.

Norway’s natural scenery and outdoor recreation options complement high wages and strong welfare systems, offering residents health, safety, and well-being despite high living expenses.

5. Singapore

Singapore is a compact city-state with limited property, making housing and car ownership expensive. Public transport is efficient and relatively affordable, and hawker centers offer lower-cost dining. The city attracts global professionals with high salaries but equally high daily living costs.

Singapore combines efficient public services, green spaces, and safety with a cosmopolitan lifestyle, international schools, and job opportunities that attract global professionals despite elevated costs.

4. Bahamas

The Bahamas offers a tropical lifestyle, but life in Nassau and resort areas is costly. High rent and tourist demand drive prices up. Residents enjoy stunning beaches and an appealing climate, but everyday expenses remain elevated.

The Bahamas provides island leisure, abundant watersports, and a relaxed lifestyle, yet residents must navigate high utility costs and imported goods, especially in tourism-heavy areas.

3. Iceland

Iceland relies heavily on imports, which drives up grocery and fuel costs. Reykjavik exceeds New York City in restaurant prices. Despite the high costs, the country is considered one of the safest and happiest in the world, with remarkable landscapes and cultural appeal.

Nonetheless, Iceland blends extraordinary landscapes with a small, welcoming population, excellent healthcare, and low crime, making it desirable even with costly food and utilities.

2. Switzerland

Switzerland hosts some of the world’s priciest cities, including Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Lausanne. High rents, taxes, and general living costs are balanced by excellent infrastructure, healthcare, and overall quality of life. Residents accept the high expenses in exchange for stability and services.

Switzerland offers a combination of scenic beauty, robust public services, and stable economy, which offsets its high prices and appeals to residents seeking security and quality infrastructure.

1. Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands rank at the top of the list, attracting wealthy expatriates due to tax advantages and offshore financial services. Housing, food, and other living costs are significantly elevated. Those who can afford it gain access to luxurious amenities, pristine beaches, and stable economic conditions.

Cayman Islands feature exclusive beaches, offshore financial hubs, and high-end amenities, attracting wealthy expats, though everyday essentials and property come at premium costs.

Island nations like the Cayman Islands, Bahamas, and Guernsey tend to be expensive due to limited land, tourism, and import reliance. Scandinavian countries and Switzerland combine high salaries with elevated costs.

Urban financial hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong have high property prices and strong demand. Despite the costs, these locations generally provide high quality of life, excellent safety, and public services.

Conclusion

The world’s most expensive places require careful budgeting and planning for anyone considering relocation. From tropical islands to financial metropolises, high living costs are offset by safety, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Understanding the relative expenses helps expats and travelers make informed choices about lifestyle, accommodation, and daily spending.

For prospective expats, understanding the nuances of each destination is crucial. High-cost locations like the Cayman Islands, Switzerland, and Singapore may offer higher salaries or tax advantages.

Smaller regions such as Guernsey and the Bahamas provide lifestyle perks despite steep day-to-day expenses. Budget planning is essential.