This year, travel experts from KAYAK have pinpointed countries that stand out not just for their scenic beauty but also for unique experiences. From the golden plains and ancient stone cities of Zimbabwe to the mist-laden fjords of Norway, travellers are presented with destinations that inspire awe, reflection, and adventure. The selection is balanced, beautiful, interesting and so much more. As we near the end of this year, let’s look at the 10 best countries that successfully captured travellers’ attention this year, and have inspired many to plan their future travels.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is the country that has topped the list, and here’s why. From golden plains dotted with ancient stone cities to thunderous gorges where rivers carve dramatic landscapes, Zimbabwe offers powerful natural and historical contrasts. Think of vast acacia groves, jagged granite outcrops, and misty mountain trails in its highlands.

Lithuania

This Baltic gem has gorgeous and well-maintained medieval towns, forest-lined lakes, and pastoral meadows that are just so pretty. Do not miss out on exploring Lithuania because its rural scenery, historic streets, and tranquil countryside will make your heart ache for more. The country has plenty of natural and cultural hidden treasure for travellers who enjoy slower, contemplative journeys.

Sri Lanka

A land of contrasts: dense jungles, ancient cities emerging from forest clearings, and misty hill country where railways wind through tea plantations. The country’s coastal regions add relaxed rhythms and colonial heritage to the mix. Sri Lanka offers a variety of landscapes and experiences for those looking for both nature and culture.

South Korea

South Korea is a destination of subtle beauty. Temple-laced mountain forests, volcanic island trails, and modern cities that blend tradition and innovation, there is so much to explore and experience in South Korea. Hikes the misty ridgelines and serene forest paths for some quiet reflection and immersive cultural experiences

Argentina

Dramatic contrasts define this country: from expansive sunburnt plains where gauchos roam, to the icy windswept terrain of Patagonia. Vibrant cities, colonial heritage towns and vineyards in the Andes add layers of diversity to a grand travel journey…Argentina will keep you busy, and that’s for sure.

Morocco

Morocco is a land of desert sands, snow-dusted mountains, olive valleys, and vibrant medinas. It’s ancient, beautiful, loud at times, but never dull. Visitors can wander through mosaic-lined alleys, desert camps, coastal towns, and mountain villages. The variety of landscapes and cultural richness make it a compelling pick.

Norway

Glacial fjords, cascading waterfalls, shimmering northern lights, and rugged tundra make Norway a destination of natural spectacle. From midnight sun in summer to auroras in winter, plus fjord cruising and mountain hikes, it offers dramatic scenery year-round.

Moldova

Have you been to Moldova yet? This country has quiet vineyards, rolling hills, and rustic countryside. Moldova is a lesser-known European destination, and because of this reason, one must visit this country without fail. We never know what we are missing out on. Monasteries built into limestone cliffs, sleepy villages and unhurried pace add to its charm for travellers seeking something off the beaten path.

Hong Kong

A fusion of high-rise skylines, busy harbour views, street food and traditional temples. The contrast between modern city life and cultural traditions gives travellers a rich urban experience, with plenty of options for cuisine, heritage, shopping, and sightseeing

Denmark

Gentle landscapes, coastlines, wind-swept dunes and historic towns frame a relaxed Nordic charm. In cities like Copenhagen, canals and cozy cafés blend with design-driven architecture. Rural and coastal escapes add diversity for those seeking calm and culture.

Paris is known as the City of Lights for being one of the first cities to use gas street lighting and for leading the Enlightenment era as a global centre of knowledge, culture, and art. Read why Paris is called city of lights.

City of Lights: The name City of Lights dates back to the 18th century, during the Age of Enlightenment. Paris was at the center of intellectual and philosophical progress, becoming a hub for scholars, artists, and thinkers. The term “lights” symbolised knowledge, education, and the spread of ideas. Jeep reading more about city of lights.

Why is Paris called the City of Lights?

Paris was one of the first major cities in Europe to use gas streetlights. By the early 1820s, over 50,000 gas lamps illuminated its streets, making it safer and more vibrant at night.

Heart of the Enlightenment

Paris became the intellectual capital of Europe during the Enlightenment era. Thinkers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Diderot lived and worked in Paris, promoting reason, science, and freedom of thought. This made Paris a beacon of knowledge and progress, giving a deeper meaning to its title, “City of Lights”.

Street Lighting and Innovation in Paris

Paris was among the first cities in the world to introduce organised street lighting. The project started under King Louis XIV, who ordered thousands of lanterns to be hung along major streets. By the 19th century, gas-powered streetlights spread across the city, revolutionising urban living and setting an example for other European capitals. Today, Paris continues this tradition with modern LED lighting systems that highlight monuments and maintain the city’s luminous identity.

The Beauty of Paris at Night

Paris is one of the most photographed and admired cities in the world because of its nighttime glow. Iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Champs-Élysées light up every evening, creating one of the most romantic nightscapes on Earth.

The Eiffel Tower sparkles every hour with 20,000 golden lights, symbolizing the city’s enduring charm and elegance. The city’s lighting projects continue to attract millions of visitors, reinforcing its title as the City of Lights and Love.

Art Museums in Paris

Apart from its illumination, Paris is known for its art, museums, and culture. The Louvre Museum, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou are world-famous art institutions that reflect the creative brilliance of the city. Paris is also the home of fashion, literature, and cinema, further adding to its glow on the global stage.

Interesting facts about Paris

1. First City in Europe to Use Street Lighting

Paris got its famous nickname “City of Lights” in the 17th century when it became the first city in Europe to use street lights. Under the reign of King Louis XIV, lanterns were installed across streets to improve safety and visibility. By the 1820s, gas lamps lit up thousands of streets and bridges, turning Paris into a symbol of progress and modernity.

