stupid travel destinations

20 seriously weird places around the world

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• seriously-weird-places-around-the-world

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Rachel Mills

updated 11.07.2023

The world is a weird (and wonderful) place. And from a rose-coloured lake to a Japanese island ruled by cats, we've got twenty pictures to prove it.

20 of the strangest places in the world

1. spotted lake, british columbia, canada.

• 2. The Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland

3. Thor’s Well, Oregon, USA

4. pamukkale, turkey, 5. lake hillier, western australia, 6. badab-e surt, iran, 7. the tianzi mountains, china, 8. the nasca lines, peru, 9. the bermuda triangle, north atlantic ocean, 10. socotra island, yemen, 11. the hand in the desert, chile.

• 12. Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island, the Philippines

13. Red Beach, Panjin, China

14. plain of jars, laos, 15. goblin valley state park, utah, usa, 16. whale bone alley, siberia, 17. glass beach, california, usa, 18. the catacombs, paris, france, 19. fly geyser, nevada, usa, 20. cat island, japan, travel ideas for peru, created by local experts.

Peru: into the Incan Empire

Who were the Incas? What did they do? What happened to them? Discover the answers, and much more, with this unique trip into the heart of the former Inca Empire.

Female Empowerment Tour

From meditations in Miraflores over visits to craftswomen in Chincheros to gratitude rituals in the Sacred Valley. This itinerary will allow you to reconnect with your feminine energy and learn more about women's lives in Peru.

Culture, Nature and Adventure in Peru

Get to know Peru through its locals and breathtaking trails- full of history. Hop aboard a motorboat to get to know the local way of life of the Uros people, before you start the great Inca trail, where beautiful landscapes, archaeological sites and fresh air are waiting for you.

The Inca Empire and the Nazca Culture

Peru has a rich history and culture, this itinerary will give you a taste of just how special it is. Take a flight over the mysterious Nasca lines, head to Cusco for some brilliant archaeological sites and discover the Inca cities. This trip will leave you wanting more!

Peru - the modern, the iconic, the wild

Spend 12 days in magnificent Peru - famous Machu Picchu, legendary Titicaca Lake and the wild Amazon await. This tour is great for foodies with amazing Peruvian delights, for history and culture lovers in the Sacred Valleys as well as wildlife enthusiasts in the Amazon. Something for everyone!

Best of Peru & Galapagos Islands

Split your South America trip into two fascinating countries: Peru with Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, as well as ocean-facing capital Lima. Afterwards, proceed to the Galapagos Islands. You will stay on 3 different islands and explore many more.

Canada's Spotted Lake has long been revered by the native Okanagan (Syilx) people and it’s easy to see why they think of it as sacred. In the summer the water of the lake evaporates and small mineral pools are left behind, each one different in colour to the next.

The unique lake can be viewed on Highway 3, northwest of the small town of Osoyoos , although visitors are asked not to trespass on tribal land. If you're looking to explore more waters, read our selection of 20 breathtaking lakes around the world.

Spotted Lake in Okanagan valley in Canada is a truly funny place to visit © sebastienlemyre/Shutterstock

2. The Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland

Sixty million years ago a huge volcanic eruption spewed out a mass of molten basalt, which then solidified and contracted as it cooled, creating the cracks that can be seen today. There are an estimated 37,000 polygon columns at this World Heritage Site , so geometrically perfect that local legend has it they were created by a giant. It's a firm contender for one of the weirdest places on earth.

Consider taking a day tour from Belfast to explore the scenery . If you're thinking of heading further afield to find natural wonders, read our write-up on the  best volcanoes around the world .

The Giant Causeway with its otherworldly basalt columns is a very unique places to visit in the world © Shutterstock

In rough conditions at Thor’s Well in Oregon , also known as Spouting Horn, the surf rushes into the gaping sinkhole and then shoots upwards with great force. It can be viewed by taking the Captain Cook Trail from the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area visitor centre – but for your own safety stay well back, especially at high tide or during winter storms.

If you're looking to travel around the surrounding area, read up on our reasons for exploring either Portland or Seattle , or both!

Thor's Well © Mike Trachtenberg/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

A remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site in southwest Turkey, a visit to Pamukkale (Cotton Palace) also takes in the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, the once great city that was built around it. Water cascades from natural springs and down the white travertine terraces and forms stunning thermal pools perfect for a quick dip.

We recommend joining a small group tour to have a guide with you. If this is the first you've heard of Pamukkale, you may also want to find out more facts about Turkey .

Pamukkale's striking terraces are certainly a weird place to visit © Shutterstock

This remarkable lake is on the largest of the islands in Western Australia’s Recherche Archipelago. The lake keeps its deep pink colour year-round, which some scientists say is down to high salinity combined with the presence of a salt-loving algae species known as Dunaliella salina and pink bacteria known as halobacteria.

To really take in this spectacle, consider a scenic flight (1:40h) from Esperance airport . If you're travelling around this part of Australia, discover the must-see sights in our stunning gallery of Western Australia's remote northwest .

Pretty in pink: Lake Hillier — a seriously weird place © Shutterstock

These beautiful travertine terraces in northern Iran are an incredible natural phenomenon that developed over thousands of years. Travertine is a type of limestone formed from the calcium deposit in flowing water, and in this case it's two hot springs with different mineral properties. The unusual reddish colour of the terraces is caused by the high content of iron oxide in one of the springs.

There is plenty of colour elsewhere in Iran. Head to the Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Esfahan to find endless bright tiles in one of the biggest squares on the planet. Iran's Masjid i-Imam mosque also features in our round-up of awe-inspiring architectural wonders ,

Badab-e Surt at sunrise © Jakob Fischer/Shutterstock

Found in the northwest of Hunan Province in China , these staggering limestone pinnacles are covered in lush greenery and often shrouded in mist. A cable car goes as far as Huangshi village and from here there are plenty of trails to take in the breathtaking views of Tianzi ('son of heaven'). Unsurprisingly, they are the inspiration for the floating mountains in the blockbuster movie Avatar .

If you're looking to explore more of what the country has to offer, discover things not to miss in China .

Tianzi Shan Mountain Peak © Ayotography/Shutterstock

The animal figures and geometric shapes etched by the ancient Nasca into Peru’s barren Pampa de San José are one of South America ’s great mysteries. Visible only from the air or from a metal viewing tower beside the highway, some of the unexplained shapes are up to 200m in length and each one is executed in a single continuous line. It's most certainly one of the strangest places in the world.

The Nasca Lines are best to be explored from one of the scenic flights , to discover the huge figures and animals. Beyond the Nasca Lines, there is plenty more to explore in the fascinating country of Peru. From the Uros Islands to the Valley of the Pyramids, don't miss out on its must see sights .

The Condor © Robert CHG/Shutterstock

Long shrouded in myth and mystery, the infamous 500,000 square miles also dubbed the Devil’s Triangle is roughly the area between Bermuda , Florida and Puerto Rico .

Although the US Coastguard disputes any such area exists, conspiracy theories thrive on stories about unusual magnetic readings and ships, planes and people who have disappeared here without a trace.

Catamaran Sailing

Separated from mainland Africa more than six million years ago, this remote island looks like the set of a sci-fi film. Socotra’s incredible and unique biodiversity means that there are plants and trees here not found anywhere else in the world – particularly bizarre are the ancient and twisted dragon’s blood tree and the bulbous bottle tree. Definitely one of the most unique places to visit in the world!

Endemic dragon trees of Socotra Island © Michail Vorobyev/Shutterstock

Chilean sculptor Mario Irarrázabal is responsible for this very weird work of art rising out of the sand in the middle of Chile’s Atacama desert, 46 miles south of the city of Antofagasta . Irarrázabal is known for his works associated with human suffering and this huge unnerving sculpture captures a feeling of loneliness, exacerbated by its desolate and secluded location.

If you're a creative type, check out our selection of artwork around the world , you won't have to travel far for some of these.

The bizarre Hand in the Desert is one of the weirdest places in the world © Ksenia Ragozina/Shutterstock

12. Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island , the Philippines

Bohol’s 1700-odd conical hills dot the middle of the island in the Philippines . they range in height but are so regular in shape that they could be mistaken for being man-made. However, according to UNESCO they are the uplift of coral deposits and a result of rainwater erosion. The hills only earn their 'chocolate' nickname in the dry season when the foliage goes from lush green to brown.

Consider combining a trip to the Chocolate Hills with a visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary and a lunch cruise along the Loboc River. Bohol Island is just one of our favourite islands in the Philippines . Make sure to head to Olango Island to find migratory birds and try diving on Panago Island.

The famous Chocolate Hills on Bohol Island in the Philippines are one of the most interesting places in the world © Pelikh Alexey/Shutterstock

Very cool and very weird, this beach is covered in a type of seaweed called Sueda, which turns bright red in autumn. Thirty kilometres southwest of Panjin in China , these tidal wetlands are an important nature reserve for migrating birds. Only a small section of the beach is open to the public, but it can be explored via a wooden walkway that stretches out to sea.

Red Beach may just be one of China's best secret beaches. Head here quick, along with these other secret beaches around the world before the crowds arrive.

Red Beach in China, one of those unique, really weirdcore places © 54613/Shutterstock

Shrouded in myth, megalithic stone jars are scattered across Xieng Khouang Province , Laos , in groups from one to one hundred. A working theory is that the huge cylindrical jars were used in ancient funeral ceremonies, though local legend has it that the jars were used to brew rice wine for giants.

In the 1960s Northern Laos was subject to a massive aerial bombardment by the USA and it’s only been relatively recently that some areas have been cleared and declared safe for visitors.

Plain of Jars © Dmitry Chulov/Shutterstock

No, this is not Mars but an uninhabited valley 216 miles southeast of Salt Lake City in Utah in the USA . Soft sandstone has, for many years, been eroded by wind and water to form strange pinnacles or hoodoos that some think resemble goblins. The eerie landscape is only about a mile across and two miles long and it’s well worth exploring the marked trails to get up close to the bizarre formations.

Also relatively unknown is the fact that you can go on a spectacular canyoneering adventure in the Valley of Goblins. Looking for more outdoor adventures in Utah ? Why not stargaze in Antelope Island State Park?

Goblin Valley State Park © Natali Glado/Shutterstock

A stretch of the northern shore on remote Yttygran Island, 82km off the coast of Alaska , has become a macabre tourist destination. Massive whale jawbones, ribs and vertebrae stand horizontal in the ground forming an eerie alleyway.

It’s generally agreed that the site dates back to the fourteenth or fifteenth century, but whether it was a sacred spot for native tribes to meet or simply a gathering place for mass slaughter, no one knows. What we do know is that it stands as one of the weirdest places in the world.

Whale Bone Alley © Shutterstock

This glittering sea glass beach in California is a remarkable side effect of years of rubbish being dumped on the beach. It wasn’t until the 1960s that this was stopped and by then the sea was full of everything from electrical appliances to bottles and cans.

Over time, the waves broke everything down into colourful pebbles and the beach became a major tourist attraction – now ironically under threat because visitors are taking home the glass. It's not all glass on the beaches in the state! Here are the best 10 beaches in California if you're looking for sun, sea and sand.

Every trip is unique and that's why it's essential to stay protected. With our go-to travel insurance provider, Heymondo , you get great value and 24/7 support wherever you are.

Glass Beach © Shutterstock

The deeply creepy catacombs are a network of old quarry tunnels beneath Paris and the final resting place of around six million Parisians. Most are anonymous skulls and bones taken from the city’s overcrowded graveyards during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. It wasn’t until the authorities realised its potential as a tourist attraction that the bones were arranged in the macabre displays seen today. It's a sure contender for one of the strangest places in the world.

As a popular tourist attraction nowadays, make sure to get your Catacombs tickets beforehand to skip-the-lines . The catacombs are open from Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 8.30pm. If you're keen on exploring the underground of Paris, you might like to discover these  subterranean wonders elsewhere too.

Les Catacombes de Paris © I. Casavechia/Shutterstock

This otherworldly geyser is on private land on the edge of Black Rock Desert in Nevada . Created accidentally in 1964 after an energy company drilled down into geothermal waters, today a scalding fountain erupts up to five feet high and the resulting mineral build up means the cone is growing by several inches each year.

The brilliant hues of red and green are down to thermophilic algae. Interested in more beauties in this part of America? Read more about the most spectacular sights in Southwest USA .

Multi-hued Fly Geyser © Shutterstock

One of the weirdest places on earth has to be the Japanese Cat Island. A short ferry ride from Japan’s east coast, Tashirojima has a population of one hundred humans who are vastly outnumbered by their furry friends.

Originally the cats were encouraged since the island produced silk, and mice are a natural predator of silkworms. Local fishermen regarded them as good luck. The island even has a cat shrine, along with newly built cat shaped cabins for tourists to stay in. It goes without saying that there are no dogs allowed. If you're looking to find more animals on your travels, enjoy reading more about where to see animals up close in Japan, or further afield.

Cat island's feline inhabitants © SakSa/Shutterstock

For more inspiration, explore the most beautiful countries in the world — as voted by you. Or, if it's weird you're after, discover weird foods of the world .

