By: Noor Khan Mallach
Imagine just getting on a plane and visiting the most beautiful and unique sights in the world. With a total of 195 countries worldwide, each country has its own beauties and features that attract different types of people. Some people love travelling for nature, some for the local cuisine, and others for the architecture. Who knows what someone is looking for. Today, let’s look at the top most interesting countries overall in terms of general atmosphere, architecture, natural sights, and, of course, the food.
China: Located in East-Asia and surrounded by more than 14 nations, the People’s Republic of China is a country with outstanding amounts of natural beauty and a mix of cultures. China itself has 34 provincial-level administrative divisions consisting of 23 provinces (including Taiwan, which is claimed but not controlled), 5 autonomous regions, 4 municipalities, and 2 Special Administrative Regions (SARs), every single part is very different. For modern cities and a sense of being in the future, big cities like Shanghai and Beijing are incredible options. For a large industrial city, especially in the fashion sector, Shenzhen is worth a visit as it is relatively untouristy compared to the former countries mentioned and has really astonishing features, including a technology sector with full buildings of products with dancing robots. If you aim at learning the country’s heritage, architecture, and history, visiting the Great Wall about 2 hours out of Beijing city center as well as the Forbidden City and Xi’an (the old capital) for the terracotta soldiers is really a must on this trip. Lastly, if nature’s beauty is what you seek, Guilin and Zhangjijie are two extraordinary places. Guilin with its shocking rice plantations hanging off the edge of mountains and Zhanjijie with its seemingly floating mountains is the perfect destination to see mother nature.
Turkey: One of the intercontinental countries between Asia and Europe, Turkey offers deep heritage, beliefs, and sights as a package deal, with the bonus of incredible food. To start off, if you want incredible natural sights, Cappadocia and Anatalya are great options, balancing stunning sunsets and mountains with beaches that provide full relaxation. Another great city, and the capital, is Istanbul but mainly for the feeling of modernity and immersion into the culture. Like almost all capitals, it provides a sense of heritage while still allowing for the visitor to enjoy common things like sightseeing for monuments, shopping, and quality restaurants. Finally, Burka is for those who love places with deep-rooted culture. Unlike Istanbul, Burka is a deeply muslim city where the religion is present everywhere. It is certainly not for everyone but is nonetheless an interesting place to visit if your interests align!
Italy: Yes, it’s already extremely popular, but for good reasons. A personal favorite city that I would recommend for any person who enjoys historical architecture and charming scenery is Venice. Apart from being extremely unique due to being isolated from the rest and feeling like it’s floating on the water, the entire experience is just really a gem. In peak season, it might get slightly uncomfortable due to the amount of people, but it’s the only trade off and well worth it. Florence and Rome are both 2 major cities that blend heritage and modernity throughout the city, making it obligatory if visiting. For authenticness and less tourist, Sicily is a fabulous option with its urban and more rural areas. The last suggestion is for true, hard-core nature fans: The Dolomites. The hiking and view achieved are truly memories for a lifetime, simply picturesque.
So now you know. Of course, there are many other incredible countries to visit and these are just 3 of at least top 15 (in no particular order) to give some inspiration. Relax, have fun, and see you at the next one 🙂
