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There are some cities that most travelers are drawn to because of the myriad of entertainment options they host, loved ones who live there, or their rich history.
With over 10,000 cities listed in the World Urban Forum, knowing which one holds the most appeal is not a simple task. Each city is unique, from ancient Gothic architecture mixed with modern infrastructure to super-modern skyrises that make you feel like you're visiting the future.
More than others, some have appeal purely due to their extravagance, over-the-top designs and architecture, or the spectacular lifestyle they offer. These stand out above the rest as the most glamorous and appealing cities to visit if you're planning a vacation.
Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
It is no surprise that one of the most extraordinary cities on the planet is Dubai. Only a few decades ago, the area was a vast desert with little to see or do unless you wanted to spend the day in exhaustive heat traversing through miles of sand.
Following a plan hatched in 1979 to turn the city into a tourist destination, Dubai underwent seemingly impossible changes to draw tourists and generate income after the massive oil fields in the area had been tapped out.
Soon after, skyscrapers and buildings with futuristic designs began to spring out of the desert sand. Amongst these was the Burj Khalifa—the tallest building in the world.
As the city grew, so did its extravagance. From police officers driving Bugatti cars to vending machines offering solid gold bullion, everything in the city screams luxury and is an incredible sight for visitors.
The city didn't just stop with erecting impressive buildings, however. Two expansive islands shaped like palm trees were pulled out of the ocean on the shoreline to make the landscape genuinely unique. Another cluster of islands was also put into the sea in the shape of the world's continents, making the aerial view of the city simply stunning.
Las Vegas (United States of America)
Known by many names (including Sin City, the Marriage Capital of the World, and Glitter Gulch), Las Vegas is a city in the Mojave Desert in Nevada, USA, that almost everybody has heard of.
The city was founded in 1911 and gained its name (meaning the meadows) due to the lush wild grass inhabiting the area. A bustling city soon replaced this and became a welcome stop for travelers.
By 1941, the city underwent a massive change with the start of the Las Vegas Strip. With El Rancho Casino being the first of many popular casinos in Vegas to come, the city began evolving into a tourist destination.
As it has become known, the Strip soon became home to some of the most iconic casinos and resorts anywhere in the world. With neon signs in every direction, endless entertainment, and almost countless luxury hotels, the city is now a lavish destination many people yearn to visit during their travels.
Monaco (French Riviera)
Situated on land that measures less than one square mile, a tiny city is not what you would expect to be extravagant. However, anyone who has ever visited Monaco would tell you that size certainly doesn't matter.
The city, founded in 1297, is situated directly on the banks of the Mediterranean Sea and offers sparkling blue waters and incredible beaches for tourists and locals to enjoy. It is not just the ocean and tropical vegetation growing everywhere that make this city unique.
It is also home to some of the most incredible casinos and extravagant lifestyles anywhere on Earth. With endless private yachts floating in the marina and one five-star eatery after another, the city doesn't do anything unless it is luxurious and perfect.
Tokyo (Japan)
Ranked as the second wealthiest city in the world, Tokyo is known for its unique culture, flashing digital boards, and incredible city squares. It is also home to a staggering amount of people—with almost 14 million people calling the city home.
The city is the perfect mix of old and new. It is where you will find historic temples adorned with incredible architecture not found anywhere else. Next to these building marvels are modern skyscrapers stretching out of the city.
The city is also home to the Imperial Palace—surrounded by extravagant gardens and landscaping. With thousands of activities for tourists to enjoy, it is no wonder Tokyo welcomes over three million visitors each year.
Zürich (Switzerland)
While Zürich may not have as many tall buildings, historical feats of architecture, or entertainment venues as other extravagant cities, it is considered one for a good reason. That is because everything in the city is incredibly expensive.
Calculated to be around 33.4% more expensive to live in than New York, Zürich is one of the world's leading financial hubs. With an expansive list of Swiss banks operating within the city, people from around the globe put their trust in the city's financial workers.
However, the cost of visiting the city doesn't mean there aren't things to see or do. You will find picturesque views and quaint buildings in every direction that make you feel like you're enjoying the beautiful landscape of rural Switzerland. With the bustle of a city, all this makes Zürich a place everyone should visit—as long as you've saved up enough money beforehand.
Conclusion
No matter what city you travel to, there will be unique things that can only be experienced in that region. However, if you're looking for luxury, extravagance, and (in some cases) expensive holidays, those listed above should be at the top of your list.
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