Top image: Endemic dragon trees of Socotra Island © Michail Vorobyev/Shutterstock

This article contains affiliate links.

Rachel Mills is a freelance writer, editor and broadcaster based by the sea in Kent. She is a co-author for Rough Guides to New Zealand, India, Canada, Ireland and Great Britain a contributor to Telegraph Travel, the Independent, AFAR, DK Eyewitness and loveEXPLORING.com and an expert in sustainable, responsible tourism. Follow her @rachmillstravel on Twitter and Instagram .

• Philippines
• Inspiration

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Find even more inspiration here

Ready to travel and discover peru, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• GENERAL TRAVEL

Let Your Freak Flag Fly in These 20 Weird Travel Destinations

Megan Lee is an international educator, traveler, writer, & SEO. After leading study abroad p...

• button]:border-none [&>button]:bg-white [&>button]:hover:cursor-pointer [&>button]:hover:text-cyan-400"> button]:hover:text-cyan-400 [&>button]:bg-white hover:cursor-pointer" height="1em" width="1em" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg">

In GoAbroad's 20 years of existence , we’ve come across from pretty weird travel destinations. Whether for its geological uniqueness or a creepy story to pair with an already remarkable tradition, these peculiar locales make us shiver, do a double take, cringe. Maybe most important — they keep us coming back from more.

To celebrate 20 years of making travel meaningful, join us on a walk to the weird side with our favorite 20 weird travel destinations.

1. Dip Your Toes in Lake Retba, the Pink Lake of Senegal

Talk about weird travel destinations!!!

If you can’t swim with flamingoes, you might as well swim in a lake that looks like pepto bismol, right? Say the micro-algae that gives this lake it’s hue — dunaliella salina — three times fast. Now you’re closer than average to understanding the science behind it.

Meaningful ways to travel in Senegal:

• Work with Children in Senegal with Love Volunteers
• Learn French with Projects Abroad

2. Re-Enact Your Favorite Avatar Scene at Tianzi Mountains of China

Get whisked away in 天子山 in Hunan province

Pandora... but actually. Come see the landscape that inspired blockbuster film Avatar’s floating islands. It’s just as magical in real life, even without the blue people and floating whispies.

Meaningful ways to travel in China:

• Study abroad in Beijing or Shanghai with CISabroad
• Teach English and Au Pair in China with Lopair

3. Play with Quokkas at Rottnest Island in Australia

An island full of quokkas? Definitely towards the top of obscure places to visit!

Quokka like you mean it! If you haven’t fallen in love with these adorable macropods yet, welcome to a wonderful new chapter of your life. Quokkas, previously voted the happiest animal on the planet, run amok on Rottnest Island. They’re friendly, too!

Meaningful ways to travel in Australia:

• Work and travel with InterExchange
• Internships in Melbourne with the Intern Group

4. Get Triple-Digit Insta-Likes Thanks to the Pacific’s Rainbow Eucalyptus

This ain’t your everyday koala snack. Photo from Wikimedia

This living rainbow will wow the pants off anyone — even the color blind (maybe). Since the tree is believed to be endemic to the Philippines, specifically Mindanao island, it can also be called the “Mindanao gum” or “rainbow gum.” Now I’m craving Fruit Stripe. This bizarre vegetation definitely earns it’s place on our weird travel destinations list.

Meaningful ways to travel in the Pacific Islands:

• Get your PADI while saving marine life with GVI
• Teach English in Indonesia with Teach Away

5. Island-hop on a Dugout Canoe in Uganda’s Lake Bunyonyi

Bunyonyi, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Photo from Wikimedia

With agricultural terraces à la China/Vietnam and dotted islands à la western Canada, you might mistakenly think this magical freshwater lake in Southwest Uganda is having an identity crisis. Nope, it’s just beautiful Bunyonyi, your new favorite weird travel destination. Just be sure to stuff your gut with chapati before heading on your expedition!

Meaningful ways to travel to Uganda:

• Garden with women and children with Eco-Agric Uganda
• Learn Lugandan and Swahili with Carpe Diem Education

6. Fight Your Friends for Shade in Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei will blow your mind!

Picture this: You, your bestie(s), gorgeous red sand dunes, and the salty clay bottom of a million-year old lake (don’t worry, it’s all dried up now). The Namib Desert is full of treasures, but this surreal landscape is definitely their most unusual.

Meaningful ways to travel to Namibia:

• Spend a semester in Namibia with the Center for Global Education
• Year-long teaching positions in Namibia with World Teach

7. See a Pickled Dictator in Vietnam

You can view Ho Chi Minh’s body at his mausoleum in Hanoi

Okay, so pickled is a bit of a stretch. But, following in the footsteps of Mao, Lenin, and Stalin, you can see good ol’ Uncle Ho’s (Ho Chi Minh’s) body preserved in its final resting place. Pro tip: don’t go between September — early November, as he is usually sent to Russia for embalming. This stop is definitely one of Vietnam’s most obscure places to visit!

Meaningful ways to travel to Vietnam:

• Get paid to teach English in Vietnam with ITA
• International TEFL & TESOL Training’s TEFL courses in Vietnam

8. Fly Above the Nazca Lines in Peru

Best appreciated from above, the Nazca Lines is a no-brainer for our weird travel destinations list

Don’t worry, we’re (kind of?) sure this mystical place isn’t haunted…

Bypass oft-visited Machu Picchu and head to the south of Peru to experience one of the coolest connections to our shared human history on the planet. These large ancient geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert are up to 1200 feet long — you’ll be pretty disappointed if you opt to only see them on foot!

Meaningful ways to travel to Peru:

• Short term and semester study abroad programs in Peru with Maximo Nivel
• Volunteer projects in Peru with IVHQ

9. Meditate at the Birthplace of Buddha in Nepal

Try on Sherpa life before visiting this fave of obscure places to visit

He may’ve achieved nirvana and entered his next life from India, but the birthplace of Buddha is the city of Lumbini in south Nepal. Trek along windy Himalayan foothills to set your eyes on the white temple adorning his birthplace. It’s epic — and only a few hours drive from the bengal tigresses of Chitwan National Park.

Meaningful ways to travel to Nepal:

• Volunteer in Nepal with Projects Abroad  
• Teach abroad with ITTT in Nepal

10. Walk on a Troll Tongue in Norway

What do you mean you’ve never hiked a tongue?

Lace up your boots because you’ve got eight+ miles to traverse (one way) to find the grandest troll tongue you’ve ever seen. Tackle the 11 hour hike, covering steep terrain, snow covered plateaus, and icy ledges to uncover the tantalizing tastebuds of this mythical, cave-dwelling being.

Meaningful ways to travel to Norway:

• Complete high school abroad in Norway
• Master Norwegian with Languages Abroad

11. Test Death in Russia’s City of the Dead

Did it just get cold in here or is it just me? Photo from Wikimedia

Though their inhabitants didn’t quite make it, the ninety-nine individual crypts and tombs have survived hundreds of years. Dated to as early as the 12th century, this abandoned village is rarely visited — maybe due to the legend that no visitor ever comes out alive…?

Meaningful ways to travel to Russia:

• Get your degree at Russia’s Kazan Innovative University
• Perfect your Russian with Liden & Denz

12. Walk (Gingerly) Across the Rope Bridges in Cherrapunji, India

Mama always said having roots was a good thing, right? There’s nowhere else on earth where this is as true as in Cherrapunji. The Ficus elastica — or rubber tree — is native to India; beyond it’s usual gift of shade, these trees also provide the gift of shortcuts. The tree’s secondary roots double duty as sturdy bridges to cross the area’s many rivers. Weird, no?

Meaningful ways to travel to India:

• SLV Global’s Clinical and Ancient Psychology Internships in India  
• Indian conservation volunteer programs with GoEco

13. Survive the Poison Plants of Alnwick Garden

Beware — these beauties have bite.

The Poison Garden at England’s Alnwick Garden is gorgeous — and filled with plants that can kill you. But, before you cancel your plane ticket to Great Britain, consider this: there are over 100 varieties of drug and poisonous plants to bemuse, each hand selected because of their unique story to tell. Sniff away, friends!

Meaningful ways to travel to England:

• Theater study abroad programs in England with Performing Arts Abroad  
• Full degree programs in England at Queen Mary University in London

14. Spot George Bush in Wat Rong Khun in Thailand

Fascinated? Creeped out? Mesmerized? All of the above? Yup, this is a weird travel destination.

Carvings of ghoulish hands, modern celebrities and fictional characters, decapitated heads. Sounds like a pretty weird travel destination, huh? See all the weird and wonderful — and white — that this crazy temple in northern Thailand has to offer visitors.

Meaningful ways to travel to Thailand:

• Volunteer in Thailand with Volunteering Journeys  
•  Adventure travel around Thailand with Stray tours

15. High five (er, three?) the Hand of Hercules in Jordan

Go from zero to hero in 1...2...3

If your recipe for adventure includes mystery, then taking a peek at the hand of Hercules in Amman will stir your inner-Boxcar Children. Beyond the elbow and some fingers, the rest of this giant statue — presumed to be dedicated to Hercules — has yet to be found.

Is Hercules actually the demigod the ancients were trying to honor? What could it all mean…? And, most importantly, will Phil, the half-man-half-goat and his snark, be there, too?

Meaningful ways to travel to Jordan:

• Learn Arabic in Jordan with Language Vacation
• Study conflict and peace with FIE in Jordan

16. Clean Your Monkey Bits at Japan’s Jigokudani Hot Tub Park

Monkey spas might sound like a thing from outer space, but it’s not so — we earthlings are lucky to have one of our own in Japan. Translated to “Hell’s Valley,” travelers who trek to this super weird travel destination will be rewarded with more than a peep show to go ape for.

Meaningful ways to travel to Japan:

• Teach English in Japan with Gaba
• Score an internship in Japan

17. Study Hard at Elf School in Iceland

It might hard to pay attention in class with this adorable city just beyond...

Pro tip: Elves are not something to joke about when you’re trying to impress your new Icelandic friends — the locals take their folklore and elvish traditions very seriously. Instead, adopt the best way to maintain a straight face mid-conversation. Learn more about it. Get A’s in Elf School in Iceland!

Meaningful ways to travel to Iceland:

• Study abroad in Reykjavik with API  
• Experience Iceland Through Volunteers for Peace

18. Behold the Power of Mexico’s Giant Crystal Cave

BEHOLD THE POWAH!!

Get lost 400 feet below ground level in this fantastic cave dwelling — more than spiders and other creepy crawlies, this cavern is full of the world’s largest selenite/gypsum deposits. For the less science-y folk, that means crystals. Giant ones, actually. Thirty-six foot long ones. Whoa!

Meaningful ways to travel to Mexico:

• Adventure around Mexico with Frontier Travel
• Get your TEFL & teach abroad with TEFL Heaven

19. Get Your Own Beauty-and-the-Beast-Approved Library in Argentina

Be our guest! Photo from Wikimedia

This majestic (and weird) travel destination is a must-do for any traveler who loves to get lost in a good book. Once an ornate and active theater, the El Ateneo Grand Splendid in Buenos Aires is now one of the world’s grandest bookstores. Be sure to stick around for a cafe con leche on stage with your new novel!

Meaningful ways to travel to Argentina:

• Mente Argentina’s study abroad programs in Argentina
• Use your time in Argentina to master Spanish

20. In Ireland, You Can Scratch Your Ass in Public

Warm up your donkey impressions before visiting this weird travel destination.

Don’t make an ass of yourself and skip out on Ireland’s very own donkey sanctuary. Home to more than 3000 donkeys since its inception in the 1980’s, these fuzzy, friendly quadrupeds are natural fits on lists of weird travel destinations. Free snuggles and blue flowers with red thorns!

Meaningful ways to travel to Ireland:

• Study abroad in Limerick or Dublin with CISabroad  
• Semester Study Abroad with Foundation for International Education

What obscure places to visit did we miss?

We’re gearing up for 20 more years of adventures and meaningful travel. What weird travel destinations should be our first stops?

Find your next great adventure now

Look for the Perfect Program Abroad Now

Related Articles

By Gabrielle Sales | 2 days ago

By Hailey Jurd | 2 days ago

By GoAbroad Writing Team | 2 days ago

By Rebecca Murphy | August 14, 2024

Popular Searches

Study abroad programs in italy, study abroad programs in spain, marine biology study abroad programs, study psychology abroad, fall study abroad 2024, spring study abroad programs, recommended programs.

2583 reviews

International TEFL Academy

1705 reviews

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

2097 reviews

MAXIMO NIVEL

713 reviews

Intern Abroad HQ

For Travelers

Travel resources, for partners.

