Meet The 10 Smallest Countries In The World

These countries may not be big, but they are still mighty! Each location has something that makes it worth visiting and definitely worth learning about. These micro nations all have interesting stories. Maybe one of them will inspire your next getaway.

1. Vatican City

You may or may not be surprised, but the smallest country in the world is actually Vatican City. And, yes, it is an official country. It covers only .17 square miles. That makes it about one-eighth the size of Central Park in New York City. The Vatican is, of course, located in the middle of Italy’s capital city of Rome.

According to World Population Review, the current population of Vatican City is 801. This is up from the recorded population in 2017, which was 792. Of the 800 people who currently live here, around 450 of them are official citizens. You can only be granted an official citizenship if you are a Swiss Guard, a Cardinal who resides in Vatican City or in Rome, a diplomat of the Holy See, or someone who lives in Vatican City because of their service.

Vatican City is governed as an absolute monarchy with Pope Francis at its head. And despite being the smallest country on Earth, it is home to the biggest church in the world — the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica.

2. Monaco

Monaco has earned itself the title of second smallest country in the world, coming in at .78 square miles. It is located on the French Riviera, surrounded on three sides by France and on the fourth side by the Mediterranean Sea. It is home to the largest number of millionaires and billionaires in the world per capita. Because of that fact, it is known as essentially a giant (or not so giant) playground for the rich and famous. The population comes in at just over 38,000 people, which actually makes it the most densely populated country in the world. If you’re big on gambling, this is the place to do it because it’s home to the legendary Monte Carlo Casino. One of the most popular events that happens annually in Monaco is the Formula One race, also known as the Monaco Grand Prix. The course is laid out through the streets of Monaco, which makes it more exciting in comparison to other races.

3. Nauru

The third smallest country in the world is Nauru, formerly known as Pleasant Island. It is indeed an island nation, located east of Australia, with a total area is 8.1 square miles. That makes it the smallest island country in the world. Its population currently sits at around 13,000 people. During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Nauru had one of the highest per-capita incomes for any sovereign state in the world. But in the 1980s, its phosphate resources were depleted by an intense increase in strip mining operations. The country lost its economic value when the mining exhausted its resources and destroyed its environment. Consequently, Nauru had to start relying more heavily on Australia. Now, it is mainly a quiet and peaceful place that stays off the radar of most tourists.

Nauru sunset — Nauru. Flickr / sean.kelleher1

4. Tuvalu

The fourth smallest country in the world is another island in Polynesia. Tuvalu, formerly known as the Ellis Islands, can be found in the Pacific Ocean, northeast of Australia. Its total area is 10 square miles and its population of approximately 11,000 people. The country was once a British territory, but gained its independence and became an independent country in 1978. Tuvalu has its own Tuvaluan language which is related to other Polynesian languages such as Hawaiian and Tahitian. Because of its far-off location, Tuvalu is not a common destination for vacationers. In 2010, it was recorded that less than 2,000 visitors came to the country and a majority of them came for business. This would make Tuvalu the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a super secluded island getaway.

5. San Marino

San Marino makes the list at number five. It covers 24 square miles and its population is a little bit over 33,000 people. It is surrounded entirely by Italy, which makes it an enclaved micro state, but it’s still technically its own country. San Marino is located on the northeastern side of the Apennine Mountains on the Italian peninsula. Its economy, which relies mainly on finance, industry, services, and tourism helps make it one of the wealthiest countries in the world in terms of GDP per capita. It is also known for having one of the lowest unemployment rates in the world and holds the title of being the oldest sovereign state still in existence. The land is covered with picturesque cliff-top castles that make it look like something right out of a historical movie or fairytale.

San Marino castle hilltop — San Marino. Pixabay / KitaLewen

6. Liechtenstein

A tiny country with a long name is a bit like a large man in a tiny birthday hat.

If you’ve never heard of Liechtenstein, that’s unsurprising. This beautiful landlocked principality is both small (61 square miles give or take) and tough to reach. Not only does it not have its own international airport, it’s also wholly located in the Alps, sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria. It’s no wonder Liechtenstein is one of the least-visited countries in Europe, charm and beauty notwithstanding.

