Quixoticguide

Quixoticguide

Hi, I’m Maarten Van Den Driessche, a human, aviation enthusiast, vexillophile, world traveler, and food lover with over 14,000 days of life experience.

About me

  • What Was Expo 2020 Dubai?

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    📍 Venue & Architectural Highlights 🚀 Notable Innovations & Programs 🔮 Legacy: Expo City Dubai 🧭 Visiting Today? Expo City Dubai is now publicly accessible:

  • Topophilia: The Places That Live in Us

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Some places don’t just show up in your passport—they stay with you. They echo in your memories, tug at your heart long after you’ve gone, and resurface in the most unexpected moments. That feeling has a name: topophilia—the love of place. It’s not about glamour, perfection, or checklists. It’s about the feeling. And more often…

  • Why We Travel: A Quixotic Pursuit of the World

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    There’s something undeniably quixotic about travel. To leave the comfort of home in pursuit of the unfamiliar—sometimes chaotic, sometimes breathtaking—is both a personal rebellion and a quiet act of curiosity. At Quixotic Guide, travel isn’t just about ticking countries off a list. It’s about stories told over street food at midnight, border crossings that feel…

  • ✈️ The World’s Funniest Airport Codes (And Yes, They’re Real)

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Let’s face it—air travel isn’t always glamorous. But one thing that does make flying a bit more entertaining? Airport codes. Those three-letter abbreviations stamped on your boarding pass might seem random, but some are downright hilarious, bizarre, or oddly poetic. Here are my favorite airport codes that prove aviation has a sense of humor. 🏝️…

  • Nida

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Nida: Where the Dunes Whisper Stories of the Baltic Tucked between a pine forest and the glittering Curonian Lagoon, Nida feels like a secret kept by the wind and the sea. This peaceful Lithuanian town on the Curonian Spit is more than just a beach destination — it’s a serene blend of nature, history, and…

  • City Evaluation Process

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    beta Country City ChatGPT Belgium Bruges 4,8France Paris 4,8 Italy Rome  4,8 USA New York 4,8 Japan Tokyo 4,8 Netherlands Amsterdam 4,7 South Africa Cape Town 4,7 South Korea Seoul 4,7 Austria Vienna 4,6 Brazil Rio de Janeiro 4,6 Denmark  Copenhagen 4,6 Hungary Budapest 4,6 Netherlands Utrecht 4,6 Poland Krakow 4,6 Spain Madrid 4,6 Sweden …

  • The Top 20 Most Boring Destinations in the World (According to ChatGPT)

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    When it comes to travel, one person’s paradise is another person’s snore fest. Some places dazzle with energy and history, while others… well, they test your patience. In a moment of curiosity, I asked ChatGPT: What are the most boring travel destinations in the world? And the results are in. Of course, this list is…

  • International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination: Why March 21 Still Matters

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Every year on March 21, people around the world observe the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination—a solemn reminder of the work still needed to end systemic racism and promote racial equality. While it’s easy to assume that racism is a thing of the past, this day challenges us to confront the reality…

  • Karbala: A Journey to One of Islam’s Holiest Cities

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Few places in the world hold as much religious and historical significance as Karbala, Iraq. As one of the holiest cities in Islam, Karbala attracts millions of pilgrims each year, especially during the commemoration of Ashura and Arbaeen. But beyond its spiritual magnetism, the city offers a deep sense of history, vibrant markets, and an…

  • Why the A380neo Is Still a Brilliant Idea

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    When you think of the Airbus A380, phrases like “world’s largest passenger aircraft” and “flying hotel” often come to mind. Its double-decker design, luxurious onboard amenities, and sheer presence have captured the public’s imagination for years. But with ongoing shifts in the airline industry and advances in aviation technology, many enthusiasts and analysts have wondered:…

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:
ed-Deir (“The Monastery”) in Petra, Jordan

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

  • Louvre Guidebook

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Introduction Located in the heart of Paris, the Louvre is one of the world’s most iconic art museums and a central landmark of the French capital. From the majestic glass pyramid in the main courtyard to its vast galleries filled with masterpieces, the Louvre attracts millions of visitors every year. This guide provides an overview…

  • Marvels of the Modern World: The New 7 Wonders

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Below is an overview of the “New 7 Wonders of the World,” often referred to as the modern list of world wonders. They were announced in 2007 after a global poll organized by the Swiss-based New7Wonders Foundation. Though this particular list is not officially sanctioned by UNESCO or other heritage bodies, it remains popular and…

  • Exploring Megadiverse Countries: Where Biodiversity Thrives

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    When we think about the vast array of species that share our planet—from tiny insects to towering trees, from vibrant corals to majestic big cats—we often forget that Earth’s biodiversity is not evenly distributed. A select group of nations collectively harbor the majority of our planet’s plants, animals, and microorganisms. These are known as megadiverse…

  • 15 Fun and Fascinating Facts About China

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    China is a country of superlatives. From its ancient history to its modern marvels, it never fails to intrigue and inspire. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone curious about the world’s most populous nation, these fun facts about China will amaze you. 1. The Great Wall of China is Massive Stretching over 13,000 miles…

  • Why Taxing Air Travel Might Be Considered Harmful

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Conclusion Taxing air travel is often proposed as a measure to reduce emissions or raise revenue for environmental initiatives. However, critics argue it can harm tourism economies, disproportionately affect lower-income travelers, and potentially fail to create meaningful environmental benefits unless revenues are channeled effectively into sustainable solutions. As with any policy, balancing the goals of…

  • Incredible India: 12 Fun & Fascinating Facts

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Here are some engaging and lesser-known fun facts about India that highlight its diversity, cultural richness, and fascinating quirks: 1. Home to the World’s Highest Cricket Ground 2. A Floating Post Office 3. The Kumbh Mela Visible from Space 4. The Land of Over a Million Weddings Daily 5. World’s Largest Vegetarian Population 6. The…

  • Portugal Uncovered: Fascinating Facts from the Land of Discovery

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    1. Europe’s Oldest Nation-StatePortugal is one of Europe’s oldest nation-states, with its borders remaining largely unchanged since the 12th century. The country’s long history is reflected in its medieval castles, historic towns, and age-old traditions. 2. The World’s Oldest BookstoreLocated in Lisbon, Livraria Bertrand is recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest still-operating bookstore…

  • Norway Unveiled: Fascinating Facts from the Land of Fjords

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    1. Home of the Nobel Peace PrizeNorway’s capital city, Oslo, is where the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize is awarded every year. While other Nobel Prizes (like Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, and Literature) are awarded in Sweden, the Peace Prize ceremony takes place at Oslo’s City Hall in recognition of Alfred Nobel’s wishes. 2. The “Midnight Sun”…

  • 12 Fascinating Facts About the Czech Republic

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    From the captivating architecture of Prague and the fairy-tale charm of Český Krumlov to the nation’s deep-rooted beer culture and inventive literary contributions, the Czech Republic (Czechia) brims with history, creativity, and unforgettable experiences. Na zdraví!

  • Austria Unveiled: 17 Fascinating Facts About the Alpine Republic

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Below are 17 engaging facts about Austria, covering everything from its imperial history to natural wonders and modern culture. Viel Spaß!