14 Destinations That Promise Fun but Deliver Tourist Overload
While many destinations promise a thrilling escape, most become over-run with tourists and it can be hard to take it all in. What you get instead is an elbow to elbow with hundreds of other travelers, all trying to get that perfect selfie.
Impressive landmarks have been obscured by tourism overload. These destinations are more “photo opportunity” than peaceful retreat. If you’re not one for busy crowds, read on to find out what destination would require a double dose of patience.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu, is nestled high in the Andes with views to die for, and the alure of the ancient Incan city is irresistible and mysterious. Strict visitor limits have done little to curb the packed pathways and desecration of the ancient structure. The site has become so popular that it’s taken a toll.
Venice, Italy
Venice’s canals, bridges and Renaissance architecture are a top choice for travelers from around the world. Waves of tourists come in to Venice, especially during peak season, and the beauty of Venice is often obscured by them. Wandering down its narrow streets feels more like standing in line than exploring a historic city.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali has been a go to paradise for travelers who want sun, sand and spiritual wellness. These days its beaches and temples are often filled with tourists, and quiet relaxation is hard to come by. If you’re visiting iconic spots like Uluwatu or the Sacred Monkey Forest, you’re likely to be crowded, and you may have to battle with others just to get a good shot.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini has become a social media sensation with the white-washed buildings flanked by their blue domes overlooking the sea. Unfortunately, it’s so famous that the island is packed during the summer months. With tourists swarming narrow streets and iconic viewpoints vying for that picture perfect shot it’s hard to slow down and enjoy the scenery without interference.
Kyoto, Japan
They say that in Kyoto you get a great mix of ancient temples, cherry blossoms, and Zen gardens. However, the cherry blossoms are so popular that you’ll find yourself jostling with tourists to see a shrine or even a glimpse of the famous blooms.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s often vibrant culture, impressive architecture, and Mediterranean vibes make it a must-see. Tourists are flocking to its cities and the influx of visitors has annoyed many locals, who feel their city has become overrun with tourists who lack an appreciation for their culture and merely want photos.
UAE, Dubai
Dubai’s dazzling malls are an image of modern indulgence, where endless shopping and desert adventures are possible. As more travelers swarm to Dubai for a taste of luxury, the exclusivity is swept away and replaced by a bustling, fast paced tourist center. The Burj Khalifa or Palm Jumeirah might has become a quick stop for the perfect photo that would make anyone jealous, instead of an opportunity for deep appreciation of unique architecture, innovation, and culture.
Times Square, New York City
Times Square embodies the energy of New York City, however, if you’re hoping for an easy stroll through the famous lights and signs, you’ll be disappointed. In Times Square, it’s so packed that it’s almost impossible to take more than a few steps without bumping into someone. Tourists, costumed characters, and performers move in a constant stream and make it impossible to enjoy a nice leisurely stroll.
The Great Wall, China
Widening vistas and a centuries pf history can be found at the Great Wall of China. The wall’s grandeur is often lost to popular sections such as Badaling, which are usually packed with tourists. Other quieter parts of the wall do exist, but they’re less accessible, so most visitors are left to experience the landmark with crowds.
The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The Pyramids are a wonder, but there’s no way to see them alone as the rising number of tourists keep these ancient structures bustling. Tour buses, camels, and vendors make for a very hectic and busy experience. Quiet reverence can be hard to find. The site is magnificent, but the ancient mystery can be tough to appreciate with so many people around.
Rome, Italy
The iconic ruins of Rome – the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain – are jaw dropping and filled with history. They are also flooded with tourists, so it feels like everyone’s fighting for their own slice of ancient glory. When you visit Rome’s famous attractions, you often have to wait in line and fight your way to crowded viewpoints, where the quiet moment to appreciate history is hard to come by.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam’s canals, bicycles and historic architecture are very charming. The narrow alleys and quiet canals have been overrun by tourists in recent years. Places that draw a large crowd like Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum have pretty long lines, and visiting often involves long waiting lines and frustration.
Prague, Czech Republic
Famous for its fairytale architecture and picturesque old town, Prague is never less than crowded year round. In particular, Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square are so chock full of tourists that it feels like a slow march. The influx of people brings some of the city’s old world magic to an end amongst the crowds of people.
Paris, France
Paris may be called the “City of Love,” but it’s also the city of long lines and crowded spaces. Tourists crowd around the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, and a hundred other landmarks. Paris is indeed romantic, but its main attractions are like waiting in line at an amusement park and finding a quiet moment is difficult.
Iceland
Iceland’s incredible landscapes – glaciers, waterfalls – have made it a must visit. Iceland’s once quiet sites are now often busy, especially in summer, thanks to social media. The Blue Lagoon is probably one of the most popular spots, and often tourists fill it, so if you want to find solitude in the stunning scenery you may have to go a little further off the beaten path.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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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.
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