Its 37,000 inhabitants get to enjoy spectacular medieval architecture (Liechtenstein is the last surviving principality of the Holy Roman Empire), and secluded alpine vistas beyond compare. Plus Liechtenstein is one of the wealthiest countries in the world per capita. The country is famous (or, rather, infamous) for its ask-no-questions approach to banking, a fact which has attracted plenty of business.

7. The Marshall Islands

Clocking in at 70 square miles, the Marshall Islands take small and remote to whole new levels. This country is both small and spread out; since their homeland is comprised of more than 1,100 separate islands, the 53,000 residents have plenty of room to breathe. Being in the middle of the Pacific helps too, as the Marshall Islands are approximately halfway between Hawaii and Southeast Asia.

The Marshall Islands have an interesting relationship with the United States. Although technically independent, they have an agreement of “free association”, meaning the U.S. sees to the islands’ defence, and Marshallese are able to work in the U.S. if they wish.

One person on beach in the Marshall Islands, palm trees in the background. — A beach day in the Marshall Islands.

8. Saint Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis is the smallest country in the western hemisphere, and the least populous. Located in the southeastern Caribbean, the country is made up of two main islands: Saint Kitts and — you guessed it! — Nevis. The 54,000+ Kittitians and Nevisians have been independent of the UK since 1983, but they remain in the Commonwealth.

The islands are noted for their exceptional bird-watching since they’re home to several rare and unusual species. Perhaps even more famous are the wild vervet monkeys, which some say were first brought to the island by pirates. A sighting is quite likely if you visit, but keep an eye on your drink: some of these monkeys are quite partial to cocktails.

9. The Maldives

The Maldives may be one of the smallest nations on earth, but it’s also one of the one of the islands. Even if you’ve never heard of the Maldives or couldn’t find it on a map, you’ve surely seen pictures of its thatched huts connected by wooden boardwalks, all suspended above surreally turquoise waters. As if the place weren’t already beautiful enough, one of the islands also features bioluminescent plankton that washes up on the beach, creating a spectacular glow-in-the-dark effect.

It’s little wonder more than 400,000 people live in a space covering only 115 square miles worth of the Indian Ocean.

The Maldives is truly something to see, but if you’re planning to go, sooner is probably better than later. This archipelago is only about 2 meters above sea level on average, so global warming may well wipe it off the face of the earth in the coming decades as ice caps melt and water levels begin to rise.

Woman on the beach at night, surrounded by bioluminescent plankton — The Maldives’ glow-in-the-dark plankton. Unsplash / Kevin Wolf

10. Malta

We have another famous one to round out the top ten. Malta is 122 square miles of history, architecture, and culture, smack dab in the middle of the Mediterranean between Sicily and Libya. With a population of around 475,000, its three inhabited islands are quite densely populated — at least on average.

Malta is home to some of the world’s oldest ruins. Its rather mysterious, ancient temples — some of which predate the pyramids — bear witness to the fact that humans have been living on these islands for at least 5,600 years. The island is rife with more recent history too, including old crusade-era forts, and the beautiful 16th century city of Valetta which was largely built by the Knights Hospitaller. Pains have been taken to preserve this fascinating legacy of multi-national influence.

There you have it: the ten smallest countries in the world. While they may be short on space, they’re not short on charm, hospitality, or history. Happy trails!

5 Deeply Underrated Destinations

There’s nothing wrong with the classics, but there are some pretty underrated destinations that don’t get nearly as much attention as they should! Here are our top 5. Their charm and restorative qualities may just surprise you if you decide to go exploring.

1. The Philippines

The Philippines is anything but a small country, with a population of 103 million people living on more than 7,000 individual islands. Despite having gorgeous beaches, reefs, volcanos, and historical landmarks to check out, it seems that travelers often choose Thailand or Indonesia over the Philippines.

You’ll get great value for your money in the Philippines and a large part of the population already speak English, which makes this country a relatively easy travel experience for most Americans.

A couple highlights that are worth exploring are the Chocolate Hills, a series of unusually symmetrical geologically formed mounds with green grass growing on them, and the impressive Banaue Rice Terraces which were carved from mountain ranges nearly 2,000 years ago.

Perhaps it’s time to give the Philippines some serious consideration for your next trip! Though if you do, you want to stay far away from any criminal activities; the current president, Rodrigo Duterte, has been known to use violent methods against perceived wrongdoers. You’ll also want to research which regions of the country you’ll be visiting. Some are much safer for tourists than others.

