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Wildest Cities

by Neil Woodburn (RSS feed) on Apr 23rd 2006 at 3:46PM

When I read the Men’s Journal headline, World's Wildest Cities, I thought it to be yet another ranking of the best places to get drunk and fall down. Wildest, however, in Men’s Journal jargon apparently refers to the outdoors.

The article suddenly appeared much more interesting.

Rio de Janeiro is mentioned for their fantastic beaches (Ipanema!), mountains, outdoor sports, and flirting. Cape Town is praised for much of the same, in addition to diving and canyoneering. San Francisco makes the list for its bevy of parks, biking trials and water sports (wet suits required). A nod is given towards Sydney for its fine surfing, great beaches, and “beer-fueled karaoke.” Bringing up the rear is Barcelona. As much as I love this city, I was surprised to find it on the list. Included due to its “celebration of life outdoors,” the city boasts, in my opinion, some mediocre beaches, some mediocre bike trials and some amazing outdoor cafes and plazas in which to partake in the other wild activities for which the town is so well known.

Filed under: South Africa, Spain, United States, Australia, Brazil

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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 5)

Razib Ahmed Apr 23rd 2006 6:32PM

Well, I am surprised to find no Asian city in your discussion. If you are looking for shopping then Dubai, Hong Kong and Singapore are ideal. Looking for natural beauty then Kathmandu (Nepal's capital city), Want to have some contemplative mood then try Tibbet.

Jim Chapman Jun 25th 2006 8:18PM

Agreed. Gotta add Hong Kong to the list.

Eugenio Jun 25th 2006 8:20PM

And where is Miami??

William Jun 25th 2006 8:21PM

I've been to Rio - CopaCabana beach and Ipanema beach and while they may have a great reputation, I found they both suffer from one big problem. Raw sewage! Sewage output pipes are close to both beaches. The watermarks on the beach leave a brown outline and there is a really bad smell.

Ein McCumber Jun 25th 2006 8:24PM

You need to add Seoul, Republic of Korea and Saigon or if you want to call it Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. I've been to both and believe me; if you have the time and money; anything you want is available and don't forget Bangkok, Thailand. Men-carry lubcricated condums! Ron - Been there; done dat!

Ron McCumber Jun 25th 2006 8:29PM

confirming earlier comment. Ron

Joe Maddalena Jun 25th 2006 8:32PM

Having been to all the cities mentioned in the article I think Rio is the most wild, and wonderful especially around carnival time. I agree with your assesment of Barcelona, but the people and beautiful surroundings on the mediteranean ofset that as does it's 24 hour night life.

Sevin Jun 25th 2006 8:35PM

i too am surprised to find no Asian cities on the list. if you are looking for affordability and nightlife, then Bangkok and Manila are second to none. they would be my respective numbers 1 & 2 "Wildest Cities".

Leo Jun 25th 2006 8:37PM

Hong Kong? geograpically blessed, ok, but outdoor activities? while exhausting, power-walking with cellphone&briefcase isnt a sport.

S Usan Jun 25th 2006 8:41PM

I have been to Rio twice and what a city! Spectacular beaches, great shopping, fantastic food, nightlife, lovely people, places of beauty and of interest (read up on favelas and then be sure to tour one). The price was right too.

Gerald Jun 25th 2006 8:46PM

Fresno, CA is one of the wildest cities I have ever been to. Its wild and crazy, especially on Saturday nights. Definitely make it a stop on the way to LA

edward garr Jun 25th 2006 8:52PM

surely your travelers overlooked Amsterdam for blatant
fun, but for those with more subtle tastes my vote goes to Copenhagen!

Leo Jun 25th 2006 8:52PM

i've been to all the cities as well. yes, Rio is the wildest. it has the worlds largest urban jungle (the floresta de tijuca, which sits within the city), immense mountains to parasail from, and miles and miles of beautiful beaches, as easy to get to as just crossing the street. fulbol, fut-volley, volleyball everywhere, and a bike lane connecting all the beaches&bays, boating in the bay & around Rio's islands, rowing in the famous 'Lagoa' with view of Corcovado...and during carnaval add the samba parades, which take 'dancing in the street' to a whole new level. Rio has an almost perpetual summer, and lots and lots of bikinis to prove it. you never forget where you are!

GAYLE Jun 25th 2006 9:00PM

IF YOU ARE TALKING GREAT OUTDOORS YOU NEED TO INCLUDE BEIRUT, LEBANON. HAS LOTS OF NEW OR RENVADED PARKS AND HAS BEACHES ON THE MEDITERANEAN SEA. AND IS LESS THAN 15 MINS FROM THE BEAUTIFUL MOUTAINS OF LEBANON.

Challres Stroud Jun 25th 2006 9:08PM

I've found Amsterdam, Netherlands very fasinating. From the thrilling wind-surfing on the North-Sea (No sharks to worry-about) to the stimulating night-life in the city. Finest fresh-brewed beer, captivating women, and the best marijuana the Planet has to offer. Clearly should be in the Top 5.

Kevin Jun 25th 2006 9:08PM

hi...if its just about "outdoor" activities etc..mannn ever been to Vancouver, Canada?..wild...(has all types of weather) but the weather isnt the topic..just being..."outdoor"..mann gotta add Vancouver

Mary Lou Winkler Jun 25th 2006 9:11PM

ISTANBUL isn't one of the wildest cities, but it is the only one that is on two continents, Europe and Asia. The Bosphorus Straits and hills provide great scenery and a cheap ride on one of the ferry boats. As for shopping, the Grand Bazaar shouldn't be missed, but there are upscale malls as well. Brousing though the open markets is fun. Tour the palaces, Dolmabahce and Topkapi where the jewels are on display and the harem is open to all--no guards lurking around. If you have the stamina, beautiful mosques and old churches and museums are all over the place. The Black Sea and its beaches are 20 miles away. As for dining out, that is just what you can do at sidewalk cafes. Best of all are the Turks, most are very hospitable and friendly.