New York City, ParisLondon? Although living in these cities may seem incredibly expensive, there are still a few other metropolises that are a bit more expensive. The management consultancy Mercer has published its "cost of living"-ranking for 2021. Costs for housing, transport, food and entertainment are assessed. Last year, Hong Kong was still at the top. But the new number one of the most expensive cities in the world is a surprise!

1. ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Because in the first place is Ashgabat. The reason why the capital of Turkmenistan is currently the most expensive in the world is an ongoing financial crisis. As a result, the cost of living has also significantly increased in recent years. Nevertheless, the oasis in the Karakum Desert is a very interesting destination. Because, the big city with a little more than one million inhabitants is still comparatively young and therefore also very modern. Large boulevards meet magnificent white marble buildings and imposing national monuments. In the northwest of Ashgabat lies the famous Ruhy Mosque with its large gilded dome. Culture and tradition are not neglected here either. The traditional carpet art can be admired almost on every corner.

2. Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong was pushed from first to second place in the ranking. One of the reasons why it is so expensive to live in the metropolis of millions: the city hardly has enough space to accommodate all the people who want to live there. Therefore, this living space has also become very expensive. But this is no wonder, because the city convinces with an almost unique diversity. In total, Hong Kong consists of 263 small and one large peninsula. This is probably why the "Star Ferry" is one of the city's floating attractions. The boat brings people back and forth between the two pulsating districts Koomloon and Hong Kong City. You can also find numerous other spectacular things in the metropolis, such as the highest bar, the longest escalator and the most skyscrapers in the world.

3. Beirut, Lebanon

In third place in the ranking of the most expensive cities in the world is Beirut. According to Mercer, this is due to the development of economic depression, which was further exacerbated by the pandemic. However, the capital of Lebanon is not suitable as a tourist destination, due to frequent acts of terrorism.

4. tokyo, japan

The cost of living in the Japanese capital is so high that it occupies fourth place in the ranking. Holidaymakers who visit Tokyo probably know what we're talking about here. The tourist magnet is fascinating: the immense size, the interplay of tradition and modernity and also the cleanliness and order create enthusiasm. Around 9.6 million people live in the capital itself. This also makes Tokyo one of the largest cities in the world. If you are looking for unique moments, you have come to the right place. Spectacular shopping experiences meet a lively and above all colourful hustle and bustle in the glowing streets of the metropolis. You should definitely also try out the world-famous Japanese cuisine here. Because in Tokyo you can't get past the numerous gourmet temples or street food markets anyway.

5 Zurich, Switzerland

The European representative among the most expensive cities in the world is Zurich in 5th place, which is partly due to the strong exchange rate of the Swiss franc. The fact that Switzerland is an expensive place is nothing new. Nevertheless, the country is probably one of the most beautiful holiday destinations you can imagine. Zurich, in the heart of Switzerland has everything you need for a city break: bustling cafes and restaurants, winding building facades, exclusive shopping streets and incredible views. To enjoy it, there are plenty of options, such as from the two towers of the Grossmünster, a Protestant Reformed church that is one of the city's most popular sights.

These are the other seats:

• Rank 6: Shanghai, China
• Rank 7: Singapore, Singapore
• Rank 8: Geneva, Switzerland
• Rank 9: Beijing, China
• Rank 10: Bern, Switzerland