The Philippines beach — Unsplash / James Connolly

2. Gdansk, Poland

Dating back a thousand years, Gdansk is one of Poland’s oldest cities and holds a special place in the country’s history. It was the location of the start of World War II and also the place where Communism in Central Europe started to crumble. (The port of Gdansk was the heart of the Solidarity movement, led by the electrician/activist Lech Walesa, which nearly overthrew the Polish government in 1981-83 and ultimately came to power after the collapse of the USSR.)

Beyond its impressive history, Gdansk actually has a number of large beaches that stretch along the coast, such as Stogi Beach with its white sands, expansive views of the sea, and calm, peaceful aura.

History will definitely be the draw for many visitors, though, and the historic city center along with its fantastic museums will not disappoint. The Amber Museum is located in an old prison building and houses some captivating amber pieces including jewelry and even a Fender Stratocaster guitar.

The Solidarity Museum is also to be found in Gdansk, which is dedicated to the aforementioned labor movement. If you’re a history buff or a lover of freedom, you cannot miss this monument to civil disobedience in the face of Communist tyranny.

No To Cyk is one of the top bars in the city. It reflects the town’s communist history in a trendy way, and we recommend grabbing a drink here yet another journey to the past.

Gdansk canal — Gdansk. Pixabay / Kamracik

3. Bolivia

Tourism is definitely an important industry in the South American nation of Bolivia, but compared to its neighbors Peru, Chile, and Brazil, it’s still extremely underrated. It brought in roughly 900,000 visitors in 2016, while these other countries had numbers ranging from 3.7 million to 6.6 million.

While beach lovers might be disappointed with the lack of sandy shorelines and lapping waves, it has some other pretty amazing features — like the world’s largest salt flats measuring an immense 10,582 sq km and sitting 3,565 meters above sea level. The flats are completely covered in salt during dry season while in the wet season they have a thin sheet of water over top. They make for some spectacular photos, as the shallowness of the lake allows visitors to walk or even drive through it with ease.

Bolivia has seven World Heritage Sites, including the silver mines of Potosi, not to mention its powerful volcanoes, blood-red lakes, and lively inhabitants.

Bolivia salt flats water — Bolivia’s salt flats. Unsplash / Christopher Crouzet

4. Nara, Japan

Most people interested in traveling to Japan focus on Tokyo or Kyoto. While Nara is often overlooked, it has much of the same tourism activities as Kyoto but without the overwhelming crowds.

Nara has a number of beautiful gardens, ancient Buddhist temples, and shopping areas like Naramchi, an old neighborhood with wooden townhouses transformed into cafes and restaurants.

The deer of Nara Park have been designated a national treasure, and for good reason: there are over 1,200 free-roaming deer in the park, and they’ve become a symbol of the city. The park will allow you to get up close and personal with these tame creatures and explore scenic sights throughout.

Nara has also staked a claim as the birthplace of sake, so of course, you’ll find many excellent sake bars that do their city proud.

Want to read more about the land of the rising sun? Check out 5 Once-In-A-Lifetime Adventures To Try In Japan.

5. Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone is a rapidly growing travel destination with a nearly 300% year-over-year increase in tourists from 24,000 people in 2015 to roughly 74,400 in 2016, according to the World Tourism Organization. It’s still got nothing on South Africa’s massive 10 million per year, but it’s an up-and-comer and worthy of your attention!

With its breathtaking beaches, friendly people, and traditional lifestyles, Sierra Leone has a lot to offer visitors. Lumley Beach and Cotton Tree, a local symbol of freedom from slavery, are two landmarks worth seeing for yourself.

Wildlife is a prominent feature of Sierra Leone, and the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary is one of the top choices for seeing the local primate inhabitants. The Sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates endangered primates and offers twice-daily tours for visitors to see chimps frolicking through their leafy, waterfall-framed environment.

Sierra Leone has a bloody history, but the situation has stabilized considerably in the last decade and a half. Hopefully, it will stay that way.

These destinations are slightly off the beaten path in comparison to the Parises and Mexicos of the world, but they’ll give you memories that last a lifetime!

6 Train Trips You May Not Have Heard Of

There is nothing quite as relaxing as a long train journey across a beautiful landscape, with nothing to do but watch the world go by. Here are some of the best options on earth for those who prefer to go by rail.

