Whether you’re looking to make a change in your own life or simply seeking inspiration, these countries show us that work-life balance is within reach.

In today’s fast-paced world, finding the right balance between work and personal life has become a dream for many. Long hours, constant deadlines and the pressure to stay connected often leave little time for family, hobbies or even rest. Yet, in some parts of the world, people manage to enjoy fulfilling careers while still having plenty of time to relax and recharge. These countries have built systems that value happiness as much as hard work, offering lessons for the rest of us. From shorter working weeks to generous holidays, let’s look at the nations that have truly mastered the art of balance. Check them out below!

Here Are 7 Countries With Great Work-Life Balance:

1. Finland

Finland regularly tops global happiness rankings. With a 35-40-hour workweek, Finns prioritise work-life balance and enjoy generous parental leave and flexible working hours. Finns embody the concept of ‘sisu’, a cultural trait that encompasses determination and resilience. This mindset helps them navigate life’s challenges while valuing simplicity and quality time with loved ones, often unwinding in nature.

2. Denmark

Denmark, too, offers an amazing work-life balance for its residents. The standard workweek is around 37 hours, and people rarely stay in the office late. Danes enjoy long leaves, flexible working options and a strong focus on family time. Evenings and weekends are usually reserved for relaxation, with the cultural concept of hygge, a cosy and stress-free lifestyle, at the heart of their daily lives.

3. Netherlands

In the Netherlands, part-time work is common and widely accepted, even for full professionals. Dutch employees enjoy some of the shortest average working weeks in the world, often around 30-35 hours. This gives them more time for cycling, socialising and spending time outdoors. Employers also respect personal boundaries, with little expectation to check work emails after office hours.

4. Norway

Norway’s strong economy and focus on social welfare allow workers to enjoy shorter hours without compromising productivity. The country offers generous vacation policies, and outdoor activities like skiing, hiking and fishing. Norwegians value ‘friluftsliv,’ a lifestyle that celebrates open-air living, ensuring that time away from work is spent connecting with nature.

5. Sweden

Sweden has experimented with shorter working days and continues to prioritise employee well-being. The idea of fika, a daily coffee break with colleagues, shows how Swedes blend productivity with relaxation. With long parental leave policies and an emphasis on equality at work, Sweden encourages people to enjoy both their careers and family life without compromise.

6. Germany

Germany is known for its efficiency, but it also values free time. Employees usually avoid unnecessary overtime and the culture strongly supports disconnecting after work hours. In fact, some companies even discourage emailing staff outside office time. With generous paid leave and public holidays, Germans make the most of travel, family gatherings and leisure activities.

7. New Zealand

New Zealand has recently gained attention for adopting flexible work models, including the four-day work week in some companies. Its stunning landscapes encourage people to spend time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, surfing or simply relaxing by the sea. The balance here comes naturally, as both work and play are equally celebrated.

What Is The Average Workweek Like In Countries With Good Work-Life Balance?

Countries that prioritise work-life balance typically have shorter workweeks, ranging from 30-40 hours. This allows employees to have more time for personal activities, family and self-care.

How Does Parental Leave Impact Work-Life Balance?

Generous parental leave policies enable parents to care for their newborns and young children without sacrificing their careers. This support helps reduce stress and promotes a healthier balance between work and family responsibilities.

What Countries Have The Shortest Working Weeks?

The Netherlands stands out with an average workweek of 29 hours, followed by countries like Denmark, Norway and Germany, which have workweeks ranging from 35-37 hours. These countries prioritise employee well-being and recognise the benefits of a shorter workweek.

Whether you’re looking to make a change in your own life or simply seeking inspiration, these countries show us that work-life balance is within reach.

Canada’s biggest city is a great choice for kids of all ages — and the parents will have fun, too.

Finally ready to take that family vacation? With new exhibits that invite kids to explore the country’s history — plus classic Toronto outings that parents can enjoy — Canada’s biggest city is ready to welcome the whole clan. Here’s how to plan the perfect trip for kids of all ages.

