Quixoticguide
Hi, I’m Maarten Van Den Driessche, a curious human, aviation enthusiast, vexillophile, world traveler, and food lover with over 14,000 days of life experience.
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The Beauty of Randomness
Some of the best moments in life are the ones you never plan. A spontaneous conversation with a stranger. A last-minute trip. An unexpected detour that becomes the highlight of your journey. A message that simply says, “I fucking love the randomness.” Travel has taught me that randomness isn’t chaos—it’s opportunity. It’s saying yes to…
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Belgium’s National Day: More Than a Celebration
Every year on 21 July, Belgium celebrates its National Day—a moment that brings together history, tradition, and national pride. While Belgium declared its independence in 1830, the date commemorates 21 July 1831, when King Leopold I swore the constitutional oath and became the country’s first monarch. For one day, Belgium feels different. The streets of…
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Redefining Luxury: The Richness of a Simple Life
In a world where luxury is often measured by expensive homes, designer brands, and exclusive experiences, perhaps we’ve misunderstood what it truly means to live well. Real luxury isn’t always something you can buy. Sometimes, it’s something you simply notice. It’s the first cup of coffee in the morning while the world is still quiet.…
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Why Malta May Not Be the Best Destination for Pregnant Travelers
Malta is a beautiful Mediterranean destination known for its historic cities, crystal-clear waters, and sunny climate. However, if you are pregnant—or planning to become pregnant—it is worth considering one important aspect before booking your trip. Unlike many other European countries, Malta has historically maintained some of the most restrictive abortion laws in Europe. While the…
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The Best Views Come After the Hardest Climbs
There is a reason this saying has stood the test of time: the best views come after the hardest climbs. Whether you’re hiking a mountain trail, navigating a difficult chapter in life, or exploring a destination far from home, the greatest rewards rarely come without effort. Travel has taught me this lesson over and over…
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Japan Triples Departure Tax as Overtourism Grows
Travelling to Japan just became a little more expensive. As of 1 July 2026, Japan has increased its International Tourist Tax, commonly known as the departure tax, from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 per traveller. The fee applies to everyone leaving Japan, including foreign visitors and Japanese citizens, and is typically included in the price of airline…
Where Curiosity Leads
Travel is more than ticking countries off a map. It’s about discovering the stories behind places, understanding the people who call them home, and seeing the world through new perspectives.
Quixotic Guide is a collection of destinations, cultures, history, aviation, food, and ideas, created for curious travellers who want to go beyond the guidebook. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply exploring from home, every article is designed to help you understand the world a little better.
Explore Beyond the Tourist Trail
- 🌍 Discover fascinating destinations
- 🏛️ Understand history and cultures
- 🍽️ Explore national dishes and traditions
- ✈️ Travel smarter with practical guides
- 💡 Gain context behind the headlines
- 📖 See the world through curiosity
“The more you understand a place, the more meaningful your journey becomes.”
My Travel guides
- Not instructions, but orientation.
- These guides explain how places work — so you don’t just visit, you arrive.
“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” –
Ibn Battuta
Maghrebi traveller