The Cynical Traveller
Oct. 6, 2021
Read time: 3 minutes and 49 seconds.
tags:Traveling has always been a bit of a paradox for me. On one hand, the allure of new places and cultures is irresistible. On the other, my cynical nature makes me underwhelmed for the new places I’ve gotten to live.
Meh
You know, the kind where you expect the Eiffel Tower to be just a tall hunk of metal or the Great Wall of China to be a glorified stone path. But, despite my skepticism, I’ve found a few gems that have managed to break through my jaded exterior. Let me take you on a little journey through some of the places that have managed to win me over.
⛷️
Switzerland.
Ah, the land of chocolate, cheese, and those ridiculously punctual trains. My first trip there was like stepping into a postcard. The Swiss Alps are every bit as dope as they look in the photos, and then some. There’s something surreal about standing on a mountain peak, breathing in the crisp, clean air, and realizing that the world is a lot bigger (and more beautiful) than your daily grind. It was a ridiculous privilege to live in a tiny remote village that was so extraordinarily expensive with people from all over Europe on vacation. Plus, the fondue is to die for. Seriously, if you haven’t dipped bread into a bubbling pot of melted cheese while surrounded by snow-capped mountains, you haven’t lived. Especially being able to do that 3000 metres above sea level.
🇨🇴
Colombia was a surprise. I went in with a head full of stereotypes and came out with a heart full of love for the place. I remember my first trip and finally arriving was a mix of disinterest and a stubborn child. Until I finally arrived and could spend time with family.
The vibrant culture, the warmth of the people, and the sheer diversity of landscapes blew me away. From the busy streets of Bogotá to the tranquil beaches of Cartagena, Colombia is a country that defies expectations. And don’t even get me started on the coffee. It’s like liquid gold. If you’re a coffee snob like me, you’ll find yourself in heaven. Especially just how affordable everything is… It’s definitely a worth spot to visit for anyone heading to South America. I rate it 👍
‘Murica’
The USA is a mixed bag. It’s huge, for one thing, and each state feels like a different country. I’ve had my fair share of disappointments here, but there are also moments that have left me speechless. The Grand Canyon, for example, is one of those places that makes you feel tiny and insignificant in the best possible way. Then there’s New York City, a place that’s as chaotic and overwhelming as it is exhilarating. It’s a love-hate relationship, but one that keeps me coming back for more. The beauty of the USA is the vast diversity of culture crammed all into a single country made up of micro countries that eventually come together to make big things happen.
Italia
Italy is like a living, breathing museum. Every corner you turn, there’s a piece of history staring back at you. Rome, Florence, Venice – each city has its own unique charm and a seemingly endless list of things to see and do. And the food.
[insert cookie cutter comment about pizza and pasta]
it’s a carb lover’s paradise, but I certainly got bored of it quickly. What WAS awesome were the affordable wines and moscato. Daaaang.
Some of the restaurants I enjoyed the most were in tiny, hole-in-the-wall trattorias where the menu is handwritten and the wine flows freely.
Portugal
Portugal is a bit of an underdog, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. But trust me, it’s worth a visit. Lisbon is a city that feels both old and new, with its historic trams rattling through narrow streets lined with colorful tiles. The coastline is stunning, with dramatic cliffs and golden beaches that seem to stretch on forever. And let’s not forget the port wine. A sunset in Porto, with a glass of port in hand, is one of life’s simple pleasures.
Australia
Australia was a dream come true. It’s a place that feels both familiar and completely alien at the same time. The wildlife alone is enough to make your head spin – kangaroos, koalas, and those terrifyingly huge spiders. But it’s also a country of incredible natural beauty. The Great Barrier Reef, the Outback, the pristine beaches – it’s like nature decided to show off a bit. And the people are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet. Laid-back, welcoming, and always up for a good time.
So, yeah, I’m a cynical traveler. But even I have to admit that there are places out there that can surprise you, that can make you see the world in a new light. And that’s what keeps me packing my bags and hitting the road, despite my skepticism. Because every now and then, you find a place that makes you believe in the magic of travel all over again.