5 Destinations to Help You Get Off the Beaten Path
While your bucket list might be filled with iconic, popular travel destinations, sometimes it feels good to skip the crowds and explore somewhere lesser known. With all of the access the internet provides, it can be difficult to sort through the noise and find those hidden gems. Here are some of our favorite destinations for the traveler looking to get off the beaten path.
#1 Nicaragua
Average Annual Visitors: 223,000
Why We Love It
While it takes a bit of leg work to get there, Nicaragua is a nature lovers paradise. The diverse ecosystems to explore will rival Costa Rica, plus you’ll have the beaches practically to yourself.
Things To Do
Take a surfing lesson, explore the jungle by horseback, scout for monkeys, or even hike the youngest volcano in Central America - Cerro Negro. Nicaragua has something for couples and families alike.
Our Favorite Place to Stay
#2 Namibia
Average Annual Visitors: 1 Million
Why We Love It
Don’t let the bleak dessert landscape fool you. Namibia has a plethora of wildlife and beautifully dramatic views.
Things To Do
You absolutely must experience the Etosha National Park salt pans and the sand dunes of Sossusvlei. As the largest wildlife sanctuary in Namibia, Etosha is home to a wide range of wildlife that is not to be missed.
Our Favorite Place to Stay
#3 Bhutan
Average Annual Visitors: 300,000
Why We Love It
Tucked away into the beautiful Himalayan Mountains, this small Buddhist country is home to spectacular wildlife and a rich culture. Because Bhutan has such strict travel regulations, they receive a limited number of tourists each year, leaving this country virtually untouched.
Things To Do
The stunning cliffside architecture will capture the heart of photographers. For hiking lovers, Bhutan’s Chomolhari trek is a must, especially if you want to avoid the crowded trails of Nepal.
Our Favorite Place to Stay
#4 Australia’s Kimberley Region
Average Annual Visitors: 400,000
Why We Love It
Australia’s best kept secret is this rugged coastal region, on the northern end of Western Australia. From tropical forests and sprawling deserts, to reef lined coasts, the Kimberley region has a little bit of everything.
Things To Do
History lovers will be awed by the Aboriginal rock art and prehistoric footprints dating back over 50,000 years. Since this is a coastal region, you can also partake in the joys of exploring the largest in-shore coral reef by snorkeling.
Our Favorite Cruise
#5 Bermuda
Average Annual Visitors: 650,000
Why We Love It
Bermuda is not just a simple cruise port stop. This small tropical oasis is free of cars and crowds, but ripe with emerald green waters and beautiful pink beaches.
Things To Do
In addition to exploring the island by moped, the stunning coastline is best seen by boat. Enjoy a sunset sail around the island to take in the colorful homes and lush hillsides.
Our Favorite Place to Stay
