December 20, 2005

05:22:41 pm Nick's Ranking of Cities He Enjoyed Most in 2005:  

I won't repeat it here, but see the text that precedes my ranking of countries I enjoyed the most in 2005 for an explanation of how I construct these rankings of most enjoyable places. The synopsis is that this is strictly my ranking of personal enjoyment in each place in 2005. It's not where I recommend you go, it's not where I am most likely to return, and it's not how I would order a listing of the top cities in the world. Yes, I know, English-speaking cities dominate the list. If you spend a year outside of home country, it's only natural that you will enjoy the comfort of being in a place somewhat familiar.

1. London. The best non-US city in the world for museums.
2. Berlin. Most interesting city for 20th Century history--epicenter of World War I, World War II, and the Cold War.
3. Canberra. I know this is a total shocker to include on this list, because Australia's capital has reputation for boring. If you want to go to rave parties or shop 'till you drop, then do skip Canberra. If you want to understand Australia, go--the museums here are incredibly good.
4. Singapore. The melting pot of Asia. Exotic, yet accessible and familiar.
5. Adelaide. We stayed with our friends, the globetrotting Macks, and found this place is a paradise. Perfect weather, cosmopolitan without being large, pretty neighborhoods with a small-town feel, good food, etc. Steve said, "This is the nicest place I've ever lived," and I understand why. I am not sure though that you would appreciate Adelaide as much if you were not staying with someone who lives there.
6. Cape Town. A world-class destination that is a bargain.
7. Tokyo. After 15 years of economic malaise, it may still be the most energetic city in the world.
8. Shanghai. The city of the future. Why haven't you see it yet?
9. Sydney. Remember the 2000 Olympics? A great place.
10. Munich. We were there less than 24 hours and did not really see anything in the city. By complete coincidence, though, it was the last night of Oktoberfest and we had a rip-roaring good time!

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