Every FIFA World Cup sparks wanderlust.
Trogir, Croatia/Sergii Gulenok/Unsplash
While football fans are following the action on the pitch, many travellers are already adding future destinations to their bucket lists. This year, plenty of attention has gone to Africa’s World Cup nations, but there are several countries beyond the continent where South Africans may find something unexpectedly familiar.
Whether it’s dramatic coastlines, a thriving outdoor culture, exceptional wine, mountain scenery or a shared love of long road trips, these destinations offer experiences that feel comfortably close to home while still delivering plenty of new adventures.
Croatia
Croatia’s coastline has become one of Europe’s hottest travel destinations, and South Africans who love seaside holidays will understand exactly why. Picture turquoise water, hidden coves, fresh seafood, charming harbour towns and warm summer evenings spent outdoors. It has many of the ingredients that make places like the Cape coast so appealing.
Croatia also rewards travellers who enjoy combining beach days with history. Medieval old towns sit alongside modern marinas, while island hopping feels refreshingly relaxed rather than rushed. Like South Africa, locals take great pride in regional food, wine and hospitality. Every stretch of coastline offers something a little different, encouraging slow travel rather than ticking destinations off a list.
Norway
Ålesund/Miriam Kimvangu
Norway might seem worlds apart from South Africa, but nature lovers will quickly recognise the country’s appeal. If your ideal weekend involves hiking, camping, scenic drives or chasing waterfalls, Norway feels like an upgraded version of every outdoor holiday you’ve ever taken. The spectacular fjords echo the dramatic beauty of South Africa’s mountain passes, while winding roads invite the same leisurely road trip style that locals enjoy along routes such as the Garden Route or Panorama Route.
Norwegians also embrace the outdoors regardless of the weather. Hiking, kayaking, fishing and wild swimming are simply part of everyday life, much like weekends spent exploring our national parks or coastline. Visit in summer for endless daylight and hiking conditions that seem to stretch forever.
Mexico
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico/Shane Lopez/Unsplash
South African and Mexico share a vibrant food culture, colourful traditions and a warmth that shines through everyday interactions. Markets buzz with activity, street food is a point of national pride, and family gatherings remain central to local life. Travellers will also appreciate Mexico’s diversity. Tropical beaches, deserts, colonial cities, mountains and bustling capitals all exist within one country, creating the same sense of endless variety that makes South Africa such an exciting destination to explore.
Adventure seekers can snorkel in cenotes, climb ancient ruins or watch whales along the Baja Peninsula, while food lovers will never run out of regional dishes to discover. If you enjoy South Africa’s blend of adventure, culture and cuisine, Mexico delivers all three in abundance.
Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal/Andreas Brücker/Unsplash
Portugal has quietly become one of Europe’s favourite destinations, and South Africans often find it immediately welcoming. Perhaps it’s the relaxed pace of life, the incredible coastline or the strong café culture. Maybe it’s the seafood, world class wine or the sunny climate that feels pleasantly familiar.
Much like South Africa, Portugal balances cosmopolitan cities with quiet coastal escapes and wine producing countryside. One day you can wander historic streets in Lisbon or Porto, and the next you’re relaxing beside dramatic cliffs in the Algarve. Road trips are particularly rewarding, with charming villages, castles and vineyards appearing around almost every corner. For South Africans who appreciate good food, ocean views and scenic drives, Portugal is an easy match.
Australia
Alex King/Unsplash
Australia may be one of the easiest countries for South Africans to settle into as a visitor. The similarities begin with the lifestyle. Beaches, braais, surfing, rugby, wildlife and spending weekends outdoors all form part of everyday culture. The landscapes also feel surprisingly familiar. Coastal roads, mountain ranges, vineyards and wide open spaces create an atmosphere that many South Africans instantly recognise.
There’s also a shared appreciation for coffee culture, craft breweries and relaxed dining, making Australian cities easy to navigate for travellers looking for familiar comforts. While Australia certainly has its own unique wildlife and natural wonders, there’s enough cultural overlap to make it feel both exciting and comfortably familiar.
Türkiye
Antalya/Igor Sporynin/Unsplash
Türkiye offers one of the most fascinating combinations of cultures anywhere in the world, and South Africans who enjoy diversity will feel right at home. Like South Africa, Türkiye is a meeting place of different traditions, cuisines and histories. Every region tells a different story, from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the turquoise beaches of the Mediterranean coast.
Food also plays a starring role. Shared meals, generous hospitality and vibrant markets create a welcoming atmosphere that many South Africans will instantly appreciate. Travellers who enjoy exploring beyond the obvious can discover mountain villages, ancient ruins, hiking trails and coastal towns that remain far quieter than Europe’s better-known destinations. Türkiye rewards curiosity, and much like South Africa, no two regions feel exactly alike.
The final whistle
One of the joys of travelling is recognising familiar moments in unfamiliar places.
These World Cup destinations may sit thousands of kilometres from South Africa, but they share many of the qualities locals already love at home: spectacular scenery, warm hospitality, rich food cultures and a genuine appreciation for the outdoors.
So while football might be the reason these countries are making headlines, their landscapes, culture and adventures are what deserve a place on your travel wish list long after the tournament ends.
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Spotify
ALSO READ:
7 underrated SANParks that deserve a spot on your bucket list
