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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Travel
Julie Delahaye

10 places all cat lovers will want to add to their bucket lists immediately

If you're obsessed with all things cats, then we may have just created your ideal bucket list.

That's because there are heaps of brilliant and quirky spots around the world dedicated to all things feline - and we've searched out the best ones for you.

We're talking museums filled with artworks and artefacts paying tribute to cats, entire islands doubling up as sanctuaries for strays, and even some quirky cafés and attractions that are well worth leaving space for on the itinerary.

Oh, and there's even a cat-themed parade in there (no, really).

Check out our top 10 picks of places cat lovers will want to visit at least once in their lifetime below...

1. Aoshima Island, Japan

Japan's fourth largest island has earned the nickname 'Cat Island' thanks to the hundreds of felines who reside here. A few were first brought to the island to deal with rodents coming from the fishing boats, but their numbers quickly spread.

The cats are not tame so although they're not bothered when tourists pose for photos, the animals generally don't like to be stroked or picked up.

2. Mann Cat Sanctuary

Cats getting fed at a sanctuary (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Dubbed one of the UK's quirkiest attractions, this sanctuary in Santon on the Isle of Mann was founded in 1996 for unwanted, disabled and traumatised cats.

There are six acres of land where the animals can roam around freely - and visitors are able to come and have a stroll and meet the friendly residents too!

You can find out more on the Mann Cat Sanctuary website.

3. KattenKabinet, Amsterdam

The museum is pretty impressive (http://www.royan.com.ar)

Founded in 1990 by a wealthy Dutch man who wanted to preserve the memory of his cat Tom, this museum is filled with cat-inspired artwork, posters and statues, and heaps of real cats too. (In fact, you can take a sneak peek inside ).

Oh, and of course there's a gift shop where you can pick up heaps of cat-themed merchandise including bags, fridge magnets, stationery, cards and t-shirts.

Find out more on the official website.

4. Largo di Torre Argentina, Rome

This square's ancient Roman ruins have become home to heaps of stray cats, acting as a local sanctuary run by volunteers.

It's well worth a visit - and the spot actually boasts major historical credentials as it's the site where Julius Caesar was murdered. (In fact, it's set to re-open to the public once a series of restorations are completed).

5. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Florida

Literary and history fans flock to this property in Old Town Key West to learn all about Ernest Hemingway's life - but you can also use it as an opportunity to meet some cuddly cats!

That's because the property is home to approximately 50 cats - all of which have six toes!

In fact, Hemingway was given a white six-toed cat by a ship’s captain and some of the cats who live on the museum grounds are descendants of that original cat, named Snow White.

6. Japan's Cat Cafés

Japan is believed to have over 150 cat cafés across its towns and major cities. These cafés, called Neko cafés, are regular coffee shops where you can have a coffee and cake - but there are heaps of cats roaming freely around the property who you can cuddle or pet.

They tend to be located in large cities such as Tokyo or Kyoto, and often you'll need to book ahead as they tend to be very popular.

7. Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium, London


Japan isn't exactly an easy destination for Brits to reach, but if you're intrigued by the cat cafés then Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium needs to be on your list.

It follows the same format where guests can interact with cats as well as tucking into treats, although here you'll be treated to some Alice in Wonderland style tearooms.

8. The Greek island of Syros

This Greek island doubles up as a sanctuary for approximately 65 rescue cats who are looked after by locals. The cats themselves are also available for adoption, although in the meantime they have plenty of space to roam from the island's greenery to the picturesque beach.

Oh, and if you are tempted by the Greek Islands make sure to check out our guide with top tips on how to pick the right one for your holiday.

9. Ypres' cat-themed festival

The Belgian city hosts the annual 'Kattenstoet' celebration where locals and visitors don costumes, paint their faces, and celebrate all things feline - there's even a huge parade with large floats, dancers and plenty more surprises.

The festival takes place every year on the second Sunday of May.

In the Middle Ages the festival saw cats being thrown from the belfry tower to the town square - nowadays, the tradition is continued but toy cats are used instead of real animals!

10. Kuching, Malaysia

Dubbed Malaysia's 'Cat City', Kuching is filled with tributes to felines from impressive monuments and street art to feline-themed details in the architecture.

The city even has a dedicated museum where you'll find everything from mummified Egyptian cat remains to paintings and figurines.

It's not known exactly where Kuching's obsession with cats stems from, although there are various theories ranging from royal mistakes to cat-looking plants.

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