You Can Visit These Hidden Gems Around the Globe

Take a moment and think about your favorite vacation destination. Whether you like to spend winters at the beach or you’re a beach-dweller who likes to run to the mountains, there’s a pretty good chance that some of your favorite vacation spots are getting more crowded with each passing year.

That’s the unfortunate part of finding the perfect vacation spot. Eventually, other people realize it’s a dream destination, and they start going to it, too.

Maybe the last time that you went to your traditional summer vacation destination, you realized that restaurants you used to love suddenly had a two-hour wait.

Maybe traffic has turned into an absolute nightmare on some streets that you used to drive up and down frequently with no traffic at all. When vacation destinations grow in popularity, crowds increase.

Unfortunately, that means that people who have been visiting those spots suddenly find themselves either dealing with massive crowds or getting pushed out of their favorite spots.

We live in a big world, which means there are plenty of dream vacation spots that you may have never considered. If you’re tired of fighting crowds in that sleepy little beach town you used to visit, consider checking out these underrated vacation spots.

Luang Prabang, Laos

By and large, most tourists haven’t discovered this small town in northern Laos. Even if you don’t consider yourself a religious person, you’ll find yourself awestruck by the rich culture of Luang Prabang, which is mostly rooted in the Buddhist history that’s so rich in the area.

Not only does this city have some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, but you’ll also see ancient temples that are truly incredible examples of ancient construction methods.

There are more than 30 Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang, making it a must-see for people who love world history.

Even if that’s not something that you’re interested in, a short drive out of the city will take you to the Kuang Si waterfalls, which are some of the most breathtaking in Asia. When you’re putting together a list of underrated trip ideas, this spot should definitely make the cut.

Puglia, Italy

It’s interesting to see any city in Italy on a list of underrated trip ideas, but most people tend to flock to the more famous cities like Rome and Milan.

Italy is one of the most beautiful, historic countries in the world, which means there are plenty of underrated vacation spots for those who are looking to take in some international scenery without dealing with huge crowds everywhere they go.

Puglia, Italy is perhaps most famous for its Trulli houses, which are stone buildings with cone-shaped roofs. The area also has whitewashed villages like Locorotondo and Ostuni, along with huge olive groves that you can tour while getting a better understanding of Italy’s agricultural history.

Finally, Puglia is home to some stunning beaches, which is ideal for people who are tired of dealing with crowded beach resorts. Near the beaches, you’ll find some gorgeous caves, a beautiful contrast when it comes to the area’s natural landscape.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor, Montenegro is one of the underrated destinations, and it's perfect for people who love the mountains and those who prefer the beach. That’s because the city is nestled between a huge mountain range and the Bay of Kotor.

Lots of travelers visit more popular destinations in the Mediterranean, which makes Kotor one of the most underrated destinations that you’ll find.

In addition to the beach and the mountains, one of the most popular options in Kotor is the medieval Old Town, which is a labyrinth of narrow streets, ancient buildings, churches, and town squares. It’s truly like stepping back in time, as the local government has worked so hard to preserve the historic beauty of this area.

Once you’re done with the medieval Old Town, you can take a hike along some breathtaking mountain trails, too. For nature lovers, Kotor is a great, underrated vacation spot.

Matera, Italy

No, we’re not going to list a bunch of cities in Europe on our list of underrated trip ideas, but Matera, Italy earns a spot largely because it’s one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities anywhere in the world.

Thanks to the ongoing efforts to preserve this city and largely protect it from the influences of the world around it, much of the city is dedicated to ancient history. The unique landscapes, which are largely populated by ancient cave dwellings, provide a beautiful glimpse into the past.

Even though Matera, Italy was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019, it’s still an underrated vacation spot, which is great news for those who love history but don’t want to deal with heavy traffic and huge crowds.

One of the most famous ancient churches in the world, the Crypt of the Original Sin, is known as the “Sistine Chapel of cave churches,” thanks in large part to the intricate design and architectural features that it possesses, which were way ahead of their time.

Jeju Island, South Korea

If you’re used to vacationing in Hawaii, but have found yourself getting tired of the massive crowds that the island attracts, consider visiting Jeju Island, South Korea, which is nicknamed the “Hawaii of South Korea.”

The volcanic island is off the southern coast of the country, and even though it has some of the most breathtaking views that you’ll find anywhere in the world, it’s still an underrated travel spot.

In the same vein that Hawaiian culture is not necessarily traditional American culture, Jeju Island has its own unique culture that doesn’t mirror that of South Korea. If you’re a fan of international cuisine, especially seafood, Jeju Island is a great destination that’s still largely under the radar in terms of global popularity.

Faroe Islands, Denmark

Situated between Iceland and Norway, Faroe Islands, Denmark is an archipelago that is one of the most underrated travel sports in the world.

If you’re looking for a place that has a lot of tourist attractions and extra frills, this probably isn’t the right choice. It’s one of the most remote, unspoiled destinations that you’ll find, though.

Since there aren’t a ton of attractions for tourists, you’ll basically be checking out the natural beauty of the area when you visit the Faroe Islands. The area is still home to countless villages where visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and get a better understanding of their way of life.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who doesn’t mind spending most of your vacation taking in the scenery, make this your next vacation spot.

Jaisalmer, India

India is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, so it may come as a bit of a surprise to see any city in India on a list of underrated travel destinations.

While Jaisalmer may not be as deserted and unspoiled as the Faroe Islands, it is located in the middle of the Thar Desert, which is in Rajasthan.

One of the most interesting aspects of this city is the fact that it’s home to some of the most breathtaking mansions that you’ll see anywhere in the world, as well as the famous Jaisalmer Fort.

When you hear the word “fort,” you may think of a small structure, but that’s a Western version of the word. The Jaisalmer Fort is actually one of the largest, fully fortified, preserved cities in the world.

There are also some attractions for tourists, notable desert safaris that can get you up close and personal with the beauty of the area, as well as various types of local wildlife.

Visit These Hidden Gems

Your next vacation doesn’t have to be to the same cities that you’ve been visiting, especially if you’re tired of how overcrowded they’ve become.

Consider checking out one (or more) of these underrated travel destinations or spend some time looking for some that fit what you’re looking for.

Even the most well-traveled people have places that they’ve yet to enjoy in person, and your next vacation is a great chance for you to enjoy some underrated destinations. Happy travels!