From snow-capped peaks to golden beaches

New Zealand is a land of breathtaking contrasts. Its two main islands are filled with towering mountains, ancient forests, deep fjords, and coastlines that stretch endlessly into the Pacific. Whether you’re chasing adventure or seeking tranquility, these 10 destinations capture the essence of Aotearoa’s natural and cultural beauty.

1. Queenstown

Queenstown is often called the adventure capital of the world, and for good reason. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, the town offers everything from jet-boating and bungee jumping to scenic hikes and wine tours. Visitors also enjoy lake cruises and alpine dining with panoramic views.

2. Rotorua

In the heart of the North Island, Rotorua showcases New Zealand’s geothermal power and Māori culture. Bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and natural hot springs define the landscape, while cultural centers like Te Puia offer performances, carving schools, and traditional feasts. Rotorua is both a natural wonder and a cultural hub.

3. Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier offers a rare chance to walk on ice so close to the ocean. Guided glacier hikes and helicopter tours take travelers deep into the ice caves, while nearby hot pools provide the perfect way to relax after a day on the glacier.

4. Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is known for its turquoise waters and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd on its shores. In spring, colorful lupins blanket the area, while at night the skies come alive as part of the UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve. It is one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand.

5. The Bay of Islandsv

Located in the subtropical Northland region, the Bay of Islands is famous for its sheltered bays, historic sites, and marine life. Travelers can explore Waitangi Treaty Grounds, take boat tours to the Hole in the Rock, and enjoy dolphin encounters. It’s a blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty.

6. Abel Tasman National Park

At the top of the South Island, Abel Tasman offers golden beaches, clear waters, and lush coastal tracks. Visitors can kayak alongside seals, hike the multi-day Abel Tasman Coast Track, or simply relax on secluded beaches. It combines accessibility with wilderness, making it a favorite for families and adventurers.

7. Mount Cook / Aoraki National Park

Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak, dominates the South Island’s Southern Alps. The park is filled with alpine trails like Hooker Valley, stargazing opportunities in the Dark Sky Reserve, and glacier flights that reveal the vast ice fields below. It’s a paradise for climbers, hikers, and photographers alike.

8. Milford Sound

Often described as the “eighth wonder of the world,” Milford Sound is one of Fiordland’s crown jewels. Sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife such as dolphins and fur seals make a cruise here unforgettable. Many travelers also choose scenic flights for a bird’s-eye view of the fjord’s dramatic terrain.

9. The Catlins

For those looking to step off the main tourist trail, the Catlins in the South Island offer rugged coastlines, waterfalls, and wildlife encounters. Visitors can spot rare yellow-eyed penguins, explore Cathedral Caves, and enjoy the windswept scenery at Nugget Point Lighthouse. It remains one of the country’s hidden gems.

10. Tongariro National Park

Home to active volcanoes, emerald lakes, and rugged terrain, Tongariro is one of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is considered one of the best one-day hikes in the world, leading past volcanic craters and steaming vents. The park is also of deep cultural significance to the Māori.

If you have a long haul flight coming up, here’s how you need to keep your skin in-check If you have a long haul flight coming up, here’s how to help it stay fresh.

Who doesn’t love to travel? Some of us are chasing adventures, others are celebrating birthdays or anniversaries — and let’s be honest, quite a few are simply flexing for the ’Gram. But whatever your reason for hopping on a flight, your skin deserves just as much attention as your itinerary.

What Happens to Your Skin Mid-Air?

Here’s the deal—airplane cabins are a whole different planet for your skin. The pressurised air is dry, recycled, and loaded with bacteria. Humidity levels drop to as low as 10% (compare that to the comfortable 40–60% on land), oxygen is low, and UV exposure is higher due to altitude. Throw in some harsh air conditioning, and you’ve got the perfect storm for a skin freak-out.

Let’s break down what this environment can do to your skin:

• Dryness: Low humidity sucks the moisture right out of your skin. This leads to dryness, irritation, and in some cases, even rashes or eczema.

• Dullness: Dry skin quickly turns dehydrated, and that 3D effect—dry, dull, dehydrated—gives your face a tired, lacklustre look.

