Best Travel Locations which Haven’t Become Overrated
I’m sure that I’m not the only person who notices that when people go on #vacay, they always seem to be in the same locations. For example, Paris, London, Cabo, Vegas… you get the idea. Although I am not “shaming” anyone’s travel destination choice, a lot of these tourism driven locations are overpriced and the streets are often found to be filled due to their mass tourism. With that being said, here is a list of some destinations that I’ve found aren’t as overrated, while still having phenomenal views and not breaking the bank (completely).
EUROPE
Croatia
Personally, I had not heard much (if anything) about Croatia prior to me just trying to map out a trip through Europe. I did a quick search, and the pictures had me hooked. This country is soothing with a lot of untouched nature and natural beauty. Not to mention, the streets are not very busy and the public transportation is very easy to maneuver. Additionally, everything was fairly affordable with most meals out being around $6.
Iceland
This country is really stepping up their tourism game. With the new emergence of airlines promoting tickets as low as $100 to Reykjavik and the countries new emphasis on their tourism industry, it becomes a location that begins to turn heads. Once in Iceland, it can be a little pricey, but if you are careful about your accommodations and food, it can be within a manageable budget. Not to mention, it is absolutely remarkable. It is not heavily trafficked by people yet, so the country is open, very clean, quiet, and has so many sights to see! I would recommend going sooner rather than later, as it is still very clean with little regulation on most things such as parking, hiking, et cetera.
Portugal
Castles, festivals, and great pastries. Portugal has so many amazing castles and picturesque architecture. Meals aren’t too expensive, and you can find something to do down most streets. You can find many accommodations that give you the ability to walk to most sights and even the water. The beaches are great for the day, and the night life is thriving. There is also great city life if you are looking to do some shopping or want a change of pace from the backpacking for a little bit.
Slovenia
Such a stunning stop for any traveler! Upon arrival, the train allows you to marvel at the view of Lake Bled and the surrounding mountains. Superb nature, cheap prices, and easy to get to. It can be a quick stop if you are backpacking through, but also can be extended if you want to get some good hikes in. Again, not too many tourists around either, which is a bit relaxing.
ASIA
Philippines
Although busy, the Philippines is another country with plenty of phenomenal food and some of the most beautiful nature that I have ever personally seen. The streets have this feeling of hustle and bustle, but in the best way possible. Manila/ San Juan is the best if you are looking to do some shopping (looking at you, Green Hills), but if you take a trip out to the islands, that’s where the magic happens! There are countless waterfalls, jumping pools, and diving/snorkel spots with incredibly clear water. The fauna is thriving and the animals that you encounter can easily become engraved in your memories. Not to mention, everything after the plane ticket is completely affordable! You can budget on around $10 a day if you plan accordingly.
Singapore
Probably the cleanest country that I have visited, Singapore has plenty to do and is not consumed by crowds yet. It is noticeably a great place for families since there are beaches, amusement parks, and one of the largest aquariums in the world. At night, there is a big club culture; it is especially nice for women since there are ladies’ nights with free entrance and drink tickets. The city seems to be constantly growing, with some great places for views such as Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands. Not to mention, public transportation runs often and is very accessible.
AFRICA
Madagascar
This country is on the more expensive side for traveling, but this is one place that should not be missed. Places such as the Avenue of the Baobabs and Ranomafana National Park are breath-taking. The nature in Madagascar is something that you wouldn’t want to miss on, since it allows you the chance to observe animals and get plenty of hiking in. If done correctly, you can get away with budgeting around $25 a day (this is averaged after including accommodations, food, flights, tours, and other expenses). It also is not too busy for a destination yet, so get out there while you can!
Morocco
Probably the most Insta-worthy place I have traveled yet, Morocco is full of things to do, with access to transportation, great food, and an intriguing culture that you want to find yourself wanting to be a part of. Colorful tiles seem to run rampant throughout the country. Then, take a little step outside of the cities, and you can quickly become surrounded by desert and hillsides. This country is the inspiration for many interior designers and chefs, but also is picture-perfect in so many ways.
