Two weeks ago, our inspirational travel search took is into search of “sister cities” around the world. However, the nickname game goes a bit further this time as we delve into the world of pearls, but not the kind you find on a necklace! Here are some of the world’s most inspirational pearls…
Alexandria, Egypt – Pearl of the Mediterranean
If there’s anything in Alexandria to see, we’ve missed it. I’d give anything to have wandered the halls of the ancient library of Alexandria and meet some of the philosophical greats that gathered there. But no worries, there are still mosques, beaches, Roman theatres, and loads of historical vibes to soak up.
Budapest, Hungary – Pearl of the Danube
I always say that my one hot tip for Budapest is to walk along the shores of the Danube at night – it is simply magical, romantic, wonderful. Words don’t do it justice, and barely does a picture. But if you’re here, don’t miss the great food (including the ice cream!), relaxing in the baths, or just punting about in the busy streets.
Gotland, Sweden – Pearl of the Baltic
Gotland is Sweden’s largest island and is where Swedes head to spend the summer. You can watch the sunrise and sunset from easy distance of wherever you stay, and the atmosphere here is great – think evenings filled with live music, biking the trails or kayaking the shore.
Hong Kong – Pearl of the Orient
Oh, Hong Kong, how I love thee. (Except for the smog.) Crazy markets, scary but delicious restaurants, and that stunning skyline. If I lived in Asia, I’d definitely live in Hong Kong – pearls or not. Be sure to check out my round-up of things to do in Hong Kong.
Manila, Philippines - Pearl of the Orient
Sister pearl to Hong Kong, these two cities share the Orient title – but Asia is a big place so there’re plenty of room for everyone. Believe it or not, Manila is considered a cosmoplitan capital – but with so many lovely parks and trails, museums and churchs, ruins and modern architecture, and of course some of the best Spanish-influenced food in the Orient (try a banana cue but skip those live chicken and duck thingies) – it’s no wonder people are loving it. And with English so widely spoken, it’s super easy to get around. Check it out.
Sri Lanka – Pearl of the Indian Ocean
There are so many things to do in Sri Lanka you’ll never want to leave. Sri Lanka is close to my heart -I’m actually reminded of it every morning, because my tea of choice is Ceylon, which as you may know is Sri Lanka’s former name. There’s been some recent political troubles, so be sure to check in with your travel agent before heading out. Sri Lanka shares a lot of their cuisine with neighbouring India, so one of the top things on my list is to try a curry here. (Yes, I’m a foodie – you hadn’t noticed already?)
What did you think of my strand of pearls?
Photos by dungodung (Alexandria), decade_null (Budapest), powi (Gotland), bredgur (Hong Kong), ric_k (Manila), paul_mannix (Sir Lanka).
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And then there’s Bora Bora, the “Pearl of the Pacific,” which is considered (and in my opinion is) one of the most beautiful islands in the world. I also noticed that a handful of these places (like Manila, Hong Kong and Bora Bora) happen to be some of the best places in the world to by pearls.
Ooh, that’s a good one Celeste. And the “buying pearls” bit was purely coincidence, I assure you