1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Affectionately known as the “Toy Train,” the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway snakes its way up the foothills of the Himalayas from the Indian city of New Jalpaiguri to the famous hill stations of Darjeeling. This steam-powered train is small, its tracks narrow so that it can make its way through village streets and mountainous terrain. On the way, you are treated to stunning views of the hills and tea plantations, the hot Indian air cooling as you rise. No wonder this railway is listed as a World Heritage site.

The trip takes about 7 hours from one end to the other. Make sure to check whether the service is running before planning your trip, as landslides in the area sometimes block the train’s path.

2. The Ghan

This epic train journey crosses the full length of Australia from top to bottom takes 54 hours to complete. Passing through the heart of Australia’s outback, this is perhaps the best way to see the wilderness of the country: from the comfort of an all-inclusive train cabin. There are a few itinerary options for travelers, but the four-day Ghan Expedition from Darwin to Adelaide is the full experience.

Several stops along the way allow you to get out and explore in person, but the highlight is seeing the otherwise inaccessible and remote interior of the country through your window, from northern rainforests to the “red center.” You can keep an eye out for some of Australia’s iconic wildlife, such as kangaroos, as well as some rarer species like the camels that are represented in The Ghan’s logo.

3. The Jacobite

This train is the only daily steam service in the UK, and arguably one of the country’s most iconic trains. Its main claim to international fame is its association with the Harry Potter films, which used a train made by The Jacobite’s manufacturers as well as parts of the steam engine’s route for their depiction of the Hogwarts Express. The scenic Glenfinnan viaduct, in particular, was featured prominently in the film and has become a popular point of pilgrimage for fans of the series.

However, The Jacobite is not just for Harry Potter fans. The steam train makes its return journey from Fort William to Mallaig twice a day, providing stunning views of the Scottish Highlands and coastline, crossing mountains, lochs, rivers, and glens. Travelers also get a chance to enjoy a few hours in the charming coastal village of Mallaig before beginning their return journey, or they can take a ferry to the famous Isle of Skye.

4. The Train To The Clouds

El Tren a las Nubes is the fifth-highest train journey in the world, taking you along the Andes from Salta in Argentina to the Chilean border. Because it does not use a rack and pinion system, which enables trains to rise steep inclines, the Train to the Clouds is built on an impressive track of tunnels, bridges, spirals, and zig-zags, which allow the track to remain level even as it rises into the mountains.

The trip culminates at the La Polvorilla viaduct, an impressive steel structure that is one of the highest and tallest of its kind. The service runs weekly, departing early in the morning on Saturdays and returning at around midnight. There are various stops along the way where travelers can get a taste of rural Andean life, exploring local markets and sampling regional specialties.

5. California Zephyr

Stretching from Chicago to San Francisco, the California Zephyr is one of the best ways to see the varied nature of the U.S.A. in all its glory. Operated by Amtrak and clocking in at almost 52 hours, this scenic journey takes you across the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada, along the Colorado River, and directly through endless fields of grain.

The train stops in various large cities along the way, including Denver, Salt Lake City, and Reno, which makes it easy to hop aboard at various points if you do not feel like taking the full ride. There are various accommodation options available, from a no-frills coach seat to a full bedroom suite.

6. Harz Railway

In a country full of scenic train journeys, Germany’s Harz Railway is a strong contender for the most beautiful views. Passing through over 40 charming German villages, as well as castles, forests, mountains, and rivers, it is the best way to see Germany’s highest mountain range in the very heart of the country. At certain times of the year, you can expect to see magical snow-covered landscapes from the warmth and comfort of your steam-powered carriage.

The full network is actually made up of three routes: Harzquerbahn, Selketalbahn, and Brockenbahn, with the first being what is commonly known as the Harz Railway. Most tourists use the train to reach Brocken, the highest peak in the Harz and a popular destination for hikers.

If you’re looking for a somewhat old-fashioned but still efficient way to get where you’re going, and if you cherish a breathtaking view, consider booking one of these train trips. We’re sure you can… engineer something.

The 7 Happiest Countries Of 2018

Every year, the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network releases the World Happiness Report. As the name suggests, it measures the reported happiness of the citizens of every country on earth in a never-ending quest to determine… What is the happiest place on Earth? (No, Disney. Not you.)

