In one of our past homes, we had one section next to the stove that was butcher block, but the rest reg. There is def upkeep to one & doing a small section is much easier than a whole top. Wilson Art & Formica have some really great new laminate choices---for example, if you like granite look, you can get it with these but a matte finish which reads better in a country kitchen.

I think your benchtop material choice really depends on how both you and your husband live and what level of natural wear you are comfortable with showing. Natural wood benchtops to me are very similar to natural stone or stainless steel. The surfaces will naturally age and show use, scratches and imperfections much more than say a caesarstone if it's a high use area but some people love that look and it goes well with an industrial or natural style. My wife and I thought long and hard about it but realised we want the benchtop to look as new and clean each time as possible so opted back for caeserstone (Ocean Foam) which hid small stains and dust :)

there is limited backsplash... one side of the gallery is a bank cupboards.. the side with counter top is open to family room or windows to outside deck and small return which is wall...I am thinking of keep that with white tiles ... also replacing sink with white glass double ...and new chrome fitting for taps and water filter...

Oh. Heck this person is not being helped. I agree to not put such a shocking colour on such a huge surfaces, that turquoise would cost a lot of money on permanent fixtures. We need to choose something we can live with a long time and when we want to add vibrant colours choose something as an accessory, like saucepans, or display on shelves. This can be later changed. Have a look at displays or setting in say IKEA at least. Or Domo if there is one in your city. Interior space is what you see every day, every wake up moment and you can get quite sick of it with such a strong colour. Aim for sophistication, easy living. If you are not confident get some pro advice. It is cheaper in the long run.