© Copyright 1998 - 2024 GoAbroad.com ®

• Study Abroad
• Volunteer Abroad
• Intern Abroad
• Teach Abroad
• TEFL Courses
• Degrees Abroad
• High School Abroad
• Language Schools
• Adventure Travel
• Jobs Abroad
• Online Study Abroad
• Online Volunteer Programs
• Online Internships
• Online Language Courses
• Online Teaching Jobs
• Online Jobs
• Online TEFL Courses
• Online Degree Programs

• Travel Guides
• Top Destinations
• Inspiration & Ideas
• Booking Tips
• Packing Guide
• Where to stay
• At The Airport
• How-to Guides
• First Times
• Travel Community
• World Flavours
• Travel Products

13 seriously weird places to visit

Have you ever just seen something so strange that you could not look away? I once saw a man in Vietnam drink a shot of Vodka with a still-beating snake heart inside and I was so fascinated that I could not look anywhere else. Is there something wrong with me? Well, let’s not deny it. We all love a little bit of weirdness in our lives.

It adds a touch of twisted enjoyment into our lives. Whatever that means. If you are shaking your head right now, keep reading. The world is full of weird yet very cool places created by both man and mother nature.

We are about to spice up your day with some seriously strange places on earth listed below!

Here are 10 of the weirdest places on Earth

• Nazca Lines, Peru
• Cat Island, Japan
• Chocolate Hills, Philippines
• Thor’s Well, Oregon, USA
• Red Beach, Panjin, China
• Crazy House, Dalat, Vietnam
• Glass Beach, California
• Tianzi Mountains, China
• Spotted Lake, British Columbia, Canada
• Pamukkale Pools, Turkey
• Giant’s Causeway, Ireland
• Salar De Uyumi, Bolivia
• Plain of Jars, Laos

1 Be confused by the Nazca Lines – Peru

Walking on the barren desert sands of Pampa San de José will not reveal anything out of the ordinary. Looking down from the sky, however, you will suddenly understand why this is one of the weirdest places on earth. From a bird’s eye view, you will clearly see thousands of lines up to 9 kilometres long etched into the ground forming hundreds of animal shapes and mysterious geometric sketches. These massive drawings are believed to be the work of the Nazca culture that thrived from 100 BC to 800 AD.

2 Make furry friends at Cat Island – Japan

Cat lovers, get ready to update your travel bucket list. There are 3 cat islands in Japan, each home to over 100 small and adorable cats and even fewer humans. Aoshima, the most famous of the 3 cat islands, stretches a modest 1.6 kilometres near the southern coast of Japan. The cats were introduced as a means to fix the island’s rodent problems. Today the cats have multiplied in population and have drawn many curious tourists.

3 Marvel at the Chocolate Hills – Philippines

Spanning across 50 kilometres are enormous, ready-to-eat chocolate drops. No, the hills are not made of actual chocolate, but rather are uplifts of coral that have been shaped by rainwater erosion into seemingly perfect mounds. During the dry season, the grass on all 1,700 hills turns brown, which explains its ‘chocolate’ appearance. It may be one of the weird places, but it is definitely a very unique sight to behold.

4 Go speechless at Thor’s Well – Oregon, USA

Make your way to the Oregon coast to witness one of the strangest places in the world. Located in the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, you will see Thor’s Well, a 6-metre-deep, bowl-shaped hole in the rocks draining and spouting up ocean water. It truly resembles something out of a sci-fi film.

5 Experience confusion at Red Beach – Panjin, China

During autumn, a unique seaweed called Sueda turns from green to a dark-red hue. As a result, the Sueda-covered wetland 30 kilometres south of Panjin transforms into a remarkable red beach. No swimming is allowed, but there is a wooden walkway to allow tourists to check out one of China’s most weird places to visit.

6 Bend your mind inside Crazy House – Dalat, Vietnam

Imagine Disneyland’s castle, but completely bizarre. Drawing inspiration from the natural environment of the city of Dalat, Vietnamese Dang Nga architect designed this bizarre house to resemble a giant tree. The 5-story house, riddled with enigmatic rooms and sprawling designs, draws tourists daily to appreciate the artistic expression in the design of a house.

7 Enjoy the colors at Glass Beach – California

Years of dumping garbage near the Fort Bragg coastline have led to unexpectedly strange yet beautiful results: colourful glass pebbles lining the beaches. The glass pebbles formed as the lapping waves broke down the littered bottles and cans over numerous years and have resulted in the beach being known as one of the most unusual places to visit in the world. Nature brings beauty, although sometimes in unexpectedly weird places.

8 Be mystified by the Tianzi Mountains – China

The Tianzi Mountains are an extremely unique example of the way the earth has developed over history. A product of millions of years of rising crust and running water erosion, the Tianzi Mountains are staggering greenery-covered peaks that seem to shoot vertically to the sky. With some peaks reaching over 1,200 metres high, the mountains can be observed from cable car access.

9 Witness the Spotted Lake – British Columbia, Canada

During the hot summer months in British Columbia, the 1.7-kilometre long Spotted Lake near Osoyoos evaporates, revealing colourful mineral deposits that give the ‘spotted’ look. The other-worldly appearance makes it a big draw for tourists seeking the weirdest places on earth. However, as the lake is a part of private property, no swimming is allowed.

10 Take a dip in the Pamukkale pools – Turkey

The UNESCO World Heritage site is a gorgeous yet very strange spectacle. Located in Western Turkey, Pamukkale is a small town known for its shimmering mineral-rich waters flowing down white travertine terraces. What results is an incredible formation of blue, heavenly pools that are open for a quick dip.

11 Admire the perfectness at Giant’s Causeway – Ireland

Formed after an enormous volcano eruption that blasted a mass of molten basalt six million years ago, these were the fractures of the consolidated and cooled aftermath. It is home to an estimated number of 37,000 geometrically perfect polygon columns. Legend has it that a giant built this structure as it seems almost impossible and weird for the polygons to be so geometrically flawless.

12 Be careful of the salt in Salar De Uyuni – Bolivia

The world’s largest salt flat, Salar De Uyuni. It is a dry lake of around 11,000 square kilometres that curated a landscape of crystal-like white salt ground. Classified as a cold climate desert, the temperatures are below 18 degrees Celsius (64.4 Fahrenheit). Well if you are daring, it is 100% safe to walk on the salt flat and even take reflection photos as your weird places discovery’s souvenior!

13 Awe at the Plain of Jars – Laos

Classified as one of the UNESCO Historical sites, these stone jars are located around the central plain of Xiangkhoang Plateau. The jars are clustered in varying numbers, from one to a few hundreds of them. According to local mythologies, these were created by Cheung after a victorious war to brew lao lao rice wine for the celebrations. However, as much as your curious and daring self would want to explore the whole of this weird place, do note that only a small portion of the area is safe for visiting.

These unusual places are worth a visit

The world is full of weird places, some are simply beautiful to gaze at while others leave you more confused than when you arrived. From cat-filled islands to heavenly white pools, these strange places on earth must be seen to be believed.

• Destinations
• Trip Planning
• Inspiration
• Weird Places

RELATED ARTICLES

Exploring the best foodie destinations for 2024, exploring sustainable travel: eco-friendly destinations to visit, adventure travel in southeast asia: thrilling experiences for adrenaline junkies, latest articles, the top 10 singapore bars to visit in 2024, most popular, the 5 most visited tourist attractions around the world, what are the seven wonders of the world, 10 places to visit before you die, thailand hidden gems: discover what makes thailand unique.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms Of Use

Copyright © 2024 Travel Wanderlust - All Rights Reserved.

God Save The Points

Elevating your travel

Ten Hilarious Tourist Attractions In The World’s Best Destinations…

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)

But to create the best travel memories, sometimes you’ve gotta think outside the box once you’re there; like dressing up as a video game character and zipping through the streets of Japan on a go-kart. Or – perhaps spending an overnight stay in prison?

We’ve compiled a list of utterly ridiculous, laugh, thrill or fright a minute activities in the world’s coolest cities – worth trying, at least once. They’re not the most culturally redeeming, or educational experiences, but for a fun day out, it doesn’t get much better.

Our pick? The beer bike.

Prague – Beer Bike

Beer and bikes with someone else driving? It’s a thing. This is definitely the funniest and most unforgettable way to see the sights of Prague. Grab up to 14 mates (or just try and join a group) and pedal your way around the city on this 14 person – far from ordinary bike.

There’s a bartender on board offering an unlimited supply of the best Czech beers while you all sing to your personally selected tunes. Don’t worry – this is completely safe, extremely enjoyable and you can instantly offset at least some of the calories.

Link: Prague Beer Bike

Tokyo – MariCar

If you were a Mario Kart fan as a kid, your virtual reality dreams may literally come true. You just need to get yourself to the incredible city of Tokyo. Drive around the city in a Go Kart dressed as your favorite Mario character, blasting out your own songs. Technically the brand may have lost the rights to call it Mario, but your characters will look the part anyway.

And don’t worry if people are staring, you’ll be having too much fun to notice, plus the Luigi outfit makes a great disguise. And yes, it’s not very popular with locals, but this is one where fun wins.

Link: MariCar

London – BB Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Afternoon tea is an institution in the UK, but when you can combine it with a desire to tick off London landmarks, it’s next level. If you’re from outside the U.K, seeing a classic London red bus is exciting, but having a delicious afternoon tea service whilst touring around the city with your friends makes it an experience you will always remember.

You can buy a ticket and be a part of the crowd, or you can even reserve the whole bus for a big party or just a table for a small group and enjoy tea, cakes, sandwiches, scones and more.. oh, and the sites of London! Champagne? Maybe!

Link: BB Afternoon Tea Bus

Seoul, Bau House Dog Cafe

For any dog lovers, this place is basically heaven on earth. Imagine a place where an endless sea of cute, cuddly dogs are eager to jump into your lap for selfies, cuddles and petting – all while enjoying a cup of coffee.

You may feel like a bit of a weirdo, but everyone in there is in the same boat! And hey, you only live once – and dogs are cute. Once you’ve experienced this, it’ll be onto owls, cats and all the other funky cafes in South Korea.

Link: Bau House Dog Cafe

Queenstown, New Zealand – Shark Boat

No, no – we’re not suggesting you go on a boat and get surrounded by sharks. A shark boat is a ridiculously cool jet boat, that looks like a fighter plane. It can dive underwater, shoot up vertically out of it and hit amazing speeds.

It’s pretty much the most fun you could ever have on the water, and Queenstown is the best place on earth to do it. If you can’t quite picture it, just watch the video – simply incredible. Once you’ve gone underwater, you’ll then need to skydive to appreciate stunning Queenstown from the air too. By the way, the water is clean, it’s estimated to be cleaner than the average bottled water. 

Link: Hydro Attack Queenstown

Stockholm – Sing with ABBA

If you’re a karaoke fan, this is taking it to a whole new level. At the ABBA museum in Stockholm you can sing and dance with ABBA holograms, wear digital costumes and make your own music video. This would be too embarrassing anywhere else, but in Stockholm it’s only right.

Becoming a dancing queen with Anni-Frid, Agnetha, Benny and Björn on stage is a dream for any ABBA fan and one you won’t forget – and if you usually need a drink to brave the karaoke stage, maybe have a boozy lunch beforehand!

Link: ABBA Museum

Munich – Eisbach River Surfing

When you think of cool places to go surfing around the world, Munich doesn’t spring to mind. But maybe it should? Forget sunshine, sandy beaches or even clear blue water – but nonetheless Munich offers a river surfing attraction absolutely worth a visit.

Experienced surfers can drop in for some big wave action, while spectators can just watch and hope people fall. Though it may be frowned upon, we see no reason not to go just to watch others.

Link: Eisbach Surf

Beijing – Fire Cupping Therapy

Tempting may not be the right word to describe this one, but curiosity just may burn you here. This is definitely a unique experience – and it’s *supposedly* good for you. What exactly is fire therapy you may ask? Well, it’s one of the most desired treatments to relieve stress.

You’ll have extremely warm little bowls put all over your back, designed to act like suction cups, and suck out all the bad vibes, energy and stress from your body. The US Olympic Team has done it, but you’ll look like you were beaten by spray paint cans for a few weeks. Hey, when in China, right?

Link: Klook Fire Cupping

Liepaja, Latvia – Karosta Prison

If you’re looking for a slightly terrifying experience, then take on the roll of inmate and spend the night in a prison cell for a hotel experience like no other. And just remember: you paid for this. Guards are played by actors and subject the guests to interrogation, abuse and punishments.

If that’s not tempting enough, it’s also supposed to be one of the most ghost infested locations in the world. Maybe bring Bill Murray as a guest?!

Link: Karosta Prison

London – GoBoat

Tube is efficient, walking is great, but zipping around the canal wearing a captains hat is epic. Enjoy the sights and beautiful canals of London by steering your own canal boat and cruising around the city. Amsterdam gets all the canal buzz, but London is equally fun on the water, with less crowding too.

The boat holds up to eight people and you can bring your own picnic and alcohol on board. This is the perfect way to enjoy a sunny day in London with family and friends. Just make sure you decide who gets to be captain first, alcohol and mutiny don’t mix!

Link: GoBoat

What are your favorite outside the box tourist attractions?

Featured image courtesy of Irvin Bernal

Gilbert Ott

Gilbert Ott is an ever curious traveler and one of the world's leading travel experts. His adventures take him all over the globe, often spanning over 200,000 miles a year and his travel exploits are regularly... More by Gilbert Ott

Join the Conversation

Doing Maricar next Thursday in Tokyo! Can’t wait.

