Quixoticguide
Hi, I’m Maarten Van Den Driessche, a curious human, aviation enthusiast, vexillophile, world traveler, and food lover with over 14,000 days of life experience.
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Why Do We Still Call It the “Middle East”?
The term “Middle East” is so familiar that few people stop to question it. It appears in news headlines, travel guides, and political discourse — but have you ever wondered whose middle and whose east it really is? A Colonial Compass The name Middle East originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coined…
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Why Sanctions Don’t Work: The Hidden Costs of Economic Punishment
Why Sanctions Don’t Work: 5 Reasons Economic Sanctions Fail Economic sanctions are one of the most widely used tools in international diplomacy. They’re meant to punish rogue regimes, influence political decisions, and avoid armed conflict. But despite their popularity, the truth is stark: Sanctions rarely achieve their intended goals — and often make things worse.…
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Discovering Stuttgart: Germany’s Underrated Cultural Capital
Often overlooked in favor of Berlin or Munich, Stuttgart is a city that surprises you—not with flashy grandeur, but with quiet charm, green hills, and a curious mix of tradition and innovation. Nestled in the heart of southwestern Germany, Stuttgart is the capital of the state of Baden-Württemberg and the birthplace of automotive legends like…
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The Transformative Power of Exploring the World
🌍 Personal Growth & Mental Well-Being 👥 Social & Interpersonal Benefits 🧠 Cognitive & Educational Impact 💪 Physical Health 🌐 Economic & Global Understanding ✨ Other Intangible Benefits
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Sichuan, China: Pandas, Peaks & Peppercorns — Why It’s High on My Travel List
Meta Description: Sichuan, China, is high on my bucket list — for good reason. From panda sanctuaries and Buddhist mountains to Jiuzhaigou’s turquoise lakes and world-famous hotpot, this province stuns at every turn. 🧭 Why Visit Sichuan? Sichuan has been high on my travel wishlist for years — and for good reason. This southwestern Chinese…
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Malta in February with Kids: A Family-Friendly Winter Getaway
Thinking of escaping the grey February skies with your little ones? Malta might just be the answer. This small Mediterranean island nation offers a surprising mix of sunshine, history, play zones, and coastal charm—even in winter. We visited with our three kids (aged 2, 5, and 8) and found it to be a perfect destination…
Dream destinations
Finding the perfect travel destination involves considering a variety of factors to ensure the trip meets your expectations and desires. My destinations
Research Destinations
- My Travel Blogs and Websites:
- Social Media:
- Books and Documentaries:
My Travel guides
- Travel guides are invaluable resources for planning and making the most of your trips.
- They provide detailed information on destinations, attractions, accommodation, dining, and local culture.
- Providing practical tips and itineraries with a focus on cultural experiences.
“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” –
Ibn Battuta
Maghrebi traveller