We’ve all had those conversations… Where would you go on holiday if money was no object? But what if reality was no object? What if we could choose to go somewhere out of this world and somewhere in the realms of the imaginary?
We may be used to beaches, sun and a few cocktails here and there, but these fictional places can offer us adventures beyond our wildest dreams. From magical animals to odorous Orcs, these can take you to a place you really could help you bring out your inner-child. They might not be great for a relaxing holiday, but they’ll definitely give you something to write home about!
Middle-earth
Of course, we have to start with Middle Earth – the fantastical fictional setting of JRR Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. The landscapes are vast – and there’s something for everyone. The chilled-out greenery of the Shire, the more moody and troublesome lands of Mordor – and everything in-between. You’ll find misty mountains, beautiful forests – and a few elves, hobbits and wizards – on an unforgettable journey.
Hogwarts
Hands up Harry Potter fans! This is the perfect place for those who want to get in touch with their younger-self – and want a little bit of magic in their lives. This is a place of fantasy beyond our wildest dreams. There are singing and talking portraits, headless ghosts, werewolves, whomping willows, flying cards…. And you might even learn a few spells or potions along the way.
As long as you manage to avoid He Who Shall Not Be Named, you’ll go potty for the world of Mr Potter!
Pandora
This has to be one of the most stunning of all fictional worlds. Filled with floating mountains, plants and flowers you’ve never seen the likes of – weird and wonderful creatures… and tall blue people. This is an absolutely perfect destination if you are someone who considers yourself at home with nature.
The breathtaking landscapes really make Pandora a mesmerising place that captures the imagination – although, unfortunately, humans seem to spoil it!
Westeros
George R.R. Martin’s Westeros, the heart and soul of the epic A Song of Ice and Fire series, is a land of politics, nobles – and epic battles for power. From the icy North, guarded by the Wall, to the hotter – yet equally treacherous lands of Dorne, Westeros is a world where power can be won – and lost in the blink of an eye – through deceit, bravery, betrayal – with a lot of action along the way.
The RUST World
Something a little more treacherous now – but equally as enthralling is the world of Rust, where your job is to make friends, survive – and see if you can beat the elements. This post-apocalyptic world isn’t pretty, but it’s filled with forests and all sorts of different terrains – where every step offers something different.
The beauty of RUST lies in its ever-changing ecosystem, Rust gambling and player-driven narrative – you get to be part of the story and be a key character.
Are you brave enough to travel into this world – and do you have what it takes to fend off threats from both wildlife and other players? If so, then you might just want to take your chance.
Narnia
If you’re a fan of talking animals and Turkish Delight (and who isn’t?), then C.S. Lewis’s Narnia is the place to be. A magical place … that’s easy to get to as long as you have the right wardrobe… where animals, mythical creatures, and ancient prophecies come to life right in front of your eyes.
You can go on all sorts of adventures – through enchanted forests, across seas with Prince Caspian and his Dawntreader, and into epic battles between good and evil, led by a lion. This is the ultimate destination for those who want to get in touch with their inner hero.
Forget Barbados and Bali; who wants sun-kissed beaches, cocktails and relaxation when you can have action, adventure… and a touch of magic?
The article The most exciting fictional destinations first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.