A world of celebration, inspired by the beautiful game

As the World Cup 2026 continues to bring countries and cultures together, it offers more than the excitement of the tournament. It is a celebration of the world itself – its atmosphere, traditions, landscapes and shared moments. Inspired by nations connected through the beautiful game, we explore places that show why travel is so rewarding, from Brazil’s colour and energy to Scotland’s proud heritage. 

As the sun sets, warm Spanish evenings unfold at a relaxed pace. Locals gather in lively plazas, while the sound of conversation and clinking glasses drifts through the air. Dining is often a late-night affair, shared over tapas and chilled drinks, and the mood is warm, sociable and unmistakably Spanish. Whether it’s the build-up to a football match, the hum of music from local bars or a simple evening stroll, Spain knows how to celebrate in a way that feels effortless and full of life. 

Norway’s great outdoors is shaped by contrast – deep, still fjords set against wide Arctic skies, and snow-covered mountains framing small coastal towns. As the seasons shift, so too does the light. In summer, the Midnight Sun brings long, lingering days, while in winter, the Northern Lights add colour and movement to darker skies. At the heart of it all is friluftsliv, a Norwegian way of life centred on spending time outdoors, where simply being in nature is as valued as skiing or hiking, and is part of everyday balance. 

In Scotland, celebration is found in folklore, music and stories woven into everyday life. Tales passed down through generations bring the past into the present, while music, from ceilidhs to Gaelic song, adds warmth, character and a strong sense of identity, bringing communities together. Historic landmarks and enduring legends reflect a proud heritage, closely tied to the natural beauty of the landscape. 

Across Portugal’s islands, life is shaped by the Atlantic, from Madeira’s subtropical gardens and levadas to the volcanic landscapes of the Azores. There is a strong sense of community and pride in local culture, reflected in Madeira’s colourful festivals throughout the year and its renowned New Year’s Eve fireworks. In the Azores, religious and maritime traditions are marked through parades and pilgrimages. Together, dramatic landscapes, deep-rooted traditions and warm, open hospitality create places of distinct character and charm. 

In Sweden, everyday life is shaped by simple moments of pausing and connecting. At the heart of this is fika, the daily ritual of taking time out for coffee, something sweet and easy conversation with friends or family. In summer, long, light evenings invite more time outdoors, and life naturally moves into open spaces, from waterside walks and quiet moments in nature to relaxed gatherings. Meals are often enjoyed outside, with a sense of ease as daylight lingers late into the night. 

Life in Brazil is closely linked to celebration, expressed through Carnival, samba, music and dance. Colour and rhythm sit at the heart of the country’s cultural identity, shaped by African and Portuguese influences, and nowhere is this more visible than during Rio’s Carnival, when music, movement and vibrant costumes fill the streets, bringing communities together in a shared sense of tradition and creativity. Along the coast, a relaxed beach culture unfolds on golden sands, where time is spent outdoors with family and friends to the steady sound of the ocean.