It’s hard to resist the allure of a world-famous travel destination. The Eiffel Tower, Machu Picchu, and the Taj Mahal are iconic for a reason, but the globe is filled with less celebrated places with just as much charm. While it’s the most famous and iconic cities and countries that always make the lists, these destinations offer so much more than photo ops. As a growing number of travelers seek out more meaningful and authentic experiences away from crowds, it’s time to start celebrating destinations that are all about local life, culture, and history.
Let’s start by exploring the rich tapestries of traditional and contemporary cultures waiting to be explored in Sarawak, Kota Bharu, Samoa, India’s northern region, Laos, and Tröllaskagi in the north of Iceland. It’s a well-worn adage that the most magical places are small dots on the map that you’ve never heard of, but we stand by it. And while the travelers of yesteryear might have had to accept a hostel in some charmless one-horse town as a base to explore the mysteries of Who-Knows-Where, today’s world offers up unique travel destinations in all manner of settings. In each entry here we offer the best places to visit for their cultural richness, historical clout, natural beauty, or all three. Each of these places is worth adding to your bucket list, and visiting before they become the next big thing.
Factors Contributing to a Destination Being Underrated
Not all destinations are equal in the eyes of tourists and travelers. There are destinations that are great but underestimated. Most of the time, it is due to a combination of reasons, and that is what we are going to talk about today. First of all, there are a few places that are so unknown because they are either newly discovered or otherwise kept secret. There are places that people open up to tourism but lack the resources to advertise or market the destination on a global scale. Then there are places that are just dangerous to show to the international world. Political instability can be a reason why a country has remained “undiscovered” in the tourism world. That should not stop us from exploring these places once they are safe. Geographical isolation is also a reason why a destination can remain unknown and untraveled. Then there is also the fact of “cultural ignorance” – when people believe the stereotypes and then choose more “well-traveled” destinations. There are many reasons why some destinations become too commercial and parts of tourist attractions. Mass tourism might mean that the infrastructure of the destination has simply chosen not to cater to a more exclusive, high-end market. Social media influence is important to consider in this day and age. Often what is “Instagram famous” is not what is best for an authentic, intimate experience. Economic reasons such as accessibility and affordability are also important. So, why travel off the beaten path? Traveling to lesser-known parts of the world has several benefits – not only for you as a traveler but also for the location you visit. Support local economies, preserve these untouched destinations, and contribute to fairer, more sustainable tourism.
Europe
Those who want to break off from the typical tourist circuits to trace an utterly unique journey often seek lesser-visited countries and regions of the world. While Europe as a whole does attract countless visitors, several countries and regions within the continent remain blissfully unexplored by most. This segment of the essay introduces two such countries, Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Both countries offer culture, history, traditions, and breathtaking views, and yet rarely find their way into tourists’ itineraries. Tucked between Greece and Montenegro along the Adriatic coast, Albania is the very definition of a hidden gem. Visitors are often astounded to find the Balkan country home to lush plateaus, cold alpine uplands, and comfortable Mediterranean climes. Conversely, Bosnia and Herzegovina is landlocked and shares terrain and climate characteristics of its interior Balkan location. Nevertheless, it is not for landscapes but for its complex cultural history meld of Byzantine and Ottoman empires that it suggests itself as an equally alluring hidden destination. Roughly the size of Maryland and located in the southeastern part of Europe, acting as the cradle of ancient civilization, Albania’s history reaches back to 1,000 years before Christ. Only separated by Croatia, a well-visited European country, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains often overlooked by those touring Eastern Europe. During the 1990s, the country faced a gruesome civil war, and yet it is hard to find any contemporary evidence of it when visiting today. Both countries have seen centuries of alternating foreign control, leaving behind ancient ruins, castles, and a mix of religious sites. A smattering of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and outdoor activities complete opportunities for exploration.
Albania
Beauty and heritage meet in Albania, but the country has always slid under the travel radar. You won’t find fellow vacationers in hordes or snaking lines. Even so, the landscapes are postcard-ready, whether it is the turquoise beaches up north, delicate mosaics of the Roman past near the capital, or the dense Mediterranean forests in the south. Lakes and rivers bubble here. Snow-capped mountains there. But the highlights are the rolling hills, where the country is said to end and the sea begins, and zigzag paths take you on a roller coaster ride between two worlds. You can also hobnob with the crowd in the everyday tourist haunts of the charming capital Tirana, with its cafes and nightlife, and Gjirokastër, a town that will beguile you with its Ottoman architecture and lofty castle.
