There are many different reasons that we love to travel, and many different occasions for doing so. A lot of the time, our travel options depend on the time of year we are going, as well as the company we are keeping. For this reason, no two holidays are the same. A vacation with the extended nuclear family is very different indeed to a weekend in Paris with an infatuated other half. Another common reason to go on an excursion is for cultural or historical interest. After all, if you are keen to travel the world, then you might as well learn a little something along the way. If this is starting to sound like you, then look no further. We have compiled a list of the top places to go for the history buff. Don’t miss out on these if you can’t take your eyes off the history channel.
Rome
No such list, of course, would be anywhere near complete without giving Rome a mention. Italy’s cultural history is well embedded, and nowhere is this clearer than in the streets of its capital city. Famously started by two children raised by wolves, Rome soon became the epicentre of the vastest empire that the world has ever seen. The empire may have since fallen, but evidence of its sheer scale remains in the remnants of ancient Rome. This is a city with so much history packed into it that it is hard to know where to begin. Rome is famous for zapping away all your holiday time. Go there for a weekend, and you will spend the whole time walking around with a fascinated look on your face. Before you know it, it’s time to go home, and you wonder where the time went.
Egypt
Talk about history – Egypt has one of the richest and most fascinating histories in the world. If you are keen for a walk through the past, there aren’t many places better than this. The pyramids of Giza are, of course, essential viewing for anyone with even the slightest interest in the historical side of things. Even for those without, this is a fantastic sight to behold at any time. Egypt is one of those places everyone must visit at least once.
Mexico
South America offers an entirely distinct historical background. But it is no less fascinating for being different. The ancient Mayan civilisation has long fascinated historians and laymen alike. It is not difficult to understand why. Visit Mexico, and you will feel as though you are stepping into the past. Holidays to Cancun, in particular, offer a breathtaking scenery so rich in history that you won’t ever want to go back home. For a holiday with a difference this year, think Mexico.
St. Petersburg
Russia is not only one of the largest land masses on the planet and a prevailing political force. It also has a veritable smorgasbord of fascinating history. This is a destination for the more cultured historian. Voltaire’s library is sure to get any bookworm frothing at the mouth. Not to mention Palace Square – so lit up at night that people compare it to the night’s sky. St. Petersburg might just make your year.
