Expectations Versus Reality
March 10th 2009 10:47
The world is full of historical and natural wonders, penned by travel enthusiasts (or clever advertising gurus) as 'breathtaking', 'one of a kind' and 'must see destinations'.
For many reasons, branching across endless opinions, some of these destinations more than surpass expectations, others can leave you wondering what all the fuss is about.
The Eiffel Tower
Built for the 1889 Exposition Universelle and later used as a television antenna, The Eiffel Tower is beloved by tourists - not so much by Parisians. Little wonder considering the magnificent architecture scattered throughout the country, it is different, to say the least.
I first saw it at night, lit like an unseasonable Christmas tree, gloriously showing up at different vantage points around the city - and I wasn't disappointed, I was enthralled. The novelty was over as quickly as the first glimpse though, as Paris and its inhabitants outshone their most famous landmark.
The Statue of Liberty
A symbol of freedom to people around the world, a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States, The Statue of Liberty is much more than a tourist attraction. It is, however, the most visited tourist attraction in New York City.
The green lady seemed imposing and regal to me, even on a cloudy, rainy afternoon. The New York skyline framing the boat trip matched expectations and when I turned to have one final look at her on our return - 'breathtaking' did come to mind.
See Statue cruises for more information.
The Sydney Opera House
Designed by Danish architect, Joern Utzon, amid political controversy pertaining to the enormous costs involved, The Sydney Opera House is Australia's best-known contemporary building.
Love it or hate it, the innovative icon, combined with Sydney's glittering harbour, paints a pretty picture destined to leave an impression on all who view it.
Visit Sydney Opera House
For many reasons, branching across endless opinions, some of these destinations more than surpass expectations, others can leave you wondering what all the fuss is about.
The Eiffel Tower
Built for the 1889 Exposition Universelle and later used as a television antenna, The Eiffel Tower is beloved by tourists - not so much by Parisians. Little wonder considering the magnificent architecture scattered throughout the country, it is different, to say the least.
I first saw it at night, lit like an unseasonable Christmas tree, gloriously showing up at different vantage points around the city - and I wasn't disappointed, I was enthralled. The novelty was over as quickly as the first glimpse though, as Paris and its inhabitants outshone their most famous landmark.
The Statue of Liberty
A symbol of freedom to people around the world, a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States, The Statue of Liberty is much more than a tourist attraction. It is, however, the most visited tourist attraction in New York City.
The green lady seemed imposing and regal to me, even on a cloudy, rainy afternoon. The New York skyline framing the boat trip matched expectations and when I turned to have one final look at her on our return - 'breathtaking' did come to mind.
See Statue cruises for more information.
The Sydney Opera House
Designed by Danish architect, Joern Utzon, amid political controversy pertaining to the enormous costs involved, The Sydney Opera House is Australia's best-known contemporary building.
Love it or hate it, the innovative icon, combined with Sydney's glittering harbour, paints a pretty picture destined to leave an impression on all who view it.
Visit Sydney Opera House
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