Checking it out in September while were in Tokyo for a few days. Super excited since I grew up playing the original on SNES

I’ve tried Chinese fire cupping therapy by a street therapist in Sai gon, Vietnam . I was a bit scared before getting it. However, it exceeded my expectation. That was cool and relaxing! After taking the therapy, I slept well and often get sleepy around 9pm, though I often go to bed between 11 and 00h midnight. What an unforgettable experience. I’ll try again when I come back SaiGon.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Leave a comment

Travel better, for less.

Stay up to date on everything travel, with our handy newsletter

RoadsideAmerica.com

Your Online Guide to Offbeat Tourist Attractions

Attraction:

Find Attractions and Oddities

Quirky patterns.

Trunkations

Roadside America's Blog

• Muffler Man of Metal (And Neon)
• Conspiracy Thinking and Bathroom Convenience

Field Reports

• Sight of the Week , Sept 2, 2024: Rainbow Rock Shop Dinosaurs
• Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum
• Copper Queen Mine Tour
• Hugh Mongous: Beach Dude Gorilla Giant
• Bishop Castle
• Historical Rubber Duck Museum
• Desert Christ Park
• National Ballpark Museum

More New Reports

Latest Visitor Tips

• Earl Bunyon: Cowboy of the Plains , New Town, North Dakota
• Big Sturgeon , Indian River, Michigan
• Brick Head 3 , Indianapolis, Indiana
• Underground Mining Museum , Creede, Colorado
• Fish Ladder , Newcastle, Maine
• Black Aggie Statue , Washington, DC
• War of the Worlds Monument , Grovers Mill, New Jersey
• Breaking Bad Meth Candy , Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Wacky Taxidermy and Miniatures Museum , Mackinaw City, Michigan

More Visitor Tips

September 4, 2024

Map and Plan Your Own Roadside Adventure ... Try My Sights

Mobile Apps

Report an Offbeat Sight

Tell us about a new attraction or updated classic.

• Submit a Tip

Roll the dice .

Roadside Videos

Giants Among Us - Muffler Men . Anthem of the Muffler Men. Their singular focus on our attention comes in a range of styles and accessories.

Bishop Castle , Rye, CO. Jim Bishop, one-man castle builder. Our 1994 visit meshed with our 2023 check-up on progress. Astounding!

Cookout of the Gods . Eat and grill like mighty deities of Olympus, as we salute ever larger-portions along the highway!

Miscellaneous

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

Trip Planning Caution : RoadsideAmerica.com offers maps, directions and attraction details as a convenience, providing all information as is. Attraction status, hours and prices change without notice; call ahead!

Credits, Media/Business Inquiries © Copyright 1996-2024 Doug Kirby, Ken Smith, Mike Wilkins. All rights reserved. No portion of this document may be reproduced, copied or revised without written permission of the authors.

Wander-Lush

35 Unusual Holiday Destinations for Alternative Travellers

The very best quirky, unconventional and unusual holiday destinations for travellers who love to go their own way.

Do you consider yourself an unconventional tourist, or are you happy enough to stick to the path well travelled?

‘Off the beaten track’ is one of the most overused phrases in travel writing. In this day and age, there are few destinations truly worthy of such a title. But it’s also true that there’s never been a better time to break from the crowd and travel off the radar.

Also read: 25 best alternative city breaks in Europe .

Some of these holiday destinations are considered unusual because they’re remote and difficult to reach. Others have a harsh climate or are misunderstood, while some are simply overlooked for more touristy alternatives.

Whether it’s pristine nature, complete solitude or authentic cultural encounters you seek, this list has something for you. Compiled by a list of expert travellers, each of these places is utterly underrated and more than worthy of your consideration as an alternative holiday destination.

Browse the full list or use the links below to find a favourite.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

35 unusual holiday destinations that should be on your radar

With the help of my favourite travel bloggers, I scoured every continent to find the best unusual travel destinations worthy of a mention. Here’s what we came up with!

If you have anything more to add, please leave your suggestions in the comments section at the end!

1. Azerbaijan, the land of fire

Editor’s choice

Azerbaijan is a strong contender for the world’s most underrated holiday destination.

Compared to its more-popular neighbours, Georgia and Armenia , Azerbaijan’s relatively strict visa policy has been a deterrent for many travellers. But an e-visa introduced in 2017 now makes it easier than ever to travel to Azerbaijan .

Baku, the biggest city, is one of the most curious capitals in the world . Enriched by decades of oil wealth, it boasts ambitious architecture and large-scale civic projects including the Bulvar, a massive seaside boulevard along the Caspian, and the world’s largest flag pole. Icherisheher , Old Baku’s historic core, is a complete contrast, with its Zoroastrian tower and stone caravanserais.

Beyond the city, the otherworldly landscape of the Absheron Peninsula includes mud volcanoes and flaming hillsides (a result of all that subterranean oil). Go mountain hiking, visit the small towns of Guba and Lahic where artisans ply their traditional trades, and visit Sheki , home of the legendary UNESCO Site , the Palace of the Sheki Khans.

2. Oman, for a Middle Eastern road trip

The Middle East is the last place most people think of when planning a road trip. But Oman is the perfect place for self-driving.

New highways, cheap fuel and a surplus of things to see make this the perfect spot for an adventurous holiday. If you’re on a budget , you’ll be pleased to know that it’s perfectly legal to pitch a tent almost anywhere you fancy in Oman. A night of glamping in one of the country’s desert camps is also a must.

Start your road trip in Muscat, where you’ll find Oman’s premier cultural institutions and the lively Muttrah Souq, before making your way down the coast. At Ras Al Jinz, the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula, you can visit one of the world’s most active turtle nesting sights.

Inland, Oman offers sweeping deserts, dramatic mountains and valleys for hiking, and a variety of historic fortresses. Drop into some of the many wadis and sinkholes as you go to cool off from the desert heat.

Don’t judge Oman by it’s location on the map – this is an overwhelmingly safe, relatively budget-friendly and abundantly beautiful country with a strong tradition of hospitality and a vibrant, well-preserved cultural heritage.

3. The far north of Vietnam

Aside from super-popular Sapa and Bac Ha , far Northern-Vietnam is home to a number of lesser-visited national parks and alternative trekking spots. Second or third-time visitors to Vietnam should prioritise spending time in the north.

Ha Giang and Pu Luong both offer underrated landscapes largely free of crowds, while the charming colonial port city of Hai Phong has a similar vibe to Hanoi but with a much slower pace of life. Picking tea in Thai Nguyen, trekking in Moc Chau during spring bloom or tea-picking season , taking a boat out on Ba Be Lake and gazing up at the vertiginous rice terraces around Son La are just a few of the totally unique experiences you can have in Northern Vietnam.

Treat yourself to a local homestay while you’re there – this is far and away the best strategy to get an inside look at some of Vietnam’s many ethnic minority cultures. In Da Bac , yet another hidden gem in the far-north, you can stay with the community in traditional wooden houses while using the small villages as a base for trekking.

4. Transnistria, a breakaway state in Eastern Europe

By Luda from Adventures with Luda

Transnistria is an unconventional travel destination for two reasons. First, it’s referred to as ‘a country that doesn’t exist’. Even though it has its own constitution, army, currency, and citizenship, no other sovereign nation actually recognises it as such.

Secondly, Transnistria feels as though it’s stuck in time thanks to the Soviet posters, Lenin statues and 60s-style Khrushchyovka buildings sprinkled around town. Many travellers have called it a ‘Communist theme park’ because of how well-preserved everything is.

Transnistria is the perfect place for travellers who are interested in Soviet history and off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s easy to reach from Chisinau, Moldova or Odessa, Ukraine and can be part of a day trip or a longer journey.

The majority of things to do in Transnistria are in Tiraspol, the capital. Start off with a walk along October 25th Street, the main road that runs through the city, before stopping at the colourful House of Soviets. See the historical moments on Suvorov Square and take a peek inside the City Library, which still has its Soviet-era murals.

5. Nicosia, the world’s last divided capital

By Helen from Helen on her Holidays

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is the world’s last divided capital city.

Since 1983, the city has been split by the ‘Green Line’, a border between the Republic of Cyprus and Turkish-controlled Northern Cyprus.

The border was completely sealed and crossed only by UN peacekeeping forces for decades, but in 2008 the restrictions were relaxed. Today it’s possible to visit both parts of Nicosia . The border crossing and distinct character of the two sides of Nicosia make it one of the world’s most unusual city breaks.

The Greek-speaking Republic side of the border is much like other European capitals, with Starbucks, McDonalds and H&M all present. But at the end of the main shopping street there’s a border crossing, and if you cross into North Nicosia it’s immediately clear that you’ve stepped into a completely different culture.

Both sides of Nicosia have interesting sights, but North Nicosia has the edge in atmosphere and attractions. Don’t miss the stunning mosque set in a former cathedral and the medieval caravanserai.

6. Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, a hidden gem in Canada

By Lee & Stacey from One Trip at a Time

Most visitors to Nova Scotia will likely visit Halifax, the South Shore, or drive the Cabot Trail. Those who are a little more adventurous might hike the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton , part of the coastal road that encircles the island.

If you’re looking for somewhere less travelled, check out the Annapolis Valley , which may be more than you expect!

History buffs will find places to learn about this part of Canada including the Grand-Pré, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the tragic story of Acadian expulsion, and Port-Royal, the first European settlement in Canada founded in 1605.

Food and wine lovers can savour the flavours of the region: Taste hand-picked berries, take a wine tour and tasting at one of the many vineyards, and try the apples the Valley is known for. Locals have been celebrating the annual Apple Blossom Festival here since 1933.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to love. You can go whale watching in the Bay of Fundy, hike along coastal cliffs or forest trails leading to waterfalls, or canoe and back-country camp in one of the province’s parks or wilderness areas.

All of this is just a taste of what this vibrant region of Nova Scotia has to offer.

7. Mississippi Gulf Coast, the ‘secret coast’

By Charles from McCool Travel

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is one of America’s most underrated destinations and should top every intrepid traveller’s wish list.

This relatively undiscovered area – also called Coastal Mississippi (or The Secret Coast) – is located between New Orleans and Mobile Alabama, and highlighted by gorgeous beaches (with magnificent sunrises and sunsets), abundant waterways, fresh seafood, and a quirky culture.

Popular Coastal Mississippi outdoor activities centre around the USA’s largest man-made beach and largest free-flowing river. At 26 miles wide and 200 feet deep, the continuous beach from Pass Christian to Biloxi is a constant enticement for travellers on the Gulf Coast Scenic Byway. Explore the Pascagoula River on a guided McCoy’s Swamp Tour or rented kayak from Pascagoula River Audubon Center.

Mississippi Gulf Coast is a wonderfully unique and rare coastal ecosystem because of its magnificent live oak trees which magically enhance its two phenomenal small beach towns, Ocean Springs and Bay St Louis.

During your Coastal Mississippi visit, try every version of shrimp and grits and savour as many sunsets as you can.

8. Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, the ‘singing sands’

By Dean and Laynni from Routinely Nomadic

Despite being the most popular destination in Mongolia (which really isn’t saying much considering how few tourists make it there), most travellers still know very little about the sprawling natural beauty of the Gobi Desert .

Fascinating and diverse, it features an impressively desolate and atmospheric desert, along with the 300-metre high ‘singing sands’ of Khongoryn Els, the tallest and most picturesque of the country’s extensive series of wild sand dunes. But there is far more to the Gobi than just desert.

The most efficient way to visit is by rustic-but-adventurous jeep tour. On a typical 7-day, 6-night excursion, you can try horseback riding through the steppes and camel riding through the dunes, enjoy cosy nights and typical Mongolian BBQ in traditional gers , and explore the Flaming Cliffs, the Olgiid Khiid monastery, Yolyn Am gorge, and the deceptively named White Stupa (which is actually a set of stupa-like rocks).

Needless to say, the Gobi Desert has a little something for everyone, except maybe those looking for a decent toilet.

9. Lithuania, a history buff’s dream

By Monica from This Rare Earth

Lithuania is a little-known country in Eastern Europe filled with castles and forests, shore line and old-town charm.

The capital city of Vilnius was the first of four places in Lithuania to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Sight. A charming blend of old and new, Vilnius is a city of contradictions that any traveller can fall in love with.

Many of the notable sights in Vilnius, Lithuania are completely free to visit. St. Anne’s Church offers an amazing example of architecture, with its stunning gothic-style facade, and the Cathedral Square with its tall white bell tower is stunning. So much of the city’s history can be discovered on a walk around Old Town Vilnius .

An extensive bus system covers the country and can take you to locations such as Trakai Castle, the port town of Klaipeda, and – reachable by ferry – the unbelievable Curonian Spit.

Thirty percent of the country is covered with forest and nature. Between the unspoiled wilderness and the charm of the historical cities, there is truly something for everyone in unexpected Lithuania!

10. The Bahamas Out Islands, an unconventional island paradise

By Jackie from Enjoy Travel Life

If you’re thinking of a tropical getaway to the Caribbean but feel discouraged by overcrowded beaches and towering resort chains, look to The Bahamas Out Islands. This collection of small islands south of the popular Grand Bahamas offers deserted beaches, unspoiled nature and secluded bungalows.

