As the holiday season is upon us, many people are rejoicing at the prospect of taking a well-deserved break from the daily grind. However, for many others, the holiday period has become a stressful and overwhelming experience. With the rise of overspending and traffic congestion, it's no wonder that many people are dreading the coming weeks. According to a recent survey conducted by the travel company, Expedia, 70% of Americans are planning to take a vacation during the holidays. While this might seem like a welcomed respite, many people are finding themselves feeling anxious and stressed about the prospect of traveling. With increasing traffic congestion and long lines at airports, getting to one's destination has become a nightmare. The situation is even more dire for those who have not planned their holidays in advance. With many popular destinations already booked solid, those who wait until the last minute are left with limited options and often have to settle for subpar accommodations. Not only is the travel experience a source of stress, but many people are also finding themselves overwhelmed by the financial burden of the holiday season. According to a survey conducted by the credit card company, Visa, 42% of Americans expect to spend more than $1,000 this holiday season, with 15% expecting to reach $5,000 or more. With many people already struggling to make ends meet, it's no wonder that the holiday period has become a financial burden for many. Despite the challenges, many people are still finding ways to make the holiday season special. According to a recent survey conducted by the Eventbrite, 70% of people believe that the holiday season [[https://holiday-heritage.webnode.page/l/october-17th-2024-national-pasta-day/|is it a holiday today]] a time for spending time with loved ones and making memories. With the rise of experiential travel, many people are opting for unique experiences such as cooking classes, wine tastings, and outdoor adventures. In addition, many people are finding creative ways to cut costs without sacrificing the holiday spirit. According to a survey conducted by the website, The Kitchn, 40% of people are opting for homemade gifts, such as baked goods, crafts, and personalized items. Meanwhile, 30% are sticking to traditional gifts, such as books and clothing. Despite the challenges, many people are finding ways to make the holiday season special. With a little creativity and planning, it's possible to have a stress-free and enjoyable holiday season. In conclusion, while the holiday season may have its challenges, it's still possible to have a enjoyable and stress-free holiday. By planning ahead, cutting costs, and focusing on the things that truly matter, people can make the most of this special time of year.