If you’re like us, you’re looking forward to the day when you can finally jet off to an exotic holiday destinations again.
But even though travel restrictions are still in place, there’s nothing stopping us digging out that bucket list and planning the next adventure.
If you’re unsure of where you might want to go, you’ll find inspiration may be just around the corner . . . literally!
Loveholidays, the fastest growing online travel agency in the UK, has scoured the UK to pinpoint the hamlets, villages, towns and cities sharing their names with some of the world’s most iconic destinations.
And they have delved a little deeper into the interesting history behind their famous names, too.
New Zealand, Buckinghamshire
The UK’s very own New Zealand is located just outside the town of Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. New Zealand, interestingly gained its title from a particular breed of cow farmed in this quaint hamlet.
Barcelona, Cornwall
A little further south, is Barcelona, Cornwall, a beachy county a few miles from the town of Looe.
Barcelona was named for a heroic individual from Barcelona, Spain, who rescued a member of the eminent Trelawney family from a shipwreck.
New York, Lincolnshire . . . and Tyne and Wear!
It’s hard to believe that the UK is home to its very own New York!
New York, Lincolnshire is a tiny hamlet nestled away in the countryside. Home to only a village church and a couple of cottages, there’s not a yellow cab in sight!
However, this isn’t the only Big Apple in the UK — there’s another in Tyne and Wear. Both are named after the historic town of York.
Egypt, West Yorkshire
Just one mile away from the town of Thornton, in West Yorkshire, is England’s very own Egypt.
Although arguably not as interesting without the pyramids, the British town is surrounded by high walls, nicknamed “The Walls of Jericho”, possibly in relation to Napoleon’s invasion of Egypt.
Hollywood, Birmingham
Hollywood is the American city typically associated with sunshine and movie stars.
The UK’s version, however, is slightly more low key. This quiet village in Birmingham got its name from the surrounding woodlands, once home to thriving holly bushes.
Rhodes, Manchester
When you think of Rhodes, you can almost hear the sound of the waves crashing against the shore . . . but not normally near a small Manchester village!
“We know that many people are dreaming about their first post-pandemic getaway. And we can’t blame you!” a Loveholidays spokesperson said.
“We can’t wait to jump on a plane and hit the beach, but in the meantime, the UK has a wealth of fascinating destinations to consider.
“They may not have been on your radar before, but there’s never been a better time to add some closer-to-home destinations to your bucket list.”
Travel restrictions may still be in place. Please check latest advice before planning your trip.
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Iain McDonald I am the Digital Content Editor at the “Friend”, making me responsible for managing the flow of interesting and entertaining content on the magazine’s website and social media channels.
