Rising cities: German travellers

Travel is often associated with change and rejuvenation. So for travellers seeking new beginnings, we decided to look into the destinations around the world that have recently enjoyed something of a renaissance themselves. Thanks to periods of economic boom, artistic injection and favourable political landscapes, these cities have been catapulted into the travel-loving public’s conscience.

Continuing our series, we’re turning to German travellers and the global cities increasingly on their radar.

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

In Bishkek, a city cupped by mountains, stark vistas are grabbing the attention of avid hikers looking for an alternative to the Himalayas. Just outside the city lie breathtaking jailoos (pastures) occupied by yurt-dwelling locals who still live a traditional nomadic lifestyle. Kyrgyz are also known for their generous hospitality, so it is very common for travellers to be invited into a yurt for some tea and bread topped with homemade jams and freshly churned butter. As for the city itself, there’s no better place to experience its rich cultural tapestry than at the Osh Bazaar market. Vendors pile their stalls high selling dried fruits and fresh vegetables and – as Kyrgyzstan has the highest consumption of meat per capita in the world – expect a generous assortment of organic, high-quality produce for carnivores. Vodka and beer are also readily available, a legacy of the country’s period under Russian rule. Before you explore the marketplace or the nomadic plains beyond the city, fuel up with a buffet breakfast at Garden Hotel .

Brindisi, Italy

Known as the ‘Gateway to the East’, Brindisi has played an influential role in Italy’s history. It was first used as a port for Roman troops and later for Venetian merchants and still thrives as a town that blends its bustling mercantile history with a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Most travellers use this city as a way to visit Greece. However, its ancient palaces, cathedrals, narrow alleys and old houses are capturing people’s interests as a destination in itself – as is its reputation for fresh produce and fine food. The mineral-rich soils around the city nurture olive groves, vineyards and farms and the local market is packed with produce including sun-sweetened tomatoes, Puglian olives, wine and cheese. And you can expect to see fishmongers harvesting mussels straight from the socks (a net they grow on). Stay at Dimora Nettare and wake up to a locally sourced breakfast.

Salento, Colombia

Salento is the oldest town in Quindio. During colonial times, Salento was the main stop between Popayan and Bogotá but in the 1830s, the construction of a new road redirected people around it. The city was then left somewhat forgotten, missing out on the development that the rest of the country experienced. Ironically, its laid-back and sleepy atmosphere is now the main reason why Colombians visit Salento for their holidays and also why it’s attracting international travellers from all over the world. A typical visit includes sipping on local coffee, feasting on trout caught from the surrounding rivers and touring the Cocora Valley. Here, hundreds of 60 metre-tall wax palm trees loom overhead, the tallest of their kind in the world and also Colombia’s national tree. Return home to enjoy the panoramic views of Cocora Valley at Hotel El Mirador del Cocora, just 500 metres from the main square.

Moalboal, The Philippines

Despite the surrounding clear seas, ivory-white sand beaches and mangroves, the sleepy town of Moalboal on the island of Cebu has long been overlooked for its sister islands Oslob and Bantayan. But it is now slowly being unveiled to the world, largely thanks to its excellent scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities – it’s the only place in the world where divers can see enormous shoals of sardines throughout the year. The waters are also home to a rainbow of coral gardens, dive reefs, sunken islands and fish including the frogfish, mandarin fish and anemonefish. Head ashore and you’ll find the island has plenty of promise too. Locals line the streets selling smoky skewers of grilled chicken, pork or prawn, while the intoxicating aroma of ripe mangoes hanging from the trees lingers in the air. Sit back and soak up the natural beauty at Ravenala Beach Bungalows, located on the pristine White Sand beach.

Gros Islet, St Lucia

St Lucia has seen a lot of change since the French first settled here in 1778. Today, this quiet fishing village is developing further, as travellers in search of tranquility and nature are finally discovering it. Gros Islet is rich with natural resources. It’s home to plunging waterfalls, fresh seafood, the world’s finest cocoa trees, trees heavy with pineapples and coconuts, and thermally heated pools and volcanic mud (which the locals swear to be an anti-aging elixir). For the full tropical island experience, spend your time lounging on a hammock with sweeping views over the warm Caribbean ocean and indulge in aromatherapy, body wraps and facial treatments at Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort.