BURANO, ITALY
Burano is an idyllic island situated in the Venetian Lagoon, renowned for its striking and colorful houses. The streets of Burano offer a visual feast, as each house is painted in distinct hues, forming a surreal spectrum of vibrant blues, pinks, yellows and greens. The colorful facades cast their reflection in the canals, enhancing the allure of the place. The tradition of adorning Burano’s houses with bright colors originated with fishermen, who used them as distinctive markers for their homes while they were out at sea. Today, the island’s colorful palette attracts tourists from around the world who come to admire the beauty of Burano.
JODHPUR, RAJASTHAN, INDIA
Surrounding the Mehrangarh Fort, the old city area of Jodhpur enchants visitors with its narrow, winding streets flanked by houses adorned in various shades of blue. There are a number of theories behind the striking blues, with some attributing the pigment to its association with the Brahmins, India’s priestly caste, while others suggest it comes from copper sulphate that was used on the buildings to deter termites. Some also believe the calming color was used to keep the houses cool, as the average high in Jodhpur is around 91º F, with temperatures reaching over 100º F during the hot season. As you navigate the labyrinthine alleys of Jodhpur, the vibrant blue exteriors create a captivating contrast against the arid desert landscape, evoking a serene ambiance that immerses you in a feeling of tranquility and awe.
GUANAJUATO, MEXICO
Guanajuato, a historic city in central Mexico, bursts with a vibrant palette that adorns its colonial architecture. The city’s colorful facades line the narrow, winding streets and showcase a lively mix of yellows, oranges, pinks and greens. The bold and vivid colors reflect the city’s rich history and culture. Guanajuato’s colonial buildings, adorned with intricate balconies and ornate details, come alive with their eye-catching hues. As you explore the city, the vibrant colors create a cheerful and festive ambiance, complemented by the energetic atmosphere of music, art and traditional festivals that Guanajuato is famous for.
CHEFCHAOUEN, MOROCCO
Chefchaouen, often referred to as the “Blue City,” is a stunning destination nestled in the Rif Mountains of Morocco. This city is renowned for its vibrant, blue- washed buildings that create a dreamlike atmosphere. The color is believed to have been introduced by Jewish refugees who sought protection in Chefchaouen in the 1930s. Wandering through the alleys is a full immersion into a mesmerizing sea of blues, from pale pastels to deep indigos, leaving visitors in awe of the city’s unique and enchanting beauty.
ST. JOHN’S, NEWFOUNDLAND, CANADA
St. John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada, is renowned for its picturesque row houses that adorn the hillsides encircling the harbor. These charming dwellings, affectionately referred to as “Jellybean Row” houses, exhibit a captivating array of vibrant colors, including shades of red, yellow, blue and green. The richly painted facades infuse St. John’s with an undeniable charm and personality, particularly against the backdrop of the dramatic coastal landscapes.
