Consulting travel experts reveals unsuspected treasures. Ten agents shared their vision of secret destinations to contemplate, unearthing little-known places, but of immeasurable cultural richness. These delightful recommendations are not just about simple vacations; they open the doors to authentic and wonderfully immersive experiences. Avoid the beaten paths and let yourself be seduced by these innovative suggestions for your next getaways. With a double-edged sword, the choice of a destination then becomes a crucial issue, redefining the way we travel.
Overview | |
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Destination 1 | Albania – Albanian Alps, hiking in Valbona. |
Destination 2 | Ecuador – Cloud forest, experience at Mashpi Eco Lodge. |
Destination 3 | Hamburg, Germany – Historical attractions, notably Elbphilharmonie. |
Destination 4 | Kyushu, Japan – Hot springs, active volcanoes. |
Destination 5 | Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil – Sand dunes and lagoons. |
Destination 6 | Nordic Countries – Unique culture, gastronomy, and landscapes. |
Destination 7 | Philippines – Idyllic beaches and contemporary arts. |
Destination 8 | Tunisia – Preserved Roman ruins, local gastronomy. |
Destination 9 | Uzbekistan – Silk Road, fascinating architecture. |
Destination 10 | Western Australia – Stunning beaches, marine biodiversity. |
Albania: The Albanian Alps #
The Albanian Alps, also known as the Accursed Mountains, reveal themselves as a destination declared by Scott Abbott. Away from tourism, this massif offers breathtaking hikes. Visitors discover stunning landscapes, little tarnished by the crowd.
Guesthouses and lodges, managed by local families, preserve the regional authenticity. An immersion in local culture is essential while exploring the Valbona Valley National Park. The recommended time to go is from June to September.
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Average cost: $926 to reach Tirana, the capital.
Ecuador: The Cloud Forest #
Allie Almario, an expert in South America, highly recommends the Ecuadorian cloud forest. Just three hours from the capital Quito, this forest offers impressive biodiversity. The remoteness from crowds provides an almost primordial atmosphere.
The Mashpi Eco Lodge, set within a natural sanctuary, represents a premier choice. Activities like the “Dragon Fly” allow guests to glide above the canopy in a cable car. A sensory experience, where the sound of the wind and birds evokes unforgettable memories.
Average cost: $588 for a flight to Quito.
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Hamburg, Germany #
Kareem George highlights the city of Hamburg, a true concentrate of culture and entertainment. Its geographical location, between the Elbe River and Lake Alster, provides a picturesque setting. Walking its avenues allows one to admire attractions such as the Rathaus (the town hall) and St. Nikolai Church.
Some destinations like the Elbphilharmonie and Miniatur Wunderland deserve a visit, with tickets to book in advance. A trip to Hamburg proves enjoyable in every season, particularly during autumn, when the climate is ideal for wandering.
Average cost: Around $1,090 from the United States.
Kyushu, Japan #
Kristin Braswell discusses the island of Kyushu, often underestimated compared to famous destinations like Tokyo. Here, nature expresses itself in all its forms, with volcanic chimneys and abundant hot springs. The vibrant metropolis of Fukuoka completes the discovery with its cultural treasures.
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The onsens, particularly the Jigoku circuit, fascinate with their beauty. The spring and autumn seasons offer enchanting landscapes, with cherry blossoms in spring. A delight for the eyes and photography enthusiasts.
Average costs: Flight to Fukuoka starting at $1,326.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil #
John Lansdell mentions the wild beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, with its landscapes of dunes and lagoons. The tranquility of the site, far from the crowds, allows visitors to recharge. Various activities, such as swimming and hiking, attract adventure enthusiasts.
The peak season runs from July to August when the lagoons are full and the weather is mild. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site remains a memorable experience.
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Average cost: A flight to Sao Luis is around $1,069.
Nordic Countries: Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway #
Melissa Wu praises the merits of the Nordic countries, destinations rich in cultural diversity. Cities buzz with vibrant nightlife, while the countryside offers traditional activities like dog sledding. Natural wonders, from extreme cold to northern lights, would fascinate any adventure lover.
Stockholm, as the capital, features museums such as the ABBA Museum, appealing to music lovers, while culinary specialties delight foodies. Each season offers a unique atmosphere, from endless summer days to hopeful Christmas markets.
Average costs: Between $769 and $890 depending on the arrival city.
Philippines: An Exceptional Archipelago #
Tesa Totengco advocates for a complete immersion in the Philippines, a country with 7,000 islands. The white sand beaches of Palawan and Boracay represent dream havens. Contemporary art and local gastronomy enrich the travel experience.
Visiting Old Manila reveals a rich past, enhanced by Spanish colonization. Each island has its own identity, ensuring an unprecedented cultural diversity. Avoiding the rainy season, choosing between December and February seems wiser to enjoy the tropical warmth.
Average cost: Ranges from $1,296 to $1,461 for different airports.
Tunisia: A Historical Treasure #
Sofia Markovich highlights Tunisia, known for its preserved Roman ruins, such as the El Jem amphitheater. The dazzling Carthage, an ancient Mediterranean power, offers moving remnants. This country combines idyllic beaches, Sahara dunes, and rich traditions.
Tunisian gastronomy enchants, from briks to couscous, not forgetting the rise of local viticulture. Enjoying the varied landscapes, from mountains to beaches, adds to the country’s appeal. Each season presents advantages, with summer heat balanced by spring’s mildness.
Average cost: Approximately $1,360 for Tunis.
Uzbekistan: Between History and Culture #
Jonathan Alder presents Uzbekistan as a fascinating cultural crossroads, heritage of the famous Silk Road. Complex architectures and a millennia-old history amaze attentive travelers. The cuisine merges various influences and promises a memorable culinary experience.
Cities like Samarkand, illustrated by its adorned mosques, gradually unveil themselves. Traveling in the surrounding mountains allows travelers to experience stunning landscapes. The recommended seasons for a stay remain spring and autumn, providing a temperate climate.
Average costs: Flights to Tashkent starting at $1,470.
Western Australia: An Unexplored Region #
Kemi Wells-Conrad promotes Western Australia, often overlooked in favor of Sydney. Lost in its diverse landscapes, this region dazzles with stunning beaches and renowned vineyards, such as Margaret River. Perth, one of the most isolated cities in the world, constitutes an excellent starting point.
Ningaloo Reef, a true underwater gem, offers exceptional biodiversity, away from the crowds of the Great Barrier. The ideal period extends from April to September, when the climate remains pleasant. A luxurious glamping experience at Sal Salis makes each visit memorable.
Average costs: Up to $2,043 for Perth.
Les points :
- Albania: The Albanian Alps
- Ecuador: The Cloud Forest
- Hamburg, Germany
- Kyushu, Japan
- Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil
- Nordic Countries: Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway
- Philippines: An Exceptional Archipelago
- Tunisia: A Historical Treasure
- Uzbekistan: Between History and Culture
- Western Australia: An Unexplored Region