For Younger Children

Little Canada, which opened in August 2021, features miniature models of Canadian cities, like the European-style buildings and cobblestoned streets of Old Quebec, and landscapes, like the towering Rocky Mountains. With moving cars, trains, and boats, thousands of LED lights, and mini people “walking” the streets, the installation brings the country’s attractions to life. Your child can even become a part of these little settings, thanks to an on-site scanner that prints tiny 3-D versions of visitors.

At Black Creek Pioneer Village, costumed interpreters demonstrate what life was like in the 1860s. Kids can try out a musical instrument, work alongside a tinsmith, or take in a collection of more than 2,000-period toys.

For Teens and Tweens

The EdgeWalk lets kids aged 13 and older circumnavigate the famous CN Tower, walking along an outdoor platform 116 stories above the ground (don’t worry, harnesses and safety gear are provided).

Fashion-forward teens looking for activities closer to the ground will love the Queen Street West neighborhood, with its vintage-fashion shops and quirky cafés. They’ll also be steps from the MuchMusic building, the former studio of the iconic Canadian TV channel, which, like MTV, launched the careers of many famous VJs. Stroll by and tell the kids about the good old days of waiting to actually buy an album on CD.

For Kids of All Ages

Take the whole family to the Bentway, a year-round trail and outdoor event space under the Gardiner Expressway, just steps from Lake Ontario. Check the website for seasonal offerings, which range from an ice-skating track in the winter to a roller-skating rink in the summer.

When the kids have worked up an appetite, head to Kensington Market to sample foods from around the world, including Swedish coffee, Baja-style tacos, and Jamaican patties.

Here is a look at the top 10 airlines in the world ranked by Skytrax for their food offering in first class.

Global aviation rating agency Skytrax has published its list of the best first-class food in 2025, with airlines receiving accolades based on their in-flight offerings and the variety of options available to passengers.

There is also a clear importance given to presentation, the number of liquor options that can be paired with food, as well as their cultural value to the airline.

Top 10 Best First Class Food in 2025

Having said that, here is a look at the world’s top 10 best first-class foods in 2025.

1. Singapore Airlines (SQ/SIA)

Singapore Airlines leads the way with its first-class food in 2025.

Its Book the Cook service is one of its kind and lets passengers pre-select from over 60 gourmet options like lobster thermidor, wagyu with truffle jus, or Hainanese chicken rice, depending on the route and regional demography of the majority of flyers.

Food is paired with rich champagnes and fine vintage wines, and meals are served on fine glassware with premium cutlery. Menus are curated by internationally recognised chefs from different geographies, who curate regionally specific meals.

The in-flight service feels restaurant‑level. In addition to the chief courses, warm bread baskets, attentive presentation, and impeccable timing make dining a top-class experience.

2. Air France (AF/AFR)

Air France’s La Premiere offers world-class dining that draws influence from its Parisian roots. Dishes crafted by Michelin-starred chefs like Francois Rouquette or Anne-Sophie Pic are offered to passengers regularly and feature fusion items such as rolled smoked sole, goat cheese ravioli, and coffee-smoked beef fillet.

The courses arrive at the tables on fine china with vintage liquor options. Dining is a la carte, served on demand. In addition, the lounge at Paris CDG offers exclusive dining rooms with gourmet meals before boarding.

For those looking to enjoy dining on board, Air France provides as good an experience as possible 35,000 feet in the air and just before embarking on the journey alike.

3. Lufthansa (LH/DLH)

Lufthansa’s first class, which has been massively revamped in 2025, brings German dining to the fore. Menus emphasise healthy European cuisine and offer items like roast goose with red cabbage, chanterelle risotto, sea bass with beurre blanc, with curated wine pairings.

The courses are plated with utmost professionalism, served with freshly warmed bread and local desserts like Bavarian cream or Black Forest cake. Dining within the seat is enhanced by rich-looking tableware and large tray tables.

Lufthansa’s food and service are far from flashy but always live up to its reputation of efficiency, and offer those with a taste for European cuisines a new option to try every time they fly.