First, the beaches in the north haven’t let the secret out yet. The Valbonë to Thethi and Tethi to Valbonë trail is the way for a serene experience. Why would you want to continue to pound vertiginous bell towers in the crowded trails of Italy when you can set foot on pages written by Byron? And then there’s the lure of accessibility – Albania hasn’t got any treasure trains. Athens, Italy, even Croatia get a flood of excited tour groups in the summer months. We’re not saying be selfish. But you won’t find huddled-up queues at the top spots of this rare jewel. You won’t have to share poolside at the pristine hotels along the Albanian Riviera with beach beds full of semi-clothed strangers, because there aren’t any. Instead, there are miles of wild, deserted beaches. Plus, crimson sunsets that will lead you step-by-step into a state of aerial wonders like never before. And finally, because tourism is just a fledgling baby here, places to see are more interesting and authentic. The capital of Tirana lets you delve into her hip ways with pink Communist museums, funky contemporary art galleries, and street art. It’s a good mix of somber and fun, although watch out for the traffic. The people are, in a word, hospitable. And the food is to just… stop. You’ll pig out on influences from the Mediterranean and the Middle East and say ‘enough already’ to the freshest seafood at least five times a day. The capital’s nightlife is also worth staying up all night for. Over 60 percent of the people speak English, which makes chatting up under a steaming mug of Turkish coffee easy. And Gjirokastër, with its Ottoman citadel soaring above, rocking nightclubs below, and craggy mountain range surrounding? Where lepers once used to live? Don’t get us started…
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Part of the Balkan Peninsula, Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most enchanting countries. There are many layers of history and culture to explore here in both urban and rural settings. The best place to begin your journey is in Sarajevo, the country’s capital. The biggest charm of Sarajevo is that it’s a cultural melting pot, with both Oriental and Western influences. This accomplishment can be seen in the local architecture, market commerce traditions, and things to see around the town. Many famous buildings are lit up at night to make it an unforgettable experience. On a quiet weekend, don’t forget to wander around the old town of Baščaršija as well as sniffing around the cobbled roads. If you’re more into being at one with nature, the country has much to offer. The national parks throughout the country in the mountains are clearly scenic. This is where outdoor enthusiasts start ticking off the list of must-visits. Mostar is a town that’s perfect for a day full of sightseeing. Apart from stopping by the famous bridge, those on the lookout for local cuisine wouldn’t want to leave this friendly little town without trying some Bosnian coffee. In more remote rural areas, there are many determined and unwavering aspects of culture and tradition that have made much of Bosnia and Herzegovina inaccessible for years. The locals are very skilled in the art of craftwork, including embroidery, carpet weaving, tailoring, jewelry, calligraphy, wood carving, painting, photography, shaping metal, and more.
Asia
Asia is a popular destination for travelers from around the world, with sights such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia and the Taj Mahal in India. These spots are nearly always bustling with tourists, meaning longer lines, photo bombings, and a lot of effort just to find the perfect spot to take a great photo! However, just adjacent to these tourist hubs, beyond the standard travel itineraries, nestled on the side roads of the travel world, there are still some really stunningly beautiful, relatively un-touristed spots in Asia that offer experiences that are both cultural and immersive. Two particular Asian destinations – Kyrgyzstan and Laos – are hidden travel gems that belong on this travel bucket list.
