Top 5 Travel Destinations for a Gemini

👋 With the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, many of us are excited about the prospect of international travel, but perhaps none more so than Geminis. Given their spontaneous spirit and open demeanor, this sign of the twins is best suited for adventure. Here are some places for their consideration — and yours, if you dare:

1. Istanbul & Cappadocia, Turkey

As the sign of the twins, Gemini embodies duality, so a city that straddles two continents is a welcome challenge to this intrepid traveler. Located in both Europe and Asia, and formerly known as both Byzantium and Constantinople, Istanbul teems with activities that will keep Geminis entertained. Marvel at historic houses of worship like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, or venture into the Basilica Cistern, one of the hundreds of ancient caverns hidden beneath the capital. If you’re seeking a little more action, get a Turkish fire shave or guzzle some raki, the country’s national drink also known as Lion’s Milk. And although haggling at the Grand Bazaar might not be everyone’s cup of tea, unabashed and playful Geminis will regard it as a fun game with attractive prizes like ceramics, textiles, and sweets!

But if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul for a few days, you can fly one hour over to Cappadocia, a mesmerizing region of Turkey with unique topography forged by volcanoes. Stay in cave hotels with picturesque views of rock formations known as fairy chimneys. Fly up into the sky with hot air balloon tours that are offered year-round or hunker down into the region’s 36 underground cities.

2. Taipei, Taiwan

A cosmopolitan island destination, Taipei is as funky as it is sleek. With lively night markets that are home to fried milk on a stick, deep-fried potato spirals, bubble tea, and the country’s infamous stinky tofu at cheap prices, the capital city is great for Geminis, who will appreciate the variety of choices and the ability to wander around at their own leisure. But if you want a sit-down experience that is still unique, try this toilet-and-poop-themed restaurant. For fresher and fairer fare, check out the cool range of fruit on offer. The island’s sub-tropical and tropical climates mean it cultivates delicious fruit you’ve probably never tried — much less heard of — such as wax apples, jujubes, starfruit, and custard apples.

After you’ve treated your taste buds, find a sight for sore eyes in the breathtaking view atop Taipei 101, a skyscraper with — you guessed it  — 101 floors. Peruse one of if not the most impressive collections of Chinese art spanning thousands of years at the National Palace Museum, and wind down in the hot springs of the Beitou district.

3. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic 

This quaint Bohemian town in the Czech Republic is perfect for Geminis, whose whimsical nature will appreciate getting lost in the town’s Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. As you take in the colorful buildings and stroll around the cobblestone streets of Svornosti Square, devour a trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry that is covered in sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts. For even more of a blast to the past, drop by the Český Krumlov Castle, which was completed in 1240. Say “ahoj” (“hello” in Czech) to Vok and Kateřina, two of the four bears that inhabit the medieval castle’s Bear Moat. And if you’re feeling playful, stop by this marionette museum located in a former church. Finally, conclude this fairytale experience with a relaxing beer by the Vltava River.

4. Santiago, Chile

Situated between the snow-capped Andes and the Chilean Coast Range, Santiago is set against a stunning backdrop whichever way you look. However, the metropolitan center is not without its own sights — there’s the Paseo Bandera, a street that has been pedestrianized and painted, thus transforming it into a rainbowed, 400-yard-long mural that can be walked on. Renowned for their way with words and gift of the gab, Geminis will be particularly intrigued by La Chascona, a house-museum previously owned and inhabited by Chilean poet and Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda. For even more vibrantly colored architecture, take a gander at the other houses in the bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, which is packed with trendy restaurants, cafes, and boutiques that sell lapis lazuli handicrafts.

To quench your thirst, drink some mote con huesillos, a traditional Chilean beverage made from dried peaches, nectar syrup, husked wheat, and brown sugar. To muffle the rumble in your tummy, head to the Mercado Central (Central Market), where the freshest seafood from the Pacific Ocean can be found and served in ceviche, paella, and empanadas. After you’ve purchased some souvenirs from the market, stroll around the Parque Bicentenario (Bicentennial Park), where you can also sit down and watch the flamingos, koi fish, and swans in its man-made lagoon.

5. Antarctica

Ah, yes, the continent rarely remembered when considering travel plans, Antarctica is the pricey but extreme dream of a lifetime for any gutsy globetrotter like a Gemini. With the intensification of global warming, the habitats of emperor penguins, elephant seals, and 8 species of whales are ever shrinking — a harsh reality that not only makes Antarctica a disappearing wonder but also means that you must be especially respectful of its natural environment if you’re ever lucky enough to visit.

Of course, there isn’t much in the way of cuisine, nightlife, or art in Antarctica, but to linger on that would be to miss the point — that the continent itself is the main attraction. Admire icebergs, ice shelves, ice caves, mountain ranges, and active volcanoes (yes, there are actually two, and one is at the aptly named Deception Island). If trekking through the snow is too tiresome, consider a kayaking excursion or a helicopter ride.

Great! Where are we going?

Even though they’re not always sure what they’re going to do, Geminis know that life is short and that they’ll have as much fun as they possibly can. They’ll leave no whim ignored, no question unanswered, and no desire unfulfilled, making them the consummate swashbucklers to travel with! 

Have another destination in mind? Leave a comment below!