2. The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower, Paris’s most famous landmark, lights up every night with 20,000 glittering bulbs. It sparkles for five minutes every hour after sunset, creating one of the world’s most breathtaking night views. Originally built for the 1889 World’s Fair, it was once criticized but is now one of the most visited monuments in the world.

3. Paris Has More Than 290 Illuminated Monuments

The beauty of Paris doesn’t end with the Eiffel Tower. The city glows every evening with more than 290 illuminated monuments, including the Arc de Triomphe, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. These landmarks showcase the perfect blend of history, architecture, and artistry, making Paris a photographer’s paradise.

4. Heart of the Enlightenment Era

The nickname “City of Lights” also has a deeper meaning. During the 18th century, Paris was the center of the Age of Enlightenment, a movement that promoted knowledge, science, and creativity. Thinkers like Voltaire and Rousseau lived here, making Paris the intellectual capital of Europe.

Eco-friendly travel doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or joy. Here’s how to make every trip lighter on the planet and richer in experience.

The thrill of travel often comes with an unseen cost, carbon emissions, plastic waste, and environmental strain on local communities. But what if you could explore the world responsibly and still have an unforgettable time? Sustainable travel isn’t about sacrifice; it’s about smarter choices that make your journeys more meaningful and memorable.

1. Choose Stays That Care About the Planet

When booking accommodations, look for hotels or homestays that practice sustainability, think solar panels, waste segregation, rainwater harvesting, or locally sourced food. Not only do these options reduce your footprint, but they also offer a closer connection to nature and culture.

2. Go Slow and Local

Instead of hopping between cities, spend more time in fewer destinations. Slow travel reduces transportation emissions and lets you deeply experience local traditions. Explore by train, bicycle, or foot whenever possible, these not only cut emissions but often lead to spontaneous adventures you’d miss in a car.

3. Eat Local, Seasonal, and Sustainable

A big part of travel joy is food and eating locally supports the community while reducing your carbon footprint. Skip global chains and try traditional meals from local vendors or family-run eateries. Bonus: the food is usually fresher, cheaper, and far more authentic.

4. Pack Light and Plastic-Free

Every kilogram you carry adds to an airplane’s fuel use. Travelling light saves energy and makes your journey easier. Bring reusable bottles, cloth bags, bamboo cutlery, and solid toiletries to avoid single-use plastics. Little swaps can make a big difference.

5. Respect Local Cultures and Communities

Being a responsible traveler means more than just avoiding litter. Learn a few words in the local language, dress appropriately, and understand community norms. Buy crafts directly from local artisans instead of mass-produced souvenirs, it supports livelihoods and preserves heritage.

6. Offset Your Carbon Footprint

Even with the best efforts, travel has an environmental impact. Many airlines and NGOs now offer carbon offset programs that fund tree-planting or renewable energy projects. A small contribution can help balance out your emissions and make your trip more sustainable overall.

7. Capture Memories, Not Just Photos

It’s easy to get caught up in the race for perfect Instagram shots. But sometimes, the most beautiful moments are meant to be felt, not framed. Be present, breathe in your surroundings, and engage meaningfully with people and places.

Discover which country has the most rivers in the world. Learn why Russia, with over 100,000 rivers including the Volga, Lena, Ob, Yenisei, and Amur, holds the record for the largest river network globally.

Rivers are very importance, providing essential water resources, enabling hydroelectricity generation, and sustaining the incredibly rich biodiversity. Read about the country with the highest number of rivers. The rivers in Russia are spread across Europe and Asia, making them essential for transportation, hydroelectric power, irrigation, fisheries, and trade. The waterways are a lifeline for the country’s economy, culture, and biodiversity.

Which country has the highest number of rivers?

Russia is widely known as the country with the most number of rivers in the world because it has an enormous total river network, with over 100,000 rivers flowing across its vast territory. While countries like Canada and China may have large rivers as well, Russia leads in total river count, meaning it has more rivers than any other country on Earth.

Major Rivers in Russia

1.Volga River – The Volga River is the longest river in Europe and a vital part of Russia’s economy. Flowing through central Russia, it supports agriculture, industry, and navigation. Cities like Volgograd, Kazan, and Nizhny Novgorod thrive along its banks. The river also powers several hydroelectric plants and has been historically significant for trade and transportation.

2.Lena River – Flowing across Siberia into the Arctic Ocean, the Lena is one of the longest rivers in the world. Its vast basin supports fisheries and forests while serving as an important natural route in the remote Siberian region. Seasonal ice coverage affects navigation but also sustains the ecosystem in this cold climate.

3.Ob River – The Ob River, along with its tributary the Irtysh, forms one of the largest river systems in Russia. It provides hydroelectric power, irrigation, and water transport. Its floodplains are rich in wildlife, and it is crucial for connecting remote Siberian settlements to larger trade networks.

4.Yenisei River – Originating from Mongolia and flowing into the Kara Sea, the Yenisei is one of the most powerful river systems on Earth. It supports hydroelectric energy projects and provides freshwater for Siberian forests. The river’s basin is home to unique wildlife and natural resources.

5.Amur River – The Amur forms a natural border between Russia and China. It is vital for biodiversity, fisheries, and navigation. The river basin supports both human settlements and protected wildlife areas, making it ecologically and economically significant.

Why Russia Has So Many Rivers

Russia’s unique geographical size and location allow it to have the largest total number of rivers in the world. Its mountains, plateaus, tundra, and plains, combined with melting snow and glacial runoff, create ideal conditions for river formation. The cold Siberian climate ensures permanent or seasonal rivers across vast expanses.

The rivers are not only essential for transportation, energy, and irrigation but also shape Russia’s identity, culture, and economy. They connect cities, support industries, and sustain one of the world’s richest freshwater ecosystems.