Thrilling Experiences to Be Found in Less-Explored Nations, as Recommended by a Seasoned Wanderer
Exploring the World's Hidden Gems: A Journey Through Unforgettable Destinations
From the ancient streets of Kotor Old Town in Montenegro to the otherworldly landscapes of Ethiopia, there's a world of wonder waiting to be discovered. Here's a glimpse into some of the most captivating destinations that are worth adding to your travel bucket list.
Montenegro: A Coastal Treasure Trove
Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Montenegro is a country brimming with natural beauty. Kotor Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dates back to A.D 800 to A.D 900 and is filled with ancient churches, walls, and palaces. Meanwhile, Budva boasts 100 stunning beaches, making it a paradise for sun-seekers. Montenegro also houses St. Tryphon's Cathedral, built in 1166 and home to one of St. Tryphon's bones.
Ethiopia: A Natural Paradise
Ethiopia is a land of contrasts, with otherworldly landscapes that include the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest, lowest, and parched spots on earth. Here, you'll find green acidic springs, salt lakes and pans, an active volcano, and one of the few active lava lakes in the world. Lalibela, a Jerusalem-inspired city, features nearly a dozen underground churches built using volcanic rock. Ethiopia is also home to Simien National Park, offering endless, lush green valleys surrounded by towering mountains and small villages.
Zambia: Africa's Hidden Safari Gem
Zambia is a must-visit country for those seeking to see elephants, rhinoceros, and lions in their natural habitats. It is cheaper, less crowded, and safer than other African safari destinations. Zambia is also home to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and the most expansive sheet of falling water on earth, known as "The Smoke that Thunders."
Bolivia: Underrated Beauty and Biodiversity
Bolivia offers stunning views, the highest lake in the world, and one of the most biodiverse places on earth. Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat on the planet, is known for the salt hardening upon the earth, leaving a seemingly endless view of Bolivia's postcard-worthy landscapes. Lake Titicaca, a culturally and historically rich destination, is home to communities almost untouched by modern customs living on islands spanning 3,200 square miles.
Madagascar: The Galapagos of the Indian Ocean
Madagascar, nicknamed "the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean," is home to nearly all of its reptiles, mammals, and plants, including several types of leopards and towering baobab trees.
Taiwan: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Taipei, Taiwan's bustling capital, is known for its famous night markets and is full of teahouses, red lanterns, and traditional architecture. Taiwan is also renowned for having the best sushi outside of Japan and is full of night markets selling everything from fried stinky tofu to braised meats.
Slovakia: A Hiker's Paradise
Slovakia is underrated and has countless hiking trails, making for a trek for people of all abilities. Bratislava, its capital, is a well-preserved medieval city with restaurants, shops, galleries, and museums housed in buildings ranging from medieval to Renaissance styles.
Vietnam: A Blend of Past and Present
Vietnam is home to Ho Chi Minh City, which intertwines the past of the Vietnam War with modern life. The Cu Chi Tunnels, used by Viet Cong troops during the war, offer visitors a glimpse into the past.
Norway: Medieval Cities and Breathtaking Vistas
Norway is known for its crisp weather, medieval cities, and breathtaking vistas, including the fjords formed by glaciers during the ice age. Bryggen Wharf in Bergen, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is where visitors can sample exotic meats like whale, reindeer, and moose from vendors selling wares in colorful buildings.
Kyrgyzstan: A Unique Adventure
Kyrgyzstan is a unique destination with distinctive adventures, including joining the traveling Kyrgyz people, who move throughout regions so their cattle can graze.
Jiufen, Taiwan: A Spirited Away Town
Jiufen, a mountain town in Taiwan, is widely thought to be a carbon copy of the town in which the animated film "Spirited Away" takes place.
Lovcén National Park, Montenegro: A Birdwatcher's Paradise
Lovcén National Park in Montenegro features scenic hikes and 200 types of birds.
Durmitor National Park, Montenegro: Thrilling Adventures Await
Visitors to Durmitor National Park can explore thrilling rapids, an ancient black pine forest, and looming cliffs.
Bratislava, Slovakia: Unusual Sights and Charm
Bratislava, Slovakia's capital, has several quirks, including cannonballs stuck in buildings for hundreds of years and a bizarre statue of a man poking his head out of a sewer.
Croatia: Crystal-Clear Waters and Lush Greenery
Croatia has eight national parks, all of which are bathed in crystal-clear waters and lush greenery. Krka National Park features waterfalls like Skradinski Buk, which contains streams of roaring, plunging waters encircled by turquoise waters.
Diocletian's Palace, Croatia: Ancient History Meets Modern Life
Diocletian's Palace in Split, Croatia, is a Roman palace that is now a hub of shops, apartments, and bars, enmeshed in modern city life.
Bhutan, Madagascar, and Papua New Guinea: Unexplored Tourist Destinations
Jenna Intersimone, a travel expert, highlighted Bhutan, Madagascar, and Papua New Guinea as unexplored tourist destinations due to their unique cultures, biodiversity, and untouched natural landscapes.