Here are 2018’s top 7 happiest nations.

1. Finland

Despite long stretches of darkness and cold, Finland is collectively the happiest country in the world. Most Finns report a very high quality of life. Every person in the country has access to health care, there’s free education, a high life expectancy rate, a minimal gap in incomes, and a reasonable work-life balance.

Happiness might also mean something different to Finns than their North American counterparts. Perhaps an old Finnish expression sums it up best: “Happiness is having your own red summer cottage and a potato field.” Perhaps the Finns have figured out that a simple, content existence is the ultimate secret to happiness.

Finland lake — Finland. Unsplash / Tommi Saltiola

2. Norway

The former champion of happiness just a year ago, Norway has dropped to the second spot. Despite losing a spot, it seems unlikely Norwegians will shed any tears over that, silver medalists that they are.

Although money doesn’t always equal happiness, experts suggest that being the sixth wealthiest country in the world contributes to the overall happiness. Another more heartwarming explanation is a simple one: relationships.

Norwegians have a phrase called “sted bundet” which means “place-bound.” This exemplifies how many Norwegians think of the place they live. They tend to stay local and build long-lasting, deep relationships with people in their area.

Free education, almost entirely free health care, a universal pension plan for anyone 67-years and older, and 5-weeks paid vacation for workers are some other perks in the second happiest country in the world.

3. Denmark

Not only is Denmark 3rd on the list, it’s a really great place to have a family. The country gives parents a total of 52 weeks of leave from work when they’ve had a child, along with free or minimal-cost childcare.

Biking accounts for an overwhelming number of Danes’ commutes to school or work, likely accounting for increased health and happiness.

Social responsibility and gender equality are a couple of other noteworthy elements in Danish culture. The combination of it all makes this one cheery place to live.

Denmark boats in canal — Denmark. Unsplash / Nick Karvounis

4. Iceland

Although Iceland does have some of the highest taxes in the entire world, its people consistently call it one of the best places to live.

Locals say there’s an enormous obligation they feel toward their fellow Icelandic people. If your car gets stuck in the snow, someone will stop to help you. Hitchikers, even travelers, have said that they can almost always expect someone to stop and offer a ride. What’s more, you can actually trust the person offering.

The somewhat fierce environment that Icelanders experience (between volcanoes and winter darkness) has led to a resilient people who look out for each other and weather the storms in good spirits.

5. Switzerland

The Swiss have got it down pat: they have one of the highest GDPs in the world, the 10th longest life expectancy, an extremely low obesity rate, and they average about 35 hours of work per week.

Going beyond the statistics, visitors can easily see Switzerland has one of the most beautiful collections of natural wonders. Living with mountains and water almost always within a reasonable distance has got to do something for a person’s mental state!

Switzerland mountain lake — Switzerland. Unsplash / Jairph

6. Netherlands

Work-life balance is a massive factor in happiness for most people, and the Netherlands seem to have it down to a science. Nearly 27% of men and 77% of women work part-time. We’re not just talking gigs at McDonalds or Uber, we’re talking quality part-time jobs. This means more family time and more time doing what you enjoy.

The average Dutch person exercises moderately four days a week, and as we know, regular exercise releases endorphins, or the “happiness hormones.” It also promotes self-confidence and reduces the risk of illness.

Despite having one of the highest tax rates in Europe, locals in cities like Amsterdam are apparently happy to pay them due to premium city services and a great lifestyle.

7. Canada

Maybe it’s the fact that you can bump into someone and they’ll apologize to you. Maybe it’s the fact that the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, enjoys surfing and kayaking with his constituents and is generally a pretty cool guy. There are a myriad of reasons, but Canada is the first non-European country to make an entrance on the happiest countries in the word list. That’s a pretty big deal!

Canadian residents would likely cite acceptance as one of the biggest factors in collective happiness. Indeed, they ranked as the fourth-most accepting country to migrants on earth as well.

Were you wondering where the United States was going to show up on the list? You’d be waiting a while longer! They’re holding down the 18th spot, and with the amount of turmoil the US has seen in recent times, it might be a while before it climbs back up the list.

5 Essential Tips For Traveling Alone

1. First And Foremost, Be Safe

It goes without saying that traveling alone comes with specific risks, but none are insurmountable with the right preparation.

