Alternatives for Mainstream Destinations

Does the thought of finding yourself among crowded tourist traps send shivers down your spine? Then it’s time to go beyond the Billboard 100 of travel’s greatest hits.

While the allure of iconic destinations like Paris and the Big Apple can never be replicated, there is something magical about exploring a new place. Not only do you get to put a new pin in your map of adventures, but you can avoid contributing the over tourism that many popular destinations struggle with. It’s a win-win!

Take the road less traveled with a few exciting alternatives to the world’s most famous destinations.

Instead of Paris,
Try Porto.

Say adieu to cliche Eiffel tower photos, you know the ones, and hello to the picturesque city of Porto, where the wine flows and the crowds disperse! Like Paris, Porto offers stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and a thriving culinary scene. Tucked on the shores of the Douro River in Portugal, Porto brings all of the old world charm found in Paris without all of the noise.

Instead of NYC,
Try Montreal.

If NYC is the City That Never Sleeps, then Montreal is her well-rested sister. The energy of Montreal is contagious! In a bilingual land where poutine and bagels rule, the neighborhoods of Montreal are something straight out of a story book. And Montreal’s underground city makes even NYC’s nightlife look dull.

Instead of Rome,
Try Dubrovnik.

Picture all of the things you love about Rome: history, mid evil architecture, and mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine. Now take away crowded queues and selfie sticks and add sweeping coastal views overlooking the Adriatic Sea! That’s exactly what you’ll find in the coastal Croatian city of Dubrovnik. Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is everything we love about our favorite ancient city, and none of the things we don’t.

Instead of Tokyo,
Try Busan.

Welcome to the bustling city of Busan! Busan perfectly blends the modern luxurious and technologies that Tokyo is famous for with stunning the beauty of South Korea’s sprawling beaches and natural hot springs. And with seafood fresher than the latest BTS album, Busan is quickly making it’s way to the top of our bucket list.

Instead of Bangkok,
Try Luang Prabang.

Trade the bustling streets and high-rise chaos of Bangkok for the serene charm of Luang Prabang. Known for its well-preserved architecture, Buddhist temples, and lush landscape, this UNESCO World Heritage city offers a tranquil escape that feels like a step back in time.