my favourite place names

The unique O-ending makes this name memorable, especially for someone with ties to Texas.

Alexandria turns Alexandra into a more distinctive place-name, in both Egypt and Virginia.

Equally strong, dramatic and romantic, this name of an old kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula and a modern Spanish community as well, would give a boy an instant pedigree.

This Mediterranean island name would be a plausible choice for parents with a Greek or Turkish heritage.

In the US, London is popular for both sexes, though as the name rises for girls, it's levelled off for boys. Of course, London is far less popular in the UK and other English-speaking countries.

The first famous Paris was a mythological prince of incredible beauty. The most recent was media darling Paris Hilton, inspirer of a generation of baby-girl namesakes. But since Pierce Brosnan and other celebs have continued to use it for their sons, the name retains some masculine identity. For girls, it jumped from #464 to #412 in the past year alone.

There are two lovely Portlands, in Maine and Oregon, but not many babies with their name.

An interesting Canadian province and city name that has some literary history as the name of a character in Dickens's Bleak House; could make a distinctive choice for parents with northern roots.

Has a lively and swaggering sound, and also some unfortunate associations with Reno, city of gambling and failed marriages.

The Sydney spelling most popular for girls: it's in the Top 50 on the female side. Cool for a girl, still nerdy for a guy.