Top Secret: 11 Travel Spots for People Who Despise Crowded Tourist Traps

Photo of author

By Samantha Collins

I support people’s idea of wanting to tour a location or be in a tourist spot almost alone. It’s just always better since there would be fewer traffic jams on your way there, the place would be so much quieter, and you get to see the views better. People online share the same sentiment, causing them to discuss these off-the-radar destinations you should consider visiting.

1. Isla De Gigantes, Philippines

A must visit in the Philippines; Gigantes Island, Iloilo
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Yes, Boracay and Bohol are touristy, but you still have thousands of islands to discover. One of them is this island, with a stunning rock formation, white sand, and clear blue waters. One user started enumerating other places, saying, “Asik Asik Falls, Lake Sebu, Dahican Beach, Sibuyan Island… not to mention the many festival towns.”

Surprisingly, while a respondent replied to this with a “Shhh…” another said, “I was shocked to notice the Philippines only receives around 6 million tourists a year. For their size, that’s nothing.”

2. Santa Flavia, Italy

Italy, Sicily, Palermo Province, Santa Flavia. April 11, 2019. Small fishing boats in the harbor of the fishing village of Santa Flavia.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

My favorite hidden gem destination, Santa Flavia, is a tiny fishing village on the north coast of Sicily and has everything a traveler could want. From majestic cliffs to dive off to beachside cafes serving cheap cocktails to some of the best Italian food on Earth, it’s shocking more tourists don’t know about Santa Flavia!

3. Baños, Ecuador

Plaza de la Basílica in Baños
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

There’s no better “off the beaten path” destination on Earth if you’re active and outdoors-oriented. “You’ll find heaven in Baños, Ecuador,” reports one expert. “There is easy access to biking, whitewater rafting, bridge jumping, canyoning, zip lining, amazing waterfalls, and viewpoints. And there’s even pretty good nightlife. Ecuador’s currency is the U.S. dollar, and everything is extremely cheap.”

4. Split, Croatia

Enjoying vacation in split Croatia. Travel and technology. Young woman with national croatian flag taking selfie on Split sea shore promenade.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

For the better part of a decade, tourists have flocked to Dubrovnik, Croatia’s seaside city made famous by Game of Thrones. As a result, travelers keep sleeping on the hidden gem that is the town of Split. Boasting just as many historic castles, churches, and architecture as Dubrovnik, Split is quietly gaining momentum of being an adventurer’s paradise!

5. Busan, South Korea 

Busan, South Korea cityscape from above.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Traveling to Seoul is overrated. If you want a less touristy, more authentic Korean experience, Busan is the place to go! “Busan, South Korea is this bizarre juxtaposition of ancient and super modern, and everything is chaotic and incredibly organized,” explains one woman. I’m not sure how it functions, but it does — and seemingly way better than other large cities. The scenery, the food, and the people were fantastic.”

6. Gili Islands, Indonesia

Relaxing houses with green trees on beach at Gili Islands in Lombok, Indonesia
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

While not far from Bali, the Gili Islands share almost nothing in common with that tourist destination — apart from world-class beaches. Instead, the islands are incredibly peaceful, making them the perfect destination for travelers wishing to enjoy much-deserved rest and relaxation. 

7. Greenville, South Carolina

Downtown Greenville, South Carolina, USA.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

The small, sleepy city of Greenville, South Carolina, is a haven for all travelers. It is the picture-perfect town because it has superb restaurants, plenty of craft breweries, and a family-friendly culture.

The town’s cherry on top is its breathtaking dedication to beautifying every street within the city limits – it’s a stunning place to walk through. It’s clear Greenville invests heavily in keeping everything looking pristine!

8. Seward, Alaska

Alaska Railway to Seward along the lake and mountain
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Alaska isn’t the most accessible place in the United States, but countless people admit it’s worth the long travel days! “I visited Alaska and stayed in a small town three hours from Anchorage, and I had the time of my life,” reports one traveler. “Its completely untouched wilderness was mind-blowing. Moose would walk along the river bank while we fished, and orcas swam next to our boat when we visited Kenai Fjords National Park.”

