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?

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    📍 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

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    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

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    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)

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    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

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    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

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    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)

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    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

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    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

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    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

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    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

  • Essential Navigation Apps Every Traveler Needs

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    Top Navigation Apps Every Traveler Should Download Navigating unfamiliar places is both the thrill and challenge of traveling. Whether you’re road-tripping across the country or exploring a city on foot, having a reliable navigation app can make all the difference. Here’s a rundown of some of the best navigation apps that every traveler should have…

  • Georgia: A Journey Through Timeless Beauty

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    Exploring the Unique Charm of Georgia: Where Europe Meets Asia Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia is a country brimming with a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of Tbilisi’s old streets, the high mountains of the Caucasus, or the world-renowned Georgian hospitality, Georgia…

  • Swing States and Sights

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    Discovering America’s Most Popular Destinations in 7 Key States In the landscape of American politics, certain states hold the power to sway the outcome of presidential elections. Known as swing states, they flip between parties, making them hotbeds of political interest. But beyond the voting maps and campaign stops, these states offer some of the…

  • Uncovering Tbilisi: A Guide to Georgia’s Historic Heart and Modern Soul

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    Here’s a guide for exploring Tbilisi, Georgia, with a mix of must-see spots and unique experiences: 1. Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi) 2. Narikala Fortress 3. Sulfur Baths in Abanotubani 4. Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) 5. Rustaveli Avenue 6. Mtatsminda Park 7. Dry Bridge Market 8. Chronicles of Georgia 9. Wine Tasting 10. Try Traditional Georgian…

  • Discovering Pittsburgh: A City of Bridges, Culture, and Innovation

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    Visit Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, often known as the “Steel City” for its rich industrial past, has transformed itself into a vibrant hub of innovation, culture, and scenic beauty. With its iconic skyline, nestled at the confluence of three rivers, and a blend of history and modernity, Pittsburgh offers travelers an eclectic mix of experiences. If you’re…

  • Discover the Hidden Gems of Oman: A Journey Through Arabian Charm

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    Oman, often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, is a hidden gem of the Arabian Peninsula that’s just waiting to be discovered. This captivating country, with its blend of traditional culture and natural beauty, offers an authentic travel experience. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic mountain ranges, ancient forts, serene deserts, or the…

  • Mexico City: A Tapestry of Ancient Heritage, Vibrant Culture, and Modern Marvels

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    Mexico City is a vibrant metropolis with a unique blend of ancient history, colonial architecture, and modern urban life. Here are some special aspects of the city: 1. Historic and Cultural Richness 2. Vibrant Neighborhoods 3. Museums and Art 4. Culinary Scene 5. Teotihuacán Pyramids 6. Lakes and Canals of Xochimilco 7. Chapultepec Park 8.…

  • Organizing Your Travel Photos: A Simple Guide to Reliving Your Adventures

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    Organizing your travel photos can be a satisfying way to relive memories and ensure those cherished moments remain accessible for years to come. Here’s a guide to organizing your travel photos efficiently: 1. Plan Your System Before You Start Think about how you want to access your photos in the future. Will you search by…

  • 10 Years On: Remembering the MD-11’s Farewell Journey

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    The final commercial passenger flight of the MD-11, operated by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, departed on October 25, 2014, and landed on October 26, 2014. This historic flight, numbered KL 672, took off from Montreal’s Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport and made its final landing at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. The overnight journey symbolized the end…

  • Discover Almaty: A Blend of Culture, Nature, and Adventure

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    Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is a vibrant blend of natural beauty, modernity, and rich history. Often referred to as the “city of apples” due to the famed Almaty apples, it serves as the cultural and economic heart of the country. If you’re planning a visit, here’s a guide to what you can experience…