Travel brings to life a new understanding of the composition of the world. When one breaks away from their comfort and what they have always known, he or she gets to experience a range of different cultures, languages, and societies. This creates a realization of the heterogeneity our world has to offer. Thus, travel is imperative for the development of one's persona and the advancement of one's intellect, both intrapersonal and interpersonal.
With the immensity of our planet and the abundance of both man-made and natural wonders, it is difficult to even chose where to travel. The desire to go everywhere and see everything in the world is one that many people, including ourselves, simply can not shake off. However, this is obviously irrational in an economic and timely perspective. To make it easier, here are six places you undoubtedly must take a trip to sometime during your life.
1. The Palio at Siena
This event happens twice a year in Siena, Italy. The scenery will make you believe you traveled in time to the medieval era. Divided into districts based on Horses, the city paralyzes and the only focus becomes the race. At night, chants can be heard all throughout the night as entire districts have dinners in plazas. Little kids perform in a chorus, all decked out in spirited colors. Even the street lamps are changed to resemble an older era. As the event approaches, each horse is transported from the stall to the center of the 'campo'. Crowds of people form to cheer on the horse, rider, and special district members as the make their way to the race. The actual event can last from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the performance of the horses. Tourists and citizens all watch the race attentively before they get back to the spirit, cheering, and celebrations.
As “the city that never sleeps”, you may just never sleep again, as there are endless opportunities for exploring. Most likely a bit closer to home, New York City is not only culturally diverse, but also physically diverse. The city offers the green and serene landscapes of Central Park, but is also balanced out by the bright Times Square and the lively nightlife. In addition, “The Big Apple” is home to the famous Broadway, Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and a multitude of museums. Overall, one trip may just not be enough to explore the “concrete jungle”.
3. Paris
The city of Love. Getting lost amongst the tall buildings and crowds of both inhabitants and tourists is the only way to get to know the beautiful Paris. Multiple weeks would be needed to visit all the main attractions Paris has to offer. The city has attractions for every taste, whether you’re a book freak looking at the Musee de Louvre and reminiscing Langdon’s ventures, an admirer of landscapes, or simply love art. A day in this city is long and adventurous and you will end exhausted, but the cultural enrichment and fun that you will experience is more than worth it.
4. Machu Picchu
Hidden among the mountains of Peru, these ancient Peruvian ruins have only been discovered recently. One can choose to hike the Inca trail or simply take a bus up the mountain to enjoy the landscape. It is a perfect backpacking trip or family plan. The immensity of the buildings creates a breathtaking view. Understanding how the creators could have formed this and carried tons of rocks without new machines and technology. Held in pristine conditions, Machu Picchu is a one and only sight that is impossible to forget.
5. India
As one of the most densely populated countries in the world, there are an endless amount of activities in India. Whether it is the spring festival of Holi, the multitude of bazaars, or the Taj Mahal, India is sure to be immerse you in their culture. Holi, for example, is a week long event that is historically celebrated in commemoration of a divine love, but is now celebrated as the festival of sharing love. During this festival, people celebrate around bonfires and dinners, culminating in a festival of colors, in which dried colored powders and waters are thrown into the air. As one of the most iconic mausoleums, the Taj Mahal’s architecture is aesthetically incredible and built almost to perfection. A trip to India is sure to provide an unforgettable and diverse experience.
6. Egyptian Pyramids
As the only remaining ancient wonder of the world, the Egyptian pyramids not only hold great value culturally, but they are also sure to impress. Located around the outskirts of modern-day Cairo, these pyramids have withstood the test of time. Their massive size and astonishing architecture were originally built for a Pharaoh and his queens as tombs, and has been considered one of the greatest engineering feats ever, considering the technology during that time period. Additionally, the surrounding desert area is unlike any city-scape most people have ever seen. This attraction provides an exciting opportunity to witness history.
