Travel is a major part of many people’s lives. Travel and tourism contributed 9.1% of the global GDP ($9.9 trillion) in 2023, making it an important revenue source for all the major economies in the world. In 2023 there were approximately 1.3 billion international tourist arrivals. There is always something breathtaking for you to see in this world, but not all destinations are worth your precious vacation days.

There are some places that appear to be great at first but just don’t turn out that way. Travel author Susan Lambert shines a light on how good research and planning can mean your trip is inspiring. Here is a rundown of 17 places you may want to skip and other places to visit for wanderlust.

Times Square, New York

It makes sense to peruse the neon wonderland of Times Square in New York, although it could admittedly be more described as overwhelming. In 2023, it was estimated that New York had 62.2 million tourist visits.

Head instead to Brooklyn Heights for some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline while maintaining an incredibly laid-back and local vibe. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy some of the finest pizza in the neighborhood at Grimaldi’s or Juliana’s.

Venice, Italy

Venice is a city built on 118 small islands connected by 400 bridges, mostly famous for canals. It is, on its face, a romantic dream destination, but it can also become crowded and pricey.

Alternatively, go to Burano Island, a 45-minute Venetian water bus from Venice. It has colorful houses, quiet streets, and delicious seafood.

Eiffel Tower, Paris

The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. It’s one of the most visited destinations in the world, with over 300 million tourists. There are long lines and expensive tickets.

Montmartre provides equally stunning views of Paris and an opportunity to see the city from above at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, but to go one step further, you do have to explore the streets.

Niagara Falls, US

Niagara Falls is on the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA. It draws about 12 million visitors a year.

There’s no vibrancy to the US side compared to things you get in Canada. Enjoy a visit for spectacular views, interactive exhibits, and a lively atmosphere that will make for a memorable trip over the border.

Las Vegas Strip, Nevada

The Las Vegas Strip has 4.1 miles and draws millions of visitors each year. It is famous for its flashy casinos and nonstop entertainment. This historic city is located in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

For a bit of a change of pace, take some gorgeous hikes among stunning red rock formations and enjoy the peace and quiet away from the chaos of the world just outside the city line.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun’s white sand beaches and turquoise waters may tempt you, but it is notorious for being overcrowded and overrun with tourists. About 10.04 million international visitors entered Cancun in 2023.

Head to Tulum to have more authentic Mexican beach experience where you can relax on picturesque beaches, while exploring ancient Mayan ruins.

Los Angeles, Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame, with over 2,700 embedded stars is a ‘must-see’ for movie buffs. It is embedded on 15 blocks along Hollywood Blvd. Seeing about 10 million travelers a year, it’s an incredibly crowded site.

Instead, head to the Griffin Observatory to see stunning views of the city, interactive exhibits and even see the stars through high-powered telescopes.

Great Wall of China, Beijing

It is about 2700 years old and has about 50 million visitors a year. Although its most popular section at Badaling can be very crowded and touristy, it’s on every traveler’s bucket list.

Go to Mutianyu, and you can still walk along the wall and enjoy breathtaking views without the crowds for a more peaceful experience.

Grand Canyon Skywalk, Arizona

It’s a must-see if you admire nature—especially the beauties and wonders of the earth. The admission price to the Skywalk of $26 per person will be spent on food during your day there and the crowds will be overwhelming.

So instead, hike to Horseshoe Bend for a breathtaking view of the Colorado River and the canyon walls.

Taj Mahal, India

The great iconic Taj Mahal is visited by around 7 or 8 million curious tourists every year. It’s popular, and the lines and crowds detract.

Amer Fort in Jaipur is an equally impressive architectural wonder, where palaces and forts are not a sea of tourists.

Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

What makes Hawaii unique is Waikiki Beach, the most famous beach in Hawaii. It has a rich surfing history, with legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku having rode its waves. It’s quite crowded and touristy.

To get a more calm and peaceful beach experience, simply head to Lanikai. There, you will find white sand, transparent waters, and views of the Mokulua Islands.

Statue of Liberty, New York

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most identifiable landmarks on earth and draws 4.5 million tourists to its front gate year after year. The function of the structure is a gift from the French to the United States, symbolizing friendship, and the structure is 305 feet tall.

Those thar lack a desire to join crowds or wait in lines can take a short ferry ride to gorgeous Governors Island with beautiful views of the city and something of an escape.

Machu Picchu, Peru

About 1.5 million people visit Machu Picchu every year, and it’s a stunning archaeological site. You could go there and be overcrowded and find it expensive.

Hike to Quiro, if you prefer a less crowded place, where you’ll find ancient ruins and impressive views of the Andes Mountains.

Orlando Theme Parks, Florida

Theme parks in Orlando are the most famous in the world. It may be every child’s dream vacation,but the crowds, endless lines, and the drives to get to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios can soon become a nightmare for the adults.

Sanibel Island is a much quieter and laid-back experience in Florida. Head there for the pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and island vibes.

Dubai Mall, Dubai

Dubai Mall is the world’s largest mall, and millions of people visit it every year. Popular for its luxury shopping, new aquarium, ice rink, and indoor theme park.

Instead of wasting time inside a jampacked mall, visit the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and enjoy a good desert safari, a camel ride and amazing sunsets over the sand dunes.

Santorini, Greece

Greece is a country you can go to often if you choose to. It is famous for its blue-domed churches, beautiful scenery, and romantic sunsets. Santorini is one of its popular destinations. However, it is now overcrowded and has expensive accommodation. In 2023, there were about 3.4 million tourists.

For a true Greek island experience, consider Naxos where you’ll find stunning beaches, quaint villages with incredibly tasty local fare, without all the tourist traps.

Cairo, Egypt

Egypt’s capital and largest city, Cairo, is a complete history-making town with pyramids and sphinx. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the only remaining ancient wonder of the world, and it is home to it. It is very hot and uncomfortable for tourists during the summer months.

To get a smoother experience, go all the way to Luxor, where you’ll see ancient temples and tombs without feeling hot and sweaty. There are also fewer tourists at this time, meaning shorter lines and cheaper prices.

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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