10 Offbeat Travel Destinations for the Curious Traveler
The world is full of amazing places, but many of the well-known ones can become too crowded with tourists. If you crave unique experiences and a chance to escape the throngs, here are 10 underrated locations that deserve a place on your travel bucket list
- Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil: Imagine a colossal desert area with scattered freshwater lagoons sparkling like crystals. This Brazilian marvel stands out with its endless white sand dunes and small pools of water called lagoons, which are the result of the rain. Walk on the marked trails or go for an exhilarating 4×4 ride across the dunes to make your experience unforgettable.
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam: Get acquainted with an environment shaped by time. This UNESCO World Heritage Site displays unseen caves with shimmering stalagmites and stalactites stretching the form of cathedrals. Start a boat tour through the underground rivers that run through the caves and see the force of nature at its best.
- The Azores, Portugal: The Azores, a group of nine volcanic islands, situated in the midst of Atlantic, form a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. Explore lush vegetation, indigenous plants and animals, dolphins and whales on a boat trip or bathe in a natural hot thermal pool created by the volcanic activity that begat these islands.
- Valparaíso, Chile: This exciting port city is home to a multitude of colorful houses which are built on the steep hillsides. Discover its fascinating bohemian atmosphere abounded with coffee shops selling strong coffee and local food. Take a stroll through the atmospheric harbor where the fresh fish is unloaded daily, and the sea smell is experienced. And do not forget to get lost in the hidden alleyways, where you will find vibrant street art around every corner.
- Djenné, Mali: Plunge into past and feel like being in this ancient mud brick town, UNESCO World Heritage Site. The majestic Great Mosque, a gigantic mud structure, towers above the entire city of Djenné. Wander the maze-like streets of the old town, full of traditional houses and busy marketplaces. Plunge into the local culture where the artisans still perfect the crafts which have been passed down by successive generations for ages.
- The Dolomites, Italy: Normally darkened by the Alps, the Dolomites present outstanding and amazing scenery with sharp peaks, lush valleys stunning with wild flowers in the summer and lake mirrors the bigger mountains clearly. Trekking through these dramatic landscapes, you will encounter unique wildlife such as marmots and ibex. Discover scenic trails on bike, meandering through picturesque villages or talk the slopes in the winter for some of the best skiing in Europe.
- Banff National Park, Canada: Even though Banff town may be crowded, the park frontiers are still a pristine wilderness area. Walk through the glaciers which were shaped by time, or see the grizzly bears and elk roaming freely in their natural habitat. Glide on a scenic gondola ride to get the bird’s-eye view of the snow-covered summits and lush valleys below.
- Gubakha, Georgia: Hidden in an amazing gorge, carved by the Mtkvari River, this small town reflects traditional Georgian culture. Check out the ancient cave monasteries, some of which date back to the 11th century, that are hanging on to the cliffsides. Take a taste of local cuisine, with its fresh ingredients and special spices, while also enjoying natural hot springs, the perfect way to end a day of exploring and relaxing.
- The Scottish Highlands, Scotland: Get off the beaten track and discover the marvellous wilderness of the Highlands. Hike through the dramatic landscapes, with the mountains covered in heather and the lochs being deep and mysterious. Get to know the oldest castles with long histories such as the Eilean Donan, which featured in films, or take a tour of the ruins of clan settlements that dates back hundreds of years. Spend your evenings chilling in a traditional pub around a warm fire with a pint of local beer while listening to the legends told by the villagers.
- Huacachina, Peru: This unique desert town is called “Oasis of America” and is built around a turquoise lagoon that is fed by an underground spring. Take up an exciting sandboarding ride along the high dunes surrounding the oasis where you will experience the exhilaration of speed as you slide down the slopes. Explore the nearby desert in a buggy and see various desert animals; for example, the viscacha which is a long-tailed rodent burrowing underground. Or just chill out by the lagoon and sunbathe, a great way to get away from the hot and dry desert.
This list is merely a sort of hook for the ardor of your travel appetite. On the top of these ten destinations you will find loads of incredible wonders on earth which are yet to be discovered. Therefore, grab your bags, accept the spirit of adventure, and start your trip to make memories that you will recall for the rest of your life.
