By Andrés Muñoz

Whether we board a plane, step on a bus, or venture out on foot, journeys are not just about reaching a destination. They are the ultimate form of self-discovery. By immersing ourselves in unknown places uncharted in our minds, we open ourselves to new perspectives on ourselves and our place in the world. This transformative power of travel is what makes it so compelling and inspiring. 

Life is short, and I can’t claim to know the ultimate truth about the top cities in the world, but here are my recommendations for five places to visit before you die.

Paris, France

I daresay the City of Light holds a special place for everyone who visits it. It was the first city in Europe I explored. Memories of walking its narrow alleyways, exploring its music scene, and spending summer afternoons on the steps in front of the Sacre Coeur still make me smile. 

Love the arts? The Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Musée de l’Orangerie, and Centre Pompidou will surely satisfy your museum itch. Sports fan? A visit to the Parc Des Princes is a must. While the iconic stadium is no longer home to superstars like Neymar and Lionel Messi, Paris Saint Germain is still French football’s crème de la crème.

Needless to say, a city that draws the most tourists globally has its drawbacks. Beware of scammers and pickpockets on the subway, street vendors that sell overpriced souvenirs, and go easy on the alcohol. Be it Paris, Timbuktu, or Mars, nobody likes public drunks. 

Buenos Aires, Argentina

This was my first backpacking trip with friends outside my home country. What struck me the most was its architecture. One might think that they’re in any city in Europe, yet here we are, in South America! 

Above all things, Argentinians love, and I mean love, football. If you are there when the Albiceleste are playing in the World Cup, you are in for a treat. Called the Paris of South America, this city has many wonderful restaurants, bars and nightclubs to ensure a fantastic night out.

Mexico City, Mexico

Another Latin American giant, this city is fascinating. The food is top-notch, with street vendors selling the most incredible bites I’ve ever tried. Whether it is tacos al pastor, gringas, or some flautas, street food in Mexico City dominates without question. The small and unassuming El Califa De León has recently become the first taco stand in Mexico to earn a Michelin star. Don’t miss it!

If you’re keen on spirited drinks, I suggest El Palenquito or the cosy ambience of La Lavandería—the mezcals and tequilas are out of this world. 

Music-wise, Mexico City boasts some of Latin America’s best live events. The Corona Capital festival brings top artists, with Arcade Fire, Pulp, Roosevelt, Blur, The Cure, and The Chemical Brothers appearing as headliners recently. Zinco Jazz Club or Parker and Lennox are right up your alley if you’re more into an intimate and swanky setting. Finally, Plaza Garibaldi is an absolute must for a real taste of Mexican mariachis. 

Tokyo, Japan

While I haven’t visited Asia yet, my research has convinced me that Tokyo is a city that cannot be missed. With a metropolitan population of 41 million, it’s a universe unto itself, earning the title of the New York of Eastern Asia.

Visit during the day to marvel at its stores, architecture, cleanliness, and organisation. You won’t be able to stop buzzing after a night out in the Shinjuku (Omoide Yokocho, a strong recommendation for nostalgia lovers), Shibuya, Ginza, and Roppongi districts. There is a bit of everything for everyone, with hidden restaurants all over the city, and the Harajuku district is a particular favourite for fashion enthusiasts and youngsters alike and is a must include in my list of places to visit before you die.

New York City, USA

We can’t discuss Tokyo’s New York vibes without mentioning the Big Apple itself. The city that never sleeps must be on everyone’s list of places to explore and discover. 

Madison Square Garden and Carnegie Hall are the venues every artist dreams of performing at. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art are the quintessential museums in North America. Chinatown, Chelsea, and East Village are all packed with fascinating restaurants. With so many dining choices, don’t forget to head to Brooklyn’s Felice Pasta Bar.

Birdland in Manhattan is a strong jazz recommendation, with artists performing regularly. If you prefer the underground scene, Elsewhere Club is the place to be. It hosts the latest independent and radical artists from Thursday to Saturday.

And there they are, my top 5 cities and the best places to visit before you die. These recommendations reflect some of my travels and adventures. But now, it’s your turn to create travel memories, venture into the world, and find the places that resonate with you.

As Anais Nin said: we travel, some of us forever, to seek other states, other lives, and other souls. 

So go on, keep moving, keep experiencing, keep learning!