World News - Breaking Exclusive News!!!
Welcome to the World News!
5 Historic Cities for Expats Around the World
Expats have always sought cities that offer more than just a place to live. They look for vibrant communities, reliable infrastructure, and opportunities to thrive both personally and professionally. On top of the economic prospects and quality of life, many expatriates are drawn to destinations that tell a story, cities steeped in history that reflect their evolution through art, architecture, and culture. For history lovers, living in a city with iconic landmarks and tales of bygone eras adds a unique depth to everyday life. These destinations satisfy a craving for both heritage and modernity. Here are historic cities around the world that are also perfect for expats.
1. Rome, Italy
As of 2022, approximately 347,758 foreigners reside in Rome, with significant communities from Romania (about 75,000) and the Philippines (around 40,000). The city’s extensive public transportation network, including buses and metro lines, facilitates easy navigation. However, it’s worth noting that the comfort and timeliness of bus services can vary, with some routes experiencing overcrowding during peak hours.
2. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, established in 794 CE as Heian-kyō, served as Japan’s imperial capital for over a millennium. This rich history endows the city with numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, founded in 780, renowned for its wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto.
3. Istanbul, Turkey
Historically known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, Istanbul has been a pivotal city for over two millennia, serving as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, Latin, and Ottoman empires. The city is home to the Hagia Sophia, originally built in 537 CE as a cathedral and later transformed into a mosque. This architectural marvel symbolizes the fusion of Byzantine and Islamic traditions. Nearby, the Topkapi Palace offers a glimpse into the opulence of Ottoman sultans, with its sprawling courtyards and treasures.
4. Mexico City, Mexico
Established in 1521 atop the ruins of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlán, Mexico City is a metropolis rich in history and culture. The city’s historic center, known as Centro Histórico, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases colonial architecture and landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace.
5. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, one of Europe’s oldest cities, was founded by the Phoenicians around 1200 BCE, making it the second-oldest European capital after Athens. You can witness the city’s rich history through landmarks like the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 16th century to guard the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor. In 1755, Lisbon experienced a devastating earthquake, followed by fires and a tsunami, which destroyed much of the city, including the Royal Ribeira Palace and many adjoining regions. The Carmo Convent still stands without a roof, serving as a haunting reminder of the disaster.
