Your vacation should reduce stress, not create it.

As seen in The Oakland Press

July 12th, 2026

Your vacation should reduce

stress, not create it.

by Ken Morris

Whether or not you’re a soccer fan, it’s been exciting to see visitors from all over the world enjoy their time in the U.S. From a financial perspective, the World Cup has been a big boost for many businesses across our nation, especially ones that serve beer and alcohol. From Los Angeles to New York and everywhere in between, tourists and foreign guests have been awed by some of the things we take for granted.

I find it amusing to see their amazement at large gas stations that sell a multitude of items. Not just petrol, but food and clothing? Wow! Many of them have also commented on various specialty restaurants, such as steak houses and breakfast establishments.

Is it surprising that so many things that are commonplace here are considered unique and wonderful by our visitors? Not really. The American way, driven by the free markets, strives for bigger and better at a competitive price. It’s unique. And seeing how the foreign tourists are enjoying it and  delighted by what they’re discovering, it makes me wonder why so many of our own countrymen are embracing socialist policies. Policies that tend to reduce the competitive juices that have built the strong and resilient American economy, which, by the way, is the envy of the world.

While thousands of foreigners are here following their favorite soccer team, many of our own citizens are visiting countries around the globe. After all, this is America’s peak vacation season. The bottom line is that people are criss crossing the world. And the travel industry is not only a big business in and of itself, it’s also the financial lifeblood for many other businesses.

Let’s face it. Travel is fun. Vacations are relaxing and can help reduce stress. But if you don’t plan carefully and spend within your means, stress is likely to strike again when bills come rolling in. We shouldn’t spend now and then try to figure out how to pay for it later.

I have a feeling that many, if not most vacationers, put the tab on a credit card. Unless you’ve planned carefully and know you can pay it off relatively quickly, you’re ultimately going to pay more than necessary. That interest is brutal, especially if you have a high balance.

Another consideration is that while you’re on vacation, your regular obligations are not. While you’re away, there’s still a mortgage to pay. Not to mention phone, gas, electric, cable and whatever other utilities you may have.

It’s important to keep an eye on your spending and finances during the summer travel months. It’s easy for our guests to pull out their credit cards and buy another round at their favorite American restaurant. But it’s just as easy for you to pull out the plastic whether you’re travelling domestically or abroad.

Be very aware of the state of your finances before you travel. Use common sense. Don’t plan something that’s going to destroy your budget.

One thing you might consider is to keep it local. There are many, many amazing places right here in Michigan worth visiting. From Mackinac Island to Sleeping Bear Dunes to Greenfield Village and so much more. Two peninsulas full of fun and adventure! No doubt about it, Michigan is a wonderful travel destination. And you’re already here.