Here you’ll find an exclusive, unconventional island paradise.

Perhaps you’ve heard about The Abacos or Eleuthera, but as you travel further south along the archipelago, the islands become almost unknown: Cat Island , Crooked Island and Ackins each offer unique island beauty. 

You’ll enjoy the laid-back beach vibe, fruity rum drinks and delicious Bahamian seafood dishes – try Conch and Grouper! If you’re seeking more adventure, you can scuba dive along the islands’ rich coral reef or kayak through the mangroves. You might even try bonefishing or wind-sailing.

Be sure to pack several bathing suits and leave your laptop behind. While some resorts may have Wi-Fi in the common areas, it’s spotty at best. Rest assured, there’s no better place for a digital detox.

11. The High Canadian Arctic

By Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper

Nunavut is a seldom traveled destination, but one that deserves a place on any traveller’s bucket list. The largest territory in Canada, Nunavut covers one fifth of the country and extends into the High Arctic, nearly reaching the North Pole.

This land is vast, characterised by rolling tundra and meandering icebergs, ragged cliffs and frozen sea ice. As one of the most remote regions on the globe, activities out on the land are varied and plentiful, including snowmobiling, dog sledding, hiking and kayaking.

Travellers on a budget can explore the capital city of Iqaluit and experience a taste of life north of the 60th parallel. Those with larger budgets can join wildlife safaris and witness wild animals including polar bears, narwhals, beluga, walrus and caribou.

Regardless of the type of trip, any time in Nunavut will leave you craving more. Its magical environment is one that lingers long after the flight home has landed.

12. Lichtenstein, a tiny country with big heart

By Derek & Mike from Robe Trotting

An amazing destination in Europe that doesn’t attract a lot of tourism is the micro-state of Liechtenstein. One reason this tiny country is so unconventional is the fact that it’s doubly land-locked by Austria and Switzerland. It’s also a mere 25 kilometres long. 

While it may lack territory, there are surprisingly a lot of things to do in Liechtenstein . There are five castles to visit, two of which have been fully restored and three more that are ruins. The royal family also maintains a vineyard and wine cellar in Vaduz, the largest city and capital. Visitors can enjoy a walk-in tasting and wine dinners can be arranged for larger groups. 

In Liechtenstein you’ll also discover beautiful natural wonders. Hiking is one of the most popular activities and Eschnerberg Trail is one of the most-hiked trails in the entire region. The views of the Alpine Rhine and mountains are reason enough to visit Liechtenstein.

13. Iran, the home of hospitality

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

Iran is often portrayed in the media as a dangerous destination, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s one of the most diverse countries in the world, which makes it a great destination for any kind of traveller.

In Iran, you’ll find rich history, nature, architecture, culture and adventure. But what defines this country is its people. The hospitality you experience has no comparison; it’s simply reason enough to book a ticket.

The country is big, so dedicate as much time as possible to explore it. In a couple of weeks, you can fit in the main sights: Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, the Silk Road city of Shiraz and Persepolis. If you have more time, add Kerman and the Lut desert to the list, the ancient citadels of Rayen and Bam, and Qeshm and Hormuz islands for stunning nature.

If you want to go absolutely off the beaten path and experience the nation’s hospitality at its very best, also include Iranian Kurdistan in your itinerary.

14. Iraqi Kurdistan, a diverse corner of the Middle East

By Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

Iraqi Kurdistan  is not a well-known travel destination due to the negative portrayal and misconceptions fuelled by the media. First of all, it’s crucial that we understand that Iraqi Kurdistan is an autonomous region recognised by the Republic of Iraq.

It means that Iraqi Kurdistan has its own borders and their own government and military. Therefore, when you hear something about Iraq in the news, that’s most probably not valid for Iraqi Kurdistan.

To see the reality, we have to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan. Iraqi Kurdistan, similarly to Iran, is an extremely safe travel destination.

The first thing that you will learn about in Iraqi Kurdistan is Kurdish hospitality. Hospitality is definitely running in the veins of Kurdish people. They cherish their visitors like a precious jewel and treat them with utmost respect and care. People are so friendly and deeply kind that Iraqi Kurdistan will just get under your skin and you will not want to leave. One feeling that this place can give visitors is that the world would be a much better place just by simply being kind to each other.

In Iraqi Kurdistan, there are tons of mind-blowing places to visit.

Kurdistan offers a plethora of natural beauties such as the Rawanduz Canyon, Halgurd Mountain and Dukan Lake which are perfect hiking destinations as well. You can also witness a lot of cultural diversity in Iraqi Kurdistan. You can learn about Muslim, Christian and Yazidi cultures.

The capital, Erbil, is one of the oldest cities in the world where you can find historical sites, old bazaars, cosy cafés where you can get to know friendly locals.

Some of the oldest Christian monasteries of the world, namely Mar Mattai Monastery and the Rabban Hormizd Monastery are to be found in Iraqi Kurdistan. Another iconic and very important cultural site is Lalish, the most sacred place of the followers of Yazidi faith, where you can only enter barefoot.

15. Pakistan, mother nature at her finest

By Samantha from Intentional Detours

Pakistan might just be the most underrated holiday destination in the world. Dozens of record-breaking mountain peaks, lush green valleys, hundreds of kilometres of coastline, a rich cuisine that constantly awes the tastebuds – plus some of the friendliest people in the world – all make this South Asian destination a traveller’s dream.

Perhaps the best thing about Pakistan is that it yet remains mostly undiscovered by foreign tourists. Though numbers are steadily increasing, it’s not uncommon to go weeks without meeting a fellow foreigner when you’re on the road.

Pakistan’s mountains are its crown jewel, and no trip to the country would be complete with a visit to Gilgit Baltistan. Though the Hunza district gets all the glory, don’t be afraid to get a bit off the beaten path and explore places like Ghizer Valley, a beautiful hamlet filled with the bluest lakes and rivers you could ever dream of.

It’s easy to get lost in the mountains, but skipping out on Pakistan’s historical places would be akin to a crime. The country boasts thousands of years of human history, and cities such as Lahore reveal pieces of the Mughal Era everywhere, from the 300-year-old mosques to summer pavilions, tombs, and vast gardens.

The southern province of Sindh is also teeming with historically and culturally important sites and should not be missed, especially when it cools down come October.

16. Sumba, a Bali alternative

By Sarah from Hotels & Hand Luggage

Sumba is a relatively unknown Indonesian island that’s just an hour and a half flight from Bali.

The landscape is teeming with beautiful photo spots including deserted beaches, dancing trees, rolling hills, traditional villages and hidden lagoons. Unlike Bali however, it’s likely you’ll arrive at these enchanting places without any other tourists around.

Sumba is larger than Bali so hiring a driver is a must if you want to make the most of your time here. The island is divided into east and west, with the locals on each side holding different ancient traditions.

There aren’t many hotel options on the island and most offerings are still very basic, but the lack of comfort is worth it to experience a place still steeped in tradition. One accommodation option well worth a visit is Maringi Eco Resort by Sumba Hospitality Foundation, a small, eco-friendly hotel and restaurant that trains young Sumbanese students in hospitality.

17. Small-town Slovakia, one of the most unusual holiday destinations in Central Europe

By Kami from Kami & the Rest of the World

Slovakia isn’t exactly the most popular country in Europe Even if tourists decide to visit, they usually only go to the capital city, Bratislava. But Slovakia has so much more to offer. There are so many amazing yet lesser-known places to visit in Slovakia that you should visit before everyone else does.

While Bratislava is a nice place to see, the second-largest city, Kosice offers even more attractions – from historical monuments to amazing cultural spaces and a wonderful food scene.

In Slovakia, you can find one of the most beautiful and impressive mountain ranges in Europe, the High Tatras, with its highest peak Gerlachovský štít at 2,655 metres AMSL. The nearby Spiš Castle is one of the largest castles in Central Europe and a truly remarkable site.

If you like to visit charming Central European towns, you’ll find plenty of them in Slovakia. Bardejov, Banska Stiavnica and Levoca are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

18. Grenada beyond the beach, for a unique holiday in the Caribbean

By Michele from A Taste for Travel

Although famous for its white-sand beaches, this fertile mountainous island might be one of the most overlooked destinations in the Caribbean when it comes to outdoor adventure and cuisine. And while beautiful Grand Anse beach does deserve its many accolades, unconventional travellers will discover it’s well worth exploring beyond Grenada’s beaches.

Top things to do include trekking to sky-high crater lakes, jumping into Concord Waterfall or snorkelling among coral-draped statues within the Underwater Sculpture Museum. After a full day of outdoor adventure, it’s possible to relax in comfort at one of the luxury hotels in Grenada where accommodation options include beach bungalows with plunge pools, hilltop suites and contemporary villas overlooking the sea.

Unlike other destinations in the Caribbean where all-inclusive resorts promote mass tourism, many of Grenada’s hotels are independently owned and operated. They offer travellers a way to experience the island’s unique rhythm, character and local cuisine.

Must-try dishes and drinks to try when visiting the ‘Spice of the Caribbean’ include rum punch topped with freshly-grated island nutmeg, oil down (a hearty stew featuring callaloo, root vegetables, coconut milk and chicken), bean-to-bar chocolate and doubles, a savoury spiced snack.

19. Chile’s Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth

By Dalya from Sweet Little Journey

If you love extreme, unique and completely remote holiday destinations, the Atacama Desert should definitely be on your list.

Located on the northern tip of Chile and spanning over 40,000 square-miles, this is the driest place on Earth. Walking through the landscape will make you feel like you’re treading on a completely different planet. In fact, given its uncanny similarity to the surface of Mars, NASA uses this terrain to simulate conditions when testing their rovers!

Aside from the extraterrestrial landscapes, you’ll find various volcanoes, red and pink lagoons , salt lagoons, alpine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. There’s only one small town in this whole desert, San Pedro de Atacama , which serves as the perfect home base for exploring all the different attractions here.

Given that there are no other settlements for many miles aside from San Pedro, the Atacama Desert has the clearest night skies on Earth.

20. Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley, prime hiking country

By Stephen from MonkBoughtLunch

Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley is off the beaten track even for a relatively un-touristed country. While most international travellers head primarily to the Pamir Mountains in the east of the country, the Fann Mountains in the northwest offer just as much in terms of scenery – and are arguably even better for trekking.

Of all the treks in the region, camping in Kulilkalon is one of the most popular – and for good reason. A string of sparkling mountain lakes that stretch across Kulikalon are fed by glacial streams that run down the valley, and on every side towering snow-capped peaks and a handful of beautiful glaciers dominate the view.

Though transport options are limited and expensive in rural Tajikistan, Kulikalon is made even more attractive by proximity to a rough road. It’s possible to hike up and back as a day trip from the nearby Artuch camp or to make a multi-day trek over the Alaudin Pass and down to the eponymous lake below, returning to a different trailhead in the Alaudin Valley or pushing on deeper into the heart of the Fann Mountains.

21. Asturias, Spain’s cheese capital

By Dagney from Cultura Obscura

The Asturias region of Northern Spain is definitely one of the most underrated parts of this otherwise highly touristed country.

For visitors from outside of Spain, the most likely reason for visiting is the Camino, which passes through the Asturian countryside. In general, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. The countryside is full of picturesque towns and beautiful lakes.

However, there is so much more to see and do here. Foodies in particular will love Asturias. The region produces over 50 different cheeses, while nearly every town and city has at least one local cider.

Oviedo, the capital of the region, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just outside the city, you’ll find La Iglesia Skate, a church that’s been converted into a skate park and is full of beautiful, vibrant paintings.

In Gijón , another major Asturian city in Spain , you can visit the Universidad Laboral, the biggest building in Spain, or head to the International Bagpipe Museum.

22. Palestine, the heart of the Middle East

By Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Palestine is a terribly underrated destination, and many who travel to the Middle East decide not to visit for fear that it may be dangerous or unwelcoming. It’s actually quite the other way around.

People in Palestine are the epitome of friendly, and they go above and beyond to make visitors feel like guests of honour. Add to that the rich, intricate history, the archeological sites, the natural wonders and the delicious food (and even wine and beer!), and it’s easy to see why this is a place you should not skip when you’re in the region.

Among the highlights of visiting Palestine there’s exploring the city of Bethlehem, where you will find the Church of the Holy Nativity, the Chapel of the Milk Grotto and the West Bank Separation Wall that has been adorned with many murals. There also are also a few Banksy pieces scattered around. Not far from Bethlehem, the Israeli-controlled Palace of Herodion is another very interesting site.

Hebron, a city terribly fought over by Jews and Muslims, should also be visited. Similarly, Ramallah – the current administrative centre – is a city thriving with life. Finally, make sure to go to the Baptismal Source at the River Jordan for a truly mystical experience.

The easiest way to get into Palestine is from Jerusalem. Take bus 231 from the bus station near Damascus gate. Be sure to bring your passport with you and the Israeli custom slip you get at the airport, as you’ll need it to get back into Israel to continue your journey.

