The Unexpected Cities That Start with A

A is for Adventure: Cities That Start with the First Letter

Cities. Those sprawling concrete jungles we call home, where dreams are chased (or at least chased after on crowded subways), pigeons steal your lunch (seriously, those birds have zero manners), and tourists flock to landmarks that look exactly like they do in the photos (been there, done that, got the blurry selfie). But beneath the surface of these familiar urban landscapes lies a world waiting to be explored. And guess what? Many of these hidden gems have names that start with the most basic, most beautiful letter of the alphabet: A.

So, ditch the predictable Paris and pack your sense of adventure, because we’re about to embark on a whirlwind tour of A-mazing (see what I did there?) cities that defy expectations and will leave you saying, “Wait, there’s a city called THAT?” Here are the cities that start with A.

Asmara, Eritrea: A Slice of Art Deco Heaven in the Horn of Africa

Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, is a city frozen in time. Nicknamed “Little Italy” due to its extensive Italian colonial architecture, Asmara boasts a unique collection of Art Deco buildings. Think geometric facades, pastel colors, and enough chrome to make a 1950s sci-fi movie jealous. Wandering the streets of Asmara is like stepping back into a bygone era, a world of espresso machines and vintage Vespas.

But Asmara offers more than just architectural eye candy. This vibrant city boasts a thriving coffee culture (a must for any self-respecting caffeine fiend), bustling open-air markets, and a friendly local population. Just be prepared for the occasional power outage – Asmara’s historical charm comes with a side of slightly unreliable infrastructure (but hey, that just adds to the adventure, right?).

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Lucy’s Hometown, Spicy Stews, and Not Too Much Traffic (Honking Horns Are My Least Favorite Souvenir)

Addis Ababa. Ethiopia’s capital city, a bustling metropolis where ancient history meets modern chaos (and by chaos, I mean enough honking taxis to make your ears bleed. Honking apparently solves everything here). This place is all about crumbling old churches that whisper of emperors past, vibrant cafes overflowing with locals sipping strong Ethiopian coffee (because jet lag is a beast, and caffeine is my weapon of choice), and enough spicy stews to make your tastebuds do a happy dance (or cry, depending on your spice tolerance).

I’m here to explore the National Museum of Ethiopia, where Lucy, our famous australopithecus ancestor, resides (because who wouldn’t want to meet a distant relative?). I’ll wander through the sprawling Merkato market, a sensory overload of sights, smells, and sounds (and hopefully avoid any rogue pickpockets), and definitely indulging in a plate of injera with wot (a spongy flatbread with spicy stew – delicious!). Don’t expect me to be deciphering ancient Geez script (let’s leave that to the scholars).

But I might try to learn a few basic phrases in Amharic – gotta show the locals I respect their culture (even if my pronunciation sounds like a confused parrot). Just keep the traffic jams to a minimum (patience is not my strong suit) and point me in the direction of the best live music scene – traditional Ethiopian jazz is apparently a thing, and I’m here for it. History and culture are great, but a good dance party is the perfect way to end a day of exploring this crazy, chaotic, and utterly fascinating city.

Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire: City by the Lagoon, Busy Boulevards, and Not Too Many Fishy Smells (Unless It’s Fry Plantain Day)

Abidjan. The economic heart of Côte d’Ivoire, a city that straddles a lagoon and throbs with an energy that’s both exciting and slightly overwhelming. Think honking taxis, vendors hawking everything from mangoes to knock-off Nikes, and enough humidity to make your hair frizz in defiance of all styling products. I’m here to soak up the local flavor – wandering the bustling boulevards of Le Plateau (the business district, because skyscrapers are cool), and maybe catching a glimpse of the surfers catching waves along the Atlantic coast (because who knew surfing was a thing here?).

Don’t expect me to be paddling a canoe through the Ébrié Lagoon (those murky waters look more like mosquito breeding grounds than tourist playgrounds). But I might try some alloco (fried plantains, basically), a local street food that’s both delicious and dangerously addictive. Just keep the fish markets on the down-low (fresh is good, but overpowering fish smells are not my jam), and point me in the direction of a good plate of attiéké (fermented cassava with fish or meat – don’t knock it till you try it).

Give me a city with a pulse, a splash of French colonial architecture, and a healthy dose of West African vibes, and I’m happy. Abidjan, you’re either gonna love it or hate it, and I, for one, am ready to be surprised (and hopefully not too sweaty).

