Hidden Gems Around the World
It's easy to pick famous vacation destinations like Paris, New York, or Tokyo at the click of a button. Away from the famous cities, however, there are a dozen not very famous places that offer equally fantastic views. These lesser-known travel destinations offer a strange opportunity to indulge in certain activities, sceneries, and traditions that are generally away from the standard tourists' reach. This article will examine five of the most underrated travel destinations in the world, which should definitely be included in your travel bucket list.
1. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a city that lies somewhere between Europe and Asia, with one foot in the past and the other in the future. For seekers of new experiences, Tbilisi has an array of options thanks to the contrast of modern life and the antiquity tamed by civilization.
Why Visit Tbilisi?
Architectural History: Elements from Art Nouveau buildings to Orthodox cathedral represent all the world’s architectures in this city. The Old Town with its colorful buildings and cobbled streets is delightful for the visitors. Vibrant Culture: The capital of Georgia is famous for its delicious cuisine, hospitable people, and vibrant culture. Taste the Georgian wine, a country’s achievement in viticulture aged 8000 years, while in Tbilisi. Aesthetic Aspects: The city is surrounded by breath-taking views such as the towering Caucasus Mountains. You can also take a day trip to Kazbegi National Park located close by for breathtaking views and great outdoor activities.
2. Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang, a quiet little town found in the northern part of the country Laos has earned a recognition of being a site of cultural heritage by the UNESCO. It pours radiance of spiritual joy and peace. This beautiful town of Luang Prban which enchants the heart due to its amazing history, scenic landscapes, and spiritual elements is often found to take a back seat to the countries in the Southeast Asia region. Reasons for Visiting Luang Prabang? Buddhist Temples: The town is dotted with numerous monasteries and temples the most popular being Wat Xieng Thong. It’s simple yet humbling to watch the before meal ceremony where every monk walks about the streets and collects food. Natural Wonders: The beautiful lush green valleys of Luang Prabang encompass the majestic Kuang Si Waterfalls. The foliage encircling the water body is great for a peaceful walk, while the azure water bodies are inviting for some cool dips. Cultural Heritage: The customs, food, and buildings of this place stand for the mix of the ancient Lao way of life with the French era. A trip wouldn’t be complete without going to the night market and sampling local foods, such as sticky rice and laap. 3. Matera Italy While many tourists are attracted to the numerous Italian cities including the famous Roma and Venice, few are acquainted with the region of Basilicata, south of Italy, and its unique town, Matera, which is a step back in the history. It is located, historically developed over thousands of its years, and is thus considered to be one of the oldest cities inhabited without interruption.
Why Visit Matera?
The Sassi District: The Sassi, a system of cave homes hewn into the limestone cliffs, is the most well-known landmark in Matera. These historic houses, cathedrals, and monasteries provide an enthralling window into the past.
Unusual Lodging: Immersing yourself in the history of Matera while staying in a cave hotel is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Cultural Renaissance: Matera has had a renaissance in recent years, turning into a centre for creatives such as artists and filmmakers. The town's thriving artistic culture continues to grow, and in 2019 it was selected a European Capital of Culture.
4. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen is a tiny town located in northern Morocco's Rif Mountains, distinguished by its eye-catching blue-washed structures and laid-back vibe. Frequently disregarded in favor of more well-known locations like Marrakech and Fez, Chefchaouen is a tranquil getaway that provides a distinctive and vibrant experience.
Why Visit Chefchaouen?
The Blue City: The town's blue-painted structures give it an ethereal, mystical feel. A photographer's paradise is to meander through the medina's meandering, tiny streets.
Mountain Adventures: Chefchaouen serves as a starting point for hiking, trekking, and discovering the area's natural splendour. It is also a gateway to the Rif Mountains. The adjacent Akchour Waterfalls are a well-liked spot for day trips.
Local Craftsmanship: The village is well-known for its handcrafted pottery, leather handicrafts, and woven blankets. Purchasing at the markets in Chefchaouen offers the opportunity to support regional makers and bring home one-of-a-kind mementos.
5. Colmar, France
Though the picturesque town of Colmar in the Alsace area is a lesser-known location that merits consideration, France is known for its iconic cities and regions. Colmar is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe due to its beauty, which is reminiscent of a fairytale.
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Why Visit Colmar?
Beautiful Streets: Colmar feels like a storybook come to life with its colorful half-timbered houses, flower-lined canals, and well-preserved mediaeval architecture. With one of Europe's best Christmas markets, the town is especially charming during the holiday season.
Wine and Food: The Alsace region is well-known for its top-notch wines, especially the white ones like Gewürztraminer and Riesling. Colmar is an excellent starting point for visiting the Alsace Wine Route and trying the regional, French-German-influenced cuisine.
History and Art: The Unterlinden Museum in Colmar is home to the well-known Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterwork of German Renaissance art. The town's numerous museums and historical attractions showcase its rich cultural heritage and history.
6. Jiufen, Taiwan
Jiufen, a tiny mountain hamlet in northern Taiwan, has a nostalgic appeal and stunning surroundings that provide a window into the island's history. Jiufen, which was once a thriving gold mining town, is today a well-liked vacation spot for travellers looking for a distinctive cultural experience away from the bustle of Taiwan's cities.
Why Visit Jiufen?
Historic Streets: Traditional teahouses, snack carts, and stores offering handcrafted goods line Jiufen's twisting, tiny streets. The town exudes peace and nostalgia with its vintage architecture and lamps.
Tea Culture: Jiufen is well-known for its tea culture, and there are lots of teahouses in the area where you may unwind and sip tea made with tea that is sourced locally while admiring expansive views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
Spirited Away Connection: Jiufen is credited with serving as the inspiration for Spirited Away, the iconic film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Exploring the village and identifying the parallels to the cartoon world will delight moviegoers.
7. Oaxaca, Mexico
Southern Mexico's Oaxaca is a bustling city renowned for its amazing food, colourful festivals, and rich indigenous culture. Oaxaca is still relatively unknown compared to other Mexican travel destinations like Cancun or Mexico City, despite having a lot to offer.
Why Visit Oaxaca?
Festivals of Culture: Oaxaca is the site of some of Mexico's most significant festivals of Culture, such as Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, and the Guelaguetza, a traditional indigenous celebration. These gatherings provide a thorough exploration of the distinctive customs and lively culture of the area.
Culinary Delights: Well-known for its mezcal, tlayudas, and traditional mole sauces, Oaxaca is a foodie's delight. The markets and street food vendors in the city are ideal for experiencing regional cuisine.
Archeological Sites: Monte Albán, a well-known pre-Columbian city with breathtaking views of the valley below, is one of the many ancient archeological sites around Oaxaca.
Conclusion
Discovering underappreciated locations around the world presents an opportunity to find undiscovered treasures that beckon with genuine experiences and pristine splendour. Whether you're taking in the rich culture of Oaxaca, Mexico, or wandering the ancient alleyways of Matera, Italy, these lesser-known locations provide a new angle on travel. Think about taking a detour and visiting one of these lesser-known locations when you organise your next trip; you could discover that the less-travelled paths make for the most amazing experiences.