13 Overrated Destinations You’ll Regret Skipping
We’ve all heard about some of these luxurious destinations that make vacation time all the more special, and we’ve seen social media posts that boast about all the fun and unique activities that can be done at these spots.
Sometimes we scrape together what we have to experience this ourselves and find out it was all a show however, don’t toss these places out just yet because a stone’s throw from where all the buzz is, you might just find a hidden gem that would leave a lasting good impression. Here are 13 famed destinations with much more to do than you might know. Don’t skip out on these!
Dubai, UAE
Dubai is all about luxury and adventure, but it’s more commercial than cultural. While glitzy malls, towering skyscrapers, and man-made islands can be artificial, they lack the depth that makes a destination memorable. Instead, consider Oman for an authentic Middle Eastern adventure – mountains, deserts, centuries-old villages, but no mega malls, and no theme park feel.
The Maldives
The Maldives’ turquoise waters and overwater bungalows are a luxury dream come true, but they’re expensive, with few options for activities besides lounging. Many travelers report that the Islands are isolated with very repetitive activities. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly and culturally rich beach experience then Seychelles or even the Caribbean would be a good option.
Santorini, Greece
The blue-domed buildings and breathtaking sunsets that made Santorini famous on social media tend to be overwhelmed with visitors. The island has a local population of about 15,000 and sees nearly 2 million visitors a year. That influx can turn what should be an authentic island escape into more of a photoshoot backdrop than a real getaway to be found elsewhere. If you don’t want to be in the middle of the crowd, you can go to other Greek islands like Naxos or Paros which have similar views, fewer crowds, and a more authentic island experience.
Venice, Italy
No doubt Venice is a beautiful city but with around 25 million visitors a year it’s often struggling under the weight of over tourism. The gondolas clog the narrow canals, and you walk around like you’re in a maze with no way out of the crowds. If you want something less touristy, try Bologna or Verona instead, both Italian cities with rich history, romantic settings and a lot of charm.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu in Peru is awe inspiring, but the ancient site has suffered with over-tourism. To curb damage, daily visitor limits have been imposed, but the site still attracts over 1 million visitors a year, with many of them squeezing in tight and not getting many photo ops. If you want to visit historical ruins without the rush, try Colombia’s Lost City trek, an amazing journey with much less tourists and just as much mystique.
Paris, France
Although the Eiffel Tower sparkles at night and the Louvre houses the Mona Lisa, Paris is often overcrowded. Every year, an estimated 38 million tourists fill the streets and cause long lines at attractions. It’s easy to feel like sardines here. Instead, you can find small French cities such as Lyon or Strasbourg; the streets are quieter, the food is delicious, and the vibe is friendlier. Get past the crowds and avoid Paris’ selfie sticks for the real deal – French warmth.
Niagara Falls, New York
The area around Niagara Falls suffers from being very heavily commercialized, and the famous falls can become touristy, taking away from the natural wonder. For a more relaxed trip with beautiful landscapes, wineries, and charming small towns take a trip to the Finger Lakes region that are nearby.
Las Vegas, Nevada
You know Las Vegas for its neon lights, casinos, and round-the-clock entertainment, but outside of the flashy exterior, there’s not much that appeals to everyone. If you aren’t into gambling or large crowds then the city can be overwhelming and exhausting. If you’re looking for something similar, swap Vegas for Reno, or explore the natural beauty of Nevada’s state parks.
The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The Pyramids of Giza are a wonder of ancient engineering, but the experience can be quite different from what you imagine. The wonder of the ancient structures can be taken away by hawkers offering constant offers, aggressive crowds and the congested streets nearby. If you’re looking for a quieter Egyptian adventure with lots of historical marvels and fewer interruptions, try Luxor or Aswan.
Hollywood, California
American glamour is synonymous with Hollywood, but the reality is more starless. The Hollywood Sign is best seen from a distance and the Walk of Fame is crowded. If you’re not planning on visiting a Disneyland theme park, and prefer a more ‘laid back’ local experience, visiting LA’s Griffith Observatory or exploring their diverse neighborhoods like Silver Lake or Echo Park is a better option.
Times Square, New York City
It’s one of New York’s most crowded and chaotic spots, but Times Square dazzles with its lights and billboards. It can be more overwhelming than exciting after a few minutes of dodging people and staring up at flashing screens. Bryant Park or the High Line are just a few blocks away and offer a more peaceful, more real taste of the city.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
Everyone knows that the famous icon photo-op is the Leaning Tower which is just a single tower in a small town. The tower is ‘held up’ by most tourists, who then leave quickly. An hour away is Florence, a place of art, history, Italian culture that has far more to explore than what you might find in Lucca.
Cancún, Mexico
Beaches and resorts are Cancún’s thing, but the vendors and overcrowded beaches can quickly wear you out. It’s great for all inclusive resorts, but it’s not authentic Mexican culture. Tulum or Merida have Mayan ruins, cenotes and fun local life at a more balanced vacation destination.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