23. Gopeng, Malaysia’s little-known heritage town

By Marco from Penang Insider

Gopeng is only 20 km south of Ipoh , but it’s shamefully overlooked, notwithstanding being one of West Malaysia’s top adventure eco-tourism destinations.

Set on a bend of the Kampar river, Gopeng is tiny but boasts natural wonders including Gua Tempurung and Gua Kandu, two of the country’s biggest caves, and tall waterfalls such as Ulu Geruntum, a popular abseiling spot. There are plenty of eco-friendly activities around, including stand up paddle boarding and a tree-top obstacle courses offered by Nomad Adventure.

Further inland is Ulu geroh, an orang asli (Malaysian aboriginal) village from where you can strike out on a short trek to see the Rafflesia in bloom. The world’s biggest flower can be a bit smelly, but the packs of rare rajah Brooke butterflies you’ll spot along the way make up for the stink big time.

Back in town, don’t forget to visit the Heritage House for a dive into the area’s colonial history, and the Gopeng Museum for a simple yet informative look at the town’s tin mining past.

24. Bhutan, for time-honoured traditions and unspoiled landscapes

By Sonakshi & Mainak from Places In Pixel

Bhutan is a tiny landlocked country perched in the Himalayas. Due to its location and restrictions around tourism, Bhutan remains an under-explored destination even today. But it’s exactly this reality that makes Bhutan scenically spectacular and a must-visit unconventional destination.

Apart from the usual things to do and places to visit in the major cities of Thimphu, Paro and Punakha, Bhutan has a lot to offer travellers who are willing to try something different. The most unique things to do in Bhutan include:

• Hiking up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery – nestled high on a precarious cliff, it’s said that a Buddhist Master (Guru Rinpoche) flew on a ‘flying tigress’ and meditated here for months.
• Trying Ema Datchi (Chilli Cheese) – the national dish of Bhutan is a deliciously spicy stew made of chilli peppers, onions and locally produced yak cheese.
• Watching the ‘flag down’ ceremony in Thimphu – this takes place every evening at 5pm with great honour and traditional flair.

25. Benin, the birthplace of Voodoo

By Helen from Helen in Wonderlust

Benin is a magical place full of mystery and superstition. Whilst West Africa is a notoriously difficult area to travel to due to the heat, visa restrictions and lack of tourist infrastructure, Benin is an incredibly rewarding destination for the intrepid traveller.

It is also the birthplace of the Voodoo religion.

Voodoo is one of the oldest and most complex religions in the world. It’s often demonised in popular culture, and yet there’s a lot more to this ancient way of life than meets the eye. The word Voodoo itself means ‘spirit’; practitioners believe that everything is alive and connected spiritually.

As well as discovering the ‘secrets’ of Voodoo , there are plenty of other things to do in Benin. You can gain an insight into the trans-Atlantic slave trade on the Route des Enclaves, relax on the beaches of the south coast, see a very different way of life at the Ganvie Stilt Village, and learn about the history of the powerful Dahomey Empire in Abomey. 

Benin is a French-speaking country, therefore having a good understanding of the French language or having a guide that can translate for you is essential.

Go with an open mind and prepare to be blown away.

26. Northern Tunisia, for unusual beach holidays

By Stephanie from The Africa Cookbook

While most travellers think of Sousse and other popular beaches in Tunisia when they start planning a vacation, anyone who heads to the north instead of the south will find a wealth of hidden gems to discover.

The white-washed town of Sidi Bou Said on the water has a Greek-island feel, while Lake Ichkeul is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also head to Cap Angela, the northernmost point in the country, where you’ll find a beautiful lighthouse and a statue of the African continent as well as some gorgeous seascapes.

If you’re interested in Carthaginian and Roman history, you can visit the ancient city of Utica, which you’ll find practically empty for much of the year. Yes, you can walk around a millennia-old city and imagine what it would have been like in its heyday without competing with noisy, modern crowds.

Be sure to enjoy the local Tunisian cuisine, which is both tasty and economical.

27. Greenland, for remote adventures

By Kay from The Awkward Traveller

There are many myths and stereotypes about Greenland , simply because it’s not the first country most people think of for a holiday.

Technically a territory of Denmark, it’s a challenging destination to visit due to expensive flights and limited availability. There are so few visitors that some airports don’t even have a baggage carousel.

However, if you can manage to get there, you’ll find this is a country full of colourful buildings, dramatic landscapes, and unique culture.

Although it’s one of the least populated capitals in the world with only 16,000 residents, Nuuk is the busiest and most active of all Greenlandic cities. Somewhat surprisingly, it’s filled with art and museums as well as nods to Greenlandic history and mythology in its various statues and memorials.

In Greenland, the availability of activities varies entirely based on the seasons. Summer offers hiking and festivals , while winter brings snowmobiling, sledding, and amazing displays of the Northern Lights.

28. The Falkland Islands, for extreme wildlife encounters

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

The Falklands Islands, or Islas Malvinas as they’re also known, are a destination like no other. They’re a place where you can truly get away from daily life and enter a world that seems unencumbered by modern distractions.

Here, the wildlife rules, and you’ll get well-acquainted with many species as you tour some of the islands that make up this Southern Archipelago off the coast of Argentina. The penguins of the Falkland Islands are the main drawcard, and there are five different species to discover – from the regal King Penguins to the curious little red-eyed Rockhoppers.

Then there are the formidable elephant seals, the talkative sea lions, the hundreds of different birds, and a few unlikely additions too. Both reindeer and foxes roam on two of the islands.

Wildlife aside, the islands are an amazing place to go trekking, explore untouched beaches and enjoy old-school hospitality. Get around by using the Falklands’ dedicated air service, FIGAS, to island-hop.

29. Montenegro’s national parks, beyond the bay

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Most visitors to Montenegro spend their time in the Bay of Kotor. While undeniably beautiful, there is so much more to discover beyond the coastline.

Take the scenic and winding Kotor Serpentine to the village of Njegusi to visit the humble home where Njegoš, Montenegro’s most influential poet-philosopher, was born. Head further up to Lovcen National Park where you can hike and visit the mausoleum of Njegoš. Stop by the old Montenegrin capital of Cetinje to visit the iconic monastery and admire the architecture.

Lake Skadar National Park is another must-visit in Montenegro . Boat tours are available from Virpazar or the sleepy village of Rijeka Crnojevica. The surface of the lake is covered with lily pads, and you can see any number of birds here.

Up north, Durmitor National Park , the only UNESCO-designated park in Montenegro, offers stunning vistas and the chance to do some epic hikes. Go river rafting on the Tara River and visit the Tara Canyon Bridge, which spans one of the deepest canyons in the world.

30. The Faroe Islands, A self-governed archipelago in Europe

By Supriya from Fun Travelog

Europe has thousands of island destinations to choose from, but the Faroes still remain relatively unspoiled thanks to their location.

The Faroe Islands is an independent nation comprised of 18 small islands located between Iceland and Norway. Governed by Denmark, it’s a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers particularly.

Begin your journey by flying into the small and vibrant city of Torshavn, the country’s capital, which is connected by short flight from Copenhagen , Paris, Reykjavik, Bergen or Edinburgh . Make your first stop at the Gásadalur to see the famed waterfall from a marked trail.

From there, every moment of your journey in this small country will be replete with awe-inspiring sights. There are lots of hikes in Faroe Islands , but the most beautiful ones are definitely on the coast of Vagar Island and in Gjógv.

For a completely unique experience, take a 30-minute boat ride to the island of Mykines, which is home to thousands of puffins. They aren’t at all perturbed by human presence and watching them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

31. Ukraine, for budget-savvy travellers

By Inessa & Natalie from Through a Travel Lens

There are only a few destinations left in Europe that still remain under the radar. Ukraine is definitely one of them. 

Geographically one of the biggest countries on the continent, Ukraine offers something for every travel taste, from sunbathing by the Black Sea in Odessa to hiking in the Carpathians, wandering the magical streets of old Lviv, and exploring the caves of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Pechersk Lavra in Kiev.

It’s best to save at least two weeks to explore Ukraine’s most popular locations. Kiev alone deserves at least four days, let alone the numerous great weekend breaks and trips you can take from the capital. In addition to the aforementioned Odessa, Lviv, and Kiev, smaller towns such as Uzhgorod, Chernihiv, Kamyanets-Podilsky, and Chernivtsi are also highly recommended.

Besides being an underestimated and unconventional destination, Ukraine also remains one of Europe’s most budget-friendly travel adventures, with the daily budget for food, accommodations, transportation, and activities remaining under 30 USD.

32. Latvia, the lesser-visited capital of Art Nouveau

By Eden from Rock a Little Travel

Home to a historic city centre, a thriving arts scene and vast countryside dotted with castles, Latvia is one of the world’s most underrated travel destinations.

Visitors to Latvia should experience Riga , the lively capital city best known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. In fact, Riga has the world’s highest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings, examples of which are on display across the city.

Riga’s walkable centre also features local boutiques, cafes , restaurants, bars, and even a few city parks. Riga Beer District is home to several local breweries that serve a variety of craft beers. This is the perfect destination for a night out and a great opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Outside the capital, visitors to Latvia can tour the country’s many medieval castles and fortifications. Those looking to spend some time outdoors can head to Latvia’s beaches along the Baltic coast, or to one of the country’s many national parks.

33. North Macedonia, home of Europe’s Quirkiest capital city

The tiny nation of North Macedonia is quirky even by Balkan standards. Formerly known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, it may have undergone several name changes in its recent history, but it’s status as a unique destination in Eastern Europe has endured.

North Macedonia’s capital, Skopje, is a mix of archaic Ottoman architecture (the Old Bazaar is one of the largest in Europe) and brand new, shiny sculptures and facades installed as part of Skopje 2014, a huge project to give the city a facelift. The result is a Disneylandesque mix of styles that pushes the ambit of imagination.

Skopje makes for a wonderfully offbeat city break, but when visiting North Macedonia , you should also explore beyond the capital. Lake Ohrid is the biggest tourist draw, while the second-largest city, Bitola , and the alpine town of Krusevo – with its wonderful spomenik – both promise off-the-beaten-path, history steeped travel experiences.

34. Piacenza, a hidden gem in Northern Italy

By Helga from ShegoWandering

Piacenza is a small Italian city located near the Po river in Emilia Romagna. While still easily accessible by train from Milan or Bologna, it remains a hidden gem.

This town boasts over 1,000 years of local history. Discover the beautiful historic centre of Piacenza with its colourful houses and beautiful passages. Make sure the Piazza Cavalli, home to the town’s most famous landmark, the Palazzo Gotico, is also on your list.

Piacenza has some of the oldest, most important Romanesque churches in the region, including the Duomo di Piacenza, the St. Antoninus Basilica, and the Church of San Francesco. Another important landmark is the Palazzo Farnese, an immense palace now houses a collection of museums.

The region of Emilia-Romagna is famous for its food products. Be sure to sample Salame Piacentini , Coppa Piacentina and Pancetta Piacentina .

35. Brasov, the gateway to Transylvania

By Nicola Rae of See Nic Wander

The Transylvanian town of Brasov, Romania is tucked away in the Carpathian mountains just 2.5 hours from the capital on the way to Transylvania .

Since many people travel to Romania to explore Bucharest or relax on the Black Sea coast, the smaller Romanian city of Brasov often gets overlooked. But for travellers interested in great hiking, quirky historical sites and a bit of Dracula folklore, Brasov can’t be missed. 

Explore the 14th century Black Church, which got its name after being scorched in a fire, a 15th-century citadel that also served as a prison, and Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in the world.

Brasov is just a short drive from Bran Castle, a fortress that dates back to the 1200s and is famously also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’.

When in Brasov, make sure to take the Tampa Mountain Cable Car up to the prominent Hollywood-style ‘Brasov’ sign for the best views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Unusual holiday destinations: Share it on Pinterest

Wow, that’s a great guide.

That was an amazing article. Good work Keep it up!

Lichtenstein castle (named after the family) pictured above is in Germany and not in The Principality of Lichtenstein and hence that part of the article is misleading. One visiting Lichtenstein (the country) will not find this castle how hard one looks.

Good pick up, PK! That is my fault – I will update it immediately. Thanks for letting me know!

This was so helpful, I’m doing a school project and I have to find a unique travel destination. Got lots of ideas

Awesome Tshia, glad I could help!

Fantastic list! Considering many of your picks are also on my own list, I have a feeling we are of the same mindset. As I sit at home travel planning for a post-Covid-vaccine world, you have helped to add more places I hadn’t thought of but was searching for in concept.

Thank you and stay healthy!

So glad to hear you found this post inspiring, Nancy! Thanks a lot for the feedback. Happy future travel planning 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Subscribe to future posts

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » Budget Travel » Top 10 WORST Countries to Visit – Honest Backpacker Experiences (2024)

Top 10 WORST Countries to Visit – Honest Backpacker Experiences (2024)

With 195 countries scattered across the globe, the world is your playground offering endless opportunities for exploration. Some countries beg for your attention, with endless recommendations from reliable sources (like us!).

