Underrated Travel Destinations to Add to Your Next Itinerary

 

Paris! Dubai! Tokyo! The Bahamas!

On a day-to-day basis, we’re bombarded with travel ads depicting popular locales around the globe. And now that travel restrictions have eased, people are planning getaways again. Though I’m not here to knock the more coveted destinations, I’ve always believed in something magical on the paths less traveled. For it’s there that we see what a place is about. Where we find something that we never knew we were seeking in the first place.

So, when you’re planning your next travel itinerary, look toward the places that aren’t in the limelight. They can serve as a side trip on your journey through larger cities. Or, as the destinations themselves.

I feel very lucky to have traveled extensively throughout my 20s. Whether in my home state of California or on the other side of the planet, I’ve come across some special places that don’t get the credit they deserve. Here are some of my favorites.

 

 

1. Baños, Ecuador

Formally known as Baños de Agua Santa, the city of Baños combines serenity with adrenaline-pumping adventure. I spent two weeks volunteering in Quito, Ecuador’s capital city, back in December 2015. My fellow volunteers and I spent a weekend in Baños, and boy oh boy, did we have a great time. Only a 3-hour bus ride from Quito, Baños is adjacent to the active Tungurahua volcano and is known as “the gateway to the Amazon.”

Its lush hillside views and colorful buildings offer an escape you’ll be yearning to return to. While you’re here, I’d highly recommend zip lining and visiting Casa del Arbol, home of the “Swing at the End of the World.” If you aren’t faint at heart, bungee jumping is a MUST (the most terrifying yet freeing thing I’ve ever done). Also, if nightlife is your thing, bars and clubs are abundant.

 

 

 

2. Cambridge, England

I’ve never felt like I straight up hopped into a time machine as the day I visited Cambridge. Home of the world-renowned Cambridge University (founded in 1209), Cambridge is a collection of cobblestoned streets, pubs, and medieval architecture. A day here sufficed in allowing me to get a feel for the place, but I could have spent another two or three more.

The most magical part of Cambridge was punting on the river. I’d describe it as a cross between a gondola ride and a canoe, although a punt is a boat of its own. It felt like being on the small world ride at Disneyland, but—ya, know—ancient. In the states, we aren’t used to seeing buildings several hundred years old, so it’s humbling to be reminded of how far humanity has come. And also to see where some of the brightest minds in history studied.

 

 

 

3. Brugge, Belgium

What comes to mind when you think of Belgium? Waffles, chocolate, and beer, right? Well, turns out fancy schmancy buildings are also up there when it comes to things this western European country should be known for.

I popped into this place for a few hours while on a day trip from Brussels. Its canals, castle-like edifices, and cultural richness made it a place that couldn’t be skipped. Walking past the Gothic buildings and colorful Market Square felt like I was in a movie. I had to continuously rub my eyes to remind myself that, yup, it was real life. Oh, and did I mention that the city center is a UNESCO site? Back in its heyday, Brugge was one of the top commerce capitals of the world. Yet another reason to be wowed by this marvelous city.

 

 

 

4. Cardiff, Wales

Wales is the low-profile sibling of the UK. You never hear much from it, its inner environment is a mystery, and until you look at a map, you probably forgot it was there.

While you likely won’t see any whales in Wales (I had to make a dad joke), its capital city offers the perfect weekend stayover. A friend and I visited while studying abroad in London, and were pleasantly surprised by the mellow vibe and friendly people we met there. We loved visiting Cardiff Castle (and wishing we lived in it). She and I also spent a leisurely afternoon strolling along the Cardiff Bay Barrage, which runs next to the Severn Estuary.

 

 

 

5. Palolem, India

Goa is to India as the Phi Phi Islands are to Thailand: full of debauchery and on everyone’s bucket list. Goa itself, though, is a state on the western coast of India, kissing the shores of the Arabian Sea. While the northern part of this Indian state, indeed, upholds the party stereotype, the south is much more laid back.

