St Petersburg
I have to admit, it is not really that lesser known. However, on a comparative level, it definitely doesn’t get the attention it deserves. While London, New York and Paris get over 15 million visitors per year, St. Petersburg can’t boast of such impressive numbers.
However, that does not diminish its stature as a beautiful tourist destination. The former seat of the once Imperial Soviet Union, the city boasts of a rich cultural heritage dating back hundreds of years before. The “Venice of the North”, consisting of over 100 islands boasts of beautiful bridges over scenic rivers: some old and beautiful, some modern and trendy. The natural parks and gardens scattered around merge with the old, stoic cathedrals, churches, and palaces that characterize this once powerful city. It is little wonder that so many artists and writers drew inspiration from this attractive city.
If you are into culture, architecture, and nature, then a St. Petersburg holiday should definitely be on your “to visit” list.
Casablanca
The romance of Morocco could not be better captured by any other city, and that is saying a lot for a country that boasts of having Tangiers, Essaouira, and Marrakech in the same borders. This Mediterranean city captures the essence of authentic Arabic life, mixes it with regal architecture, and tops it off with beautiful scenic displays.
Casablanca is the unofficial capital of Morocco, it is the largest city in the country and the economic capital of the same. It also hosts a lot of multinationals and other large companies. However, it has a rich, historic background dating back to the 7th century as a small Berber town.
Casablanca, like the movie named after it, is a place of romance and adventure. With beautifully preserved buildings, vibrant beach life, and classy accommodation, there is never a dull moment here. Visit the impressive Mosque of Hassan II, stroll through Parc de La Arabe, wander through the Old Medina, and dine at exclusive restaurants overlooking the port. A holiday in Casablanca will leave you enchanted, excited and very possible in love…
Norwich
Norwich’s position as a vibrant city is unquestionable. The city is filled with culture, night life, lively bars, as well as exciting shopping experiences. 2013 especially is going to be an exciting year to be in Norwich, with creative festivals planned to run throughout the year. Celebrate the “Festival of Britten” commemorating Benjamin Britten, listen to a mass choir of 1,000 souls on Carrow Road, or get creative in the Writer’s Center during the mass creative project.
After you are through with festivals, revise your spending limit with exciting shopping malls, upscale boutiques, and look for unique merchandise in the permanent open air markets. Whether you are a bargain hunter, or a fancy spender, Norwich caters comfortably for both types of shoppers.
While on your shopping spree, take time off to enjoy the unique medieval architecture that Norwich sports. Appreciate the cobblestone roads, quaint English streets, ancient churches, as well as old pubs. When starved, take a break at a local restaurant for a spot of English tea and muffins, just to recharge those batteries as you continue on your adventure.
If you visit anywhere in the UK in 2013, then book yourself into a bed and breakfast in Norwich, grab your camera and prepare to be surprised.
This is a guest post from Tom at Top Backpacking Destinations, a travel blog where he explores some of the most exciting cities around the world.