Kyrgyzstan is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The country’s mountainous terrains cater to adrenaline junkies, from mountaineers to paragliders and UNESCO reserve nature sanctuaries for brown bears to skiers. A trekker’s dream, some stunning altitudes over 4,000 meters offer some of the world’s best views – all for a fraction of the price (and effort) it would take to reach them in more crowded parts of the region in neighboring countries. Then there is laid-back Laos, with its serene landscapes reflecting the country’s landlocked status. The Mekong River is the heart of the country and its markets, and it is home to the elusive Irrawaddy River fish and Mekong dolphin (nearly extinct due to fishing practices during wartime). A sky-high peak to the north – Phu Bia, Laos’ highest peak – signals the country’s mountainous borders with Vietnam, China, Myanmar, and Thailand. The fact is, many tourists often come back from a trip to Laos and talk about how different it is from the rest of Southeast Asia, and that’s most often why travelers choose the country. In Luang Prabang, in the country’s north, rows of serene Buddhist monks make daily alms at dawn, as they have for hundreds of years, and the town’s entire population of tourists gets up early to watch this historic tradition. But truly, the most worthwhile experience in Laos is to go off the grid, or as off-grid as buses and long boats (or jet boats) will take you, amidst the wide open rice paddies, landlocked by jungles. If you want to really appreciate the beauty and diversity of Laos, head to Phonsavan and the enigmatic Plain of Jars. Not a travel advisory, of course, but categories like these are ones that could put Laos on your travel bucket list if you have never been. From caves with indigenous art to elephants summering at a wandering elephant hospital in the north to the Irrawaddy, this big brown river whose mangroves spread out for plenty of sightseeing.
Kyrgyzstan
It’s often referred to as “the Switzerland of Central Asia.” Kyrgyzstan is cold in the winter but offers a pleasant climate during the summer months from May to August. The mountains here are sharp and snow-topped year-round; the traditional way of life is still dictated by the seasons. Kyrgyzstan is the perfect destination for trekkers, horseback riders, campers, and ski holidaymakers. The country is small, and travelers can easily experience the high-altitude ‘jailoos.’ A night in a yurt can also include a tour of the city of Osh or Supara. This will be worth a visit for anyone who desires to step back in time on the Great Silk Road in archeology-rich regions.
Kyrgyzstan offers modern cafes and nightclubs in the capital of Bishkek. Traditional lifestyles and activities that can be enjoyed in Central Asia have been preserved in Kyrgyzstan. Their folklore is impressive, with traditional nomadic music laced with undertones of throat singing. The country is also home to some unique animals and offers the chance to see the endangered snow leopard. The sheer number of sheep in Kyrgyzstan often stops traffic on smaller roads, with shepherds making them pass right across the roads. Kyrgyzstan is so off the beaten track that access to great outdoor locations is relatively unhindered, with the few other travelers being catered to in specific spots. Some of the highlights to visit would be Ala Archa National Park and the mountain lake of Song-Kol.
Laos
For a long time, the fact that Laos was landlocked on all sides by more popular tourism hotspots consigned the beautiful, mountainous country to relative anonymity. Trek around the untouched, ancient stupa of the country’s capital, Vientiane, visit Wat Phu, impressive ruins of a Khmer temple that predates the kingdom of Angkor in Cambodia, and round off your whirlwind tour of Laos’s natural gems with a trip up the Mekong River. Don’t miss Luang Prabang, the country’s relaxed and historical gem, home to many ancient temples and a large tribal market. The town has kept a lot of its colonial charm: you can still see a handful of well-maintained, old European buildings and even palaces in the classical style.
Not many travelers choose Laos as their next stop. In a way, this can be looked at as a good thing: Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng are untouched by mass tourism. Kicking back and doing virtually nothing isn’t just one of the top things to do in Luang Prabang – one of the most-loved towns in Southeast Asia – it pretty much defines the Laos experience. That’s not to say there’s nothing happening in Luang Prabang, but if you do nothing else there, chill out down by the river in a riverside bar or café. At the end of the day, watch the sun take its pretty leave by sipping a Beer Lao and dine by candlelight at any given restaurant. Magic. A dish of slow-cooked buffalo or fish laap clocks in at a mere US$5 or so. Ministops are similar to the mini-marts, but with more of a focus on food and drinks—think of them as an alternative to a sit-down restaurant. While they’re still convenient, the cost of your snacks, water, and other supplies can add up. Consider these minor expenses when creating your budget.
Africa
Africa holds some of the most pristine natural destinations on the planet. When thinking of Africa, most people might think of countries such as Kenya or South Africa, where you will find game reserves such as Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and Kruger National Park, which are heavily visited by touristic crowds. There are, however, destinations throughout Africa, especially in the less well-known countries, which offer amazing scenery and safari opportunities. Furthermore, some of these countries have rich cultures that are not as “touristy” as the ones you might find in some destinations.