Accra, Ghana: Beachside Beats, Bargaining Bonanzas, and Not Too Much Hot Pepper in My Jollof Rice (Baby Steps on the Spice Level)

Accra, Ghana. The heartbeat of West Africa, a city where the air vibrates with the rhythm of highlife music, the streets pulsate with color, and the hawkers have negotiation skills that would put a used car salesman to shame (but hey, haggling is all part of the fun, right?). I’m here to soak up the atmosphere – catching a live afrobeat performance at a buzzing nightclub (because who doesn’t love to dance the night away?), haggling for souvenirs in the Makola Market (because scoring a good deal is a traveler’s trophy), and definitely indulging in a plate of jollof rice (spicy tomato and rice dish – I’ll start slow on the spice level, thanks).

Don’t expect me to be surfing the waves at Kokrobite Beach (turns out I look less like a graceful sea goddess and more like a flailing inflatable pool toy). But I might try some fresh coconut water – perfect for rehydrating after a sweaty bargaining session (and way more refreshing than that overpriced airport beer). Just keep the stray goats off my artisanal woven basket (seriously, these streets are a zoo!), and point me in the direction of the closest chop bar (local restaurant serving delicious, affordable fare).

Give me a city with a soul, a side of spicy adventure (with a cooling side of coconut water), and a healthy dose of Ghanaian hospitality, and I’m sold. Accra, you’re either gonna love it or hate it, and I’m ready to embrace the chaos with a smile (and maybe a few antacids tucked away in my backpack).

Alexandria, Egypt: Ancient Library (Maybe Just the Gift Shop), Falafel Feasts, and Not Too Many Pigeons Stealing My Baklava (They Have Terrible Taste)

Alexandria, Egypt. City of Alexander the Great, birthplace of Cleopatra (or at least that’s what the tour guides will tell you), and home to the legendary Library of Alexandria (which, let’s be honest, probably just exists as a dusty museum at this point). This place is all about crumbling Roman ruins whispering of empires past, bustling souks overflowing with spices and souvenirs (because tourist traps are everywhere, but hey, a good scarf is a good scarf), and enough falafel stands to keep a vegetarian happy for a month (and this carnivore might just convert for the duration of my trip).

I’m here to explore the Montazah Palace, a whimsical blend of architectural styles (because who doesn’t love a good mashup?), and maybe wander through the remnants of the Great Library (hoping they at least have a decent gift shop). Don’t expect me to be deciphering ancient hieroglyphics (those things look like a bug took a vacation through an inkwell). But I might try to learn a few basic phrases in Arabic – gotta show the locals I respect their culture (even if my pronunciation is hilariously bad).

Just keep the pigeons away from my baklava (seriously, those birds have no respect for flaky pastry perfection), and point me in the direction of the best koshary stand (lentil, pasta, and fried onion goodness – yum!). History and culture are great, but a delicious and affordable meal is the universal language of travel. Let’s get exploring (and hopefully avoid any avian-induced baklava theft).

Algiers, Algeria: Casbah Chaos, Coffee Culture, and (Hopefully) Not Too Many Wrong Turns (This City is a Labyrinth)

Algiers, Algeria. A city that clings to the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, a beautiful jumble of whitewashed buildings, and enough narrow, winding streets to make getting lost an Olympic sport (seriously, phone GPS better not fail me here). This place is all about the Casbah, a UNESCO-listed old town that’s as captivating as it is confusing (think alleyways so narrow you can practically high-five people on the other side), strong coffee that’ll jumpstart your heart faster than a dose of espresso (and let’s be honest, jet lag is a beast), and enough calls to prayer echoing through the city to make you feel like you’re in a constant state of holy intervention (beautiful, but slightly disorienting).

I’m here to soak up the atmosphere – haggling for Berber carpets in the bustling market (because scoring a good deal is a badge of honor, right?), and maybe catching a glimpse of the stunning views from Notre Dame d’Afrique (a church that looks straight out of a postcard). Don’t expect me to be deciphering Arabic calligraphy (those squiggles are a mystery to me). But I might try some local pastries – think flaky sweetness with honey and nuts – because a little sugar rush is essential for navigating this maze-like city.

Just keep the taxi drivers honest (they have a reputation for…creative pricing), and point me in the direction of the nearest hammam (a traditional bathhouse – relaxation is key after a day of getting lost and found in the Casbah). Algiers, you’re a beautiful mess, and I’m here for the adventure (and hopefully a pastry or two).

