Must-See Places in 2011

A cumulation of the top ten places people would like to visit in 2011!

This year we decided to take a different approach on the top destinations. The following  places have been chosen on different criteria including; rich cultural history, a blend of different nations, as well as friendly and helpful locals.People have reported to come back from these cities with a deeper meaning of themselves, spirituality and the world.


1. Mumbai - India
Mumbai, India formerly known as Bombay, is the most populous city in India and the second most populous city in the world. This 3000 year old city is home to two world heritage sites, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) and the Elephanta Caves. Mumbai's culture is a blend of traditional festivals, food, music and theatres. The city offers a sophisticated and diverse lifestyle with a variety of food, entertainment and night life.

2. Berlin - Germany 

Berlin is Germany's capital. The city's appearance today is shaped by the role it played in Germany's history in the 20th century. Each of the national governments based in Berlin—the 1871 German Empire, the Weimar Republic, Nazi Germany, East Germany, and now the reunified Germany—initiated construction programs, each with its own character. Berlin has established itself as the third most-visited city destination in the European Union.

 3. Tangier - Morocco

Tangier is a beautiful city in Northern Morocco. The history of Tangier is very rich due to the historical presence of many civilizations and cultures starting from the 5th century BC. Set on a bay, Tangier has been a magnet for travelers for centuries.

 4. Wellington - New Zealand

Wellington is the capital of New Zealand. Wellington's city center boasts an arts scene, café culture and nightlife.Te Papa Tongarewa (the Museum of New Zealand), the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Royal New Zealand Ballet, Museum of Wellington City & Sea and the biennial New Zealand International Arts Festival are all housed here.

 

5. Valencia - Spain

Valencia, Spain is known worldwide for its festival Falles; a traditional celebration in praise of St-Joseph. The traditional dish of paella also originated in Valencia. The city also holds buildings dating back to Roman and Arabic times. La Tomatina an annual tomato fight also draws visitors to this charismatic place each year.

 

6. Iquitos - Peru

Iquitos is the largest city in the Peruvian rain forest. This beautiful city is located on the Amazon river. Many tourists come to seek traditional shamanic experiences by using the visionary Amazonian medicinal tea. Others to encounter the fascinating wildlife including pink dolphins, big cats and boas. We can see why this magical place was chosen as one of the top places to visit in 2011!

 7. Ghent - Belgium

Ghent, Belgium started as a settlement during the middle ages although archeological evidence shows human presence dating back to the stone age. The Gentse Feesten an annual festival draws over 2 million people each year. Much of the city's medieval architecture remains intact like the Saint Bavo Cathedral and the Gravensteen Castle. If your passion is medieval, Ghent should be on your list of places to see!

 

8. Chiang Mai - Thailand

Chiang Mai is the most culturally significant city in Thailand. The city has over 300 buddhist temples and hosts many Thai festivals. We can see why this 700 year old town has made the list of the top places to see in 2011!

 

9. Daegu - South Korea

Daegu South Korea is best known for the stone Buddha called Gatbawi on the top of Gwanbong, Palgongsan. It is famous for its stone gat (Korean traditional hat). People visit because they believe that the Buddha grants those who visit one wish. As one of the major cities in Korea, Daegu is making efforts to be the cent...er of the fashion and high-tech industries. Due to its status as a cultural center, there are many nicknames for the city including "Apple's City", "Beauty's City", "Textile City", and "Fashion City".

 

10. Galle - Sri Lanka

Galle, Sri Lanka is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in southern Asia, showing the interaction between European architectural styles and south Asian traditions. The Galle fort is a world heritage site and the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European settlers. Other landmarks in Galle include the natural harbour, St. Mary's Cathedral founded by Jesuit priests, and Amangalla the historic luxury hotel. According to James Emerson Tennent, Galle was the ancient seaport of Tarshish, from which King Solomon drew ivory, peacocks and valuables. Last but not least on our list of the top places to see in 2011, this ancient city has won us over!