I spent about a week in Palolem, and felt like I was on a honeymoon (with myself). This beach and the ones surrounding were so quiet, with shacks along the sand that served food and drinks. A friend of mine had a scooter (highly recommend renting one or becoming buddies with someone who does), so we visited Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary and Galgibaga Beach. We also kayaked at sunset on Palolem Beach. If you’re into yoga or meditation, there are plenty of classes offered here, as well.

 

 

 

6. Nacpan Beach, Philippines

Nearly every beach I’ve visited holds a special place in my heart, I’ll admit that. But Nacpan Beach takes up a liiittle more space than the rest. Located on the Philippine island of Palawan, this beach isn’t the easiest to access. In fact, my friend and I had to take a several-hour minivan ride from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. And then a turbulent rickshaw for nearly an hour from there to the beach. But it was well worth it.

We practically had the beach to ourselves, the waters were warm, and the views—well—those speak for themselves. Plus, no one yelled at us for camping out on the beach at night! To say Nacpan Beach was the epitome of tranquility would be an understatement.

 

 

 

 

7. Kathmandu, Nepal

Okay, so this place isn’t exactly unheard of. But I think it tends to be overlooked on a lot of Asia itineraries. Most of the time, people stop by this city on the way to one of many well-known trekking routes. But give Kathmandu a few days, and it’ll win you over.

My 3-week long stay here was unique in that I wasn’t working or volunteering anywhere, but rather, staying with a Nepali friend. Accompanying her to work and social functions, and meeting her family, I learned a lot about the country and its customs. The day after I arrived was the auspicious Hindu holiday, Shivratri. I also attended a village wedding with my friend’s mom. And finally, I became acquainted with the culinary and cultural nuances that set Nepal apart from its neighboring countries. (One word: Momo.)

 

 

 

8. Singapore

Again, another big city… But hear me out. Singapore is a utopia. It’s orderly. People follow rules there. (Say what?!) The city is known for its famous Gardens by the Bay and eye-catching Marina Bay Sands. However, there’s so much more to this island city-state that infuses it with charm.

Singapore is a mix of Mandarin Chinese, Malay, and Tamil cultures, with lingering British colonial traces. Its transit system is an experience of its own, and the city’s Botanic Garden is a tropical escape. The best way to experience Singapore? It’s hawker stalls! These are clusters of food stands located throughout the city. Singaporeans gather here to share meals, which are influenced by its diverse demographic, and feature items like ramen noodles, grilled meats, and even biryani. I loved people-watching here and taking in the aromas of various dishes.

 

 

 

9. Ayutthaya, Thailand

Step aside, Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Ayutthaya has its own set of remarkable temples and rich history. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, and used to be a major international trading port. However, it was demolished by the Burmese in 1767. The ruins still stand, weaved throughout the modern-day shops and homes that have emerged in the centuries since.

There was a kind of somber mood here as I walked through each temple complex. The heads of Buddha statues had been cut off, and bats now infest the insides of the temples. But still, it was humbling. I was reminded of my small role in the vast span of human history and all of the tumult, suffering, and change that has accompanied it. Ayutthaya was the perfect place to see how the present and past can often coexist.

 

 

 

10. Victoria, Canada

And last but not least, let’s head to the land of poutine and maple syrup. We all know about Vancouver. But what about her pretty little sister just down south? Victoria is a ferry ride away from “The Couve,” and offers myriad activities to enjoy. The city is much more compact than Vancouver, and has less of a metropolitan vibe.

For the brave and unsqueamish, there’s the Victoria Bug Zoo. If you want a more royal experience, head to Craigdarroch Castle (and try saying that five times fast). My personal favorite was The Butchart Gardens. We spent several hours in this idyllic collection of flowers and other unique plants from across the globe. All that was missing to complete the experience was a picnic on the lush grasses with some cups of tea!

 

 

Those are my favorite under-hyped travel destinations from around the globe. The world is massive and it’s both comforting and sad to know that we’ll never see all of it. But with the right intentions, an open mind, and curiosity for whatever comes, we can make meaningful experiences in the places we do get to see. These and other lesser-mentioned cities can offer you something unique and give you lessons you didn’t realize you were seeking.

I hope your journey takes you far and fills your soul. Have you been to any of these places? Where do you hope to go next?