Astana, Kazakhstan: Where Modernity Meets the Steppe (and Maybe a Few Nomads)

Astana, the futuristic capital of Kazakhstan, is a city that seems to have sprung straight from a science fiction movie. Soaring skyscrapers clad in glass and steel dominate the skyline, while wide boulevards and meticulously planned squares create an almost sterile sense of order. It’s a stark contrast to the vast, windswept steppe that surrounds the city, a reminder of Kazakhstan’s nomadic past.

But Astana isn’t just about shiny buildings. This young city boasts a vibrant arts scene, world-class museums showcasing the rich history of the region, and a surprising number of parks and green spaces. Just don’t be surprised if you see a group of people on horseback galloping down the street – nomadic traditions die hard in these parts.

Amman, Jordan: Ancient Citadels, Bustling Souks, and (Hopefully) Not Too Much Haggling Over Fake Rolex Watches (Because Tourist Traps Are Everywhere)

Amman, Jordan. A city steeped in history, where ancient Roman ruins rub shoulders with modern skyscrapers, and the aroma of freshly baked pita bread mingles with the exhaust fumes of honking taxis. This place is a sensory overload in the best way possible. I’m here to explore the imposing Amman Citadel, a historic fortress that’s seen empires rise and fall (because a little perspective on your vacation is always good). I’ll wander through the labyrinthine alleyways of the souk, haggling for spices and trinkets (because getting ripped off is practically a rite of passage, right?), and definitely stopping for a steaming cup of strong Arabic coffee (because jet lag is a real thing, and caffeine is my weapon of choice).

Don’t expect me to be deciphering ancient inscriptions (let’s leave that to the archaeologists). But I might try to learn a few basic phrases in Arabic – gotta show the locals I respect their culture (even if my attempts at pronunciation butcher the language in hilarious ways). Just keep me away from the guys selling fake Rolex watches (unless they’re incredibly convincing fakes, because a girl can dream), and point me towards the best knafeh stand (that gooey cheese pastry dessert is calling my name). History and culture are great, but baklava on a stick? Now that’s what I came to Jordan for.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE): Desert Opulence, Falconry Shows, and Not Too Many Sandals Confiscated at the Mosque

Abu Dhabi. The playground of the United Arab Emirates, where extravagance knows no bounds and your credit card starts to whimper softly in your wallet. This city is all about luxury hotels that look like they were built by genies, gleaming skyscrapers that pierce the desert sky, and enough gold-plated everything to make a Kardashian blush (seriously, doorknobs? That’s just excessive). I’m here to, well, mostly marvel at the opulence (because let’s be honest, I can’t afford to buy anything).

Maybe I’ll catch a falconry show – those birds are the original attack helicopters, minus the missiles (probably a good thing for the tourists). Don’t expect me to be scaling sand dunes on a camel (my outfit screams “five-star hotel,” not “desert adventure”). But I might try some Emirati coffee – strong, spicy, and guaranteed to wake you up faster than a face full of Dubai fountain spray (speaking of which, that’s next on my list). Just remind me to ditch the stilettos before entering the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (flip-flops are not exactly fashionable, but neither is getting kicked out for inappropriate footwear). Luxury and culture are all well and good, but avoiding international embarrassment is key.

Agra, India: The Taj Mahal (and Hopefully More to This City Than Just One Monument)

Agra, India. Home to the monument that makes every other building on Earth feel hopelessly inadequate – the Taj Mahal. This city is synonymous with love, white marble, and enough tourists to make you question the very concept of romance (seriously, personal space people!). I’m here to soak in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Taj (because, well, you kind of have to when you’re here), but I’m also hoping to find some hidden gems beyond the crowds. Maybe a bustling market overflowing with colorful spices (because a sensory overload is a good kind of overload, right?), or a hidden temple tucked away on a dusty side street (because there’s more to India than just Mughal masterpieces).

Don’t expect me to be professing my undying love to a complete stranger in front of the Taj (been there, done that, got the overpriced Agra t-shirt to prove it). But I might try some local street food – samosas, curries, you name it – because a balanced vacation is key (even if that balance involves questionable hygiene standards and a fire in my stomach). Just keep the souvenir touts at bay (a polite but firm “no” usually does the trick) and show me the real Agra – the one that exists beyond the shadow of the Taj Mahal.

