Unique Cities to Add to Your Travel List
Travel has progressed from being a luxury to something that is seen as a need in our lives. Now, around 1.4 billion people travel as tourists every single year, seeking out new destinations to explore.
People have different reasons for travelling, indeed it can be quite a personal thing. For some it’s just a break from routine, while others want to push their limits and learn something new.
Some of the top reasons for travelling include:
- Seeing historical sites, such as Machu Picchu in Peru, or Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
- Trying different sports, such as scuba diving
- Learning more about oneself, and how you deal with public transport in a strange place or working out foreign currency
- Total relaxation – lying on a beach in Cancun, Mexico.
Whatever your reasons to get away, there’s no doubt that travel can be very rewarding.
If you need travel inspiration, it’s usually good to pick a capital city. There’s usually plenty to do in a capital city, from historic sites and museums to explore to authentic dining options.
With over 195 capital cities worldwide, you may need some help narrowing your search. Depending on the types of activities you enjoy, some may be more suitable than others.
1. Las Vegas
Vegas can be an intimidating place for people who have never been. The poker tables attract some of the best players from around the world, so if you’re going to try your luck, log on to the 888poker UK site to get some practice in before your visit. While gambling is at the heart of this city, you can find plenty of other activities to stay amused.
- Ride the High Roller
This 500ft observation wheel will get your adrenaline flowing. You can also capture some incredible birdseye view images from the top. Seats can book up quick, so be sure to get your tickets online on the Ticketmaster site before you travel.
You can even sip a drink inside one of the glass-enclosed cabins on the 30-minute ride.
- See the world-famous Bellagio Fountains
No matter how busy the Strip gets, there’s something wonderfully calming about watching the water dance. The fountains are choreographed to different songs, so you’ll never get bored.
If you’re looking for something a bit different, check out the National Museum of Organized Crime & Law Enforcement. The Mob Museum site should give you a good insight into what to expect.
2. La Paz, Bolivia
Visit the world’s highest capital, 3,500 ft above sea level.
- Walk to the Killi Killi viewpoint
Make sure you’re ready for the ascent, as the road to this viewpoint certainly rises.
- Stroll around the Witches’ Market
Seeking some lotions and potions? Ask a local yatiri (witch doctor) for medicinal plants and a variety of charms with special powers.
- Stoll Malecon La Paz
This pretty seaside promenade is lined with artworks for an interesting walk.
3. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Glamorous and sophisticated, Buenos Aires envelops you in a warm embrace as soon as you land.
- Dance the tango
This is the birthplace of the dance, so you must get involved. See people dancing in the street at milongas, and join in if you wish.
- Recoleta Cemetery
Walking around a graveyard may not be your ideal holiday activity, but this place is really special. The mausoleums are beautifully ornate, and famous Argentinian’s such as Eva Peron, are buried here.
- Buy designer goods
The Palermo district of the city is home to independent designers and you can pick up some striking pieces.
4. Tokyo
The neon-lit hub of Tokyo is a place that mesmerises travellers and should be on your list if you want to teach English in Japan.
- Stay at the Godzilla hotel
It’s worth it for the Insta posts alone. It’s actually called the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, and Godzilla is on the roof.
- Mario Kart through the city
It seems crazy but you can actually go on a Mario Kart tour of the city. How fun!
- Child’s play at Yamashiroyo
Seven floors of toy store mean that you’ll find the most weird and wonderful toys, including Pokémon chess here.
5. Cape Town
This wondrous city at the tip of South Africa has both urban and natural adventures to offer.
- The Majestic Table Mountain
You can take a cable car or hike up this towering mountain to see some of the most spectacular views on earth.
- See penguins at play on Boulders Beach
A colony of wild African penguins call this place home, and you can see them waddling around on the shore.
- Learn about the history of Bo Kaap
This colourful neighbourhood was developed in the 1760s and became home to the Cape Malay population. The museum here and architecture are worth visiting, as well as some great places to eat.
6. Cairo
Located on the Nile River, this fascinating capital is a juxtaposition of old and new.
- Sail down the Nile
There are many ways to tour this ancient waterway, and see some of the marvellous temples on its banks. Check out the Sail The Nile site for a complete overview on prices and what to expect.
- Explore Coptic Cairo
Three of the world’s major religions are featured here in this huge complex, once the heart of Babylon.
- Browse at Khan Al-Khalili
Experience the sights, smells and sounds of this lively open-air bazaar.
Final Thoughts
If you have the opportunity, add one or all of these to your list. Whatever your reasons for travel, these will open your mind and expand your horizons.