Africa, probably due to its vastness and contrasts, offers a great number of under-explored travel destinations. It is very important to remember that the sustainability of areas such as Madagascar, if managed properly and with care, can be enjoyed by ecotourism enthusiasts as well as locals. Their unique rainforests, succulents, long coastlines, and spiny forests are all homes to unique, endemic flora and fauna. Whether the traveler chases the feeling of diving through a thick forest canopy, catching a glimpse of some of the world’s most valuable ecosystems, enjoying stunning baobab alley sunsets, diving in crystal-clear waters, or being privileged to see rare birdlife, tourists are in for a one-time wildlife overload.
Namibia has proven to be worth it to the “brave traveler” who shifts away from the already well-trodden paths of African explorers to revisit once well-known places that have quieted down substantially by now. If we continue to travel to destinations not geared for an excess of mass tourism and do not encourage inter-country infrastructure development as well as infrastructure and wildlife degradation, we may just be able to ensure that others can also see the desert-adapted elephants roam and the indigenous Himba go about their traditions almost untouched, in the open Kunene Kaokoland air, about as near to the wild as our ancestors would have dared centuries before us. Traveling to these hidden gems can make your trip the journey of a lifetime and contribute to the sustainability of these landscapes long into the future, allowing future generations to also catch a glimpse of these unique advantages.
Madagascar
When it comes to unique travel destinations, Madagascar is crowned the fourth main island in the world and one of the few hotspots in the West Indian Ocean. It has vast biodiversity and a unique cultural heritage that draws visitors eager to uncover the hidden gems of the world abroad. Of course, tourists who choose to visit the land where 90% of the species are found nowhere else on the planet are mostly nature lovers and hikers. There are also special attractions for adventure, and the population welcomes visitors as well. The impressive Avenue of the Baobabs and the surreal landscape of Tsingy de Bemaraha are Madagascar landmarks on most itineraries, striking examples of Mother Nature’s poetic license.
Madagascar is the Big Blue: System of Marine Protected Areas, which covers 5.4% of Madagascar’s total seas and also places it on the map of Marine Protected Areas. Tourists, particularly eco-tourists and bird-watchers, now recognize Madagascar as not only a destination but also as a place of discovery. Spend more time getting to know the typical Malagasy, who are always ready to welcome visitors and whose customs and traditions have been passed down from one generation to the next. Some Malagasy are working to build a brighter future for their children. Aid local communities by donating or purchasing homemade handicrafts. Connect with nature and locals while hiking along the New Trail that links regional parks. The hike ranges from 5 to 12 kilometers and lasts between 2 and 4 hours.
Namibia
Sitting on the southwestern coast of Africa, Namibia has not been a major tourist destination yet. The most popular destination in the country is Etosha National Park, where you can go on a safari and see a mixture of diverse species of wildlife, including rhinos, elephants, lions, and leopards. The best choice of accommodation in the park would be one of the luxury camps or lodges, where you can get the full experience of the African delicacies and elegant living. In addition to that, the unique landscape of Namibia, particularly the desert scenery, is highly appealing. The town of Swakopmund offers a gateway to the West Coast and the tastes of Germany. Apart from natural and scenic wonders such as the Etosha salt pans and Iron Age rock art gallery, there are adventurous activities like skydiving, quad biking, and hot-air ballooning for the sport and photography enthusiasts. Namibia is also one of the most eco-friendly countries in the world that supports and promotes sustainable tourism practices. A visit to the Himba or San communities is very rewarding, and keen cultural enthusiasts will undoubtedly take a part of this heartwarming experience home with them. It is, however, important to be respectful and follow the environmental guidelines set by the government when visiting these tribal communities.
