In a world where travel often transcends the mere act of moving from one place to another, thematic journeys offer a unique lens through which to explore and discover. Among these, color-themed travel presents an intriguing concept, allowing travelers to experience destinations through the vibrant hues that paint our world. Today, we embark on a journey inspired by the most passionate and influential of all colors: red.
The Fiery Lava of Kilauea, Hawaii
Our journey begins with nature's own masterpiece of red—the molten lava flows of Kilauea on the Big Island of Hawaii. Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, offers a mesmerizing display of red-hot lava as it meets the calm ocean, sending up clouds of steam and adding new land to the island's shores. Witnessing the Earth's creation in real-time is a humbling experience, reminding us of nature's power and beauty.
Red appears prominently in traditional Hawaiian hula and chants (oli), where it symbolizes various elements, including passion, fire, and the volcanic deity Pele. In hula, dancers often wear red to invoke certain emotions or stories related to these themes, reflecting the deep connection between the color, the land, and its people.
The Red Sands of Wadi Rum, Jordan
Our second stop takes us to the Middle East, to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon. Here, the vast, unending desert rolls into the horizon, its sands glowing a profound, mesmerizing red under the sun's fierce gaze. This Martian landscape has not only served as the backdrop for countless films and offers an unparalleled adventure for those seeking to explore its mysteries. From rock climbing the towering sandstone mountains to camping under a canopy of stars, Wadi Rum embodies the spirit of red in its most natural and untamed form.
The otherworldly scenery of Wadi Rum has made it a popular location for filming movies set on Mars and other planets, such as "The Martian" and "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story." This association with distant, alien landscapes further highlights the unique and captivating nature of the red desert. Additionally, Wadi Rum's majestic landscapes have inspired writers and poets, most notably T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, who based part of his writings on his experiences in the Arabian desert during World War I.
The Vermilion Gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, Japan
Next, we journey to Kyoto, Japan, where the Fushimi Inari Shrine awaits. Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which trail into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari, this site captures the essence of red in a profoundly spiritual context. The color, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune, guides visitors along the paths that meander through the shrine's grounds. Each gate, donated by individuals or businesses praying for success, tells a story of hope and belief, creating a vivid tapestry of life's aspirations.
The color signifies the sacred and divine nature of the space. In Shinto, certain colors are used to denote the presence of the kami (gods or spirits), and vermilion marks the boundary between the physical and spiritual worlds. As visitors walk through the torii gate pathways, they enter a space that is closer to the kami.
The Crimson Cliffs of Moab, Utah
Across the globe, in the heart of the American Southwest, the red rock landscapes of Moab, Utah, offer a different shade of adventure. The region's towering cliffs, arches, and canyons, sculpted over millennia by the forces of nature, glow a fiery red at dawn and dusk. Moab is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from hiking and biking to river rafting and rock climbing. The crimson landscapes serve as a playground for adventure and a profound reminder of the Earth's history and natural beauty.
The red color in Moab's landscape is due to the presence of iron oxide in the sandstone. This natural rusting process gives the rocks their distinctive red and orange shades, creating a visually striking contrast against the blue skies and green vegetation. The geological formations, including arches, canyons, and mesas, are millennia in the making, shaped by erosive forces of water and wind.
The Celebration of La Tomatina, Spain
For our next destination, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant red of La Tomatina, the world's most giant tomato fight, held annually in Buñol, Spain. For one day in August, the streets of Buñol turn red with ripe tomatoes as thousands of participants from around the globe gather for this unique festival. What began as a local feud in 1945 has transformed into a celebration of joy, unity, and the simple pleasure of throwing tomatoes. La Tomatina is a testament to the power of color to bring people together, creating unforgettable memories amidst a sea of red.
At the heart of La Tomatina is the color red, symbolized by the ripe tomatoes that paint the town square and the participants. This sea of red has become an iconic image of the festival, representing vitality, energy, and the exuberance of letting go. The tomatoes used are usually overripe and soft, minimizing injury and ensuring the event remains fun and safe for everyone involved.
The Historic Red Walls of Marrakech, Morocco
Next, we explore the ancient Marrakech, Morocco, known as the "Red City" for its famous red sandstone walls. Built-in the 12th century, the walls today still embrace the city, casting a warm, red glow as the sun sets. Inside, the vibrant souks, historic palaces, and lush gardens offer a sensory journey into Moroccan culture, where red symbolizes strength and protection.
The walls' distinctive red hue comes from the local red clay and chalk, giving Marrakech its nickname. This color reflects the city's connection to the earth and its natural environment, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, especially at sunset when the walls glow warmly under the fading light.
The Poppies of Castelluccio, Italy
Each year, the plains of Castelluccio in Umbria, Italy, are set ablaze with the red of blooming poppies. This natural spectacle occurs in late spring and early summer, transforming the landscape into a vivid tapestry of red, interspersed with the yellows and blues of other wildflowers. The sight of these rolling hills painted in red is not only a feast for the eyes but a serene escape into nature's embrace.
One interesting fact about the color red and poppies is their significant association with remembrance and the memory of soldiers who have died in war. This symbolism is largely attributed to the red poppy flowers that grew over the battlefields of Flanders during World War I, immortalized by the poignant poem "In Flanders Fields" by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae. The vivid red of the poppy came to symbolize the blood shed by soldiers, serving as a powerful visual reminder of the sacrifices made in war.
The Red Beach of Panjin, China
In a shift from the usual sandy shores, the Red Beach in Panjin, China, offers a unique ecological marvel. The beach gets its name from the Suaeda salsa plant, which turns a bright red in autumn. This coastal wetland is a stunning visual experience and an essential habitat for migratory birds and wildlife, showcasing the delicate balance between natural beauty and biodiversity.
What's fascinating is that this seaweed starts growing during April and May, remains green during the summer, and then turns a vivid red in autumn. This natural phenomenon creates a stunning and surreal landscape, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The Red Square of Moscow, Russia
No exploration of red would be complete without a visit to Moscow's iconic Red Square. Framed by the historic walls of the Kremlin, the vibrant domes of St. Basil's Cathedral, and the solemn beauty of the Lenin Mausoleum, Red Square is a testament to Russia's tumultuous and colorful past. The square has been the heart of Russian political life for centuries, witnessing coronations, parades, and protests. Its name, which in Russian can mean both "red" and "beautiful," perfectly encapsulates the allure and significance of this historic site.
An interesting fact about the Red Square is that its name does not originate from the color of the surrounding bricks or its association with communism. In Russian, the square's name, "Krasnaya Ploshchad", originally meant "Beautiful Square." The word "krasnaya" can mean both "red" and "beautiful," but in the context of the square's name, it referred to the beauty of the area.
Travel by color, especially by the dynamic and intense hue of red, offers a unique perspective on the world's beauty, culture, and adventure. From the natural wonders of deserts and cliffs to the cultural landmarks and festivities that celebrate life, red travels deep into the heart of our shared human experience. So, the next time you plan a journey, consider letting color guide your way. Who knows what vibrant adventures await?
