Amazing cities around the world…. Starting with D

Take an adventure with Travelling King through this series, showing you all the amazing cities of the world from A to Z. We have joined up with countless amazing Travel Bloggers throughout this series to come up with some great experiences about these cities. We will tell you why we love these cities, what we love doing and suggest a few places to stay. Lets continue on with cities around the world starting with D.

See the previous Amazing cities around the world.

Dehli (India)

Kunal, from Your Local Cousin, a travel startup that connects travelers with locals for personalized trip planning tells us about Delhi:

Contrary to what people say about Delhi and that its the most polluted or unsafe city in the world, there is something about this 2000+ year old city which is why 16 million people call it home today. A lot of the capital’s history and its remnants lay scattered amidst the urban sprawl. Yes, it is polluted and this gets worse in peak winter (December to February) and makes you wonder why you’re in this chaotic city but then every major city in the world has its pros and cons, right?

Over years the city has become a major business hub and now competes with Mumbai and Bangalore because its economy demands big and small corporations alike to establish a physical presence in the city, the infrastructure has improved (though not as fast as the growing population and number of vehicles on its roads) and the city has a lot to offer to people looking for things to do once they get out of work / on weekends and for travelers as well. Does not come as a surprise to ‘Dilliwalas’ as people native to Delhi are called that their city is a paradise for foodies.

Whether you’re craving sushi, Mexican food, Thai, New York style pizza, Indian street food or the traditional ‘butter chicken’ you’re guaranteed to find the best here. Whenever I travel, I always get advice from locals on whats hip, happening and where do local like to go eat and hang out.

So getting guidance from Dilliwalas’ on where to eat will definitely help you not get a ‘Delhi belly’. The City’s nightlife is not the greatest admittedly as compared to Mumbai’s but there are some pubs and lounges which stay open till 12:30 or 1:00AM on weekends. If you’re looking to party late you can check out the night clubs in Delhi’s best hotels which are open till later in the night.

I love living in Delhi because it is also in close proximity to several other cities on the tourist map. These destinations also serve as weekend getaways for locals and there are several affordable transportation options if you’re planning to spend a few days exploring Northern India. Besides traveling by air and taking trains, I recommend you hit the highway and see the beautiful countryside, especially in the winter months.

Keep in mind to make reservations ahead of time as tourism in India is at its peak from November to mid March. For instance Agra (Taj Mahal) is just 2.5 hours by car; Jaipur also known as the ‘Pink City’ is a 4.5 hour drive; Jim Corbett National Park which is great for wildlife and nature lovers is 5.5 hours away; Rishikesh for those looking to unwind, do yoga and indulge in Ayurvedic spa treatments is also 5.5 hours away.

Whatever you do, be sensible and stay safe just like you would when you’re traveling. Don’t let media and rumors make you not visit this city and finally if you’re not sure about anything – ask Your Local Cousin.

Weird fact and outlandish Laws about Delhi 
Fact
– The street food in Chandni Chowk (old Delhi) may not look the most appetising especially after you see how and where it’s made but I’ve never had anyone I’ve taken who fell sick after eating there.

Drake Bay (Costa Rica)

Rob from Namu Travel Group tells us about Drake Bay

Drake Bay, or Bahia Drake as it is also locally known, is located in the northern part of the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica. Osa is the most remote region of the country, and for this reason it’s favorite among tourist who are in tune with nature and ecology. Osa, and the Corcovado National Park were said to be the most Biological Diverse Region of Earth by National Geographic. This bay was named after Sir Francis Drake, who discovered it during his voyage around the world, in the 16th Century.

With its tropical climate and outstanding flora and fauna, Drake Bay is ideal for those who love to explore an untouched jungle. There are very few experiences that surpass the joy of walking through the trails of a majestic rain forest. The sounds, the smells, the sights are unique.

The best time to visit Osa Peninsula is during the dry season, which runs from January through April, has reliable sunny weather with little to no rainfall. During the green season (May through August) afternoon showers are common but you will get the best value for your money, as lodges drop their rates significantly.

Weird fact and outlandish Laws about Drake Bay:

Fact
– It is believed to be the place where Sir Francis Drake (a British pirate) hid his treasures in the 16th century.

Diamante (Italy)

Marta from Homes and Villas Abroad tells us about Diamante

Diamante is a seaside resort on Calabria’s Tyrrhenian coast in southern Italy.

It is not the largest of towns — it has just over 5,000 inhabitants —but it is without doubt one of the prettiest.