4. Emirates (EK/UAE)

Emirates remains a heavyweight in first‑class food service in 2025, considering the experience is offered on nearly all of its routes.

The dine-on-demand menus offer everything from Wagyu beef with herbs to Arabic mezze or chicken biryani. Meals are presented on Royal Doulton china with Robert Welch cutlery, paired with aged champagnes, wines, and whisky.

Vegan and regionally inspired options, like zucchini tart or jackfruit biryani, feel inventive and well executed. Passengers can pre-order meals up to two weeks ahead via the Emirates app, and as with most globally-renowned carriers, the experience in the lounge also stands out.

5. Cathay Pacific Airways (CX/CPA)

Cathay Pacific’s first-class food in 2025 blends quality with tasty and traditional Hong Kong flavours. With onboard rice cookers, skillets, and toasters, flight attendants prepare fresh steamed rice, eggs, or noodles to order.

The signature dishes might include Hakka mustard greens pork, curry prawns, or wok-fried chicken, prepared on demand, and meals reflect regional authenticity elevated in presentation, along with healthy options also available to those who prefer Western cuisines.

Desserts and teas also stem from local flavours. In The Pier lounge at Hong Kong, passengers can enjoy pre-flight meals prepared a la carte from an extensive menu.

6. Qantas Airways (QF/QFA)

Qantas offers refined first-class dining rooted in modern Australian flavour. Lead chef Neil Perry has shaped menus with seasonal seafood like barramundi, grilled cuts, and local produce.

All meals are served a la carte, with relaxed timing and generous portioning, paired with fine local wines. In Sydney, the First Lounge provides an extension of the onboard service, as luxury dining can be enjoyed within calm surroundings.

The service style is warm and genuine, aligning with Australia’s laid-back hospitality. Qantas’ first-class food isn’t flashy but comforting in its quality.

7. All Nippon Airways (NH/ANA)

ANA continues to impress in 2025 with its Japanese-style first-class menus in its suites.

Each course is regionally and seasonally structured and includes premium wagyu, miso-marinated cod, sushi prepared before departure, and matcha desserts. International options like foie gras or roasted duck complement the Japanese offerings.

The service is rooted in omotenashi, a concept that translates to being subtle, precise, and deeply respectful. All are paired with sake, champagne, or fine wine, and the dining ambience is orchestrated to feel personal.

In the Tokyo lounges, diners enjoy a peaceful ambience and freshly prepared meals.

8. Swiss (LX/SWR)

Swiss’ “Taste of Switzerland” programme brings regional gourmet flavours to its first-class menus. Seasonal offerings such as beef tenderloin with Nidwalden-style mashed potatoes or veal dishes rotate quarterly and pair with fine Swiss wines and local cheeses.

The presentation is restaurant-like and consistent, while all foods are paired with a well-curated list of beverages, which the cabin crew has a brilliant idea of. The dining delivers a true sense of luxury in the sky.

9. Etihad Airways (EY/ETD)

Etihad’s first class routes offer a restaurant-quality food experience. Dine-anytime menus include Middle Eastern dishes and global cuisine, plated creatively and delivered promptly when passengers request.

Private tables, fresh ingredients, and an attentive service model make the cabin feel intimate yet refined. In Abu Dhabi’s first-class lounges, passengers enjoy a la carte meals in a serene ambience.

The diversified dining options are a favourite among passengers from different backgrounds and are a key reason behind Etihad’s popularity as a first-class product.

10. British Airways (BA/BAW)

British Airways offers a staple British dining experience in first class that blends tradition with modernity. Menus designed by Tom Kerridge feature seasonal dishes like beef bourguignon, sea bass, lamb Wellington, and curated afternoon tea with scones and sandwiches.

Canapes and warm nuts accompany beverages as well. The dining is flexible with on-demand service, and a wine list includes English sparkling options like Nyetimber.

While BA has received some criticism for losing depth on brunch and light options, many flyers praise its main courses, such as scallop tartare, smoked salmon, lamb rack, and cheese platters, as standout highlights.

