9 of My Dream Cities

The city of white sandy beaches, lush green mountains, and Christ the Redeemer, Rio, is filled with bars where you can party and drink with friends. The Brazilian people are always eager to help and become friends. Attend Rio’s yearly Carnaval, the largest Carnaval in the world. Eat a bowl of Açaí while you listen to the waves hit the sand, and try a Tapioca filled with ham or Nutella in the center of the city. Visit Christ the Redeemer while you watch the sun rise above the horizon, and look out over the city in a cable car as you travel to Sugar Loaf Mountain. Founded by the Portuguese in 1502, Rio speaks the same language as Portugal, but don’t mistake it for a mini Portugal. Rio is a city filled with great food, beaches, and people. I hope I can make it one day and experience the wonderful city.

A city surrounded by mountains and filled with colorful scenic neighborhoods, Lima is a place to taste Ceviche along the coast made with fresh-caught fish. Walk across the Bridge of Sighs or stroll in the streets of Barranco and admire the murals. Barranco is one of the many neighborhoods that make up Lima, while Pueblo Libre is known for its traditional homes and world-renowned museums like Museo Larco. You can also fine dine in Miraflores and then walk along the beach. Visit the Mercado De Surquillo and walk among vendors selling fish and vegetables, or visit the Pyramid of Lima in the middle of the Miraflores neighborhood. Of course, Lima is the entrance to Peru and is home to the magnificent Machu Picchu ruins. It also serves as a starting point to many other great places, including the Incan capital city of Cusco, which itself is a gateway to many beautiful sights like Rainbow Mountain and the Sacred Valley.

Islands covered in white sand in the south and green jungles in the north, Thailand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and a beginner backpacker’s favorite. Crowded and hectic, with something new around every corner, Bangkok is the capital of this wondrous country and near the top of many dream lists. The streets are filled with food vendors and small restaurants serving tasty curries and Pad Thais. Visit the many wonderful temples of Bangkok, try to go to the lesser-known temples and especially earlier in the morning to avoid tour groups. Temples like Wat Pho, Wat Urun, and Wat Benchamabophit. If old town isn’t for you, remember that Bangkok is a very progressive city. Visit one of the many malls located in the city and finish the day off with a rooftop dinner to watch the sun set beneath the horizon.

Kyoto is home to 1,600 temples and shrines, making it the perfect destination to immerse yourself in secluded and unique Japanese culture. During the spring and fall seasons, you can stroll through beautiful gardens, and in the spring, you can witness the breathtaking cherry blossoms. Winter months offer a tranquil atmosphere to visit temples and shrines, while the Orange Gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha are ideal for taking Instagram-worthy photos. Although it’s not Osaka, Kyoto still boasts a variety of delicious food options, including modern coffee shops. Take a walk along the stone streets of Gion and Southern Higashiyama to fully experience the rich culture of this amazing city.

This city is filled with art and dance, surrounded by picturesque terraces and Hindu temples. Explore its beauty by driving around on a cute moped. Get up early to witness the breathtaking Tegelalang rice terraces and visit Pura Gunung Kawi, an ancient temple carved into rocks. Observe the monkeys at the Monkey Forest, but remember not to smile. Bali boasts some of the most stunning waterfalls outside of Ubud, including Kanto Lampo and Goa Gajah. Stroll through the stalls of the Ubud market and take in the fascinating aromas and intricate artisan crafts. Finally, simply wander around the town and discover its charming small shops.

Cape Town, possibly the most breathtaking city in the world, should be on every traveler’s bucket list. This beautiful city is situated on the ocean and surrounded by mountains and beaches, making it the perfect destination for adventure-seekers, scenic lovers, and those seeking a wide range of activities. Take a ride in the cable car to the top of the mountain for panoramic views of the city. Visit the notorious prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned and gain a deeper understanding of South Africa’s history. Surfing with friends at Muizenberg or watching penguins at Boulder Beach are must-do experiences. Admire the colorful city below from Table Mountain National Park, then walk in the city center and snap perfect Instagram photos. Cape Town should be visited at least once, so don’t miss out on its stunning beauty.

Built atop the ancient Aztec city of Tenoctitlan, Mexico City boasts beautiful buildings, ancient ruins, and flavorful dishes. After dining at a local cafe, visit the Museo de Arte Moderno, which houses incredible works by Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Rufino Tamayo. Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Roma Norte, Condesa, Polanco, and Coyoacan. Condesa is a vibrant sister neighborhood to Roma Norte and features a variety of street food stalls at the Condesa Metro Station. For a more modern experience, visit the upscale Polanco neighborhood for shopping and gourmet dining. Just outside of Mexico City, Iztaccihuatl National Park awaits with its volcanoes, waterfalls, and scenic biking trails. Mexico City is a breathtaking city, rich in history, architecture, and delicious cuisine.

The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, is bustling with smells, people, and magic. The people are happy even in adverse situations. Take a motorbike tour through the city and its green surroundings. Coffee is a way of life and an art form in Hanoi. Don’t miss the Old Quarter to experience Vietnamese life. Sip coffee as the train passes by in the train street, or walk along the Long Bien Bridge and imagine yourself as a Vietnamese during the war. Watch the sunset at Hoan Kiem Lake and observe locals participating in Tai Chi. Hanoi is a beautiful city in a lush green country, filled with friendly people and delicious food.

Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, Australia, is sleek and sophisticated with a European feel and surrounded by stunning scenery and beaches. Drive along the Great Ocean Road to admire the cliffs and the blue waters crashing against the shore. Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, where you can walk through 86 acres of flowers and trees. Visit the Queen Victoria Market for food and artisan crafts. Just like Hanoi, coffee is a way of life in Melbourne. During summer, head back to the Royal Botanic Gardens to watch blockbuster movies in the park. Melbourne is a modern city in a beautiful country filled with amazing animals and scenery.