Every country has its iconic attractions, from Iceland's Blue Lagoon to Venice's gondolas. Still, popularity comes at a price, and it's not necessarily about how much money comes out of your bank account, but rather how to get the most out of your travels.
Overtourism in cities like Venice and Dubrovnik inspires tourists to expand their imagination and look further afield. By doing so, you will create many lasting memories in new places, without the crowds.
Here are some off-the-beaten-path travel options to use as inspiration for your next trip.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
From surfers and digital nomads to party animals and honeymooners, Bali attracts a diverse international crowd each year looking for their slice of paradise. However, Raja Ampat, also known as the Four Kings Archipelago, is Indonesia's unspoiled hotspot worth exploring.
Comprising 1,500 islands, the region is at the heart of the Coral Triangle, meaning snorkelers and divers are in for a treat. The tropical waters are home to an impressive variety of turtles, coral reef fish and coral species. And, like the Holy Grail for lovers of the seabed, you'll also see pygmy seahorses, manta rays and wobbegongs gliding past you.
Make the most of this precious underwater sanctuary aboard the Aqua Blue luxury liveaboard expedition, which will transport you to the best diving and snorkeling sites.
How to get there:
While Raja Ampat may not be the most convenient place to visit, the logistics of planning your trip have become easier in recent years. Once you reach Jakarta, Makassar, Ambon or Manado, simply fly to Sorong and then take a public ferry or private speedboat to the capital, Waisai.
Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
Whether you come to meet chimpanzees, colobus monkeys or hike among the treetops, Nyungwe National Park leaves an indelible impression on travelers. The landscape is not only breathtaking from different viewpoints, but also rich in biodiversity.
With the gorillas of Majestic Whale Encounters at Luxury tour in Rwanda, you can visit this and other majestic landscapes where you can spend time with gorillas and chimpanzees to your heart's delight.
How to get there:
Kigali International Airport, which connects Rwanda's capital to the rest of the world, has four airlines based in Kigali: RwandAir, Akagera Aviation, Tempus Jet and Nexus Aero.
Nakasendo, Japan
The Nakasendo, meaning “the road through the mountains”, connected the ancient Japanese capital of Kyoto to bustling Tokyo during the Edo period (1603-1867). Historically, it was a trade route that attracted samurai, merchants and pilgrims. Although the 69 post towns along the trail have been modernized, there are still some striking examples of old Japan and countryside strips that transport you back in time.
The Kiso Valley offers the best preserved historic towns. from Japan Nakasendo Road is a fully guided 11-day tour that offers a glimpse of rural Japan via traditional and modern inns that always ends with hearty farmhouse cuisine.
The tours take place each year between March and June as well as from September to November and can accommodate up to 12 people.
How to get there:
Kyoto, where the tour begins, is accessible by Shinkansen from Tokyo. It will take you less than two and a half hours and is the most convenient way to reach this destination.
Naples, Italy
As Venice is one of the most popular but fragile tourist destinations in Europe, mass tourism and climate change threaten Venice's foundations and its chances of long-term survival.
Although Naples is not part of the popular Venice, Florence and Rome trio and in fact has a reputation for petty theft, this southern seaside metropolis should be on your itinerary when you head to Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast or Rome.
If you value authenticity and mingling with locals rather than tourists, Naples satisfies both. The historic center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been well preserved, featuring over 2,000 years of history and many narrow streets to explore on foot.
Along the way, don't forget to taste Neapolitan specialties: cuoppo, mozzarella di bufala and pizza margherita. To learn more about the historical origins of pizza and a food culture based on small fries, you can participate in the Secret Food Tour from Naples.
How to get there:
There are several modes of transportation you can take to reach Naples. The most common are via a FrecciaRossa high-speed train, cruise ship or biplane. Naples International Airport welcomes many international tourists each year with airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet and TUI offering competitive prices.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
The Nordic countries are not the only destination in the world for an unforgettable nightlife experience. Whether you choose a seaside or desert getaway, gazing at a starry sky from a lounge chair or hot tub is a rare encounter.