Ahmedabad, India: Spicy Streets, Stunning Havelis, and Not Too Much Heartburn (Because Samosas Are Delicious, But…)

Ahmedabad, India. Nicknamed the “Manchester of the East” for its booming textile industry, this city is a vibrant tapestry of colors, flavors, and enough rickshaw horns to test your sanity (but hey, it’s all part of the experience, right?). I’m here to explore the intricately carved havelis – ancient mansions that are basically works of art – because who doesn’t love a good dose of architectural eye candy? I’ll wander through the colorful markets, dodging stray cows and haggling for souvenirs (because getting ripped off is practically a rite of passage when traveling, right?), and definitely indulging in some seriously spicy street food (samosas, anyone?).

Don’t expect me to be deciphering ancient Hindu texts (let’s leave that to the scholars). But I might try to learn a few basic greetings in Gujarati – gotta show the locals I respect their culture (even if my stomach is screaming for mercy after that vindaloo). Just point me in the direction of the nearest lassi stand (that yogurt-based drink is a lifesaver for overheated taste buds) and keep the auto-rickshaw drivers at bay – a shared ride is all good, but I don’t need ten guys trying to cram me into their tiny vehicle. Let’s keep this adventure spicy, but not suicidal.

Auckland, New Zealand: The City of Sails (and Maybe a Few Sheep)

Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled between two harbors, Auckland boasts a stunning waterfront, perfect for sailing, kayaking, or simply watching the yachts bob lazily in the sunshine. The city itself is a mix of urban energy and natural beauty, with volcanic cones poking through the suburbs and lush parks offering a respite from the hustle and bustle.

But Auckland isn’t just about water views and green spaces. This city is a cultural melting pot, with a vibrant Maori heritage and a growing Asian influence. Explore the bustling Auckland Domain, home to the Auckland Museum and the Wintergarden, a Victorian-era glasshouse overflowing with exotic plants. Just keep an eye out for sheep – New Zealand is famous for its woolly residents, and you might even encounter a few on the outskirts of the city (don’t worry, they’re generally pretty friendly, unless you try to knit a sweater out of them).

Adelaide, Australia: Wine Bars, Wacky Wildlife, and Not Too Many Drop Bears (Those Things Sound Terrifying)

Adelaide, Australia. They say it’s less flashy than Sydney and more laid-back than Melbourne. Sounds perfect for my travel style – wineries overflowing with glasses of plonk (because what’s a vacation without some vinotherapy?), streets lined with quirky cafes serving up flat whites (caffeine is my travel companion), and enough beaches to soak up the sun (assuming I don’t get attacked by a rogue koala or something – seriously, drop bears? What were those Australians thinking?).

I’m here to explore the Adelaide Central Market, a food lover’s paradise overflowing with fresh produce and gourmet delights (because stuffing my face is a legitimate tourist activity, right?), and maybe cuddle a koala at a wildlife sanctuary (because who can resist those adorable little furballs?). Don’t expect me to be scaling mountains or spelunking in caves (hiking boots?

Not this trip, honey. Think sandals and flowy dresses). But I might try some kangaroo steak (don’t judge – gotta experience the local cuisine, right?), just to say I’ve done it (and hopefully not regret it later). Just keep the spiders at bay (eight legs areNOPE), and point me in the direction of the nearest beach with good sóng (that’s wave in Portuguese, because sounding worldly is important). Adelaide, you’re beaches, brews, and (hopefully) not too many bites. Let’s do this.

Antwerp, Belgium: Diamonds, Beer, and a Touch of the Avant-Garde (and Maybe a Few Waffles)

Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city, is a diamond in the rough (pun intended). This historic city is a major center for the diamond trade, with its narrow streets lined with shops selling everything from sparkling solitaires to questionable cubic zirconia knock-offs (buyer beware!). But Antwerp is more than just bling.

The city boasts a beautiful historic center, with stunning Gothic architecture and a world-renowned art scene. Rubens, one of Flanders’ most famous artists, called Antwerp home, and his influence is evident in the city’s many museums and galleries. And let’s not forget the beer – Belgium is a haven for hopheads, and Antwerp offers a seemingly endless selection of local brews to sample. Just be sure to leave room for a waffle (or ten) – these fluffy Belgian treats are a must-try for any visitor.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: Canals, Coffee Shops, and Not Too Many Clogs (Unless They’re the Adorable Fuzzy Kind)

Amsterdam. The city of canals, bicycles, and a certain kind of “coffee shop” experience that isn’t about lattes and muffins (wink wink). I’m here to explore the charming canals aboard a rented boat (because who doesn’t love pretending to be a Venetian gondolier?), wander through art museums overflowing with masterpieces (and hopefully avoid any rogue toddlers covered in paint), and maybe indulge in a stroopwafel (because gooey caramel waffles are the universal language of deliciousness).

