5 cities I would gladly revisit

Travelling is a form of escape, a way to experience diverse cultures and widen our horizons. I love how different places inspire, humble and excite me. It makes me feel alive. There are some that leave a deeper impression on me than others, and I would gladly revisit them. Here are my top five:

5. Beijing, China

Steeped in history of centuries past, visitors to Beijing can relive the glory days of ancient emperors, gawk at opulent palaces and take walks in sprawling parks. Then of course, there is the Great Wall of China. A trip to this awe-inspiring marvel makes you want to linger and explore, which is the similar effect the Forbidden City has on you too. A labyrinth of cobbled streets lined with lavish rooms, you’d want to get lost in its beauty and history. And that is the overall effect Beijing has on me. Its cultural and historical depth draws you deeper and deeper, like a thirst you just can’t quench.

4. Salzburg, Austria

The hills ARE alive with the sound of music. The steep, rolling mountains in Salzburg offer breath-taking views of the city’s natural beauty. But Salzburg is more than pretty mountains. Wandering around the labyrinthine streets in Salzburg’s old town is like taking a step back in history. Its quaint villages and charming countryside are images you see on picture-perfect postcards. For those who love nature with a dash of old world charm, Salzburg gives you that, and more.

3. Berlin, Germany

Berlin is a melting pot of culture, history and modernism, a city of contrasting sights. You could be walking past a skyscraper one moment, and stumble upon remnants of socialist buildings the next. The city knows how to live in the present, while not forgetting its past- it creatively transformed the ugliness of the Berlin Wall into an expressionistic work of art. The most admirable thing about Berlin is its ability to face its dark past, with its tribute to the fallen in the Holocaust honored in its city center.  To me, Berlin is a city of constant discovery of both new and old, and you want to dig deeper.

2. San Francisco, USA

There’s just something about San Francisco that makes you feel at home. Maybe it’s the city’s laidback lifestyle, its colorful and eclectic mix of architecture and its diverse culture. Walking down the streets of San Francisco can lift your spirits, and a trip to its scenic sights inspiring. It’s a city that never judges, ever changing and always forgiving. If you’re looking for a place to reflect and refresh, the Bay area welcomes you with open arms, every time.

5. New York, USA

I find myself in the middle of Times Square in New York City at midnight, marveling at bustling human traffic, glaring neon signs from giant billboards, and brightly lit stores. I feel a rush of adrenaline-my heart racing, palms sweating, thoughts scattered. The energy of the city is indescribable, from Times Square, to Central Park, to its many museums, one visit to the city will get you addicted. And you want to return for more.

Do you have any top destinations that you would return to in a heartbeat? Do share them.

Bloggers: Lyn Fuchs, Monica Araceli, Jeanette Lamb, Michela Longhi and Mario Arana, share your favorite top destinations at Booked.net — Top Destinations to Go There.