As a college student fortunate enough to journey around the Earth, my travels have given me valuable memories and enriched my understanding of the world outside the United States.
My experiences are not groundbreaking and please be aware I am not proclaiming to be the next Anthony Bourdain or Hillary Clinton. However, I am proud to state my personal travels have taken me to 26 states, a U.S. territory and 20 foreign countries. I would argue that the experiences I’ve had and the insights I’ve gained into other cultures and societies while traveling are unlike anything I could find online or watch in a documentary.
Three destinations most worthy of my praise were Stockholm, Sweden; Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Paris, France.
The city of Stockholm is a unique European capital as it sits on a series of 14 islands that are surrounded by waterways and connected by more than 50 bridges. The charming waterfront, which bustles with activity from many different types of boats, gives Stockholm a distinctive personality that separates it from the majority of major cities I have visited.
The architecture found in Stockholm varies from contemporary to modern and unlike many major metropolitan areas its streets are clean of graffiti and trash. It is never hard to find an inviting park, a scenic garden or a lush wooded area dotting the cityscape. Upon a visit to “the Venice of the north,” it is imperative to take a short chartered cruise that will take you on Lake Malaren and give you an impressive tour by boat of the city. And be sure to visit the Gamla Stan, the city’s old town and cultural center located on an island in the middle of the city.
If the opportunity presents itself, you must visit the ultra-modern and eye-opening city of Dubai located on the Arabian Peninsula in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai is a paradise that contains an endless amount of attractions. Dubai is billed the nightlife and entertainment center of the Middle East while its luxurious resorts and pristine beaches are some of the best in the world. Despite its modern style, the country’s culture remains firmly intact within Dubai.
After visiting the Dubai Mall and local markets in the city, I realized that this was a shopper’s heaven. You can find hundreds of stores and products, an aquarium and even an indoor ski resort inside Dubai Mall. Gold prices are shockingly low in Dubai, so it is impossible to resist buying any at one of the many local markets in the city.
There is one place that stands out in my mind more than any other I have mentioned. Paris, France is a city that I have visited on multiple occasions because in my opinion, it is like no other in the world. Of course, there are plenty of famous landmarks in Paris that always seem to take my breath away such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc De Triumph but it’s not just the grand historical landmarks that makes this city great.
Stroll down the cobblestone paths of the Rue de Rivoli to find unlimited places to shop, and when you get hungry, pick any restaurant or café you see, because I can assure you the meal will be the best you ever had. At night, Paris more than lives up to its nickname “the city of lights” as the stunning views of the enormous skyline leaves you in awe over and over again.
Despite negative connotations of the French, I can attest they are one of the most welcoming people I have met overseas. It is easy to strike up a conversation with a local for any reason, and you will always be treated with the utmost respect and hospitality. I believe Paris is exceptional in all aspects including lodging, attractions and entertainment while it also best represents what European culture is all about. If you have an opportunity to travel anywhere, be sure to consider Paris.