Wanderlust Revisited

This piece of nostalgic travel writing is all about unforgettable delights and the odd example of culture shock with a selection of memorable destinations from a-z.

Angkor, Cambodia (Siem Riep pop. 139, 458): The three equally breath-taking temple complexes that make up this UNESCO world heritage site are all special in their own distinct ways. First, Angkor Wat (late 12th century) where you have the renowned panoramic views, silhouettes and bas-reliefs from the Ramayana. Suffice to say, sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit all three sites. Second, is Bayon (see above), the ubiquitous Buddha heads found on Cambodian banknotes and full of mystery. Third, is the other worldly Ta Phrom, where giant tree roots seemingly swallow up timeless temples.

Bangkok, Thailand (Pop. 8.281 million): Tuk tuks weave in and out of traffic as you struggle to keep up with the pace of life in this fascinating South East Asian capital city. Visit Jim Thompson’s house (1959) to see where the legendary ‘silk king’ lived. No trip to Bangkok is complete without making an appearance at the Grand Palace; you never know, you may end up in the same room as the King (this has happened), and you may be shocked, but he is so revered here that nobody is worried that anybody would hurt him, so, as it has been reported, he is not guarded by bodyguards. Wat Pho, which is out of this world, and Khaosan Road, where all tourists end up at some point.

Cartagena des Indias, Colombia (Pop. 971, 592): San Felipe de Barajas (1536-1637) is a true Spanish colonial gem; a fort, which has stood the test of time and overlooks the Caribbean. The colourful surroundings and intense humidity will keep you on your toes. Excursions include a visit to Volcan Totumo, where you can paddle around in a mud volcano, full of nutrients and healthy minerals. Additionally, there’s the 45-minute boat trip to Islas del Rosario. If you do decide to have a massage while you lie on a deck-chair, be aware that you will be easy pickings for souvenir salesmen, who, unfortunately, will not stop bothering you during your visit.

Delhi, India (Pop. 18.98 million): Immediately, you will feel as if you are under attack from noisy rickshaw horns and the smog, depending on the time of the year, can be horrendous. Nonetheless, there is much to admire about the capital of this fascinating country. Qutb Minar (1192) is a magnificent minaret that towers over you at 73 metres tall, accompanied by several other UNESCO world heritage structures. The red fort (1648) {above} is well-known as the place where the Indian Prime Minister gives an annual address to the Indian people. Humayun’s Tomb (1569-70) is the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Other top sites include the gigantic Jamal al Masjid mosque and the elegantly shaped Bahai Lotus Temple.

Elephanta Island, India (pop. 1,200, Mumbai: 18.41 million): otherwise known as Gharapuri, this island is one of several islands comprising Mumbai harbour and is 10km from Mumbai itself. The main draw is the ancient Hindu cave statues that are UNESCO world heritage treasures and can be visited by boat from the city. The Elephanta caves house the statues that had been carved out of the rock and depict Hindu mythologies.

Frisco, USA (Pop. 884, 363): San Francisco is known for many things; the birthplace of the hippy movement (Haight Ashbury), the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, which can be seen from a boat ride and the impossibly steep streets made famous in Don Siegel’s Dirty Harry (1971). Ride the street car (a local tram) and get a feel for this breezy, cosmopolitan city. Fisherman’s wharf is a nice place to come for a bit of seafood and Chinatown is another must-see area. Coit Tower (1933) is best for views. If you have the opportunity, you should also visit the Japanese tea garden in Golden Gate park.

Granada, Nicaragua (Pop. 123, 697): second only to Cartagena des Indias, this Caribbean treasure trove of colonial Spanish architecture hosts a horse festival (Hipica), which should be celebrated in style by all who are lucky enough to be in town when it takes place. One of the old customs is to parade giant mannequins of the Spaniards throughout town to ridicule their appearance and signify that they had been in the area all those years ago.

Havana, Cuba (Pop. 2.13 million): another Spanish colonial treat; combined with the hero- worshipping one could only expect in the country where Ernesto Che Guevara (1928-1967) as a revolutionary hero and icon and Fidel Castro (1926-2016), as its former leader and icon, have dominated life here over the years. Over the radio, on posters, on t shirts and far beyond, the power of the personality cult is there for all to see. Communism, which is fascinating to learn about, is hideous in any extreme form. There is much to learn about the culture here: from music to rum. The colonial guest houses are superb, but take care, as bookings are not always honoured. Tourists always get a good breakfast; but notice that the supermarkets are not so well stocked. You may wish to follow in Ernest Hemingway’s (1899-1061) footsteps and discover what he found so endearing about Cuban culture.

