Walk and Explore

Travel on Foot to Unravel the Surroundings

May 21, 2009 Kalpana Rangan

The true essence of a place can only be felt by exploring those of its parts that reveal its identity. Only by walking can you explore those special sites.

Wherever it could be in Africa, Europe or Asia, there are secret treasures that one can unearth only on foot. It may be a monument, art piece or an intrinsic part of the city. One cannot miss visiting these places. Tour operators might not include these places in their itinerary. So how does one reach these sites? Just walk to these places in the free time available. Enjoy the surroundings at leisure, understand the place and keep fit.

Tread the Secret Trails to find Surprise Spots

Take a public transport, be it train, tram or bus to reach a central destination. From here start exploring the place on foot. Experience the freedom to walk unusual paths and unearth unique features of the place. Walk into narrow alleys to spot curios that cannot be found elsewhere. Or find an eatery where the best of local cuisine is served. Or get the chance to meet its colourful locals with their unique charm.

To the Fountains of Rome

Italy is a country known not only for its monuments and sculptures but its fountains as well. Rome can be named as the city of fountains. Altogether there are 280 fountains in Rome. Some of them are found in central squares like the prominent one in Piazza Venezia. However, many more are found deep inside.

Walking to Trevi Fountain

Fontana di Trevi is one such beautiful fountain that can only be discovered on foot. From the city centre and opposite Piazza Venezia, walk down a long winding street to find yourself in front of this artistic fountain that is considered one of the best in the world. At 26 meters in height and 20 meters in width, this exquisite stone edifice with its fountain trickling down the steps, is a masterpiece.

Down the Champs Elysees

Visit Paris to inhale the true Parisian culture and scenes by walking down its Champs Elysees. This famous avenue, 2 km long and 70 meters wide, is between Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde. Walk down this street to observe the fashionable Parisians enjoying their drink at the cafes. Also view designer clothes, handbags and perfumes at its super specialty shops. Or just walk down the road to admire the artfully trimmed plants and blooming flower beds leading to the monuments.

Up the Mountains of South Africa

If it is a holiday to South Africa, don’t miss out on the tour to Drakensburg, the World Heritage site. Make sure to take walking trips to explore the treasured rock art of its San Bushmen. Don’t shy away from treading steep steps of a rugged hill. At the end of the strenuous climb the breathless scenery all around and the priceless ancient paintings on cliff hangings will be well worth the effort.

Along the Rajpath in New Delhi

Do travel to India and get the true essence of the land by walking down the streets of its cities. In New Delhi, take a walk down the ceremonial Rajpath, from Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s Palace) to National Stadium. It is a great opportunity to pass through heritage structures like India Gate and observe a variety of vibrant locals walking on the velvet-green lawns or chatting near the ponds on either side of the path.

These are just a few places around the world, where one needs to walk around to get enlightened about the surroundings. There are many more places, be it the Spice market of Dubai or Little India of Singapore. Take off to any of these places but stay fit to get the best from the trip. Only by walking can one feel fine and find new places.

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