• Itchiness: Your body skin also suffers in-flight. The lack of natural moisturising factors (NMFs) causes itching and discomfort.

• Puffiness: Long hours of sitting lead to sluggish lymphatic drainage, which causes bloating and under-eye puffiness. Salty snacks and in-flight alcohol only make this worse.

• Breakouts: If your skin’s not well-moisturised, it overcompensates by producing excess oil, which clogs pores. Add to that makeup, unclean linen, and frequent face-touching with not-so-clean hands—and boom: breakouts.

In short, while your mind may be floating in excitement, your skin could be silently screaming for help. But not to worry—I’ve got you covered.

The Before-During-After Skincare Flight Plan

Here’s how to protect your glow at 30,000 feet and beyond.

Before the Flight: Prep Like a Pro

• Hydrate Inside and Out:

Water is your best travel buddy. Drink up and use face mists, hyaluronic acid, ceramide-based moisturisers, or even a sheet mask before you leave. A pre-flight hydrating facial like HydraFacial MD is a fantastic idea too—it might just be your glow-pass to vacation mode.

• Skip the Makeup:

Flying with foundation? Hard pass. Let your skin breathe. But if you’re heading straight from work and already have makeup on, please double cleanse it off before boarding. Use the airport restroom—not the flight one, which has limited space and questionably clean water. Clean skin + moisturiser + SPF (for daytime flights) = the ideal flight-ready face.

• Dress Smart, Not Sloppy:

Choose breathable, chic loungewear or a comfy co-ord. Skip the heels (unless you want post-trip corns and calluses) and go for flats. And hey, a bra-free loose-fit outfit? Total win.

In-Flight Skincare: Keep It Minimal but Mighty

For short flights (under 3 hours), if you’ve prepped well, you’re good to go. But for long hauls or frequent flyers, here’s your mid-air skincare kit:

Hands-Free Essentials:

Think face mists, sheet masks, lip balms, spray sunscreen, and pre-soaked toner pads (great for sebum control or removing leftover makeup). Always clean your hands before touching your face.

Step 1: Face mist

Step 2: Sheet mask (remove in 15 mins)

Step 3: Face mist again + lip balm

Step 4: Do nothing and let it all soak in. You’re glowing.

Catch Those ZZZs:

Eye masks, neck pillows, and shawls (especially if you run cold) are your secret weapons to beauty sleep in the sky.

• Watch What You Eat (and Drink):

Water > caffeine or alcohol. Say no to salty snacks. Hydration and clean food choices go a long way for your skin (and jet lag).

• Get Moving:

A quick stretch every hour boosts circulation and helps lymphatic drainage. Yes, it also helps your skin.

• SPF Is a Must:

Don’t skip sunscreen just because you’re indoors. UV rays are stronger at higher altitudes. Apply before boarding and reapply with a spray during longer flights.

After the Flight: Time to Reset

• Skip the Actives:

Let your skin recover. Put those vitamin C or retinol serums on hold for a few days. Stick to gentle cleansing, moisturiser, and SPF.

• Take a Cold Shower:

It helps relax your body, refresh your skin, and even induces deep sleep. Avoid hot water—it’ll strip your skin even more. Post-shower, apply a generous moisturiser on your face and body.

• Depuff With Tools:

Use a jade roller or gua sha to gently massage your face and improve lymphatic drainage. It’s calming and reduces post-travel puffiness.

Bon Voyage, Beautiful!

Whether you’re flying for fun, love, or work—let your skin travel in first class, even if you’re not. Remember, with the right prep and a little pampering, you can be a passenger princess and look like one too.

Asia is dominating the cleanliness rankings in the aviation industry, with 9 out of the top 10 cleanest airports in the world located in the region.

Asia is dominating the cleanliness rankings in the aviation industry, with 9 out of the top 10 cleanest airports in the world located in the region. According to the 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards, Tokyo’s Haneda has been crowned the world’s cleanest airport. It is followed closely by other Asian hubs like Singapore Changi Airport and Seoul Incheon International Airport.

With almost 500 airports evaluated based on passenger satisfaction, the awards are considered the top source for airport rankings. The airports that make the grade are praised for their exceptional cleanliness and well-functioning amenities, which guarantee that travellers are more comfortable and feel less stressed.

