Quixoticguide

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.

About me

  • The Transformative Power of Exploring the World

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    🌍 Personal Growth & Mental Well-Being 👥 Social & Interpersonal Benefits 🧠 Cognitive & Educational Impact 💪 Physical Health 🌐 Economic & Global Understanding ✨ Other Intangible Benefits

  • Sichuan, China: Pandas, Peaks & Peppercorns — Why It’s High on My Travel List

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    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…

  • Malta in February with Kids: A Family-Friendly Winter Getaway

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    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…

  • Belgium’s Shortest River, with the Longest Stories: Exploring the Rupel

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    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…

  • The Best European Cities to Fly Cheaply to India

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    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…

  • 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…

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

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

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    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

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    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

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    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

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    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

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    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…

  • The Essence of Traveling: Beyond Destinations

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Traveling isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s a journey of discovery, growth, and connection. Every trip begins with the courage to step outside our comfort zone and embrace the unfamiliar. It’s about immersing ourselves in cultures, meeting people with different perspectives, and finding beauty in the unexpected. The places we visit tell stories. Standing…

  • Exploring the Hidden Gem of the Horn: A Guide to Djibouti

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Nestled between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, Djibouti may not always be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of travel destinations, but this small country is packed with unique experiences for adventurers. Djibouti is a gateway to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Horn of Africa, offering…

  • Nicaragua: Top Things to Do

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Nicaragua, a land of lakes and volcanoes, is an incredible destination for adventurous travelers and those seeking cultural depth. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, this Central American gem offers stunning landscapes, colonial cities, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or someone who just wants to unwind on…

  • The Rich History of Coffee

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    From Mystical Origins to Global Culture Coffee is more than just a drink; it’s a global cultural phenomenon with a history as rich and complex as the brew itself. Whether you’re sipping a strong espresso in an Italian café, enjoying a traditional Turkish coffee, or savoring a frothy cappuccino, coffee connects us across time and…

  • Top Things to Do in Windhoek: Culture, History, and Nature

    —

    by

    maarten
    in

    Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is a charming city that offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Here are some things you can do in Windhoek: 1. Christuskirche (Christ Church) 2. Independence Memorial Museum 3. Alte Feste (Old Fortress) 4. Katutura Township 5. Parliament Gardens 6. National Botanic Garden 7. Namibia Craft Centre…