Put on your walking shoes! This week, we’re taking a deep dive into pedestrian-friendly cities around the globe. Say goodbye to jet engines and screens, and embrace the joy of exploring on foot.
Pedestrian-Friendly Destinations
Few experiences compare to wandering through a new neighborhood, discovering charming stores, bars, eateries, and public spaces. However, a new study titled “The ABC of Mobility” reveals that many cities still lack pedestrian-friendly streets due to decades of car-centric policies.
Interestingly, the study found that larger and wealthier cities are often less walkable. Yet, there are notable exceptions. According to The Economist, which broke down the stats from the study, some of the most foot-friendly cities might surprise you.
Quelimane, Mozambique tops the list as the most pedestrian-friendly city among 794 surveyed, with a population of 350,000. Europe also boasts several walkable cities that rank significantly higher than those in the United States.
In the Netherlands, Utrecht (No. 3) and The Hague (No. 27) offer quieter, scenic alternatives to Amsterdam (No. 66). In northern Spain, Bilbao (No. 8), known for the Frank Gehry–designed Guggenheim Museum, and León (No. 9), with its Roman ruins and Gothic cathedrals, are top choices.
Meanwhile, in the Alpine region of Tyrol, Bolzano (No. 14) invites you to meet Ötzi the Iceman in the archaeological museum, and Innsbruck (No. 25) is renowned for its skiing and mountaineering.
Adventurous Walks on the Wild Side
Sometimes, adventure takes an unexpected turn. A US veteran in Wyoming aiming to photograph owls encountered a grizzly bear, leading to a harrowing survival experience.
In contrast, on Spain’s Costa Brava, local authorities are tackling unruly tourist behavior. A resort town near Barcelona has implemented fines for carrying sex dolls or wearing genitalia-themed costumes, mainly targeting bachelor and bachelorette parties. Additionally, going shirtless in urban areas is now prohibited.
However, well-behaved nudists are welcome at Platja des Cavallet on the Spanish island of Ibiza, featured in our updated guide to the world’s best clothing-optional beaches. For those preparing for beach outings, CNN Underscored offers a helpful guide on preventing razor bumps.
Seeking a Tranquil Life
For ultimate tranquility, consider Antarctica. Despite the lack of running water and modern entertainment, the isolation offers a unique escape from traffic, noise, and pollution. However, the communal living quarters provide less privacy than one might expect.
In warmer climates, a Kansas couple found their peaceful haven in Portugal, drawn by the lower cost of living and family-oriented lifestyle. The wife is so content that she quips, “I will return to the US in an urn.”
Similarly, the slower pace and affordability of Saissac, a medieval village in Aude near the French Pyrenees, attracted a Los Angeles artist. Here, she found her cozy and affordable hideaway.
