1. London, England
London has faced a tumultuous year with the passing of their longest-reigning monarch, as well as the rapid change of three prime ministers. Despite widespread concern over the impact of Brexit and the subsequent pandemic, the city has remained relatively stable. This is largely due to the devaluation of the currency, which has attracted investment from foreign companies, tourists, and wealthy individuals who can now afford to purchase property in the city. London has emerged as a leader in foreign direct investment in the technology sector, surpassing other major cities such as New York, Singapore, and Dubai.
The appeal of London lies in its constant evolution, with new shops, bars, hotels, and restaurants emerging on a regular basis. Each neighborhood in the city offers a unique experience, whether it be for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, or families. The city boasts a range of impressive hotels, from the highly-anticipated NoMad London to the trendy One Hundred Shoreditch and the revitalized classic, the Dilly.
2. Paris, France
The City of Love and Lights Paris, also known as the City of Love and Lights, is a dream destination for many travelers. Its world-renowned landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, attract millions of visitors each year. But the charm of Paris goes beyond the iconic landmarks. The city is home to an abundance of museums, galleries, and quaint cafes that make for a perfect day out. Experience the French lifestyle, indulge in the exquisite French cuisine, and marvel at the beauty of the city that has inspired artists for centuries.
3. New York City, USA
The City That Never Sleeps New York City is a bustling metropolis with a unique energy that never sleeps. From the bright lights of Times Square to the world-famous Empire State Building, the city has an endless list of landmarks to explore. Discover the art and culture scene at the Metropolitan Museum of Art or enjoy a Broadway show in the Theater District. And don't forget to indulge in the city's famous pizza, hot dogs, and bagels.
4. Tokyo, Japan
Where Tradition Meets Modernity Tokyo is a city where ancient traditions meet modern technology, making it a fascinating destination for any traveler. From the awe-inspiring Tokyo Tower to the bustling Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the traditional culture by visiting the Meiji Shrine or trying on a kimono. Or indulge in the cutting-edge technology of Akihabara or the vibrant nightlife of Roppongi. With so much to explore, Tokyo is a city you won't soon forget.
5. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai has been propelled into the limelight with the spectacular Expo 2020, which spanned from 2021 to 2022. This event showcased the pavilions of nearly 200 countries, all of which were future-oriented and brought around-the-clock cultural celebrations. Dubai's goal now is to inspire loyalty among its visitors and become the world's most visited tourist destination by targeting 25 million visitors by 2025. As of March 2023, United has launched a direct flight between Newark and Dubai, which is expected to boost tourism.
One of the reasons why Dubai is beloved is the Museum of the Future, which has recently opened its doors. It is a masterpiece of modern architecture and technology that promises to offer an unparalleled visitor experience. In addition, Dubai has made greater strides towards accessibility with the introduction of more affordable hotel options, which opens the door to budget-conscious tourists. Furthermore, Dubai has recently been awarded a Green star sustainability honor in the Michelin guide, which recognizes its environmentally friendly approach. And last but not least, the most alluring aspect is Santiago Calatrava's Tower at Dubai Creek, which is expected to overtake the Burj Khalifa as the tallest building in the world.
6. Barcelona, Spain
The City of Art and Culture Barcelona is a city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant art and culture scene. The city is home to the works of Antoni Gaudí, including the stunning Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia. Wander through the charming Gothic Quarter or enjoy a night out at a traditional flamenco show. Barcelona is also known for its mouth-watering cuisine, with tapas and paella being the must-try dishes.
7. Rome, Italy
Resonance states that Rome is one of the few cities in the world that allows visitors to experience Western history through walking. The Palatine Hill, for instance, has two thousand years of history to explore, which can be done in just an hour. In addition to this, Resonance highlights that a dozen other museums and cultural landmarks have recently opened or reopened. The newly reopened Mausoleum of Augustus and Casa Romana, a 4th-century residence beneath the Museo di Scultura Antica Giovanni Barracco, are two examples. Another newcomer is the Museo Ninfeo, which displays the ruins of a vacation property for Roman emperors.
Rome's appeal lies in its ancient charm, which is evident in every street. However, the city is continuously evolving and has new attractions for visitors to explore, such as the city's first Hoxton hotel. Additionally, the Colosseum is undergoing renovations, making it another reason to visit. Just remember not to sit on the Spanish Steps when you return!
8. Madrid, Spain
Madrid has risen to the 9th spot on the list, thanks to its investment in public assets and infrastructure. The city is combating climate change and pollution with a 47-mile urban forest network, which will consist of nearly half-a-million new trees that will connect the city's existing forest masses and reuse derelict sites. Upon completion, this "green wall" is projected to help absorb 175,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year, and mitigate heat generated by urban human activity.
Madrid is best explored on foot, with wide boulevards, world-renowned museums such as the Reina Sofia and Prado, and a vibrant nightlife scene that includes late nights watching flamenco shows and dancing at clubs in the city's Cheuca neighborhood. Investments in outdoor dining and walking infrastructure should see the city bounce back from the pandemic restrictions.
9. Singapore
Singapore is beloved for its strong investment in research, talent, and corporate headquarters recruitment, ensuring a prosperous future for its citizens. The city-state ranks high for safety and its foreign-born population, and its famous hawker stalls, garden-like airport terminal, and the recently reopened Raffles Singapore hotel make it a must-visit destination. The Singapore Green Plan 2030, with plans for 800-plus miles of bike lanes and the recently reopened nine-mile Rail Corridor, is something to watch out for.
10. Amsterdam, Netherlands
A City of Canals and Culture Amsterdam is a city that is renowned for its beautiful canals, charming architecture, and rich culture. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Jordaan or visit the world-famous Rijksmuseum. Explore the city's famous coffee shops or indulge in some delicious Dutch cheese at one of the many markets. Amsterdam is a city that is sure to leave you enchanted.
Conclusion:
These are just a few of the top cities in the world that are worth adding to your travel bucket list. From the stunning architecture of Paris to the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires, these destinations are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and embark on a journey to discover the best cities in the world.