Oceania
Oceania is a diverse and beautiful region in the Pacific. Countries here range from the wild and untamed continent-size Australia and its islands packed with cities to the small and closely-knit communities dotted around the ocean, to the high mountainous landscapes fashioned by the melting of volcanic fire and glaciers. The South Pacific is a destination marked by a deep connection to the natural world: ocean customs, nature gods, and sustainability as a way of life. Tonga Sunset Mobile Bay. Beaches, tropical fish, coconut palms, white sands: if this sounds like a day at the beach in paradise, that’s the idea. As the hour hand ticks past each beach for the obscure islands of Oceania, smaller and lesser-known islands emerge where the beaches and undersea backdrop are still as sketched by nature. Welcome to the Kingdom of Tonga with its many encounters of ‘the real Pacific’. Tonga is an archipelago composed of many islands and about as many riches in natural beauty. Since the early days of island civilization, the Tongan people have noticed that one or two islands stand above all others as centers for communal activity and direct connection with the divine and the natural worlds. These royal centers and their surroundings reveal the lived traditions and activities of the islands, and that which makes Tonga beautiful. We do not cater for mass, package, volume, or chain visitors, but rather for forward-looking travelers and explorers. The fortunate few who will visit us will be welcomed and treated with value and respect. In this way, we hope they will learn and appreciate the beauty of Tonga and her people, and take these examples home with them. Swimming with whales and trekking for a week into remote villages and authentic encounters are our unique and special propositions. We also see Tonga, as a people, and as an island group as a role model for the East-West encounter. Respectful common ground has been found here and something special evolved which is at once truly Tongan and yet something which the world can learn from. A note on Oceania: the Pacific island countries are sensitive to their environment and responsible travel is acutely important, with a reef ecosystem ranging from healthy to irreplaceably lost. Sustainable fisheries, energy, international aid, and tourism are the credos of the day in the South Pacific. Political realms in the Pacific range from domestic republics and monarchies to colonial-controlled entities still seeking independence.
Tonga
Tonga is an idyllic island chain encompassing everything you picture when you think of a South Pacific paradise: green, mountainous islands, deserted beaches, and a brilliant blue ocean under sunny skies. This reef and rainforest destination showcases everything from world-famous South Pacific whale watching to hidden waterfalls. Welcome to the “Friendly Islands.” Tonga is known the world over for its pristinely protected ocean environments. There are plenty of opportunities to spend time pondering the beauty of locally designed and created crafts, the beauty of the Tongan way of life manifested in traditional Tongan cuisine, the excitement and romance of the ancient art of the Tongan tau’olunga, or the power and sheer magnificence of the Ma’ulu’ulu, the Tongan me’etu’upaki. All are expressions of the glory of traditional Tongan royalty.
Ecological conservation is very important in the Kingdom of Tonga. Much of the country is privately owned, in traditional landholding systems, which often extend into the water surrounding the island too. Visitor numbers are increasing annually, and while tourism is a way forward, it will only be so if it is managed responsibly. Tourism in the Kingdom comprises eco-tourism, adventure, and cultural experience. Affordable, quality rooms in all categories are available throughout the Kingdom. There are many beautiful eco-resorts with a range of back-to-nature accommodation usually located on quiet and wonderfully natural beaches or islands, often operated by local families. In more populated areas, resorts with all the modern facilities are also encountered.
Americas
It seems like very few people really take the time to explore the rich tapestry of cultures and geographies that make up the Americas. Apart from the usual suspects like the United States and Brazil, the continents of North and South America are an explorer’s paradise that has sadly flown under the radar of most tourists. In no place is this truer than in the small, sleepy country of Uruguay. Home to a beautiful, uncrowded coast, charming little beach towns, and an array of hilly inlands and urban beaches, Uruguay is the perfect slow-travel destination – one of those places you go if you really want to connect and engage with local culture, as opposed to an affordably lazy spot of sunbathing. Its inland, however, from the vineyard-heavy, French-inspired western city of Colonia all the way out to the lively, European-inspired modern capital city of Montevideo, this place takes the cake in terms of random yet thoroughly mind-blowing vacation destinations.
Uruguay
Nestled between Brazil and Argentina in South America, Uruguay boasts many reasons that make it an underrated travel destination. Independent since 1828, it is South America’s relatively ‘boring’ corner due to its standard of living and the kindness of its people, giving it political stability and security unlike any other country on the continent. From the capital, Montevideo, and its impressive street art at the Port market to the Portuguese-influenced atmospheric town of Colonia del Sacramento, the gateway to the country, Uruguay is both quaint and cosmopolitan. Head to the beach in Punta del Este if the sprawling coastline of dunes that leads to the little-known Cabo Polonio isn’t your scene. Filled with traditional food and wine that reflects its Italian and Spanish heritage, Montevideo has a vibrant theater and arts scene hosting some excellent music festivals.
