The Top Five Cities in the World and What to See There
World travelers know that picking major world cities for a top-five list is a daunting task. Much depends on tastes in culture, cuisine, and pace of life. Still, most jet-setters agree that the following should fall on any bucket list:
Tokyo, Japan
No city fuses the future and the past quite like Tokyo. Views from Tokyo Tower, the orange-and-white observatory, are stunning. If the structure looks familiar, it is: it takes its architectural cues from the Eiffel Tower in Paris. In Akihabara, the electronics district, almost any gizmo can be yours. Likewise, Ginza is a neighborhood for high fashion. Imperial Palace, Sensoji Temple, and Meiji Shrine are historical. All give tourists a glimpse into Japanese culture
Expedia Tours Tokyo
Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg is a beautiful, modern city that bursts with things to do. Tourists can admire Nelson Mandela's legacy at the Mandela Family Museum. The Apartheid Museum gives a better sense of the country's divided past. Those seeking a safari adventure can make a day trip to nearby Kruger National Park. Plan a day at the nearby Cradle of Humankind, a 180-square-mile cave site that is home to some of the earliest relics of human existence. The red-hot food scene makes any cuisine accessible.
Lima, Peru
While some people may complain of overcrowding and traffic in Lima, they cannot deny its impressive history. Visitors can enjoy Miraflores and Kennedy Park as well as the ruins of Pucllana Temple. The architecture of Plaza Mayor and San Francisco Cathedral are stunning. A stop for ceviche at almost any restaurant will never upset, so fresh are the ingredients. It's a perfect stop before heading by plane to Cuzco, by train to Aguas Calientes, and from there to Machu Picchu.
Travel with Flavia and Brent from Lima to Machu Picchu
London, England (UK)
For over 300 years, the sun never set on the British Empire. London, England was the headquarters of the world. Today, the home of James Bond and Sherlock Holmes remains known for classic tourist sites. Big Ben, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace are must-see sites. Head to the London Eye for an overview of the city. Consider a trip off-peak. January and February are excellent times to go because the weather is cool but not usually frigid. The Indian food in London is the best outside of India, itself.
"The Indian food in London is the best outside of India, itself."
New York City, New York (USA)
Around the world, it seems that everybody knows New York, New York. Tourists come to see the yellow cabs, Lady Liberty, gothic skyscrapers and pretzel vendors. Broadway remains a draw throughout the year. Seasonal activities, such as skating in Rockefeller Plaza, remain popular. It is even a good place for toddlers! A trip to the top of the Empire State Building is critical. Infrastructure is good, making it easy to find trains to other cities.
No one city is better than the other - all are different, and all offer unique experiences. Visitors can tailor these top five major world cities to their tastes and desires. Each has myriad options and can accommodate almost any budget.
