By Rishaan Chowdhury
As we start a new year there are countless amazing places all over the world that are becoming easier to explore with more and more flights interconnecting cities. From cities at our doorstep like New Orleans to exotic adventures in far away places like India, this article will show you a few of the great trips the world has to offer.
Note: This is not a ranking
Venice, Italy
Venice, Italy is one of the most historic cities in the world. From a waterfront overlooking the Adriatic Sea to canals dotted with boats, Venice is a spectacular destination. Excellent food, great weather, and fascinating historical sites are all there. Walk around the incredible Saint Marks Square before grabbing some gelato as you sit by the coastline. Take a ferry to the nearby island of Murano where intricate patterns made out of glass can be seen and purchased on everything, from bookmarks to windows. Finish the day off with a meal at any of the incredible food in Venice and look forward to another day in this spectacular city.
Darjeeling, India
Perched in the hillsides of the tallest mountain range in the world lies a small town that is the heart of a region that produces most of the world’s tea. Darjeeling is a spectacular hillside retreat that offers views of the majestic Himalayas. This little city in northeast India is extremely walking friendly and allows you to experience the Himalayas in luxury. Walk through the cobblestone streets to the Chowk Bazaar where wool hats and scarfs from the region around it are sold and mementos of your trip like pottery are available. Eat brunch at the iconic Keventers restaurant which was featured in several movies. Visit tea gardens in the area before enjoying some of it yourself at afternoon tea in the lounge at the Elgin Hotel before returning to your room overlooking the Himalayas. In the evening return to the cobblestone streets which become a bustling area with vendors selling momos (a traditional dumpling native to this area), people walking around, and bikes going by. Enjoy dinner at one of Darjeeling’s many restaurants before going to bed, another day ahead.
New Orleans, United States
Located on the banks of the mighty Mississippi river lies New Orleans, a city that offers an experience that is like no other American city. New Orleans is home to jazz, great food, and beautiful architecture. Once a French city, once a Spanish colony, New Orleans has been tossed between European colonials and that has created a rich culture that is unique to New Orleans. Creole cuisine is like no other, incorporating American ingredients into French cuisine. The Spanish influence doesn’t go unnoticed either, with Spanish architecture in the French Quarter. Stroll along the bustling Canal Street before turning on to a side road in the French Quarter. See the vibrant balconies and bright colors of this unique city before grabbing a late breakfast at the Ruby Slipper. Continue on, walking on the riverwalk overlooking the Mississippi river before crossing through historic Jackson Square. Enjoy a cup of coffee, some beignets, and live jazz at Café Beignet or Café Du Monde before window shopping at the French Quarter’s unique stores. As the sun sets go to the fantastic Gumbo Shop Restaurant where incredible food and a unique experience await. Return to your hotel going through the bustling nighttime French Quarter with music and lights everywhere. New Orleans is a city like no other where you will find an extremely memorable experience.
Lisbon, Portugal
Located on an inlet on the Atlantic coast of Portugal lies Lisbon. A sprawling city spread over seven hills, this city offers a starting point for any adventure in Portugal as well as a destination in itself. From its cobblestone streets to the colorful tiles and buildings Lisbon has lots to offer, just walking around this city is an activity in itself. While it's an extremely hilly city, stairs carved into the hills and a robust tram system make it extremely easy to explore this colorful city. Take the tram to the bustling waterfront Praça do Comércio (English: Commercial Square) and enjoy some traditional pastéis de nata (English: cream pastries) by the Atlantic coast. Walk along the waterfront before turning to the hilly side roads full of cafes and restaurants with colorful tiled walls. If you haven’t seen enough tile, visit the tile museum where beautiful masterpieces are on display, all made out of tile. Cross town on the historic streetcars and enjoy a great dinner at O Frade in the riverfront Belem neighborhood. Lisbon has it all, from phenomenal seafood to beautiful monasteries. Better yet, Lisbon has direct flights to most major cities in the world, including Boston.