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There is nothing quite as exciting as touring a new city for the first time. Discovering ancient secrets, stepping into history, or simply experiencing local foods can give you a sense of joy and wonder. And while many people think of cities like New York or Paris, there are other amazing locations and places out there. From the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego to the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, let’s take a look at some incredible cities to add to your bucket list to go explore.
San Diego, California
While most people want to visit California for the beaches and Hollywood scene, there is so much more to The Golden State. One spot many people love to visit is San Diego. And this city by the sea has more to offer than beautiful beaches and surfing. In fact, you’ll find a burgeoning foodie scene and more in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Here there are blocks and blocks of restored Victorian era buildings, shops, and bars that all add to the historic charm. The nightlife boasts live Jazz music, rooftop lounges, and even some chef-driven eateries that can awaken your senses. If you’re a first-timer to the area, a San Diego Gaslamp food tour can give you a taste of the different foods in this historic and colorful part of the city. You’ll also get to hear the tour guide spill the tea about the scandals and stories that shape the history of this area of town.
New Orleans, Louisiana
You don’t have to go to Mardi Gras to enjoy this quirky and distinct city. New Orleans offers a colorful and exciting visit no matter what time of year you come. Whether you visit to enjoy the beignets at Café du Monde, you explore the French Market, or you take a cruise on a paddleboat for a different view of the area, there is so much to do and see.
Did you know you can take a guided tour of the cemetery? For those who like a bit of spooky history, this one is an underrated favorite for locals and tourists alike. Would you prefer to see mansions and the high life? Then head book a tour to visit the classic southern mansions that are part of the Garden district.
Machu Picchu, Peru and Surrounding Areas
If you want to explore more world history and enjoy a hike in the process, a guided tour of Machu Picchu in Peru is calling your name. You’ll learn all about the history of the temples, terraces, and so much more. It’s one of the best preserved architectural sites in the world, and reveals how advanced the Incan culture was at the time. With precise stone cutting techniques, there is no mortar between the bricks that are still standing.
Beyond Machu Picchu, you can head to the thermal baths of Aguas Calientes, you can learn more about the local history in a museum, or even experience the beauty of nature. The Mandorpampa waterfalls are set against a mountain backdrop with trees, flowers, and even butterflies you may not have seen before.
Kyoto, Japan
On the other side of the world is a culture filled with a long history of tradition and honor. You’ll step into a place with beautiful landscapes and unique buildings when you head to Kyoto in Japan. In this city, you can visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is one of countless shrines around the country of Japan. What makes this shrine special, however, are the thousands of red torii gates. This magical backdrop is a quiet, sacred space that causes people to pause and reflect.
From there you can head to a tour of Kinkaku-ji and experience the reflecting pond. If you’re up for a hike, you can head to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and then see the monkeys at the monkey park as well. The beautiful tall bamboo trees are a unique sight to see. These are just some of the things that make Kyoto an excellent place to explore in your travels abroad.
There is nothing quite like touring San Diego and experiencing the unique flavors of the Gaslamp Quarter or eating beignets in New Orleans. Then you can go jet-setting to explore the temples of Machu Picchu and the shrines and bamboo forests of Kyoto. These four destinations are sure to help you gain a new appreciation of other cultures and their unique history.