We travel to open our minds and “find ourselves”. But sometimes, we end up finding a big, steaming heap of shit instead. 

At The Broke Backpacker, we’ve ended up at some of the most unexpected, worst countries to visit. They left us empty, hoodwinked, and perplexed. It’s not because they’re necessarily “bad” or dangerous countries, it’s just that they don’t always match the postcard-perfect image we’ve been sold.

In the midst of it all, trying to figure out the gems from the duds is a skill I’m yet to fully master. Usually, the only way to know is to hit the road and see for yourself.

Or… I ask my team mates 😉 W hich is the worst country to travel in the world? Because we’ve had our fair share of terrible travel destinations – and t hey were quick to answer with some hard truths. 

In the end, you’ll have two options:

• Option one: ignore all of us and do you, baby.
• Option two: make like Forrest Gump and RUN. 

Whatever path you choose, I’ve warned you.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

2. Dubai, UAE

5. costa rica, 6. bali – indonesia, 7. honduras, 10. bolivia, final thoughts on the worst countries to visit.

• Buy Us a Coffee!

‘Magical, mysterious Morocco’ has been a stalwart of the backpacking and indie-traveller scene for almost a century now.

As far back as the 1940s, Beat Generation writers like William Burroughs would spend extended sabbaticals in the pretty but gritty port city of Tangier (writing poetry and taking full advantage of the region’s laissez-faire attitude towards sex tourism). Then, of course, the first-wave hippies were quick to ride on the Marrakesh Express.

Morocco is entry-level North Africa for many budget backpackers seeking a taste of an Aladdin fairy tale. Each year, millions are tempted by promises of abundant hashish, surreal landscapes, and ancient Moor and Berber cities.

But what I found in Morocco was relentless, punishing heat, and some of the worst people I have ever encountered in all my travels.

Let’s start with the worst thing about Morocco : Marrakech. As a foreigner, you will not be left alone. Ever. Aggressive and rude shopkeepers, panhandlers, beggars, con artists and drug-pushers will plague you every time you step outside your Riad.

And while Marrakech is the worst example, it doesn’t end there. I had panhandlers trying to hard-sell pieces of utter tat on hiking trails and even inside the plunge pool of a fucking waterfall.

And yet some people love travelling to Morocco . Romantic Essaouira was the slaver city of Astador in Game of Thrones, the hash IS good, and there are plenty of lovely street cats.

Aiden : Gear Manager & Senior Editor

As a connoisseur of vintage cinema, I was excited to visit Casablanca but was of course totally disappointed by the squalid, dirty, and sad shithole that I found. I even sought out ‘Rick’s Cafe’ and was served an overpriced, tepid beer which made me ill.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

I’m going to start this with a quote from a fitting meme: “ you can tell a lot about a person by how they feel about Dubai .”

Now I’m not judging… Ok fuck it, I kinda am. Most of the people I’ve met who love travelling to Dubai are dicks.

Yet I am an eternal optimist when it comes to travel. So in fact, it was quite hard to come up with somewhere I hated. I didn’t hate Dubai : I found it interesting to observe the excesses of capitalism gone wild from an outside perspective.

Though, I felt like an outsider who couldn’t get below the surface of the city – because it felt like it didn’t go any deeper. Even though some cities in Europe are awful , Dubai takes the cake. Everything about Dubai felt “top show”. There were no pavements to wander and to get lost in the rhythm of footsteps.

Instead, it was a battle against traffic consisting of as many supercars as taxis. Even the cultural areas of the city felt fake like a Disneyland version of the Arab world made palatable for Western suitabilities.

Gone are the busy, hot, dirty, and lively souks with locals flogging tanned leather goods and exotic ingredients. Instead replaced by an outdoor museum for the benefit of the tourists. 

Journey further out and you find the other side of relentless development of mega-cities. Impoverished immigrants live in poor conditions, tempted here by the prospect of riches and rewards, only to end up trapped thousands of miles away from home working in terribly dangerous environments. 

A playground where the rich try to outdo each other by building a new fuck-off skyscraper, diamond-encrusted Rolex, or gas-guzzling vehicle. All at the expense of the environment and immigrants filled with false hope.

Nic : Editor & Roaming Renegade

Dubai is sickening, fake and everything that the world shouldn’t be. Although, yeah, it’s one of the worst places to travel in my opinion, it’s still interesting to see.

A multicoloured land of incredible scenery and colourful traditions, India had long captured my imagination as a child. I yearned to visit the Taj Mahal, to bask in the ancient power of fallen civilisations, and to feast upon spiced meat of questionable origin.

A whirling juxtaposition of teeming metropolises and empty, vast landscapes, India would keep me guessing. I spent two years wandering dusty roads, camping out in dilapidated train stations and relying on the kindness of the Couchsurfing community to shave my scraggly beard and mend my tattered clothes.

I met incredible, amazing, generous, horrible, disgusting, and dishonest people during my journey – and India left a deep, lasting impression on me.

In truth, India remains one of my favourite countries. And yet, the country as it stands is in a freaking shambles – it’s one of the worst places to travel. With corrupt politicians pilfering the poor and everybody out to fuck everybody else over, I found it difficult to connect with people.

India, in fact, turned me into a bit of an asshole. I found myself increasingly turning to aggression to shake the touts who, (wrongly) assumed I had money. There are only so many times one can be grabbed on the street, or shaken rudely awake, as some motherfucker gazes upon thee with the three immortal India questions…

“What country you from?”

“You want look at my shop?”

And, of course…

“Are you married?” and if not “why?”

India stretched my patience, but it also stretched my cash and gave me incredible personal development. Whilst shouting at folks to “get the fuck out of my face”, I felt myself grow in confidence and wisdom.

Will : Founder & Chief Adventurer

India is an absolute gem, uniquely beautiful and horrible at the same time . If you’re broke and in search of adventure, go. If you don’t want to share personal space with human excrement, don’t.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

After endless recommendations and a lifetime of dreams, I was pumped to visit Vietnam . Young sprites talk about the cheap, life-changing voyage that always tops backpackers’ favourite destinations. 

What I was not expecting was the inordinate intensity of Vietnam.

From the moment I landed in Ho Chi Minh, I was greeted by extraordinary heat and humidity mixed with a waft of rotting food. Then there’s the locals – who can’t bring themselves to muster even a hint of a smile at any point in the day.

It’ll change after I get out of Ho Chi Minh – I told myself. 

oh, how naive of me.

The sheer amount of people is insanely overwhelming and the bikes… fuck me. Even I got road rage and I wasn’t even driving.

It seemed that my mere presence on the streets at any point pissed off any and every local, and I ended up adopting the same passive-aggressive attitude that 90% of people I crossed seemed to have.

Don’t get me wrong: Vietnam is still a fan favourite with many backpackers. If you’re a keen (and extremely confident) motorbiker, I’m assured the driving the Ha-Giang Loop is a must-do for you. Even most of the other Broke Backpacker team members have a deep passion for this country. 

So don’t just take my word for it. But if you’re looking for a relaxing, welcoming, easy-going country, Vietnam is one of the worst places to visit in the world.

Laura : Senior Editor & Chill Goddess

I spent six long, stressful weeks travelling North to Hanoi. It was rainy season too, so all my stuff was humid for the entire trip and I spent Christmas day trying to dry out my backpack (that was growing its own fungus farm at this time) with a hairdryer.

Many people swear by Costa Rica being their favourite backpacking spots , and I can see why. The nature is stunning, the pura vida lifestyle is incredibly infectious and the geography of the country is just magnificent.

The cultural cocktail of volcanoes, jungles, and Pacific and Caribbean vibes here is phenomenal. Sounds idyllic, right?

I want to make one thing clear… I did (kinda) enjoy my trip to Costa Rica. HOWEVER, my time there was forcibly extremely brief.

Well because no one warned me how expensive Costa Rica is !

I spent 5 months backpacking Central America in 2023. Whilst Costa Rica was beautiful, it was more of the same and about triple the price when compared to neighbouring countries such as Nicaragua. Costa Rica ran through my budget like Usain Bolt. 

In comparison to the rest of Latin America, it is far from the most dangerous of countries. Yet, I can confidently say it’s an overrated Instagram-hyped destination full of American tourists on “vacation”.

Joe : Editor & Lover of Life

Don’t get me wrong, Costa Rica is gorgeous. I will come back one day. But, some advice for my fellow budget backpackers: guys… give this one a miss.

When you hear someone say “ That’s so Bali ”, they are usually talking about lush clothes shops, bangin’ brunch spots, or beautiful yoga studios.

Canggu is the pinnacle of this. Sexy Aussies roam the streets, HUGE billboards tower from above, and scooters zoom around playing Tetris on the roads.

There is a reason why everyone is backpacking in Bali ; it’s got it all. Whatever you dream of, you can have it here. And the cherry on top, it’s at a fraction of the cost you’d pay at home. 

Sounds bloody fantastic, right? 

Well, unfortunately, the desire to experience Balinese culture and get off the beaten track often gets lost on the sidelines. 

I’m not going to lie, I had a great time eating mind-blowing food and getting 10x hotter at the un-airconditioned gyms. But did I get to experience local culture and nature here? Hell no. 

The hubs of Canggu, Ubud, and Uluwatu are brimming with bustling streets, wild traffic, and locals trying to sell you penis bottle openers to take home to gift ya mum. It’s just not a bad place to visit as a tourist right now. I encourage you to venture out of these swarms of tourists and ex-pats into nature and local Balinese life. 

Where are these hidden gems in Bali, you ask? The good news is, you don’t have to travel far to find them. If you drive just 10 minutes out of the madness, you will be rewarded with magical, lush landscapes that fill your soul with happiness. 

To dive into the good stuff; head up north . Experience the magic of Amed, Munduk, or Sideman. Get off the beaten track , climb a mountain, marvel at vibrant coral reefs, or splash around in the waterfalls. 

Bali can be FUCKING AMAZING; if you let it show you what it’s got. 

Dani : Junior Editor & Oceanic Explorer

An abundance of rice paddy fields, majestic temples, and authentic local warungs (restaurants) packed with friendly faces await. You’ll feel the true Bali that lives underneath all its shiny, gentrified layers.

To be fair, my 72 hours in Honduras were very experimental. I went in with high hopes despite the HORROR stories of violence, I gave it a chance.

The first red flag was the look on the immigration officer’s face as I handed over my passport. His first comment was “You sure you aren’t going to Nicaragua?” I had a pit in my stomach, but I pushed my doubts to the side and embodied the badass female solo traveller persona. 

As I crossed the physical border, I was overwhelmed with unwanted attention. In Spanish, we call it “Mal de Ojo” Or Evil eye. As me and my friend boarded a bus, all eyes were on us, in the worst of ways. 

My Intuition was literally screaming “ ABORT ABORT” so I did. I found shelter in a hotel and took the next bus to Nicaragua. To be fair, I’ve also heard lots of amazing stories about Utila and Roatan , the best diving spots in Central America .

Amanda : Junior Editor & Senior Dreamer

If I could go back, I would definitely plan a bit better, hire a car, and travel with locals. Honduras Is INCREDIBLE, I just had a shit start to my experience.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Japan is a country that is on almost every traveller’s bucket list, it’s one of those dream destinations to visit . It’s a place that stands proud of its uniqueness, travellers here will often find themselves mumbling the words “only in Japan” and shaking their heads in utter culture shock.

From snow-capped mountaintops to world-class scuba diving, from ancient villages to futuristic cities, Japan truly has got it all.

Whilst I am extremely grateful that I got to experience this extraordinary country, travelling here I never really felt like I could relax, take a breath, and connect to the people around me. Japan is INTENSE … 

The Japanese culture is one that I found difficult to relate to. There is an epidemic of loneliness in Japan, which has led to high suicide rates and a rapidly declining population .

In my greatest attempts to learn the language , and immerse myself in the culture, I was often met with smiling faces – yet a withdrawn and uninterested attitude.

In Tokyo, the metros were often packed shoulder to shoulder yet so quiet you could hear a pen drop, in the world’s largest city, I felt so surrounded by humanity yet so utterly alone . Japan is truly gorgeous but for many backpackers , it isn’t the most friendly or welcoming country and it can be hard to connect here with others and even to stay in touch with yourself!

Audy : Junior Editor & Hitchiking Hero

Whilst I found parts of Japan to be utterly magical, ultimately, I found it one of the loneliest places I have ever visited. It’s important to note that Japan had an isolationist policy for hundreds of years and that this is a country where most people ONLY speak their native tongue.

Have you ever been hit in the face with an invisible brick wall? 

If your answer is no, then I’m just going to assume you haven’t yet been to Bahrain… I’m here to inform you of all the things you haven’t missed out on.

My visit to this minuscule Middle Eastern nation was the last stop on an otherwise glorious European summer that also took me to Oman. Though in Bahrain’s neighbourhood, Oman wowed with turquoise wadis, salty days in the Arabian Sea, and other magical moments that still have me yearning to return. 

But Bahrain… well… it may just be one of the most boring places I’ve ever visited in my life. In my books, THAT alone makes it the worst travel destination.

And it is absolutely ranked firmly as the hottest.

