I am always a dreamer. Couldn’t get through life without that ability. One of the things I dream about frequently is travel. It’s true that I am in love with France and Italy, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have a deep desire to explore and experience other places the world over. I really, really do.
So, I thought it might be fun to share a list of those top places, not in any particular order. And surprise, surprise – not one is located in France OR Italy. Although, I will discuss dream destinations for EACH of those countries in another post.
So many places, too little time (and money!).
Keep in mind these are dream destinations. Some I have talked about before, some are new to the list. Some might be more attainable for me than others. I am not one to volunteer to fly half way around the world on 20 hour flights. I have a hard enough time surviving 8 hours.
1. Kyoto
From the time I read Memoirs of a Geisha, to the time the ending credits rolled by at the end of the movie, I have always been fascinated with Kyoto. The Geishas with their wooden shoes and gorgeous silk kimonos, Japanese tea houses, graceful landscaping, cobbled streets and unique architecture – it all lures me in.
2. India
I have always been intrigued by India, and I must admit that a certain favorite movie of mine {Slumdog Millionaire} pushed me even further into wanting to visit. Drooling over photos of chat and other Indian delicacies for an article I wrote didn’t exactly put a stop to the dreaming. I could smell the flavors just jumping off those pages. I know India is a big country, and I am not quite sure exactly where I like to go, but a visit to the Taj Mahal and areas with reportedly good street food would be at the top of the list.
3. Marrakesh
I think Morocco is a feast for all the senses. I am mesmerized by the architecture – the gracefully round shaped arches, the miniscule bright inlaid tiles and brightly colored doors. I could wander the small narrow streets and the souks searching for deals on handmade crafts, tangines and spices. A visit to the Majorelle gardens, several mosques and palaces would also be in order. A photographer’s Candyland!
4. Barbados
My dreams of the Caribbean are generally of the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ variety. You know, out in the middle of nowhere, washed up on a deserted island. A Barbados holiday totally fits the bill! Pristine white sandy beaches on an unspoiled lush island in the middle of the crystal clear aquamarine Caribbean sea. And lovely warm locals who are ready to please. Tiny houses the colors of sherbert shaded in palms bursting with clusters of coconuts. Need I say more?
5. Fiji
Every picture of Fiji I have ever seen has been downright jaw-dropping and drool-inducing. I’ve dreamed of staying in a private thatched hut that seems to float atop the South Pacific complete with a glass bottom. Just imagine what you could see beneath you. A cocktail or two would most certainly make an appearance. I could lose my very soul in a place like that.
6. Istanbul
This one is definitely a food-motivated pick. Last year, while researching an article on street food, I came across so many mouth-watering photos of Istanbul’s cuisine, I couldn’t help but dream of visiting. Definitely a city I’d like to eat my way through! I’d especially enjoy a Turkish breakfast. Aside from eating, I’d imagine visits to the Grand Bazaar and the Blue Mosque. I’d ferry around the Bosphorus and run to the nearest authentic Turkish Hamam. Maybe even smoke a little hookah. When in Rome…
7. Santorini
Let’s be honest here. I’d pick pretty much ANY Grecian Island, but I suppose there has been so much buzz about this one – it’s my first pick. I’d love to be staring at the stunning white cubed architecture with blue domes that just drip from the rock faces high above the Aegean Sea. I’m in love with the chalky white steps that twist and turn to reveal balconies dripping with dark fuchsia Bougainvillea. And how ’bout that Greek cuisine? Fresh fish and local grown fruits and veggies like figs, tomatoes and cucumbers. I’m also a sucker for a good sunset, and Santorini boasts some of the world’s finest.
8. Prague
I am not a fan of wintery cold weather. Not really into snow either. But if there is one place I’d consider making my Winter wonderland, it would be Prague. It just looks so damned romantic in snow! It has that European look and feel that I have grown to love – a river with many bridges, domed architecture and loads of charm and history. Days might be spent just strolling the streets. A visit to Prague Castle and at least one brewery would be in order. At night I’d curl up in front of a toasty fire in my hotel.
Where would you like your travels to take you this year?
And just wanted to mention, I have created a new Facebook fan page for My Melange. I will be having some special recipes and promotions for just fans, so if you are interested in becoming a fan, just scroll down on the blog to the Facebook fan box in the right sidebar and click Become a Fan. Voila! Easy, right?
Photo Credits : Flickr Kyoto/India/Marrakesh/Barbados/Fiji/Istanbul/Santorini/Prague