Uruguay remains small and undiscovered in South America. The country’s coastal lines have stunningly deserted islands, scarlet sunsets, and a string of quaint fishing towns that make up the heart and soul of the country. All this comes with the added benefit of not having to share it with anyone else. The classic backwater of South America, a lost world where life has trickled away in splendid solitude and time has no place, Colonia is the best abating of pace. A few days in the tiny capital Montevideo are a laid-back look at the city, with its fine old town, excellent museums, beautiful beaches, seafood, and wine – everything Uruguay has to offer. To call time in this charming little town on the border with Argentina idyllic might be a stretch of the imagination, but it has the backwater vibes that lure people in and make them hold on tight.
Nicaragua
Horseback ride along the stippled landscapes of Ometepe Island or learn to surf on the pristine beaches of San Juan del Sur, or even travel far up north to experience an active volcano blasting fire and lava. Make no mistake: Nicaragua is exactly the kind of off-the-grid, natural paradise that any traveler should dream of. More emerald than the roughly ten or so Caribbean islands that make up Bocas del Toro, Bastimientos competes directly with its northern neighbors in terms of stunning natural beauty and with just a fraction of the tourism in a place like Costa Rica. Adventure comes quickly to those interested in natural environments, one real gem to be “responsible” about when visiting, taking care to employ hostels, hotels, and guesthouses that prioritize an eco-friendly bottom line.
The hardware is there in droves with this little nation. First-time visitors to its colonial streets are likely to spend upwards of an hour in Granada, León, exploring hidden doorways that lead to tucked away courtyards and manicured gardens, upscale hostels, and delicious restaurants that make immediate “home” for multi-need travelers. Those looking for genuine encounters and a total lack of tourism, on the other hand, might opt for a visit to the highland city of Matagalpa or on to the rural peripheries of the country’s major eco-reserves in search of a close encounter with the warm people of this tropical Central American land.
Discovering new destinations around the world has always been one of the most fascinating experiences in the life of any traveler. It can’t be denied that famous tourist destinations are often very attractive, drawing attention with their promising abundance of both natural and cultural experiences. In hidden gems, unexpected encounters and seldom-seen beauties wait to colorfully accessorize the traveler’s journey with memories that turn into heart-touching stories later on. In the time leading up to the growing popularity of digital travel platforms that rely on information aggregation, perhaps hidden gems were to remain exactly as advertised—not discovered, not crowded. However, the rise of these kinds of platforms has exploded the hype around many once-secret gems, thus sometimes coinciding with unintended consequences like over-tourism.
The lovingly named Palaces on Wheels and a fleet of Cruises that offer every service imaginable from gyms to fine dining. Still, the world of travel shimmered with resilient optimism and inspired beauty in the form of many a unique hideaway. If you love the feeling of really getting away from it all—from blazing fast internet, from the phubbing horror of looking around and finding everyone’s face in their phone—you’re going to love these exceptional travel hidden gems. Personifying variety, human taste and ways of wondering, these underrated travel destinations will rise destinations, and have been variously described as unique and charming, unusual and otherworldly, and as being at the very heart of travel with their extraordinary landscapes, building stones, natural or artificial, human constructions, or environments. Seeking perspectives beyond the touristic gaze suggests a way for people to issue a perceptual counter-narrative which may span the real and irrational, appealing not through a rational choice but through the senses.
In each community, the traveler can find connections that foster a deepened love of space and place, such as the traveler who bestows his friendship upon the local people, giving them an earthy connection reminiscent of deep love between characters and landscape. Cultural and geographic anti-heroes alike steal pride in the traveler’s heart by sharing beauty that is inspiring and wild, and, ultimately, always waiting to be explored. The continued exploration of beloved overlooked cities cannot end with us. We earnestly invite others to explore our shared experiences, be it with one of our cities, or better yet one of the lesser-known destinations that pulled at your heartstrings in a unique way. With our outlooks multiplied, the world’s unbounded beauty and possibilities more than ensure that we will likely never see one ending to our love’s exploratory path.