Even as I type this, the moment of stepping outside of a deep air-conditioned home to be smacked by heat so thick and all-consuming it felt like an assault rushes back in. If you think Bali’s hot, or another Asian, African, or South American country… rest assured that this tiny Kingdom has got it beat. 

But still: I tried. I visited the famous souq, spent a (admittedly nice) fiery sunset at a historical fort, and even popped into the desert for a bit. And even though I wasn’t too experienced of a traveller at the time, I couldn’t help but feel a distinct lack of life.

Natural beauty was all but non-existent, and any semblance of cultural exchange seemed to be out of reach. Perhaps the closest I came was while visiting the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, which is decked from top to bottom in creamy marble and despite being one of the largest mosques in the world, was still devoid of character that I’ve found in the dozens of places of worship I’ve visited in the years since then.

Though I spotted some apparent locals in the souqs, nearly everyone actually working appeared to be from somewhere else. There was nothing akin to the colourful Omani hats and distinct local vibe I’d seen just a few hundred miles away. To be brutally honest: I quite frankly felt like I was in a colony on the moon.

If culture, local life, and natural scenery call you the way it does me – Bahrain won’t be your cup of tea. But if you somehow find yourself there the way I did, you can visit the Sultanate of Oman , just an hour’s flight away. 

Samantha : Travel Writer & Adventure Expert

Though I’d love to round Bahrain up with a positive, I’m on the struggle bus trying to find one.

Many say that Bolivia is the destination that separates comfortable backpackers from the adventurous. Cheap food, unique landscapes (like the famous Salar de Uyuni), colourful markets, and the best-preserved native culture in Latin America.

This was my first backpacking trip – hoping to have new experiences. And mate, did I have them.

After crossing the border from Argentina into Bolivia, I could feel the gazes of the locals. The energy as a whole isn’t welcoming, yet understandable if you consider the context of Bolivian history . At first glance, the street seemed like a vision of the past, as if technological advances had not reached this country.

The open-air markets, with questionable hygienic conditions (I’m talking about the heads dead animals hanging in the open air with flies dancing happily around them) , give off a smell of rotting food.

You’ll face long lines of shouting sellers harassing you to buy goods – to the point of being almost aggressive. And something as common as drinking water is scarce.

It’s one of the worst places I’ve travelled as a tourist in 10 years.

I spend 3 weeks exploring Bolivia , and the transportation (oh my god, the transportation) , it’s literally a pain in the ass with bused slamming down as we trudged across these routes with huge potholes. Long trips on packed, uncomfortable buses, with a cocktail of local food vendors, unbathed humans, heat and dust. You get the picture: at the very least – it’s the worst place to visit in South America, in my opinion.

But not everything is bad. As soon as you leave the tourist route, you’ll find places where time stops and smiles welcome you – because they rarely see a person from another country. You can contemplate what simple life is like, people know, talk, and help each other. 

Seba : Digital Wizard & Latino Legend

Bolivia will give you a large dose of grounding and humility. After travelling for 10 years, my perception would be very different and I think I would love to return.

Get Insured Before Your Travels

Even some top travel destinations can become some of the most dangerous countries in the world if you’re not well prepared. Solid travel insurance should be the first thing on your list when you’re jetting off for any adventure.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Look, in the opinion of The Broke Backpacker, most of the worst countries in the world to travel aren’t what you’d expect. Actually, we even had some pretty hard debates between us when we put this list together. 

Sometimes, it just comes down to the fact that it’s waaaay more expensive than our poor budgets can afford. Other times, it’s just because of how lonely and isolated we felt when we were solo travelling there. Though often, giving a country another chance can completely flip your perspective too – so there’s hope for Vietnam yet. 

Through it all, I believe the biggest takeaway is for you is to trust your gut and embrace the opportunity to explore. Think of how much Nic discovered about life in Dubai: each experience teaches you something valuable.

But yeah, if you still desperately want to visit Dubai – I’m probably going to think you’re a bit of a dick. 

Have you got a different opinion about some of the worst places you’ve visited? Let us know in the comments!

• Don’t forget the essentials with our in-depth backpacking packing list . 
• Sort your international SIM card out to avoid unnecessary hassle.
• Real adventures begin when you learn how to travel off the beaten track .
• Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
• Get yourself covered with trusty travel insurance before you leave.  
• Investing in the best travel backpack for you will change your life!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

The Broke Backpacker

Share or save this post

I appreciate this list of places not to visit…….. in an internet swarmed with websites talking about how good all these places are.

I also realize that this is opinion-based.

I enjoy your use of expletives that give some the sense of familiarity and relatability to the type of people whod go on this site.

Please dont get defensive of my thoughts on your article. All im saying is………

After reading most of (what i could tolerate) on this article….. i got to japan and.. well..

no. just no. i know this is too my opinion. But no. I cant say anything else that wouldnt upset the authors and their hard ‘work’.

The Broke Backpacker’s list of the worst countries to visit is an eye-opener, providing a unique perspective on travel destinations. It’s not a typical “best places to visit” list, but rather a collection of countries that may not live up to the hype or expectations, which is a refreshing take on travel content.

So nice to hear you enjoyed and understood the concept of the post! Which countries did you expect to see and why?

Thoroughly disagree about Bolivia. It’s a harsh place to travel in lots of ways but I’d rate it as the most interesting, and maybe most beautiful, place I’ve ever been. Sucre is a fantastic, friendly city. LaPaz is chaos but usually in a good way. The culture is much more Incan than Spanish. It’s dirt cheap. The scenery everywhere is otherworldly. They’ve definitely been knocked around by history and poverty but to me it’s a must visit.

That’s awesome to hear that you loved Bolivia! I will definitely give it a second chance next time I’m in South America. It’s been 7 years since I was last there so it’s about time. Thanks for the recommendations!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Most Unusual Places To Vacation In The World

• Destinations

Travel is all about experiencing something new, learning about something previously not encountered, and meeting the unexpected. When we go abroad, we often do so to get out of our comfort zone, to be confronted with the unknown, but also to have fun and enjoy a really good time away from our day-to-day life.

So, what better than searching out not only great new destinations but also staying in some unique places? And, while the experience might be surprising, it does not have to be out of your comfort zone. I have discovered some strange and wonderful hotels, motels, and resorts — some of which fit into neither category. All bring something new to the table. Strewn across six continents, there is bound to be something that appeals to many of you.

1. The Lookout Cave Underground Motel, Coober Pedy, Australia

Coober Pedy is a strange place. It is the middle of nowhere, in northern South Australia, roughly halfway between Adelaide and Alice Springs. It is pretty much a hole in the ground, which also gave the “town” its name: it comes from the local aboriginal name for “white man in hole .” That hole, though, is what makes Coober Pedy the opal capital of the world, with it supplying roughly 90 percent of the world’s opals.

But with Coober Pedy being a hole in the ground, surrounded pretty much by desert, the people living and working there live in caves dug out within the hole. No windows, but cooler than outside in the blazing heat with all the creature comforts, make the Lookout Cave Underground Motel an ideal place to experience just how people live in this isolated spot. From your cozy cave, you can learn more about the history of opal mining, and even mine yourself. Should you come up empty, the local shops have all the multi-colored sparkle you could wish for.

Pro Tip: Getting there is usually by car, driving along the Stuart Highway, which crosses Australia; by plane and then hiring a car , or as an excursion from the Ghan Train .

2. Kakslauttanen Igloo Village, Finland

From one empty wilderness to another, on the other hemisphere. The Kakslauttanen Igloo Village lies in northern Finland above the Arctic Circle. Here trees vastly outnumber people, as do the reindeer and sled hounds. It’s most magical in winter. The Igloo Village is just that: a selection of glass-domed igloos, one a room, allowing you to lie in bed and look up at the sky, watching the northern lights, or the stars. Activities here revolve around the snow, with sled or snowmobile safaris, reindeer or husky safaris, skiing, and, of course, a visit to Santa. The resort is open throughout the year, and each season brings something special to the table, but if you have a choice, go in winter.

Pro Tip: If you need a break from snow, then in Kakslauttanen West Village you’ll find an art gallery that probably houses the northernmost art exhibitions.

3. Manta Resort, Pemba Island, Tanzania

If staying on an island in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Tanzania with neighboring island Zanzibar close by isn’t enough, along comes Manta Resort . We have all seen the over-water villas in places such as Tahiti, but they tend to be connected to the main resort by a wooden walkway. This resort’s Underwater Sea Room floats on its own, only reached by boat ( your dinner and breakfast will be delivered by canoe), and has two floors — or three if you wish. The sea-level platform is perfect for swimming from, and above you, there’s a roof terrace where you can sunbathe and enjoy the view across the turquoise ocean. Steps down from the sea-level platform is your bedroom, underwater and encased in glass so you can watch the fishes while they watch you. Solitude and romance, and utter privacy. If you don’t count the fish.

Pro Tip: Between October and April, you will see why it’s called the Manta Resort, with elegant manta rays coming close to the coast, and from your underwater room, you’ll have the best vantage point.

4. Treehouse Lodge Resort, Iquitos, Peru

I never had a treehouse when I was a kid, but I would dearly have loved one. Is there anything more magical than sitting in the branches of a large tree, in a lush green forest? The light is soft, the birds sing, and you can really relax and hide from the outside world. The Treehouse Lodge Resort is located near Iquitos by the Yarapa River, a tributary of the Amazon River, and right in the rainforest. The only way to get to Iquitos is by plane or boat, there are no roads connecting you with the outside world. There are 12 treehouses to choose from, all comfortably designed and open to the elements. Some have been built incorporating the tree’s branches, making for unique clothes hooks.

Pro Tip: Lying close to the equator, the temperatures are similar throughout the year, but between December and May there is the rainy season, making the rivers more navigable and offering sightings of pink dolphins below the treehouses.

5. Kruger Shalati, Kruger National Park, South Africa

Turning a train into accommodations is not necessarily a new thing, even if the train is no longer in use. But what is different about this luxury train, it is parked on a historic and abandoned Shalati or Selati bridge across a beautiful river with stellar views. Not only has the train been turned into luxury accommodations, but there is even a pool platform right in the middle of the bridge. And, all around you, the famous Kruger National Park, teeming with lush greenery and abundant wildlife is your landscape. The train and the bridge were once used to transport chic 1920s travelers through the national park, now it offers modern travelers a bit of time travel and nostalgia and a truly unique place to stay a night.

Pro Tip: Kruger National Park is a year-round destination, just keep in mind that summer (the Northern Hemisphere’s winter) is the rainy season.

6. Hotel Everest View, Solukhumbu, Nepal

There are hotels with great views in every city and in every country, and there is nothing unique about having a view. Or is there? Try Mount Everest right outside your window. Hotel Everest View delivers what the name promises. Each of the 12 rooms has a seating area in front of panoramic windows which open up to a balcony, and Mount Everest’s iconic triangular peak is right in front of you. From the hotel, you will be able to explore the area going on hikes ranging from moderate to challenging, all several hours’ duration, and you can even choose to hike to the hotel for check-in. Alternatively, there are helicopter transfers available.

Pro Tip: This hotel has been mentioned in the Guinness Book of Records as the highest in the world, at 13,000 feet. Altitude sickness is a very real possibility, so allow yourself either sometime in the hotel to adjust to the altitude, or opt for the trekking up, as that will give you time to slowly reach the height.

7. Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland And Labrador, Canada

This is another of those wonderful unique places to stay that combine an unusual location to call home for a few nights with a destination you have put some effort in to get to. Once you get there, your experience will be multiplied. In this case, it is a flight, a drive, and a ferry ride to get to reception. Fogo Island, out in the iceberg-strewn north Atlantic, is an island where living is tough. Tech entrepreneur Zita Cobb was born there and after a high-flying career away from home, came back and built Fogo Island Inn using local materials, inspiration, design, and manpower, and all with sustainability and her island foremost in her mind. 

The views of this rough and tumble corner of the world are so magnificent that there are binoculars supplied everywhere. Beautifully designed, with local materials woven and knitted on the island, to modern art and architecture, the Fogo Island Inn offers every possible luxury you could ask for. The inn is a testament to the island and its people.

Pro Tip: Hikes, northern lights, whale and birdwatching, food foraging, art and more, provides plenty to do. Plan your trip according to the “Seven Seasons” of Fogo .

To add to your travel portfolio, visit some of these unusual destinations:

• 14 Amazing Places To Visit Around The World
• 13 Most Beautiful Places To Watch The Sunset In The World
• 7 Places Where You Can See The Bluest Waters In The World

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

0, text: error()">

0, text: error(), css: errorCssClass">

Reset your password

Enter your email address or username and we’ll send you a link to reset your password

Check your inbox

An email with a link to reset your password was sent to the email address associated with your account

Provide email

Please enter your email to complete registration

Activate to continue

Your account isn't active yet. We've emailed you an activation link. Please check your inbox and click the link to activate your account

0, text: error" style="display: none;">

0, text: success" style="display: none;">

• Relationships

The Bored Panda iOS app is live! Fight boredom with iPhones and iPads here .

• Partnership
• Success stories
• --> -->