Bottom line

When it comes to first-class dining in the sky, the finest airlines have bridged the gap between restaurant and aircraft cabins, offering dishes and service that felt impeccably professional despite cruising at 35,000 feet.

This year’s leaders brought creativity and consistency to every offering. Each airline added a personal signature to make dining a memory in itself.

The Danube River, Europe’s second-longest, traverses ten nations from Germany to Ukraine, fostering trade and nurturing cities like Vienna and Budapest. Historically a Roman boundary and a commercial route, it faces modern challenges of pollution despite conservation efforts.

From the Black Forest to the Black Sea, this river connects continents. There are rivers that carve valleys, shape civilisations, and inspire poetry. And then there’s the Danube, a river so ambitious that it crosses more national borders than any other river on Earth. Winding its way through ten countries, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine, the Danube is more than just a waterway. At 2,860 km long, the Danube is the second-longest river in Europe, outdone only by Russia’s mighty Volga. But when it comes to geopolitical influence and cross-border reach, the Danube reigns supreme.

The long journey

The Danube gets a modest start in Germany’s Black Forest, where the tiny Breg and Brigach streams merge at Donaueschingen. From there, it sweeps northeast and then southeast, meandering past sleepy villages and grand cities alike. It’s the only major river in the world to flow through four national capitals, which is Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade, making it a true cultural lifeline of Europe.

Vienna (Austria)

Bratislava (Slovakia)

Budapest (Hungary)

Belgrade (Serbia)

What makes it fascinating is that the river doesn’t merely flow past these cities, it has nurtured them.

From trade routes and natural defenses to a steady water supply, much of their history and growth is tied to the Danube.

A river of empire and evolution

The Danube’s banks once formed the northern boundary of the Roman Empire, and the river served as a patrolled waterway. Over the centuries, castles, fortresses, and kingdoms rose and fell along its banks, from the Ottomans in the Balkans to the Habsburgs in Austria. Even today, old stone ruins and baroque palaces still keep watch over its slow-moving waters.

In more recent history, the river became a commercial highway between nations. International agreements, some dating back to the 1600s, granted access and guaranteed safe navigation, eventually leading to the formation of the Danube Commission in 1948, a multinational body created to regulate the river.

The Danube’s basin spans 817,000 sq km, and extends into 9 more countries. It collects water from the Alps, the Carpathians, and lowland plains, feeding over 300 tributaries, some as famous as the Drava, Tisza, and Sava. The river’s landscape is a patchwork of wetlands, rocky gorges, fertile fields, and sprawling deltas.

Speaking of which, the Danube Delta, shared by Romania and Ukraine, is one of Europe’s most biodiverse areas. Formed over thousands of years, it is home to hundreds of bird species, fish, and rare flora. It’s also growing each year, expanding further into the Black Sea thanks to the river’s steady deposit of silt.

Economy, energy, and ecology

The Danube is one of Europe’s great trade lifelines, its importance amplified by the Main–Danube Canal, which links it to the Rhine and the North Sea. Thanks to this engineering marvel, goods can travel by water all the way from the North Sea to the Black Sea, cutting costs and slashing carbon emissions.

The river is also a source of hydroelectric power, most notably at the Iron Gate Dam between Romania and Serbia. And yet, with development has come pollution—industrial runoff, agricultural chemicals, and urban waste have all impacted the river’s health.

Despite these challenges, efforts are ongoing to balance economic utility with environmental responsibility. Various conservation programs now aim to protect the Danube’s delicate ecosystems and improve water quality.

The Danube is more than just a river, it’s a cultural legend. Celebrated in Johann Strauss’s ‘The Blue Danube’ waltz, it has stirred the imagination of composers, poets, and painters for centuries. A muse and a lifeline, it bridges languages, cultures, and histories along its course.

In an era of borders and barbed wire, the Danube flows freely—reminding us that while nations may divide the land, rivers will always unite it, carrying with them the timeless story of humanity, nature, and shared destiny, echoing across generations and flowing endlessly into the future with grace, beauty and continuity.