SOUTH AMERICA
Argentina
Mostly known for the food and futbol, Argentina is a wonderful option for traveling. I have yet to see my feeds flooded with pictures of Iguazu Falls. Argentina is full of beautiful trails and views, such as the Fitz Roy range, Las Lenas, Bariloche, and much, much more. The architecture here is unique, and the history of the country is interesting due to the fact that it was originally settled by several different groups, then there was the rise of the Incan empire, and the eventual war for independence from the Spanish. It is great to be enveloped in a country that is willing to share their history and allows you to enjoy their love of culture.
Colombia
This country is starting to get onto people’s radars due to the show Narcos, but there is so much more to be represented in Colombia. There are many different parts of the country that make this another perfect destination. There are beaches, old towns, old towns with beaches, rain forest, coffee regions, cities, and plenty of natural foliage that will leave you entranced. Not to mention, it is incredibly affordable after you purchase your flight! The marriage of a colonial setting and nature makes for a beautiful country with lots to be explored. The country is rich in history and culture, with people willing to share their stories if you inquire. Hiking is easy and getting around is never an issue. There is a little bit for everyone who is looking to escape.
Peru
Peru is another country where the biggest draws are food and nature (if you noticed the pattern). There are not too many visitors here yet, so seeing the sights and adventuring throughout the towns is quite easy. Buses are easy to catch in order to get around, meals cost around $2 at most places, and you can find accommodations easily under $10. Machu Picchu is the biggest attraction in Peru, and the Inca Trail is closing in 2020! So I would get a move on, if you are looking to hike up. Also, the roaming alpacas and guinea pigs are an added bonus while visiting here.
OCEANIA
New Zealand
Home to the Lord of the Rings, New Zealand is stunning when it comes to the views! The entire south island is basically a backpacker’s dream, as it has the Alps, endless trails, lakes, and plenty of activities (kayaking, skiing, etc). The national parks are free, unless you use their resources or stay to camp overnight. The North Island holds the cities if you are looking to see more sights, and also has the Hobbiton set where you can visit for the day! There, of course, is also more nature and parks to visit in the North. The most expensive part of traveling here, is the plane ticket, but once there, it is fairly reasonable.
NORTH AMERICA
I felt for North America, it is better to just break it into states/provinces, as they are more distinct.
Alaska, US
Alaska is one of the states that many people do not pay too much attention to, but should. This is a state that provides a lot of peace and quiet. There is immense wildlife and the national parks are unheard of! It is safe to travel to independently, and you can easily take things day by day here. It is great for fishing, biking, hiking, and camping. Also a great place to test your photography skills.
Alberta, Canada
Canada is all around, a beautiful and welcoming country. Alberta, the home of Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, is dazzling in every way. There are several dazzling lakes, making it easy to lose track of time while visiting. The other plus to this destination, is the ease of accessibility to the city as well. There are many options for accommodations and food, and you don’t necessarily have to “rough it” in order to enjoy the nature here.
Cuba
The history and culture in Cuba is something so rich and rare to find. The country is a little outdated in more ways than one, however that is the true benefit of this country. Instead of people being glued to their phones, you see them dancing and talking to one another. This is one of the best places to detach and just live. Everyone is pleasant to speak with on streets, it is very easy to find cheap, but amazing, food. It is additionally easy to find transportation and a good spot to tan on the beach. The people, music, and food here are something that cannot be replicated.
Montana, US
AKA “Big Sky Country,” this state is a marvel. This is largely to thank for the immense national park of Glacier National Park and containing some of the Rocky Mountains. Montana is affordable, and easy to get around. However, the biggest highlight here, again, is nature! The lakes are such a bright blue, while the plant life covers the mountains in various hues of green. I feel like this is a great option for a trip if you aren’t looking to travel outside of the states, or are looking for a few days to get away.
Do you have more to add to the list? Leave them in the comments below!
