Culture & Travel
29 July 2024The calming effect of nature draws all of us away from the noise of modern cities to breathe, doesn't it? That's why green spaces amidst concrete jungles are like oases in the desert for us.
Central Park - New York, USA
Located in the heart of New York, Central Park is one of the world's most iconic and visited city parks. Covering 843 acres, this park is a haven for both locals and tourists. Central Park is much more than just a city park, with its historical structures and vast recreational areas. Here are some must-see spots:
Bow Bridge: With its elegant arch, Bow Bridge is one of Central Park's most romantic structures, and it's common to come across wedding photo shoots here.
Bethesda Terrace: Known for its Angel of the Waters statue, this spot is a favorite among street musicians and is one of the park's most recognizable landmarks.
Literary Walk: A favorite path for those who enjoy walking, Literary Walk features statues of famous literary figures.
Strawberry Fields: This tranquil memorial dedicated to John Lennon is a special place not only for Beatles fans but for anyone seeking peace and love.
Hyde Park - London, England
One of the world's most famous city parks, Hyde Park welcomes millions of visitors each year across its 350 acres. Spending time in nature and seeing cultural landmarks in the heart of London is a wonderful experience for everyone. Some highlights include:
Serpentine Lake: An iconic spot offering opportunities for walking and boating.
Diana Memorial Fountain: Dedicated to Princess Diana, this fountain is a beloved site for many.
Speaker’s Corner: Since 1872, this northeastern part of the park has been a place for free speech. You might want to visit on Sundays to hear various speakers.
Hyde Park also boasts beautiful rose gardens, elegant Italian Gardens with ornamental ponds and fountains, and a concert venue among its many attractions.
Ueno Park - Tokyo, Japan
One of Japan's most popular parks, historic Ueno Park is located in Tokyo's Taito district. The park transforms into a visual feast with cherry blossoms in bloom from late March to early April, attracting crowds for flower viewing events. Must-see spots include:
Tokyo National Museum: Japan's largest and oldest museum.
Toshogu Shrine: Known for its golden details and peony flowers.
National Museum of Nature and Science: Full of fascinating exhibits, especially for children.
Shinobazu Pond: Featuring water lilies, this large pond is another highlight of the park.
Parc Güell - Barcelona, Spain
One of Barcelona's most iconic and colorful spots, Parc Güell, is among the world's most unique parks with its design inspired by nature by renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. Notable features include:
El Drac: The mosaic dragon statue at the park's entrance, one of Parc Güell’s most famous symbols.
Gaudi’s House: Now a museum, it attracts many visitors.
Serpentine Bench: Known for its mosaic decorations and light effects.
Sala Hipostila and Nature Square: Central spots in the park with impressive designs.
Golden Gate Park - San Francisco, USA
One of San Francisco's largest parks, Golden Gate Park, is like an oasis on the city's western side with its various gardens, museums, ponds, and recreational areas. Highlights include:
Japanese Tea Garden: A peaceful retreat.
California Academy of Sciences: One of the world's largest natural history museums.
Conservatory of Flowers: A Victorian-style greenhouse for tropical plants.
Bison Paddock: A place to observe bison up close.
The famous Rose Garden, known for the scents of different rose varieties, is another highlight where you can enjoy the flowers' atmosphere and learn about their cultivation.
Stanley Park - Vancouver, Canada
Stanley Park, located in the heart of Vancouver, is one of the world's largest urban parks, spanning 405 hectares. The First Nations totem poles are among the most visited spots in the park, which also features many monuments and statues reflecting the area's rich cultural heritage. For nature lovers, Stanley Park is a paradise with various tree species and wildlife. The park also houses a wonderful aquarium. However, the most impressive part of the park is the 9-kilometer-long Seawall. Walking or biking along this path with soothing ocean views is one of the most unique ways to connect with nature.
