Five romantic places where bibliophiles would love to go

For many people, books hold a special place in their lives, be it kids who grow up reading stories about fantastical creatures and adventurous voyages or young adults taking refuge in novels of varied kinds. A temporary escape to a world filled with possibilities helps them deal with the morose reality that often leads to breaking the spirit.

Regardless of their age, bibliophiles find immense joy in taking a trip to the fictional towns and cities they encounter while reading the books. More often than not, some stories leave a mark, and years roll by, but still, the characters and events described in the book remain intact. I am sure I am not the only one who fantasised about going to a place mentioned in any book.

Written below are some of the most captivating places that you can find in books:

Pemberley (Pride and Prejudice)

If you are amongst the unfortunate ones who had to forcibly read Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice as part of school reading, you perhaps did not enjoy it. But if you did happen to enjoy it, you must recall the Pemberley House, home of Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy. In describing the magnificent building, Austen has described it as elegant, sophisticated, and gorgeous.

Austen also used explicit symbolism to describe the natural beauty that surrounded the structure. On her first visit, Elizabeth Benneth, the protagonist, is amazed by the surrounding countryside. She could not help but admire the large building standing on high-rise ground backed by a ridge of high woody hills.

Elizabeth had never seen such a place before, and she could not help but wonder what it would be like being the mistress of Pemberly. You might not have imagined the same, but you indeed would have thought of visiting the house, walking through its wide hallways and looking through its tall windows overlooking the valleys.

Hogsmeade (Harry Potter)

If you are a “Potterhead” (Harry Potter movies and books aficionado), you would know the significance of Hogsmeade. The village near Hogwarts School of Wizards and Witchcraft is much more than a shopping hub; it is a place where you can spend time with your friends and make memories for a lifetime. Hogsmeade is especially delightful during the winter season.

If the iconic theme music of the movie is playing in your mind, I would like to direct your attention to the fact that you can find any magical artefact you are looking for at Hogsmeade. Apart from that, if you are looking to play a prank on your friends, you can drop in at Zonko’s, or if you want to sit for a chat over a cup of tea, Madam Puddifoot’s tea shop is the best choice.

Verona, Italy (Romeo and Juliet)

To describe her love for Romeo, Juliet had said, “my bounty is as boundless as the sea, my love as deep. The more I give to thee, the more I have, for both are infinite.” Verona is where Shakespeare set the play, and the city stood the test of time because it is still as beautiful as it was centuries ago.

Also, unlike the previous two places, Verona is a real place adorned with medieval architecture such as Piazza Dei Signori and the mini “Colosseum” known as the Arena. But if you are in the mood for surprising your beloved just like how Romeo did, head towards Via Cappello, where Juliet’s House features a balcony and courtyard below. You can serenade your loved one by recreating the balcony scene; as cheesy as that sounds, the real-hard romantics would know the importance of the scene.

Long Island (The Great Gatsby)

The Great Gatsby is one of the all-time favourite classic literature. It is hugely popular among the masses because it is set against the Jazz age and flamboyance backdrop. The mansion in the book is inspired by the Oheka Castle in Long Island.

The Luxe Chateau-style estate is a perfect option for those looking to splurge on a romantic getaway. The stunning view the estate offers with impeccable landscape certainly creates an atmosphere hard to miss.

Cartagena (Love in the time of cholera)

Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s renowned novel Cartagena tells the tale of unrequited love that blossoms after almost half a century. The story is set in the city of Cartagena in Columbia, where the colonial buildings are painted in beautiful colours, and horse-drawn carriages trot down around the city after dark.
You can head towards the district of Getsemani, wherein the streets are livened up with bistros and live salsas on the streets. If you plan to dance your way into your lover’s heart, drop in at Cafe Havana Jazz club, where you can dance till dawn.