Ica, Peru (Pop. 282, 407): popular for its sand surfing slopes and close proximity to the Nazca lines (85 miles), which have a certain mystique and are best seen from above, i.e. by plane. In terms of appearance, Ica could be described as Mad Max like, as all kinds of strange contraptions like dune buggies are paraded about and happy go lucky adrenaline junkies proudly wear gargantuan goggles to keep the sand out of their eyes. The picture above is of Maccu Piccu, a different Peruvian site, which deserves to feature more prominently (it's also further below in the runners up section).

Jerusalem, Israel (Pop. 874,186): historically speaking this enigmatic epicentre of religion, means a lot to people of different faiths. The western wall (19BC) is a holy place to Jews. For muslims, the dome of the rock mosque (691-2) is a sacred sanctuary, and for Christians, like the other two religions, the temple mount is considered holy, of which the wall is a part.

Khajuraho, India (Pop. 24,481): home of the famous ancient erotic Kama Sutra style statues (950 and 1050), this UNESCO world heritage site will amaze you, especially as culture has changed so much in all these years and where censorship has made taboos out of far less. Luckily, the artistic integrity behind these masterworks has been left for future generations to admire.    

Leipsig, Germany (Pop. 560, 472): East Germany has its charms. Cost-wise, you will be happy to hear that you can get by for less than you would pay in the west of the country. It is a cycle-friendly town and plenty of green spaces to seek solace in. There’s a huge 91m high 1813 memorial to the battle of the nations, complete with its own lovely lake. If nude sunbathing floats your boat, then you can join families by the Cospudener See; further away from the pier mind you. For those music lovers out there, the Bach (1685-1750) museum (the building is 550 years old) is worth stopping by for.

Marrakesh, Morocco (Pop. 928,850): mesmerising with its magnificent Medina and the main square Djemaa El Fna, which is an assault on the senses; will leave an imprint on your memory. Never before are so many unique elements blended together to create an inviting, lively focal point to return to again and again. From boxing and drums-a-go go to sizzling barbecues for the whole city to snake charmers galore. Stay in a former palace, gaze at the stars and have a dip in the pool when the water’s not too hot. Bars are hidden away in Morocco, though you can just about find one; then walk through the curtains.

New Orleans, USA (Pop. 393,292): the French quarter is where it all happens. Avoid the Mardi Gras prices if culture is paramount to you. At Napoleon House, you can dine exquisitely where an 1821 plot had been devised to smuggle none other than the exiled Napoleon Bonaparte from St Helena to this neck of the woods. Easy Rider (1969) aficionados will remember St Louis cemetery no 1, from trippy scenes with Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper. Don’t miss the voodoo tour unless you get the heebie jeebies. Ride a Mississippi steamboat and have no fear if there’s a tropical downpour, the rain will quickly dissipate, and your clothes will be dry before you can say jambalaya. Make sure you try all the Cajun delights like muffaletta and gumbo soup and visit the Preservation Jazz Hall band (if you like jazz of course). In addition, the garden district is a beautiful area to explore.

Ottawa, Canada (Pop. 994,837): the Canadian capital is well worth a visit. Look out for naughty squirrels who like to stand up and expect to see a few at a time. Visit parliament (1859-1927) and marvel at the stunning interiors. Out and about, you can find food as diverse as Afghan cuisine if you’re feeling adventurous. One of the most worthwhile sites to see is Rideau Hall (1867), the official residence of the Governor General of Canada.

Paris, France (2.141 million): perhaps the most romantic city in the world. Majestic Montmartre makes you feel like you have somehow arrived in the centre of art itself. As you walk around you recognise numerous film locations like the Champs-Élysées for Jean-Luc Godard’s Breathless (1969) or Le Sacre Couer in Jean-Pierre Melville’s Bob the Gambler (1956). Versailles (1634) makes for the ultimate day trip where the aesthetic gardens with the much emulated but never bettered 700 topiary hedges are trimmed in 60 different shapes. If art is important to you, then the Louvre will be at the top of your list. Some purists have been known to visit for 7 hours at a time. Beware – if you are used to large portions at dinner, you may be disappointed. Nevertheless, the quality of the cuisine is generally high.

Quebec City, Canada (Pop. 542,298): if you arrive at the train station, don’t miss the green roof and seeing the building from a distance, as it is one of the finest in the city. In town, you will find a great many creperies and other French restaurants mixed in with more Canadian fare; though you can even find Moroccan tajine if you so wish. It is a very charming place with some stunning architecture. If you are exploring Quebec, you can use the state capital as a base to go whale watching in Tadoussac or to enjoy dabbling in farm life in charming Charlevoix. You may wish to brush up on your French while you’re here.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Pop. 6.32 million): perfect picture post-card peaks. Corcavado with its Christ the redeemer statue (1922-31) should not be confused with sugar leaf mountain which also can be visited by cable car. Choose Ipanema or Leblon beaches over Copacabana, where pickpockets are rife. Try not to end up in Racinho, the largest favela, unless you are on a guided tour due to crime. Try out the Santa Teresa tram that chugs along the top of a viaduct and passes by the house where Ronnie Biggs, the great train robber had lived; though always keep an eye on your possessions. Although it may be up your alley, during Carnival (late Feb) is when the prices become astronomical. If you are curious to learn more about the days of the colonial Portuguese in Brazil, give the national historical museum a try. Another wonderful wonder is the beautiful botanical gardens with huge rubber trees from the Amazon forest.