When you’re getting ready to leave your hotel, for example, consider a few safeguards such as leaving a note with your intended destinations and approximately when you’ll be back to your room. Leave your most valuable possessions, such as your laptop, in the safe when you go. Try to make connections with the staff so that they’re aware of you and can look out for you. You can even ask them if the place you’re planning on going to is safe for someone traveling alone.

Don’t be an open book when it comes to strangers! It’s good to be friendly and meet locals who can make your travels more enjoyable. But start slowly. Give only your first name, and never tell someone you’ve just met where you’re staying. Most people, of course, mean you no harm. But trust is earned.

Identity protection doesn’t come to mind as frequently as physical protection, but it’s an important thing to keep in mind when you’re traveling alone. If you’re using public WiFi, consider getting a VPN to protect yourself from hackers and malware that can access your personal information. What’s a VPN? Um, we’ll let someone explain who knows better than us.

2. Alone But Not Lonely

The purpose of traveling alone isn’t usually to avoid all human contact, so look for opportunities to make new acquaintances. Learning some words in the local language is undoubtedly a big help in meeting people. Even if they speak English, the fact that you’ve taken the trouble to learn some words in their mother tongue will endear you to them.

Take advantage of tours to meet fellow like-minded travelers with whom it will be easy to strike up a conversation. If you’re going for a meal or a drink, don’t be antisocial and sit in the corner! Body language can be a huge factor in seeming approachable, and if you make yourself available, it’s likely you could strike up a conversation with a friendly local. Try a service like Voulez Vous Diner which will arrange for you to have a meal with a local in the area you’re visiting if you’re feeling especially outgoing.

While some forums encourage travelers to avoid appearing like a tourist for fear of pickpockets and other criminals, it’s not always a bad thing to show that you’re a stranger. By displaying your camera or map where it can be seen in relatively safe places like a restaurant, it’s more likely that someone will ask where you’re from and offer some insight into the local culture and your surroundings.

Woman and dog sit by lake — Pixabay / Seaq68

3. Be Your Own Boss

One of the perks of traveling alone is that you don’t have to compromise and do what other people want to do. You get to do whatever it is that you want, when you want it, at the speed you want to do it. Instead of thinking about what your fellow travelers want to do, meditate on what it is you wish to experience about the place you’re visiting. There’s no one to stop you.

If you normally travel with children, for example, there are likely a few adults activities that you might want to take advantage of. Live in the moment and feel what it’s like to have no limitations!

4. Think About Your Destination

Some places are more idyllic for solo travelers. While laying on a beach alone might be your ideal vacation, for some people, they’d rather stay busy, see sights, and explore. Loneliness tends to rear it’s head when there’s little to do.

Consider destinations that will keep you on the move. Once you’ve selected a place, weigh your lodging options carefully. By looking at reviews, you’ll see if certain hotels are well-suited for people traveling alone, and the same goes for activities. Looking at feedback from other travelers will help you to find out if specific tours, restaurants, etc. are better alone or with some company.

When you’re selecting accommodations, make sure that the hotel or cruise line doesn’t require 2+ people to share the room. Some establishments have a surcharge for single guests so that their bottom line isn’t affected, so you’ll want to make sure the place you’re staying doesn’t have anything like that.

Hotel no vacancy sign — Unsplash / KEEM IBARRA

5. Stay Connected

Unless you want to escape life as you know it, an excellent way to avoid loneliness is to stay connected with family and friends from home. Take lots of pictures, share them on your social media, and engage with the people you’ll miss. It might make the journey a lot easier if you stop in at an internet cafe to Skype or chat online with your loved ones. They’ll appreciate it too.

Traveling solo doesn’t have to be scary; it can be quite a liberating experience. If you’re thinking of trying it, make sure you utilize these essential tips and most importantly, have fun on your own terms.

6 Magical Places To Spend Christmas

Whether you’d love to see Christmas lights from the cobblestone streets of a 14th-century village, or enjoy a husky-drawn sled ride, here are a few of the world’s best holiday destinations for everyone.