As well as its long promenade,some 20 metres above sea level, and five miles of beach, it is renowned for more than 300 brightly coloured murals that decorate many of its older buildings. The largest of the murals stretches for over 50 metres and tells the story of the birth of Diamante.

Another mural, on the walls of the Chiesa dell’Im macolata Concezione church, tells the story of the history of Calabria stretching back to the discovery of ancient graffiti in a nearby cave.

Diamante is a charming mix of the old and the new. The area has been lived in since the Palaeolithic era but the town as it currently stands began to take shape in the 16th century when it was a small fishing village.

Proof that its roots stretch even further back can be seen in the ancient Roman Mausoleum, visible from the main coastal highway and dating fromthe years 1 to 3 AD.

Unsurprisingly for a coastal resort, Diamante prides itself on its fresh seafood. The best seafood restaurants are to be found on the seafront at Spiaggia Piccola.

However, an equally popular local delicacy is peperoncini, the red-hot peppers that can be seen hanging from many balconies and which are used to spice up many Calabrian dishes.

Weird fact and outlandish Laws about Diamante:
Fact
– For a week every September it hosts a peperoncini-eating contest that attracts around 100,000 visitors.

Dubai (United Arab Emirates)

Yigit from Wope tells us about Dubai

Dubai is an amazing city located in the United Arab Emirates. It is known for its modern architecture, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to some of the world’s tallest buildings,including the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. One of the things that makes Dubai so special is its unique culture. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world living and working there.

This makes it a great place to explore different cultures and experience something new.The city also offers a wide range of activities for visitors. From shopping in the world-famous Dubai Mall to exploring the desert on a dune buggy, there is something for everyone in Dubai. There are also plenty of activities for families, such as visiting the Dubai Aquarium or taking a ride on the Dubai Ferry.

When it comes to food, Dubai has something for everyone. From traditional Middle Eastern dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone in Dubai. The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. One of the most interesting facts about Dubai is that it has some of the strictest laws in the world. For example, it is illegal to consume alcohol in public, and it is also illegal to kiss in public. However,these laws are rarely enforced and visitors should not be concerned about them.

When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options in Dubai. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly apartments, there is something for everyone in Dubai. For those looking for a more luxurious experience, there are plenty of five-star hotels to choose from. For those on a budget, there are plenty of budget-friendly apartments available. Overall, Dubai is an amazing city with something for everyone. From its unique culture and vibrant nightlife to its luxurious lifestyle and strict laws, there is something for everyone in Dubai. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious experience or a budget-friendly stay, there is something for everyone in this amazing city.

Read more on Dubai:

• Where to stay in Dubai
• The Ultimate Guide to Dubai
• 48 hours in Dubai: A 2 Day Itinerary
• Luxury Travel Guide to Dubai
• Best Day Trips from Dubai

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dublin (Ireland)

Ravi Davda Rockstar Marketing tells us about Dublin

“I’ve been to Dublin twice and I have to say, I absolutely love it there! Both times I was only there for a couple of nights, so my wife and I decided to get an Airbnb in the centre of the city. We didn’t really explore the outskirts but there’s likely to be lower cost options outside of the main city centre. 

I absolutely love the Guinness Storehouse Factory – it’s probably the most popular tourist attraction in all of Ireland. If drinking isn’t for you, then there are plenty of other things to do in the city – from cathedrals, to Dublin Castle, to museums, and zoos. It depends on what you like. We spent some time walking around Trinity College and exploring the grounds there.

Even if you don’t want to do anything serious, the centre has lots of shops, bars, and restaurants, and if you’re only there for a couple of days, you can just spend your time walking around. 

Weird facts and laws about Dublin

– If you’re a student at Trinity College, you have the right to demand a glass of wine during an exam
– Up until 1964, the punishment, if you attempted suicide, was death by hanging”

Read more on Dublin

• 5 Places Every Foodie Must Visit in Dublin
• 48 hours in Dublin –  The Essentials & The Local Gems
• Best Day Trips from Dublin
• Where to stay in Dublin
• Luxury Travel Guide to Dublin
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Dublin

Dallas (Texas)

Joshua Haley from Moving Astute to tell us about Dallas

Dunedin New Zealand

Allie from to Parched Around the World tell us about Dunedin

When you think of South Island, New Zealand, chances are that images of breathtaking landscapes, lush green forests, and snow-covered mountains are the first things that come to mind. But nestled within the majestic natural beauty of South Island are a few cities that can’t be missed, one of which is Dunedin (pronounced doo-NEE-din). 