Key factors include clean floors, neat restrooms, sanitised fingerprint and access points and even tidy seating and security zones. It also takes recycling and trash management into account, as well as the cleanliness of food outlets.

Tokyo Haneda Airport secured the top place due to its strong emphasis on hygiene. Through the integration of cutting-edge technologies, Haneda has optimised both overall performance and cleanliness across all platforms. Among its most exciting new offerings is Japan Airlines’ HALO program, which is currently being validated in real time at Haneda.

The system uses artificial intelligence to coordinate ground-handling tasks, such as balancing check-in, cargo, and baggage. Not only does the HALO framework improve timeliness and streamline procedures, but it also lowers the number of anxious travellers and raises the standard for smooth travel.

Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) was ranked second in the world for cleanliness. The place has long been the benchmark for terminal design and operational quality.

The top 10 cleanest airports 2025 list includes:
1. Tokyo Haneda Airport
2. Singapore Changi Airport
3. Doha Hamad Airport
4. Seoul Incheon Airport
5. Hong Kong Airport
6. Centrair Nagoya Airport
7. Tokyo Narita Airport
8. Kansai Airport
9. Taiwan Taoyuan Airport
10. Zurich Airport

From the iconic European gems to tropical hotspots, here are the 10 most visited tourist destinations.

While the list goes on. When it comes to choosing the most visited tourist places worldwide, the Vatican City raises the bar.

With the tourism industry back in action, many popular destinations are now welcoming more travelers from all around the world. According to a survey, approximately 1.4 billion tourists visited international destinations in 2024.

Most tourists are seeking off-the-beaten-path and quaint destinations. Hence, some major tourist destinations, such as European cities and tropical havens, have been overrun by tourists.

Most Crowded Tourist Destinations in the World

According to the latest official tourism report, here is the curated list of the top 10 most crowded destinations, where tourism isn’t just booming, it is erupting.

From the iconic European gems to tropical hotspots, here are the 10 most visited tourist destinations.

1. Vatican City, Rome

Vatican, the city where the Pope lives, is ranked as the most crowded tourist place. With an astounding ratio of 7,709 tourists per resident, given that it is the world’s smallest country, spanning only 0.44 sq. km area within Rome.

Famous for being the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church, Vatican City is the only country to be entirely declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

Major Tourist Destinations

• Admire the 120-year-old Renaissance masterpiece- St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest church, featuring the Dome painted by Michelangelo and Bernini’s Baldacchino.
• The Vatican Museums contain a vast collection of centuries-old artifacts, including Michelangelo-painted frescoes in the Sistine Chapel– “The Last Judgment,” and Raphael’s artistic genius, like “The Hall of Constantine,” at the Stanze della Segnatura.
• The Gallery of Maps displays the detailed map of Italy drawn in the 16th century, while the Vatican Library houses an immense collection of books, manuscripts, and other historical documents for a nerd in you.

Best Time To Visit Vatican City

From April to May and September through October are considered the shoulder seasons. During holidays, like Christmas and Halloween, you may catch the city in its full touristy swing.

2. Paris, France

France remains the most visited country in the world, welcoming over 100 million visitors every year. Paris city has witnessed more than 11 million visitors in the capital alone as it hosted the official opening ceremony of the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Italy in 2025.

Celebrated for its symbolic culture, fashion, Seine cruises, culinary, and art, France has attracted visitors for ages from all around.

Major Tourist Attractions

• Get reacquainted with love at the iconic Eiffel Tower.
• Admire the state-of-the-art paintings and countless ancient artwork collections dating back to prehistoric times.
• Visit the crowd magnet, the Palace of Versailles, a former royal residence of King Louis XIV.
• Walk through the rich French history at the Arc de Triomphe.
• Witness the elegance at Champs-Élysées, lined with luxury shops and cafes. Or dance on the Bohemian vibes at Montmartre, decorated with street art and stunning views from Sacré-Cœur.

Best Time To Visit

During spring (April to May) and fall (September and October), it offers pleasant with fewer crowds paired with wine tastings as compared to the peak summer season from June to August.

