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

  • The Meteoric Rise of Dubai: A Global Tourism and Architectural Marvel

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    Dubai, a city that epitomizes the transformation from a humble beginning to a towering symbol of modernity, has experienced remarkable growth over the past few decades, especially in its tourism sector. This expansion is a testament to visionary planning and relentless execution, making Dubai a global icon of tourism and business. Origins and Growth Dubai…

  • Flight Number

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    How Flight Numbers Are Assigned Flight numbers may seem arbitrary at first glance, but there is a method to their assignment. Airlines take several factors into account when assigning flight numbers: Code-Sharing and Flight Numbers Code-sharing is a practice in which two or more airlines share the same flight, but each airline markets the flight…

  • The Travel Generation

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    Redefining the Way We Explore the World In an era where borders are just lines on a map, and the world feels smaller than ever, a new breed of adventurers is taking center stage: the Travel Generation. Unlike travelers of the past, this generation is defined not by wealth or luxury, but by an insatiable…

  • Exploring Manchester: What Should I Not Miss?

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    Manchester is calling! A city renowned for its industrial heritage, vibrant music scene, and rich sporting culture, it’s a destination that’s been on my list for quite some time. Having visited many iconic cities around the world, I’m excited to dive into what Manchester has to offer. But before I pack my bags, I want…

  • New Flag

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    Minnesota recently unveiled a new state flag, which officially replaced its previous design in May 2024. The change came after years of discussion about the old flag, which featured a controversial image from the state seal depicting a white settler and a Native American. The new flag simplifies the design to better reflect Minnesota’s diverse…

  • The World’s Most Mosquito-Infested Destinations:

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    Where to Watch Out and How to Stay Safe Certain travel destinations are notorious for their high mosquito populations, often due to their warm, humid climates, which create ideal breeding grounds for these insects. Here are some of the most mosquito-prone destinations around the world: When visiting these destinations, it’s important to take preventive measures,…

  • Travel & Instagram

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    Travel and Instagram are deeply intertwined, creating a dynamic relationship that has transformed how we explore and share the world. Instagram, with its visually-driven platform, has become a virtual passport that allows users to showcase their travel experiences, inspiring millions with stunning landscapes, cultural encounters, and hidden gems. The allure of capturing the perfect shot…

  • How to Travel Safely: Essential Tips for Staying Secure on the Road

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    Traveling can be one of life’s most exciting and rewarding experiences, but it’s essential to prioritize safety to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re exploring a bustling city, a remote destination, or even familiar places, staying vigilant and prepared is key. Here are some essential tips to help you travel safely and keep…

  • A day in New York City

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    A day in New York City is packed with iconic sights, incredible food, and vibrant energy. Here’s how to make the most of a day in the city that never sleeps: Morning: Iconic Landmarks and Skyline Views Mid-Morning: Times Square and Broadway Lunch: New York Eats Afternoon: Cultural Hotspots Late Afternoon: The Statue of Liberty…

  • Rising Popularity of Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: Exploring the Road Less Traveled

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    In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in travel trends as more travelers seek out lesser-known destinations to avoid the crowds and uncover unique experiences. Instead of flocking to traditional tourist hotspots like Paris, Rome, or Bali, many are opting for off-the-beaten-path locations that offer rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and a sense of…