Yeah yeah, we know. You just have to visit Machu Picchu. You must walk the Great Wall of China. You need to see the Taj Mahal. But what if you’re in search of a different path? What if you, a unique snowflake, understand that the only way to truly live is to diverge from the expected? Lucky for you, we’re making it simple with our list of the best kept secrets of 2016, as told by our favourite travel bloggers! These hidden gems are worth venturing off the beaten track for, we promise.
1. The Balkans (Southeast Europe)
The Balkans are, by far, the most underrated destination in the world. With a vibrant yet contentious history, the Balkan countries are not only beautiful but incredibly interesting to learn about. A trip to the Balkans is not just a vacation but a full educational experience. Admire the Adriatic coastline in Montenegro, explore lush canyons in Macedonia, and come face-to-face with corrupt political history in Serbia—the Balkan countries are some of the most fascinating, outspoken, and underrated in all the world.
travelFREAK is an acclaimed adventure travel blog, sharing impactful stories and beautiful photographs from all around the world.
2. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an amazing destination to visit right now. After years of civil war, the country has emerged as a favorite among travelers. For an island so relatively small, the country has so much to offer. From the ancient ruins of civilizations past in the cultural triangle in the Central Highlands, to the beautiful beaches and once-in-a-lifetime game encounters in the national parks in the South, there really is something for every type of traveler here.
3. Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia
Earlier this year we ventured to Cambodia on a family adventure! The country surprised us on so many different levels! Whilst many tourists venture to the Angkor Wat Temples in Siem Reap, few explore further to discover the beauty that lies within this country. Koh Rong Samloem Island happens to be one of our favourite islands! The water there is crystal clear and grows in shades of blue into the horizon. Our kids loved the beach swings whilst us adults enjoyed the glorious hammocks. It felt like we almost had the entire island to ourselves! Definitely a gem of a destination!
Jolene & Andrzej of Wanderlust Storytellers, live in Australia with their three girls. They travel the world, hoping to inspire and entice other families to do the same! They are a whole family of wanderlusters, a family who loves to tell their stories, a family who wants to chase dreams!
4. Goa, India
Goa isn’t under the radar for some nationalities, like the British and Israeli, but a lot of people (especially Americans) don’t know about this beach state in the South of India. It’s jungle meets sea, and a hippie hotspot where people come to practice yoga and find themselves. The region is affordable but offers luxury too. Goa is very westernized with a large expat community, which means plenty of variety in food options! Many designers base themselves here and export their clothing, meaning you can shop straight at the source. I have been living in Goa for almost 4 years and love it here! I strongly recommend anyone passing through India make Goa a must-see destination before even more travellers discover its beauty.
Rachel Jones is a self-defined contradiction: part dirty hippie/part girly girl. Her aim is to make travel glamorous, on a backpacking budget. She is sharing her stories to inspire you; it is possible to quit your job, travel the world, and look cute doing it. Follow her adventures on her blog, Hippe in Heels or on her Facebook.
5. Village of Les, Bali, Indonesia
Les is a small village on the northern coast of Bali. What makes Les unique is the people who live there. The fishermen and farmers of Les spend the extra time they have, however limited, learning English from volunteers and tourists, while also rebuilding the coral reef that lines their coast. A visit to Les will allow you to see the efforts first hand by diving or snorkeling. You can also participate in traditional Balinese cooking classes and help teach English all while spending time with the happiest people on earth. Enjoy the company of men and women who are working hard to ensure their families will have a beautiful place to call home for many generations to come.
Matt and Alana are two Americans with a passion for travelling and experiencing new places. They’re currently transitioning back into American everyday life but continue to explore the world. Read more about their adventures on their blog, Great Big Globe and learn more about Les.
6. Slovenia
People are always surprised to hear Slovenia is one of my absolute favorite countries. Eastern Europe as a whole is underrated, though Slovenia captured my heart with its car-free city center (where you can sip a 2 Euro wine on the river in peace), countless artisan shops and al fresco restaurants, and outdoor adventure day trips. Don’t miss biking around Lake Bled and to the nearby Vintgar Gorge that lies within the famous Triglav National Park. You can go hiking in the scenic Soca Valley and do a countryside homestay with a family of herb pickers. The latter was a main highlight for me, as I got to go into the forest with the family and pick herbs for cooking and bath and body crafts. It was such an immersive local experience!
Jessica Festa got a Master’s Degree before realizing that the traditional 9-to-5 wasn’t for her, opting to explore the world instead. Her blog, Jessie on a Journey, is desired to inspire you to see the world but also to take your trips beyond the guidebook.
Jessica had had a great experience in Slovenia. Are you looking for the same? Check out some ideas here!
7. Prague, Czech Republic
8. Choquequirao, Peru
Choquequirao is an ancient Inca site in Peru, hidden out of sight on the far end of the Apurimac Valley. Often called Machu Picchu’s sister city, it’s three-times the size and astoundingly only sees about a dozen visitors each day. At the moment, it can be reached on foot through the rural village of Cachora, but in the next year, it’s rumored there will be a cable car that will take 3,000 visitors a day to the ruins in 15 minutes. Lonely Planet named Choquequirao the #1 region to visit in 2017, so get out there before the crowds.