Protected from light pollution, the Polynesian night sky offers ideal conditions for stargazing in a peaceful setting. Most tours offer a combination of legendary experiences paired with drinks and telescope viewing to catch a glimpse of the Milky Way and Southern Cross. Bora Bora Explorer, Marama Tours and Lagoon Service are just some of the tours making the most of dark sky tourism.
Or, for a more intimate experience, book an overwater bungalow at Four Seasons Hotel Bora Bora.
How to get there:
The most convenient route to Bora Bora is to fly to Faa'a International Airport in Tahiti, then take a charter flight, helicopter or scheduled flight to Bora Bora.
Cordoba, Spain
The city of Cordoba, nestled in the southernmost region of Andalusia, features a visually stunning combination of historic Christian and Islamic architecture. Visit the Medina Azahara and the Cordoba Mosque-Cathedral to see two of the city's finest examples.
Compact and charming, the narrow maze of picturesque cobblestone streets is a tempting invitation to explore. This is where you'll find hidden taverns and courtyards that inspire partying.
In fact, there is an annual festival every May – La Fiesta de Los Patios – where locals open their doors to the public specifically to show off their colorful flower pots. Fortunately, the festival takes place before the scorching temperatures of summer and the city becomes unpleasant to explore on foot during the day.
Unlike Seville, Granada and Barcelona, you will be surprised by the number of local treasures around every corner. Even if it's just a glass of wine accompanied by tapas or an outdoor flamenco show, in Cordoba these moments are not spoiled by masses of tourists.
If you really want to immerse yourself in Andalusian culture, consider The best of Andalusiaan eight-day tour that will have you sitting in the Arabic tea rooms of Granada one day and soaking up the sun and the artistic prowess of Pablo Picasso another.
How to get there:
Whether you plan to stay a few nights or a week, Cordoba should not be overlooked, especially if you are already visiting Madrid and Seville. You can easily take a Spanish high-speed train, the AVE, which connects Córdoba to both cities. If you plan to drive, keep in mind that the historic center is difficult to navigate by car and parking is not easy.
Myvatn Natural Baths, Iceland
With its proximity to an international airport and year-round accessibility, Blue Lagoon has much to offer beyond its luxury accommodations and underground spa. The problem is that a lot of people know about it, which makes it a great social experience, but not necessarily peaceful.
Nestled in the northeast corner of Iceland lies the Myvatn natural bathsalso known as Blue Lagoon North. A six-hour drive from the capital Reykjavik, the baths are located in a secluded location overlooking the volcanic landscapes of northern Iceland.
If you are traveling by car, you can easily relax here by visiting the main attractions of Iceland's Diamond Circle. Although the baths are not equipped with the luxurious offerings that the Blue Lagoon is known for, a swim-up bar and steam rooms are available.
Between October and April, the baths are open longer for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights without having to endure the cold. Consider finding a day trip that highlights the natural wonders of northern Iceland, including the Mývatn Natural Baths.
How to get there:
Although Myvatn Natural Baths are open year-round, road conditions can become hazardous during the winter months (October to May). This requires the right vehicle for unpredictable weather conditions.
Lake Annecy, France
With its reputation for opulence and historic villas, Lake Como has long been a playground reserved for the elite. But luckily, it's not the only destination in Europe offering picturesque landscapes and architectural wonders.
The French equivalent, Lake Annecy and its charming medieval town has long been admired by domestic travelers for its Venice-like charm. On the one hand, Annecy is made up of a network of canals and cobbled streets perfect for an evening stroll.
In summer you can see paragliders flying overhead, but the Lake Festival is the highlight of the year as it is one of the most important fireworks displays in Europe. Everywhere you turn there is something to marvel at, from castles to majestic peaks and nature reserves, all centered around the turquoise waters of the lake.
For an indulgent five-star waterfront chalet experience, book yourself at Yoann Conte.
How to get there:
With direct trains and buses from Lyon and Paris, Annecy is accessible from these cities, but requires a little more planning if traveling from other French cities.