Don’t expect me to be wandering into any “coffee shops” that aren’t serving actual coffee (curiosity is a powerful thing, but I value my brain cells). But I might try some local cheese – Gouda, Edam, you name it – because cheese is always a good travel companion. Just keep the clog situation under control – those wooden shoes are adorable in souvenir shops, but not exactly practical for sightseeing (unless they’re the fuzzy, slipper kind – those I can get behind).

Athens, Greece: Ancient History and Gyros (Because You Can’t Live on Philosophy Alone)

Athens, Greece. Cradle of democracy, birthplace of philosophy, and home to enough crumbling ruins to make Indiana Jones jealous (and probably a little disappointed they got picked over first). I’m here to soak up the ancient vibes – strolling through the Acropolis (because obligatory tourist photo, duh), trying to decipher what’s left of the Parthenon (spoiler alert: it’s a lot of rocks), and maybe even attempting to understand a sentence in modern Greek (because “opa!” is all I’ve got).

Don’t expect me to be pondering the meaning of life while perched on a sun-bleached rock ( sunburn is a real thing, people). But I might grab a gyro (or five) – pita bread, meat, tzatziki sauce – because a balanced diet is key, even on vacation (mostly). Just point me towards the nearest souvlaki stand and a shady spot to people-watch – sometimes the best part of travel is just observing the fascinating (and occasionally bizarre) human zoo.

Ankara, Turkey: Turkish Delights and Imposing Citadels (Because History Doesn’t Have to Be Boring)

Ankara. Turkey’s capital city, bursting with ancient ruins, bustling marketplaces, and enough angora wool scarves to knit a sweater for every cat on the internet (and that’s a lot of cats). I’m here to explore the impressive Ankara Citadel, a historic fortress that’s seen empires rise and fall (because who doesn’t love a good dose of perspective on their vacation?). I’ll wander through museums overflowing with artifacts (hopefully avoiding any bored-looking school trip groups), and maybe even snag a Turkish delight or two (because those sugary treats are dangerously addictive).

Don’t expect me to be deciphering ancient cuneiform tablets ( hieroglyphics are hard enough, thank you very much). But I might try bargaining for a rug in the bazaar – haggling is practically a national sport here, and I’m willing to give it a shot (even if I end up paying more than I should). Just point me in the direction of the best gözleme stand (think savory flatbreads filled with all sorts of deliciousness) and keep the history lectures light on the whole “complicated political past” thing. A little culture is good, but I came here to explore, not get bogged down in dates and treaties.

Aarhus, Denmark: Vikings, Modern Vibes, and Not Too Many Horned Helmets (Unless They’re Funny Souvenirs)

Aarhus, Denmark. This Scandinavian city is all about Viking history, cutting-edge design, and enough pastries to make your dentist weep (but in a delicious way). I’m here to explore the ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum, a modern art haven housed in a rainbow-colored building (because who says museums can’t be fun?), wander through the Viking Museum and ponder the pillaging prowess of our pointy-helmeted ancestors (without romanticizing the whole thing, of course), and maybe indulge in a smørrebrød (think fancy open-faced Danish sandwiches) for lunch.

Don’t expect me to be setting sail on a longship and pillaging neighboring villages (vacation is for relaxation, not lighthearted reenactments). But I might try to learn a few basic Danish phrases – gotta impress the locals with my non-existent language skills (and maybe score some bonus points at the bakery). Just point me in the direction of the best Tivoli ice cream (apparently, it’s legendary) and keep the horned helmet situation under control – those things are amusing as souvenirs, but not exactly practical headwear (unless you’re going for a very specific aesthetic choice, which I’m not).

Asunción, Paraguay: South American Adventure (With Hopefully More Guarana Than Gangsters)

Asunción, Paraguay. Land of steaming yerba mate, vibrant guaraní music, and a history that’s equal parts fascinating and slightly terrifying (looking at you, dictators). I’m here to experience the true Paraguay – exploring bustling markets overflowing with colorful crafts, maybe catching a traditional dance performance (because who doesn’t love a good twirling skirt?), and definitely indulging in some refreshing guarana soda (it’s like a caffeinated jungle juice, and I’m here for it).