Located at the top of the Otago Harbor on the South Island’s southeast coast, Dunedin is known as the wildlife capital of New Zealand and one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Dubbed the “Edinburgh of the South” thanks to its Scottish heritage, it’s a city rich in both culture and beauty. From stunning beaches to rolling green hills to a super fun downtown vibe with a noteworthy local food scene, Dunedin is a place where nature and city intersect in the very best of ways. 

But one of the things that I love most about it is that it’s unexpectedly full of amazing graffiti art! From Māori iconography to murals of native New Zealand birds to works by renowned street artists like Phlegm from Wales and Roa from Belgium, there are incredible pieces of art to be found at every turn. I highly recommend downloading a street art map and setting aside plenty of time explore the city and see it all! Just make sure you have plenty of room on your camera roll because the city and the street art make for a photographer’s paradise. 

There are heaps of places to stay in Dunedin, but the accommodation you choose all depends on the experience you’re after. For a modern hotel in the city center, Ebb-Dunedin is a great choice. For a more historic experience, the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is an excellent option. 

Other things not to miss in Dunedin: a photo stop at the grandiose Dunedin Railway Station; a visit to the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum; a short hike through an excavated tunnel to Tunnel Beach; a beer and a snack at Emerson’s Brewery; and a drive out to the Otago Peninsula to see fur seals, little blue penguins, and northern royal albatross.  

Weird facts about Dunedin:

– The steepest street in the world – Baldwin Street – is located in Dunedin.
– Dunedin is home to Larnach Castle, the only historic castle in the entire country of New Zealand.
– The Royal Albatross Center in Dunedin is the only mainland location in the world where northern royal albatross can be viewed in their natural habitat.

Doha (Qatar)

Doha is an amazing city for many reasons. One reason is its rich cultural heritage and history, which is evident in the city’s many cultural and historical sites, such as the Museum of Islamic Art and the Souq Waqif.

I love Doha for is its modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere. The city is home to a number of iconic skyscrapers and other modern buildings, as well as a thriving arts and entertainment scene. There are many activities to enjoy in Doha, including visiting the city’s beaches and parks, exploring the Qatar desert on a safari, and attending cultural events and festivals.

Here are five weird facts and laws about Doha:

1- Doha has a ban on chewing gum, which is strictly enforced.
2- Public displays of affection are punishable by law in Doha.
3- The city is home to the world’s first indoor ski slope, located in the Mall of Qatar.
4- Doha is home to the world’s largest pearl sculpture, located in the West Bay area.
5- The city is home to the world’s largest Ferris wheel, called the Doha Eye, which is located at the Pearl-Qatar development.

As for recommendations of where to stay in Doha, there are many luxurious hotels and resorts in Doha to choose from, including the Four Seasons Hotel Doha, the Ritz-Carlton Doha, and the St. Regis Doha. These hotels offer a range of amenities and are located in convenient areas of the city, making them an ideal base for exploring all that Doha has to offer.

Read more on Doha:

• Where to stay in Doha

Denver (Colorado, USA)

Destin (Florida)

Val Streif from GetMyBoat tells us about Destin

Dehradun (India)

Axel Hernborg from Tripplo to tell us about Dehradun

Dehradun, in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a place that I would definitely recommend people and travel lovers explore. It is a mesmerizing place surrounded by snowy mountains and beautiful waterfalls. The place is situated at the Himalayas’ foothills, making it even more touristy.

Not only because the location is a gateway for many hill stations, but also because Dehradun is known for its pilgrimage sites. The positive vibe and scenic surroundings of the city make people put their negative thoughts and stress aside and fall in love.

Along with these, Dehradun is a comparatively cheaper place to visit. A fun fact about the place is that it produces the sweetest litchis and the finest basmati rice in the world. Also, Dehradun is famous for being a preferred shooting site for Bollywood films, as the place features a number of prestigious, large, and serene schools and colleges. 

Dundee (Scotland)

Mike from Secret Scotland to tell about Dundee

10 years ago, Dundee was a City that I considered depressing, downtrodden and dismal. Today, it is one of the most dynamic and exciting cities in Scotland and is very much on the up. I love the city as it oozes a new found self-belief.

The city’s fortunes were built on the industries of Jute, Jam and Journalism. Those industries have now been replaced by high-tech firms specializing in Computer Games and Medical Research. So it is with good reason that Dundee brands itself as the “City of Discovery”.

