Jaime LeeIf you were to be given the superpower to time travel back to the olden days, how many of you would jump at the opportunity to witness the ancient times? Time travel remains one of our greatest desires. Although we aren’t capable of it, it’s a good thing we can still see the world. Travelling across borders allows us to somewhat experience the passage of time.
Bookmark these top picks that will transport you back to relive the days of yore, as soon as travel is deemed safe once again.
1. Stonehenge, United Kingdom
Upon landing in the United Kingdom, feel free to take a day trip to Stonehenge, one of the United Kingdom’s most cherished monuments. It is also privileged to be one of the world’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. This historical landmark is a blast from the past, giving insight into the way of life of Neolithic ancestors. It is believed to have been constructed laboriously over several phases.
There have been differing schools of thoughts as to how the construction was carried out. Medieval writers believed that magic was one of the ingredients, with a wizard casting a spell and commanding the transportation of the heavy stones. Today, present speculations are just as colourful. Nevertheless, it is probable that Stonehenge will safeguard its secrets until the end of time.
Although it is one of the most highly sought after iconic landmarks, its true purpose remains shrouded in mystery. There have been varying proposals of the underlying meaning behind why it was built. A hypothesis that has withstood the test of time points to Stonehenge serving as a solar calendar and documenting the movements of the sun annually. Stonehenge is also a symbol of celebration, as well as a spiritual site.
The magic of sundown
Sundown could not be more magical, as the sky breaks out into colour amidst this circle of time.
Fun fact
Spot sheep grazing on the open meadows as well (did you say, the new guards of Stonehenge)? Although this might be construed as nothing new for some, it serves as a refreshing perspective for those who reside in the city. For someone who has only come across sheep in the dairy farm or Singapore Zoo, it felt surreal for me to see the flocks of sheep sprawled over the vast field.
Also read: Best Day Trips from London
2. Petra, Jordan
Image credit: Jordan Tourism Board
Unveil Jordan’s elaborate city of stone, built with temples, overarching caves, and located a couple of hours out from the Red Sea. The sprawling city of ruins will fulfil your wanderlust for days to come; you will not run out of nooks and crannies to explore.
Image credit: Alex Azabache
As it stands out as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Petra is akin to travelling down memory lane. Petra was the thriving capital of the Nabataeans back in the olden days. Following that, it was abandoned in ruins for some time before it was rediscovered. This gave rise to what we know today as the “Rose City”, aptly termed, given the blushing colour of its architecture.
3. Machu Picchu, Peru
Image credit: Visit Peru
Machu Picchu is said to be one of the national treasures of the Inca empire. Situated at a high altitude, the bird’s eye view of the ancient historical sanctuary is sure to take your breath away.
A significant core of the Machu Picchu is said to be The Temple of the Sun. This is a sacred enclosure built for the primary purpose of paying tribute to the sun during sacred ceremonies. This temple is situated on the peak of a mountain, a noteworthy pillar of Machu Picchu.
Go back in time to unearth its centuries-long mysteries. It may have been a retreat for royalty, but it is now open to the world to appreciate.
4. The Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt
Image credit: Experience Egypt
The Great Pyramid of Giza is the must-see when you find yourself in Egypt. Get ready to be humbled by this sheer colossal structure. Abandon your troubles, as they would appear to be a relatively insignificant speck, in stark contrast to the magnitude of this pyramid. The Pyramid of Giza is known for being the most ancient as well as the largest in this pyramid complex.
Egyptian pharaohs were believed to transform into gods upon transition to the afterlife. Hence, tombs were built as pyramids to equip them in fulfilling this rite of passage.
Travel around the complex either on foot, or if you wish, on the back of camels. You might chance upon a mystical sunset if you linger until sundown.
5. Cappadocia, Turkey
Image credit: Go Turkey
Picture fairytale hot air balloons against the backdrop of pinkish cotton candy skies, and a civilisation draped in the dimming light of the setting sun. This is Cappadocia — a heartwarming and breathtaking place!
Many have voiced their awe and admiration for this place’s natural beauty. It is as if this place is fantasy in real life. However, this is barely scraping the surface, as there is more than meets the eye. Cappadocia, in reality, is home to rich history as well. In the past, it used to be a religious home to refugees.
Furthermore, it offers an open air banquet of natural landscapes, sculpted by the universe’s natural forces. This is so as Cappadocia is situated at the core of a once active volcanic region. Treading upon the grounds of Cappadocia is akin to travelling back in time to document the impact of Earth’s primitive natural forces.
There is a saying that goes, “take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints”. And that’s exactly what you do when you find yourself at these historical places — after the last trace of the pandemic has settled in the dust.