1. Bethlehem, West Bank, Palestine

If you want to make this Christmas a more spiritual one than ever, consider joining thousands of tourists who visit the birthplace of Christ every year. In Bethlehem you can attend a spectacular Midnight Mass at the Church of the Nativity or even visit the grotto where legend has it that Jesus was born. Beginning on Star-street, visitors are invited to admire the beauty of the city while walking the same path it’s believed that Mary and Joseph first did as they entered Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago. You can also make the nativity come alive by visiting Shepard’s Fields, where the angel Gabriel is said to have alerted local shepherds to the birth of Jesus. Aside from viewing the holy sites up close, there are plenty of Christmas tree lightings, candle parades, and public events that will make for an unforgettable holiday season.

Sadly, but to no great surprise, Bethlehem isn’t in the safest part of the world. Traveling here can be dangerous, and at times inadvisable, so stay on top of government advisories.

2. Tallinn, Estonia

When it comes to the world’s coziest place to spend Christmas, few options come close to the old-world charm of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. The medieval town itself is the perfect place to stroll cobblestone streets beneath the soft glow of nighttime lanterns. It was here in 1441 that the world’s first Christmas tree was erected, an event which is still celebrated each year when one of its descendants is decked out in the middle of Town Hall Square. Beneath the tree’s glow, you’ll find the city’s legendary Christmas market, featuring dozens of huts set up by local vendors. There you’ll find plenty of freshly baked goods, snow sculptures, an ice rink, and even a chance to meet Santa and his reindeer. The town also hosts a Christmas Jazz festival which features multi-week concerts by artists from around the world in venues around town. Last but not least, be sure to check out Gingerbread Mania, where hundreds of artists show off their creations, all of which are made from gingerbread cookies.

3. Strasbourg, France

Rest assured that they don’t call Strasbourg Capital de Noël (The Capital of Christmas) for nothing. This French gem doesn’t mess around when it comes to Christmas, as it lights up a great tree each year in that must be a minimum of 30 meters tall. Among the city’s twinkling 14th century architecture, cobblestone streets, and canals, you’ll find up to ten different Christmas markets, including “Christkindelsmärik,” the oldest Christmas market in France which was founded in 1570. Listen to the church bells ring in the distance as you shop for Christmas gifts, sip a cup of warm wine, or enjoy the delicacy of freshly baked goods.

4. Vienna, Austria

While Vienna offers many different International Christmas choirs amid the sparkle of the holiday season, there may be nothing quite so bucket-list worthy as catching a live performance of the Vienna Boys Choir during Christmas Mass at the Hofburgkapelle (Hofburg Chapel). The city itself is a sight to behold as it covers its imperial architecture with magical lighting and lines the streets with outdoor Christkindlmarkts. There you’ll find one-of-a-kind artisan wares ranging from candles to handcrafted holiday gifts. Among the most famous is the Viennese Christmas Market where you can browse the booths of over 150 vendors.

5. Vatican City/Rome, Italy

It likely comes as no surprise that the city at the center of Catholicism offers one of the most spectacular Christmas seasons on Earth. December in the Vatican (and central Rome) is a truly magical month as the city is decked out with nativity scenes and Christmas trees, including the massive trees erected in St. Peter’s Square, Piazza Venezia, and next to the Coliseum. Along the streets, vendors sell roasted chestnuts as people from around the world stroll beneath the city’s vibrant lights and Christmas decorations. Of course, the season’s biggest draw is midnight mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, which you’ll want to buy tickets for several months in advance if you plan to attend. Alternatively, you can also attend an incredible midnight mass inside the nearly 2,000-year-old walls of the Pantheon.

6. Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland

If you want to give your inner child the treat of a lifetime, then consider spending a Christmas in Rovaniemi, which the locals argue is a much more likely base camp for Santa than the North Pole. The perfect place to spend a guaranteed white Christmas, the snowy forests of Rovaniemi offer plenty of opportunities for winter fun, including a husky-drawn sled ride or a skimobile trip to see the Northern Lights. You’ll have the chance to learn how to bake cookies from elves as you visit their woodland Christmas village or meet Santa live and in person when you visit his office. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to meet a reindeer, as Lapland is home to around 200,000, many of which live on farms where you can visit and even feed them. If you don’t mind the cold, you might consider staying in the city’s famous Arctic Hotel which is made completely of ice! Don’t worry; they also offer hot tubs and saunas when you need a break from the cold.

Wherever you decide to spend your next holiday season, we hope it’s one filled with joy and memories that will last a lifetime.