The “City of Discovery” title is also a reference to the beautifully restored sailing ship RRS Discovery which is the centerpiece of the excellent Discovery Point Museum. This is a genuinely fascinating exhibition about Polar Exploration. The highlight for me is when you step on board the 120-year-old ship that carried the famous explorers Scott and Shackleton to Antarctica.

Dominating the waterfront of Dundee, is the stunning structure of the new V&A Museum of Design. The V&A is to Dundee, what the Opera House is to Sydney. The building appears to be made from stratified layers of rock and its architect, Kengo Kuma, claims he took inspiration for its design from cliff landscapes of Northern Scotland.

The city isn’t all about the new though. Dundee has some beautiful old building and one of the prettiest castles in Scotland,Claypotts, is found in the city’s eastern suburbs.

If you’ve got the budget, stay in the Malmaison Hotel which is not far from the waterfront of Dundee. For something central but a bit cheaper, there is the stylishly modern Sleeperz Hotel beside the train station and a stone throw from the V&A museum.

Weird fact and outlandish Laws about Dundee: 

Facts

• in the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum, Dundee was the most pro-Independence city with 57.4% voting for a new Scotland.
• Dundee has traditionally been a Matriarchal society. Its key industries predominantly employed women, so the menfolk stayed home and looked after the children.
• The computer game “Grand Theft Auto” was created in Dundee.

Laws

• It’s illegal to be drunk in charge of a cow.

Derby, United Kingdom

Melanie Musson from Clearsurance.com to tell us about Derby

Derby provides visitors with the English experience they’re looking for. There are excellent local pubs where you’ll be welcomed like an old friend and markets selling everything from trinkets to antiques. 

The beautiful countryside surrounding the city begs travelers to explore, even if just by car. And the River Derwent flows through the heart of the city and features walking trails and many spots of picturesque beauty. 

The Derby Cathedral boasts stunning architecture and rich history. The Perpendicular Gothic tower was built in the early 1500s and holds the oldest ring of ten bells in the world. The Derby Arboretum was a key inspiration for Central Park in New York City. Derby is a ghost-seeker destination with legends abounding. 

The Coach House Darley Abbey is a great place to stay. The house was once gentlemen’s quarters and maintains the original hunting lodge features with upgrades to make guests feel comfortable. The gardens are exquisite, and guests are welcome to explore them.

Durban (South Africa)

Rehana from Rehana Mahomed to tell us about Durban

Den Haag / The Hague (Netherlands)

Emily from The Female Abroad to tell us about The Hague

Not far from the city of Delf is Den Haag which is one of my favourite cities to walk around. It is a very walkable city with Gothic-style buildings that make you feel like you are stepping back in time. Hotel Residenz was the boutique hotel we stayed in and I cannot say enough good things about it so make sure to check them out!

1. While Amsterdam is the capital, the seat of government is found in Den Haag along with Palace Huis ten Bosch which is the formal home to the Royal Dutch family. The palace was originally a brothel then a prison before becoming a royal home. 
2. The city has more trees than people
3. Europe’s first traffic light was installed in this city near the Peace Palace
4. Weird Law: Bikes have the right of way over cars and pedestrians.

Denizli (Turkey)

Kimberly from The Art of Living in Turkey to tell us about Denizli

Denizli is located in southwest part of Turkey in the Aegean Region. Denizli is both a city name and a province name so sometimes it can be confusing. That being said, Denizli province is home to some incredible sites within a short drive from the city. 

Most people know Denizli because it is home to Pamukkale and Laodicea, one of the 7 churches of Revelation. Having been to a couple of the ancient sites in the area, Laodicea is one of my favorites. The restoration of the ancient church is the best I have ever seen. Also, there are extensive ruins that you can wander through. 

Denizli has a Mediterranean climate meaning it is hot/dry during the summer and cool/wet in the winter. The further inland you go the more drastic the weather becomes. Temperatures range from 57-97°F (14-36°C) in the summer and 40-68°F (4-20°C) in the winter months.

Weird Facts & Laws in Turkey

Law: 

• It is against the law to insult Turkey, the government, Ataturk, etc. If you do so, it could land you in prison for up to 5 years. 
• It is illegal for anything older than 100 years to be removed from the country. If you go antique shopping, you must be very careful. They are very serious about their antiquities laws. 
• It is illegal to not carry identification. Police do random checks and you should have it with you. 

Facts:

• Though Turkey is a Muslim country, the legend of Santa Claus is based on a monk named St. Nicholas who was born in Patara, Türkiye.

Read more on Denizli:

• Where to stay in Denizli

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this article 🙂

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