3. Andorra, Southwest Europe

After France, Andorra reserves the second place as the world’s most crowded tourist destination, with over 9 million visitors in 2024. Tucked between France and Spain, Andorra- a tiny mountain nation- is famed for its duty-free shopping, scenic Alpine vibes, high-end ski resorts, and spa culture.

With just 81,938 residents, welcoming millions of tourists every year makes it among the most visited tourist destinations per capita in the world.

Major Tourist Attractions

Rejuvenate with a relaxing thermal spa at Southern Europe’s largest Caldea Spa Complex with thermal lagoons, Jacuzzi, waterfalls, and saunas.

From luxury goods to first-class electronics, go on a shopping spree and eat without guilt at the bustling Avenida Meritxell commercial street.

For adventurous souls, go for a ski at the popular ski resorts in the Pyrenees, including Vallnord and Grandvalira Ski Resorts.

Dive into Andorra’s quirky political and spiritual history at the 16th-century Casa de la Vall and Sant Esteve Church.

Best Time To Visit Andorra

Winter is the peak ski season from December to March, packed with winter sports lovers. The summer season from June to August offers lush views, festivals, and clear hiking and mountain biking trails.

You can ditch the crowd from April-May and September-October for peaceful sightseeing and shopping.

4. Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong is where East meets West, sky meets the sea, and tourism meets intensity.

With a population of approximately 7.4 million, the city registered over 56 million visitors in 2019, equating to a tourist-to-local ratio of 6:1. famous for its towering skyline, delightful food, neon-lit streets, and deep-rooted culture and dynamic history, Hong Kong has long ranked as the most crowded tourist destination in the world.

Major Tourist Attractions

• Take the cable car ride for the panoramic views of the city’s skyline from Victoria Peak.
• Walk through the cinematic walkways with harbor views and street performers at Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and Avenue of Stars
• Overloaded with neon signboards, explore Hong Kong’s vibrant nightlife.
• From dim sums and noodle shops to luxury goods and fortune tellers, Ladies’ Market and Sneaker Street is a must-visit

Best Time To Visit Hong Kong

Hong Kong celebrates its Chinese New Year from January to March, making it the most crowded tourism months. Ditch the places packed with tourists from October to December. Avoid the hot and typhoon-prone months of June to September.

5. New York City, United States

New York, the city that never sleeps, is one of the most iconic urban destinations for visitors in the world. With over 60 million visitors reported every year, New York holds the title of the most visited tourist destination in the United States.

According to a tourism survey, most tourists visit the bustling streets of Midtown, Manhattan, and Times Square, vastly outnumbering the locals every day.

Major Tourist Attractions

• Witness the symbol of unity, freedom, and power at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
• Explore the green oasis amid the concrete jungle at Central Park
• Experience the heart of New York at Times Square, loaded with neon lights, theaters, and street performers
• Walk the Brooklyn Bridge for astounding views.
• Savor the taste of authentic bagels in Queens, pizza in Brooklyn, and Dominican food in Washington Heights.

Best Time To Visit New York City

The spring season from April to June veils the city with cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, with few tourists. New York City turns into a magical fairyland in winter with Christmas lights, holiday markets, and the famed Rockefeller Center tree.

6. Monaco, Western Europe

With the land area smaller than New York’s Central Park, Monaco is the world’s second smallest sovereign state. Famous for its super yachts, luxury casinos, F1 race tracks, and royal flair, this Mediterranean micro-state welcomes over 1.5 million visitors every year, especially during high-class events, like the Monaco Grand Prix held annually.

Major Tourist Attractions

• Gamble the night at Monaco’s iconic casinos, including the architectural masterpiece- Monte Carlo Casino.
• Capture the grandeur of the Prince’s Palace that sheltered elite powers since the 13th century.
• Visit the cliffside Oceanographic Museum, seamlessly blending dramatic ocean views with marine biology and ocean exploration.
• Stroll down the Port Hercules with a glass of rosé and marvel at the billion-dollar yachts.

Best Time To Visit Monaco

The city witnesses intense tourism during May, for this month hosts the Grand Prix race. For leisure travelers, July to August is the peak season for cruise ships and summer vacation activities. To ditch the crowd, plan your visit to Monaco from April to June before the race event surge and in September and October when leisure visitors thin slightly.

