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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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…
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Belgium’s Shortest River, with the Longest Stories: Exploring the Rupel
In a country crisscrossed by rivers, canals, and cobbled history, the Rupel often goes unnoticed. Yet this humble 12-kilometre river in the province of Antwerp offers a surprisingly rich journey through industrial heritage, quirky charm, and reclaimed nature. If you’ve ever wondered where Flanders hides some of its most layered stories, the Rupel might be…
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The Best European Cities to Fly Cheaply to India
India is vast, diverse, and unforgettable — but getting there affordably starts with choosing the right European hub. Whether you’re flying to Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, or Bangalore, some cities in Europe consistently offer better prices and more convenient routes than others. Here’s your ultimate guide to flying cheaply from Europe to India. 🇹🇷 1. Istanbul…
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What Was Expo 2020 Dubai?
📍 Venue & Architectural Highlights 🚀 Notable Innovations & Programs 🔮 Legacy: Expo City Dubai 🧭 Visiting Today? Expo City Dubai is now publicly accessible:
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Topophilia: The Places That Live in Us
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…
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Why We Travel: A Quixotic Pursuit of the World
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…
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✈️ The World’s Funniest Airport Codes (And Yes, They’re Real)
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. 🏝️…
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Nida
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…
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
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Discover the Emerald Isle: 10 Fascinating Facts About Ireland
Below are some fun facts focused on the Republic of Ireland (often referred to simply as “Ireland”), excluding Northern Ireland: From lively music sessions in traditional pubs to legendary myths and thousands of years of history, the Republic of Ireland offers a fascinating tapestry of culture and heritage. Sláinte!
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A Quirky Kingdom: 10 Fun Facts About the United Kingdom
Here are some fun and fascinating facts about the United Kingdom: From ancient monuments to modern-day quirks, the United Kingdom’s blend of history, tradition, and cultural diversity makes it a continually fascinating place!
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12 Fun Facts About Denmark You Need to Know!
Denmark might be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to history, culture, and unique quirks. Whether you’re planning to visit or simply curious about this Scandinavian gem, here are some fascinating facts that make Denmark stand out: 1. A Thousand-Year Monarchy Denmark boasts one of the world’s oldest continuous monarchies. For over 1,000…
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15 Fun Facts About The Netherlands That Will Surprise You
The Netherlands, famous for its tulips, windmills, and canals, is a small but mighty country that has captured the world’s imagination. But there’s so much more to this charming nation than meets the eye. Whether you’re planning to visit or just curious about Dutch culture, here are 15 fun facts that make the Netherlands truly…
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Luxembourg: Small Country, Big Surprises!
1. One of the Smallest Countries in Europe 2. Three Official Languages 3. The World’s Only Grand Duchy 4. High GDP per Capita 5. A UNESCO World Heritage Site 6. Small but Multicultural 7. The Schengen Agreement 8. Luxembourg Loves Castles 9. Free Public Transport 10. A Big Player in Space Mining 11. A European…
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Fun Facts About France: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Cuisine
France is known for its charming cafés, iconic landmarks, world-class art museums, and delectable cuisine. Beyond the Eiffel Tower and buttery croissants, there’s a treasure trove of fascinating trivia waiting to be discovered. If you’re planning a trip or simply love learning about different places, these fun facts about France will give you some unique…
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15 Fun and Fascinating Facts About Germany
Here are some fun and interesting facts about Germany: Culture and Society Language Economy and Innovation Geography and Nature Quirky Laws and Traditions History Miscellaneous
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Belgium: A Small Country Full of Big Surprises
Belgium is a fascinating country with a rich history, culture, and quirks! Here are some fun facts about Belgium: General Facts Food & Drinks Culture & History Quirky Facts Science & Innovation Weird Holidays
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Wanderlust Wonders: 17 Fun Facts to Fuel Your Travel Obsession
General Travel Facts Cultural Travel Tidbits Unique Places and Records Quirky Laws and Customs Travel Trivia
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Happy 2025!
New horizons, new adventures, and a whole new year to explore. ✈️ Here’s to 2025—may it be a year of bold journeys, endless opportunities, and unforgettable memories. Let’s take off into something extraordinary! #NewYear2025 #TravelGoals #Wanderlust