Don’t expect me to be dodging bullets in some back alley (vacation is for relaxation, not reenacting action movies). But I might try to learn a few basic phrases in Guaraní – gotta impress the locals with my non-existent language skills. Just point me in the direction of the best empanadas (because flaky pastries filled with deliciousness are a universal language) and keep the history lesson light on the whole “oppressive regimes” thing. A little culture is good, but I came here to relax, not get stressed.

Acapulco, Mexico: Cliff Diving, Cocktails, and Not Too Many Cliff Divers Landing on My Towel

Acapulco. Mexico’s diving capital, home to legendary cliff jumpers and enough tequila to make even the most uptight tourist loosen up (a little too much, sometimes). I’m here for the sunshine, the stunning cliffside views (from a safe distance, obviously), and maybe a margarita (or three) with a perfect oceanfront view. Don’t expect me to be channeling my inner daredevil and leaping off La Quebrada (watching those guys is entertainment enough, thank you very much).

But I might try some snorkeling – the underwater world is always a good time, minus the occasional jellyfish encounter (hopefully). Just keep the overpriced spring break crowds away from me – a little peace and quiet on the beach is all I ask. And maybe remind the cliff divers to aim for the water, not the sunbathers.

Arequipa, Peru: The White City (But Hopefully My Laundry Stays Colorful)

Arequipa, Peru. Nicknamed the “White City” for its buildings constructed from volcanic rock, this Andean gem promises history, stunning scenery, and enough alpaca wool sweaters to clothe a small village (and let’s be honest, the souvenir temptation will be real). I’m here to explore the city’s colonial architecture, wander through bustling markets overflowing with colorful textiles (because who can resist a good llama wool scarf?), and maybe even take a hike to see a majestic condor soaring overhead (because epic birdwatching is a must).

Don’t expect me to be attempting to scale El Misti volcano – those things are for experienced climbers, not tourists with questionable cardio. But I might try some local cuisine – alpaca stew anyone? (Just hold the judgment – when in Rome, or in this case, Peru…). Just make sure my laundry situation is under control – white city or not, I don’t want my clothes turning that shade after one too many colorful market purchases.

Asheville, North Carolina: The Land of the Blue Ridge Mountains (and Maybe a Few Yetis… Just Kidding… Maybe

Ah, Asheville, North Carolina. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this city is practically synonymous with breathtaking vistas, crisp mountain air, and enough craft breweries to make your head spin (literally, if you’re not careful). It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, yoga devotees, and anyone who dreams of living in a place where kombucha fountains flow freely in the town square (okay, maybe not that last one, but a girl can dream). Just be prepared for the influx of tourists with their hiking boots and overpriced Patagonia jackets, all vying for the perfect Instagram shot of a cascading waterfall (spoiler alert: there’s a line). And who knows, maybe you’ll even spot a Yeti lurking in the woods (just kidding… unless…?).

Atlantic City, New Jersey: Boardwalk, Booze, and Board Shorts (Maybe)

Atlantic City. The self-proclaimed “Playground of the Eastern Seaboard.” Images of flashing lights, clinking casino chips, and maybe even a fleeting glimpse of a mermaid on a seashell throne fill my head. But is it all glitz and glamour, or is there more to A.C. than meets the heavily-mascaraed eye? Guess I’ll pack my sensible shoes (because those stiletto heels won’t last five minutes on the boardwalk) and head down to the shore to find out. Just don’t expect me to lose my life savings on a slot machine – these days, my gambling budget is strictly for boardwalk games (and maybe a questionable souvenir seashell phone case).

Asbury Park, New Jersey: Where Bruce Springsteen Once Walked (And Hopefully Didn’t Spill His Beer)

Asbury Park. New Jersey’s answer to a cool, hipster beach town (if a hipster beach town involved questionable street performers and funnel cake stands). This Jersey Shore spot is all about the vibes, man. Live music spilling out of every bar, vintage shops overflowing with ironic band tees, and enough people with ironic mustaches to make a barbershop nervous. I’m here to soak up the atmosphere, maybe catch a band playing some classic rock on the boardwalk (because apparently The Boss isn’t here signing autographs every day). Just don’t expect me to attempt surfing – those waves look more suited for bodyboarding, and let’s be honest, my swimsuit situation isn’t exactly “beach babe” material.