Salvador, Brazil (Pop. 2.677 million): an unmissable experience. Pelourinho, the slavery district has been well preserved and, walking over the cobblestones, and seeing all the stunning colours of all the buildings around you reminds you that you are in the Caribbean. Hundreds of years of history will stay with you and you can let your imagination wonder. The conditions that the poor slaves lived in is something to reflect upon and you will never forget it as, tragically, human beings had been inhumanely chained underground in rat infested surroundings. The culture of Africa and Brazil combine to form a unique cuisine with such delicacies as vatapa (shrimp, herring, cashew nuts and special sauce) and moqueca do peixe (a fish stew to die for). Endearingly, the city has its own unique lift that helps transport locals and visitors alike between the upper and lower cities.

Tokyo, Japan (Pop. 9.27 million): the most futuristic city in the world; make that a megalopolis. Modern architecture can be seen next to ancient temples and shrines. Just as the young and old live in harmony side-by-side, though younger generations have embraced new types of pop culture like manga and cosplay. The best view is arguably from the bar at the Park Hyatt Hotel, recognisable from Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation (2003). One of the most iconic temples is Asukasa Kannon temple, the first part of the name should not be confused with Akasaka, a commercial/ residential area near Roppongi, which has been known to happen. Look out for 7-11 convenience stores, they sell inexpensive and delicious bento (lunch boxes of sushi). Check out the food displays downstairs at Takashimaya department store in Shinjuku and don’t leave town without a trip to the Akihabara, a paradise for gadget enthusiasts. You’ll be amazed at how quiet traffic is, how safe Tokyo is and how many different sides to the city there are.           

Udaipur, India (Pop. 451,100): A city within a city. If you are lucky enough to stay in the palace complex, you will be in for a treat. Shiv Niwas Palace (1874) was used as a location for James Bond film Octopussy (1986) as was the Taj Lake Palace (1746), now another 5 star hotel in the middle of the artificial lake and Jag Mandir Palace (1551), a short boat ride away, where they have a chic restaurant. As soon as you leave the palace area on land you will be overcome by the contrast in terms of conditions. Scooters vie for space and water buffaloes often sit in the middle of the road as traffic goes around them. Back in the far more affluent part of town, you can visit the Maharaja’s crystal collection, but not take pictures inside. The only Bond location a little further out that has become rather run-down is the Monsoon palace (1884), which is a pity. Though, langur monkeys love the place. Nevertheless, staying in one of the palace hotels comes highly recommended.       

Venice, Italy (Pop. 261,905): forget the gondola, you do not have to spend an arm and a leg to enjoy this magical destination. The Doge’s Palace (10th-11th century) is one of the finest buildings to behold and the secret itineraries tour comes highly recommended. You may wish to avoid buying a drink in St Mark’s Square, unless you want to spend 3 times you would elsewhere. Have a look at Jewish Venice relating to the Jewish ghetto and why not give kosher food a go. Boat trips to the nearby islands of Murano (famous for the glass) and Burano (colourful buildings) are delightful.

Washington DC, USA (Pop. 633, 427): The Lincoln Memorial (1914-1922) is an impressive sight as is the National Gallery of Art, where they boast an outstanding art collection, as you would expect. Take care where you walk around and when as the capital city is also known as being the murder capital of the United States.

Yacuiba, Bolivia (Pop. 80,000): this place is the exception to the rule. There’s nothing to see here. Bus travel in this country is fraught with danger. The drops on the way up the Andes (pictured above) are huge and there are no barriers to protect you. Some drivers seem to have a cavalier attitude and they go too fast, making for uncomfortable journeys. Attempting to cross Bolivia to get to Argentina may frustrate you, and get your ticket up to the border, so you don’t get stuck in Salvador Mazza for a whole day. Always bring enough cash to last you a day or two, a bit of food and warm clothing for those chilly evenings in the Andes when undergoing bus journeys, as your bus may break down and you won’t like it one bit.         

Zabriskie Point, USA

A geological wonder in Death Valley, California. The dry heat takes a little getting used to, but the scenery is truly inspirational. Michelangelo Antonioni's Zabriskie Point (1970) is worth watching as an ode to the epic landscape.

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Runners Up

Amritsar, India

Barcelona, Spain

Copan, Hondurus       

Maccu Piccu, Peru

New York City, USA

Prague, Czech Republic            

Saigon, Vietnam

Taj Mahal (Agra), India

Ubud, Indonesia

Vancouver, Canada