9. Palomino, Colombia

Beautiful sunset scenery at the backpacker destination Palomino beach on the Caribbean coast of Colombia
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

This city in Colombia boasts some of the best natural scenery in the entire world. Palomino has everything an adventurer can ask for – mountains, beaches, jungles, and rivers that will all take your breath away. But, of course, few travelers know about this hidden gem, so the time to visit is now!

10. Bologna, Italy

Bologna, Italy - July 9, 2022: Building facades and medieval architecture along the streets in Bologna
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Foodies, rejoice: I hereby notify you of the promised land! “In my opinion, it’s the best food city in the best food country in the world,” one man reveals. “I will never forget the tortellini al brodo, tagliatelle al ragù, and panna cotta I ate there. I also loved walking up to the Madonna di San Luca and seeing the fantastic view from the top.” Great views and even better food? Count me in.

11. La Paz, Mexico

Cathedral of La Paz,La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

In recent years, many of Mexico’s beach destinations have been overrun by two groups: Partiers and social media influencers. Luckily, according to many travelers, La Paz’s natural beauty and impeccable local cuisine have been spared the untimely fate that befell places like Cancun, Cabo, and Tulum. 

Don’t Let Their Size Fool You: 20 Small American Towns That Offer The Biggest Experiences

Bigger cities, towns, and counties always never run out of things for travelers to explore or try. Some tourists even live in them. But across the U.S., there are small yet remarkable destinations that pack a punch when it comes to unforgettable experiences. These small towns offer adventures, charm, and surprises that will someday be a lovely stop in memory lane.

Don’t Let Their Size Fool You: 20 Small American Towns That Offer The Biggest Experiences

The World’s Weirdest Wonders: 12 Unusual Travel Destinations To Add To Your Travel Wishlist

It’s perfectly normal that we’re weirded out by the appearance of some things, and tourist spots are no different. But this time, maybe you can give it a try just by reading about unusual places that turn out to be perfect destinations. Whether it’s an otherworldly landscape, a quirky cultural tradition, or an intriguing historical site, these offbeat locations offer a refreshing break from the typical tourist spots.

The World’s Weirdest Wonders: 12 Unusual Travel Destinations To Add To Your Travel Wishlist

From Boardrooms to Beaches: Management Pros Share Their Digital Nomad Journey

As the allure of a digital nomad life grows, the idea of leaving the traditional 9-5 corporate world can seem increasingly enticing. Yet, the uncertainty of such a significant change and the challenge of securing remote work can be daunting. The pressing question for many is: Which career paths are most conducive to a nomadic lifestyle? Here are takeaways from people’s experiences in an online forum.

From Boardrooms to Beaches: Management Pros Share Their Digital Nomad Journey

10 Captivating Roadside Attractions for Your Epic Cross-Country Journey

Taking a road trip is, arguably, the best way to see a place, and embarking on a cross-country journey across the United States is bound to be the trip of a lifetime! Not only will you be enthralled by the major attractions you get to visit, but the less poignant experiences are bound to stick in your memory too. So, if you’re planning on driving across the country, we say you should do it! Here are 10 epic roadside attractions to add to your list of sights to see during your epic United States road trip.

10 Captivating Roadside Attractions for Your Epic Cross-Country Journey

Beyond Busy Cities: 11 Best Places For Couples On Do-Not-Disturb Mode

It’s always awesome to travel with the people you love, especially when it’s your significant other. But compared to you, sometimes they just really prefer some peaceful vibes. And I get it, you’ll do everything for them. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with this list of the most secluded places couples can truly enjoy as revealed by people in an online forum.

Beyond Busy Cities: 11 Best Places For Couples On Do-Not-Disturb Mode

Leave a Comment