From the cobbled streets of Burano to the busy neighborhood of La Boca, pick a place around the globe and treat your eyes to the wondrous, colorful places of the world.
1. Burano, Italy
If you were to bring a Crayola set to Burano and attempt to match each crayon with a colorful house, I guarantee you will find one for each shade. With a short 45-minute boat ride from Venice, feast your eyes on the rainbow colors of the archipelago. Visit Galuppi Square and gush at the intricate detail of lace making. Or have a meal at one of Burano’s taverns for a dish of “risotto de go” (Burano’s famous fish dish). Afterward, enjoy a pleasant stroll along the narrow alleyways and stop at the many photo-opts you encounter along the way.
2. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Walking on water isn’t possible, but this beautiful city gives you the illusion of doing exactly that. The stunning blue hues of Morocco’s blue city match the amazing colors of the blue ocean. Found in 1941 and sitting on the Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco, Chefchaouen is known for its gorgeous blue colors. The Jewish painted the city blue to match the colors of the ocean. Hence its nickname, “the Blue Pearl.” Due to its inaccessibility, this city remains a precious jewel to tourists and only awards those who are willing to travel far. If you are looking to relax in the big blue, without getting your feet wet, then this is the place to go.
3. Menton, France
The beautiful south of France is known for its mesmerizing beaches, charming beach resorts, and luxurious cruises. It is where the glitz and glam of the opulent spend their summer holidays and spring breaks. The small town of Menton – also known as “the Pearl of France” sits on the coastline of the French Riviera. This little town is famous for its Lego block houses that decor the scenic overview of the hills. Menton boasts of its lush gardens including the Jardin Serre de la Madone and Jardin Botanique exotique de Menton.
4. Havana, Cuba
If beach scenes bore you in the Caribbean (if it ever does), then give a shot at exploring the bewildering architecture in Havana. Found in the 16th century, Havana’s present architecture is influenced by diverse eras. Therefore, you will notice vintage houses sitting next to high rise buildings on the streets. The soft pastel hues intertwine with bright neon and create a blanket of amazing colors over the town. Rent a classic car, roam the streets of old Havana or have dinner on the patio while accompanied by colorful salsa music.
5. Pelourinho, Brazil
Nicknamed “Pelo,” Pelourinho is found in Salvadore and is rich with culture and history. The historical center is a UNESCO Historical Heritage Site, as the grounds used to be where slaves received punishment during in the 15th-18th century. Pelourinho means “whipping post, ” and its history is where the city gets its name. Even though the place possesses a dark past, the pastel colors of the town disguise its glum days well. The buildings have been around since the colonial era and are truly evident in the building’s facades. Try out some Bahian dishes at Prédio do Senac while you’re there!
6. La Boca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
This vibrant neighborhood in Buenos Aires looks as if colorful toy building blocks came to life. A small street called El Caminito, meaning “little path,” hosts colorful houses, artists vendors, tango dancers and cozy restaurants. Wander around the most Instagram-worthy place in La Boca as you explore the alleyways and take snapshots of the bright colored buildings. The cobbled streets are also lined with colorful houses, complete with shutters and delicate balconies, giving a European feel in the Buenos Aires neighborhood.
7. Bo-Kaap, Cape Town, South Africa
Hidden in the midst of busy cities in Cape Town, lies another colorful district. Formerly known as the Malay Quarter, this complex is scattered with colorful blocked houses that fill every inch of the area. The houses resonate the colors of the rainbow, and the area is rich with diverse cultures. Also, it is also deeply rooted in heritage from the Malaysian, African, Indian and Sri Lankan cultures. If you ever find yourself in South Africa, standing in awe at Table Mountain, don’t forget to drop by this vast array of colors.
A xenophile at heart, she lives to travel and loves to share her experience on Trip Jaunt (formerly Weekend Jaunt), an online travel community and hub she founded in 2010. She hopes that you will feel inspired to discover the world as well! Helen is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association and the Academy of Canadian Film and Television.
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