7. Valletta, Malta

From the colonial heritage to Asian legacies, Malta offers a tapestry of rich architecture, dialects, and cuisine, attracting over 2.5 million tourists annually.

Perched on the peninsula and surrounded by the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean, Valletta is one of Europe’s the most smallest capital cities.

Though tiny, with a population of less than 7,000 residents, the city’s winding streets and harbor views can quickly feel packed when multiple cruises dock at once during summer.

Major Tourist Attractions:

• Marvel at the gold interiors of St. John’s Cathedral, housing the infamous Caravaggio’s artwork- The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.
• Time your visit to the Upper Barrakka Gardens with the noon cannon salute for a dramatic view of the Grand Harbor.
• Explore Malta’s prehistoric past at the National Museum of Archaeology, which houses artifacts from Neolithic temples.
• Stroll the Strait Street and Valletta Waterfront for colorful balconies, trendy eateries, and music.

Best Time To Visit Malta

From July to August, Malta docks cruise and yachts packed with tourists and vacationers. April to June and September to October are considered great months for water sports and sightseeing with fewer summer crowds.

8. Antigua & Barbuda

Nestling in the heart of the Caribbean, the twin-island nation of Antigua & Barbuda is a paradise for beach lovers.

Nearly a million tourists visit the city, dominating every corner each year. The blend of colonial charm, beach culture, and commercial destinations, the islands are a buzzing hub of Caribbean colorful tapestry.

Major Tourist Attractions:

• Heritage and Redcliffe Quay are great for duty-free shopping, luxury souvenirs, and hippie Caribbean flair.
• Dive into the rich Caribbean history at the incredible Anglican St. John’s Cathedral.
• Explore the island’s colonial, indigenous, and modern history at the Island Museums.
• Go for sunbathing and swimming at the nearby Runaway Beach and Dickenson Bay, while sipping a cold rum punch under a palm tree.

Best Time To Visit Antigua & Barbuda

Mid-December to April are the peak crowded seasons for its cold to mild weather and cultural events. Avoid visiting during hurricane season from September to October, as many stays may remain closed.

9. The Bahamas, Caribbean

Home to around 88% population of the West Indies’ Lucayan Archipelago, the Bahamas reportedly received over 4 million tourists in 2024, mostly through its capital city of Nassau. Mainly on the days when multiple cruise ships dock at once, the country’s streets can be drastically outnumbered the tourists in key tourist attractions.

Major Tourist Attractions

• Visit the mega resort on Paradise Island and the Atlantis Resort, featuring world-class casinos, luxury pools, and the water park.
• Shop your heart out at the duty-free shops at Bay Street, packed with pastel-colored colonial wonders and local eateries.
• Climb the historic Queen’s Staircase in Fort Fincastle, carved by slaves using limestone.
• Stroll down the cruise terminal leading to Junkanoo Beach for a vibrant lifestyle.
• Capture the fascinating tropical wildlife, including the famous pink flamingos.

Best Time To Visit

The shoulder season from May to June offers lovely weather before the hurricane season from August to October. Expect the cruise crowd from December to April, ideal for beach hoppers.

10. San Marino

According to an investigative report of The Sage Encyclopedia of Travel & Tourism, San Marino witnesses over 2 million tourists every year.

Long celebrated as the world’s oldest republic, its medieval heritage and rich historic influence in architecture, gastronomy, and artistry attract travelers of all tastes from all over.

Located in the heart of Italy, San Marino is the world’s fifth smallest country, making it the most visited tourist destination per capita in the world.

Major Tourist Attractions

• Explore the ramparts of the iconic Three Towers of San Marino fortress, which once protected the country from invasion.
• For curious minds, the State Museum features a diverse collection of archaeological findings and artworks, while the Museum of Ancient Arms houses centuries-old weaponry.
• Enjoy tax-free shopping at charming malls.
• Savor the taste of bean and bacon soup, rabbit stew, and the Three Towers-inspired multi-layered cake, paired with locally brewed wines.

Best Time to Visit San Marino

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Mario floods with visitors from June to August, especially on weekends and Italian holidays. For lighter crowds and peaceful sightseeing, the spring season from April to June, and the fall season in September and October.