Austin, Texas: Keep Austin Weird? More Like Keep Austin Full of Hipsters (and Breakfast Tacos)

Austin, Texas. The land of live music, breakfast tacos the size of your head, and enough turquoise jewelry to blind a small horse. This city’s motto is “Keep Austin Weird,” but honestly, these days “weird” just means overpriced vintage clothes and artisanal pickle vendors. Don’t get me wrong, I’m here for the live music scene (because who doesn’t love a good band in a dive bar?), and those breakfast tacos are legendary. But I’m keeping my eyes peeled for something truly bizarre, something that makes me question the very fabric of reality (or at least, a decent cup of coffee that isn’t served in a mason jar). Maybe I’ll find it on Sixth Street, dodging bachelorette parties and overpriced rideshare surges. Wish me luck.

Atlanta, Georgia: Peachtree Street and Peach Fuzz (Because Apparently There’s a Lot of Peaches Here)

Atlanta. The ATL, as the cool kids call it. This southern city is all about sweet tea, college football, and enough peaches to make even the most discerning cobbler blush. I’m here to explore the city’s mix of new and old – swanky high-rises casting shadows on historic brick buildings, trendy restaurants serving up fancy takes on fried chicken. Don’t expect me to be cheering myself hoarse at a Falcons game (sports are lost on me), but I might get sucked into the vortex of a Coca-Cola museum tour (because who can resist a giant soda bottle?). Just keep your overpriced craft cocktails away from me – give me a glass of sweet tea any day.

Anaheim, California: The Happiest Place on Earth (Unless You Hate Crowds and Churro Lines)

Anaheim, California. Home to the one and only Disneyland Resort, the happiest place on Earth (according to marketing materials, at least). I’m here to brave the crowds, the overpriced popcorn, and the inevitable meltdown of a toddler denied a giant Mickey Mouse lollipop. Don’t expect me to be riding Space Mountain until I turn green (been there, done that, threw up on the Matterhorn ride). My thrill-seeking days are over (or maybe I’m just getting old). But I might indulge in a Dole Whip – that pineapple soft serve is the real happiest place on Earth. Just hold me back from buying everything in sight at the Disney gift shops – my credit card is already weeping.

Albuquerque, New Mexico: Breaking Bad, Ballooning, and Not Too Much Breaking My Ankles

Albuquerque, New Mexico. The setting for a certain award-winning TV show about meth (don’t worry, I’m here for the legal thrills, not the blue stuff). This desert city is all about hot air balloons filling the sky, colorful buildings reflecting the harsh sun, and enough chile peppers to make your tastebuds cry for mercy (but in a good way, maybe?). Don’t expect me to be cooking up anything illegal in a beat-up RV (seriously, that’s a terrible life choice). But I might just sample some fiery green chile on a burger (because why not embrace the local heat?). Just point me towards the nearest hiking trail and a good pair of walking shoes – these city streets aren’t exactly high-heel friendly, and I’d rather not break an ankle before I even get to see a hot air balloon.

Anchorage, Alaska: The Last Frontier (But Hopefully With Decent Wi-Fi)

Anchorage, Alaska. The land of the midnight sun, glaciers galore, and enough flannel shirts to clothe a lumberjack convention. I’m here to embrace the Alaskan wilderness (from a safe distance, of course) – think epic mountain views, maybe a glimpse of a moose wandering through town (because apparently, that’s a thing here), and definitely some fresh seafood (because who travels all the way to Alaska and doesn’t eat the bounty of the sea?). Don’t expect me to be scaling Denali anytime soon (I’m more of a scenic gondola ride kind of adventurer). But I might try dog mushing (with a seasoned musher in charge, of course) – how else can you say you rode a sled pulled by a pack of adorable, furry athletes? Just make sure the Wi-Fi is decent – gotta document my adventures (and maybe send a quick “wish you were here” to my friends back home in sunny California).

From bustling metropolises like Athens to historical hubs like Amsterdam and Alexandria, cities that start with A offer a world of possibilities for the intrepid traveler. Whether you’re seeking iconic landmarks, vibrant cultural experiences, or relaxing weekend getaways, there’s a city with A-list attractions to match your interests. So grab your travel guide, start planning your itinerary, and discover what these amazing urban centers have in store for you.