The wonders of France v the beauty of Croatia

The World Cup is much more than a sporting event. It is a world of inspiration for travellers as well.

While Russia outperformed expectations by making it into the quarter finals, its horseback-riding Cossacks - a semi-military community akin to Japan's samurais - captured the world's attention as they guarded stadiums and fans. From Mexican fans in sombreros to Japanese fans tidying up the stands with blue trash bags, the tournament is a chance for countries to showcase their culture and, implicitly, the possibilities for travel.