10 Off The Beaten Track Destinations To Visit in 2018
Are you always on the look out for a new travel experience, then I have just the list for you. These are some of the destinations which may not be on the tourist radar but the simplicity and beauty of these places are to be experienced. Whether you crave for adventure, history or the perfect meal these destinations are ready to welcome visitors with open arms.
SOLTA, CROATIA
There is this cozy feeling that heralds most islands. However, you might be running into a hasty generalization if you do not understand that the Island of Solta is on a higher pedestal than all other Islands you might have heard about. It is just normal to think the Caribbean when you think islands, but then Solta Island promises you beautiful moments with pebble beaches having fragrances of freshness and unadulterated oxygen and blue waters. You can choose to stray from the Island and visit as many family-owned farms in the Island and satiate your long-found lust of learning the processes in honey, wine and oil making. As is with most Islands, a summer visit is the best.
MATERA, ITALY
Rome is not the only popular tourist area in Italy. In case you think so, then you have not heard of Matera. This town is largely salient, and that is even what makes it wonderful. You can have as much space as you want while visiting Museums like the Domenico Ridola National Museum. The extensive and largely preserved cave dwellings were more than enough to prick the interest of the UNESCO. This town is at its best all year round, even though you are most likely to see many fellow tourists in the summer.
BANFF, CANADA
There are few resort towns in the world and Banff is one of them. Imagine overlooking the peak of the Cascade and Rundle Mountains? Sounds like bliss doesn’t it? One thing you can do in Banff is to visit the 6,500 square kilometers of Parkland, which is home to assortments of animals, which thrive in cold weather. For the first timers, you might get to see a grizzly bear too!
ANTWERP, BELGIUM
This is one of those ancient cities of Europe neatly tucked away in the banks of the River Scheldt. It has a rich history, dating back to the middle ages. One of the remarkable historic places here is the Diamond District Houses, dating centuries back. The Belgian beauty is iced with the Grote Markt also called Great Market Square, which is a central square in the old town filled with 16th century guildhalls, cafes and restaurants.
LISBON, PORTUGAL
Who wouldn’t love waking up to the vibrant sky blue and crisp white of the Mediterranean skies? The capital of Portugal, apart from being one of the most popular promises Atlantic surf, panoramic views of houses in various hues. A must visit is the resort town of Sintra while you are in Lisbon. Also, a couple of events like the Eurovision song contest took place here for the first time in 53 years.
LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA
Slovenia’s Capital has known nothing less than millions of accolades in recent times following its park of expansive greeneries, vast universities and young population. One of the best sites to behold here is the Tivoli Park. Are you the adventurous type then you have to go for the National Museum tour in Ljubljana. The Ljubljana river lines a trail of gaffes and exquisite restaurants. The beautiful division of the old and the new parts of the city makes things even more transcendental. This city is best during summer, but you might want to experience the cold winter climate too.
NAGANO, JAPAN
After hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics, this very quiet destination went into a bit of a hiatus, but not for people who know the value. There are few places you would see powdery snow and Nagano is one of those few destinations. The best time to visit is obviously during winter, as its riches are found in its extreme cold weather. A worthy mention is the Jikogudani wild monkey reserve which warrants a visit when here.
CRETE, GREECE
You are about to be served your favorite Greek gods in the best of landscapes and topography. Whether cold, chilling weather or calm and ‘Aristotleic’ weather, Crete promises you nothing but a euphoria-filled history and archeology class without setting a foot within a school. Winter or Summer, Crete is Crete and would welcome you with unadulterated fun. You might want to have a taste of pre-historic meals at the Heraklion Restaurant.
VALLETA, MALTA
Europe’s Capital of Culture has gotten even more recognition, following the increased appetite of people for cultural tourism. Tucked away in a little Island between Italy and Tunisia, you are likely to have a hybrid of cultural and historic lessons besieging you at every turn. Summer vacations cannot be more enchanting in Valletta.
PYEONGCHANG, SOUTH KOREA
Winter vacations have gotten even better with this Korean treat, which promises one a memorable experience. This city just hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics and all who visited only have wonderful things to say. With its dramatic peaks, a lot of things can go wrong, except your 100% fun. You might want to look out for a Jjimjilbang facility for soaking and relaxation. Sauna, Bathhouse, and Spa activities are rediscovered in these white and blue peaks.
As you must already know that I love to travel and most of these places are part of my to visit list. For now I am happy to share these amazing destinations, which may seem a bit off the beaten track but are not to be missed.
Picture Courtesy : Pixabay.
Wow such off the track destinations to explore. I am so glad tbat Antwerp is also included. I mean it has way more attractions than Brussels, being in Belgium for a while made me feel so.
Croatia, Antwerp and Greece are places I want to visit. These are nice offbeat places for vacation that you have compiled in the post.
Croatia is on our travel wishlist since last year. Lots of people visit this island from here and I would love to visit as well.
Wow.. these are all such lovely places i surely wanna travel more now. I think Greece is surely next on my list.
Solta and Crete. Such dreamy travel destination to detoxify mind and soul.
That’s a nice list of off track destinations to explore. A few are on my bucket list already.
Ohh..wow. each one of them is equally beautiful. Want to visit all of them:-)
Italy is on my list from a very long time. Thanks for sharing this.
Majorly Europe is what you are suggesting and truly it is the heart of Earth for travellers. Great list of must visits. Liked it.