🏡 No Trip, No Problem: Why Skipping Summer Travel Makes Sense

TRAVEL TRENDS
🏡 No Trip, No Problem: Why Skipping Summer Travel Makes Sense

As prices soar and economic uncertainty rises, many Americans are rethinking their summer travel. But skipping a trip isn’t just practical, it might be smart.

• More than 50% of Americans are cutting back on summer vacations due to rising costs and financial stress.

• Common reasons for canceling include high airfare, hotel prices, overcrowded destinations, and safety concerns.

• Experts say it’s perfectly fine to stay home—vacations aren't mandatory, and financial or personal stress can spoil the experience.

• On the flip side, some not-so-great reasons include not wanting to leave a pet, being "too busy," or thinking you're not a good traveler.

• Canceling might lead to disappointment from travel companions or penalties from prepaid bookings—consider travel insurance if plans change.

• Fall travel could offer a cheaper, less crowded alternative for those postponing summer plans.

So, if you’re skipping the beach or Europe this year no shame, no guilt. Sometimes, staying home is the smartest trip of all.

TRAVEL TIPS
🧳 Southwest Now Charges for Bags—Here’s How to Still Check One for Free

The free-bag era at Southwest Airlines is officially over. As of 2025, travelers now face $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second—unless they hold the right credit card or elite status.

• The best workaround? A Southwest credit card, which now includes 1 free checked bag for the cardholder and up to 8 companions on the same reservation.

• Even the $99/year Plus card offsets its cost with just three bag checks per year.

• For more perks, like preferred seat selection or extra legroom upgrades, look at the Priority or Performance Business cards.

• Elite status also helps:

  • A-List members get 1 free bag

  • A-List Preferred still receive 2 free bags

Bottom line: If you fly Southwest even a few times a year, a co-branded credit card or elite status could save you serious money and keep your bags flying for free.

DIGITAL NOMAD
🌍 Europe’s Top 10 Cities for Digital Nomads in 2025

Looking to live and work abroad? These remote worker–approved destinations offer the right balance of affordability, infrastructure, and inspiration for the digital nomad lifestyle.

• Madeira, Portugal – Home to a dedicated Digital Nomad Village, great weather, and low costs.

• Kotor, Montenegro – A serene, coastal retreat with stunning landscapes and temporary residence options.

• Pistoia, Italy – A hidden gem in Tuscany with a new digital nomad visa for qualified workers.

• Prague, Czech Republic – Known for its low prices, rich culture, and freelancer-friendly Zivno license.

• Bratislava, Slovakia – A laid-back, affordable city perfect for focused work and quiet living.

• Ljubljana, Slovenia – Combines green space, safety, and proximity to nature with strong infrastructure.

• Dubrovnik, Croatia – Offers an 18-month digital nomad visa and a scenic, growing nomad community.

• Tirana, Albania – Visa-free for U.S. citizens for up to one year, and still under the radar.

• Athens, Greece – Energetic and historic, with co-working spaces and a flexible nomad visa.

• Tallinn, Estonia – A pioneer in nomad visas with high-speed internet and a thriving tech scene.

Thinking of making the leap? These spots are ready to welcome you and your laptop.

CRUISE ALERT
🚨 U.S. Issues Travel Alert for Antarctica

On July 28, the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 2 advisory for Antarctica, urging travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to extreme weather and limited emergency services.

• Environmental risks include unpredictable storms, harsh temperatures, and scarce medical infrastructure.

• Antarctica has no U.S. embassy; the nearest are in Chile, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

• The region remains a top cruise destination, with over 80,000 visitors landing during the 2024/2025 season.

• Cruise lines like Viking, Silversea, Quark Expeditions, and Norwegian operate there, but only ships with fewer than 500 passengers can land.

• The State Department recommends using IAATO-certified operators and having emergency evacuation insurance.

While Antarctica offers incredible wildlife and once-in-a-lifetime adventure, travelers are urged to plan carefully and register with STEP for real-time alerts.

FRIENDLY AIRPORTS
🧳 Flying with Kids? This Is the World's Most Family-Friendly Airport

Traveling with children can be stressful—but some airports make it easier. A new global ranking reveals the top 10 airports that go the extra mile for families.

• Menorca Airport (MAH), Spain ranks No. 1 with a score of 95/100, offering 4 play areas, 3 nursing rooms, 8 restaurants, and fewer crowds.

• Riga Airport, Latvia and Warsaw Chopin Airport, Poland take second and third, thanks to rentable strollers, family-friendly security, and ample kid-focused amenities.

• Other top picks include airports in Canada, Norway, Turkey, France, the U.K., Germany, and Denmark.

• The best U.S. entry? Memphis International Airport (MEM) at No. 23—no American hub made the top 20.

• Rankings were based on essentials like nursing rooms, children’s play areas, stroller rentals, and family security lanes.

For parents, these features can mean the difference between a smooth trip and a toddler tantrum. If you're flying with little ones, Menorca might just be your new favorite layover.