Beyond Tourist Spots — Exploring Hidden Gems Around The World

(By: Govind Gaur – Founder & CEO, WanderOn)

In an age dominated by social media and mass tourism, it is not difficult to get tricked into the habit of ticking off on a trusty bucket list of the world's most frequented destinations. From Paris's Eiffel Tower to Bali beaches, these iconic sites are certainly wonderful but what if real travel enchantment is to be found elsewhere?

For the curious and adventurous traveller, the world has its share of hidden gems that have rich culture, breathtaking beauty, and unforgettable memories without the tourists. These places are less talked about, which all the more make them enticing and captivating for the travellers globally. 

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1. Giethoorn, Netherlands – The Village with No Roads

Dubbed as the “Venice of the North,” Giethoorn is a peaceful, picture-perfect village in the province of Overijssel, some 120 kilometers northeast of Amsterdam. What makes this magical place special is its otherworldly design—no roads in the historical old town center, only a system of more than 90 kilometers of canals and 176 wooden arch bridges uniting its quaint homes and gardens.

Nature enthusiasts will also enjoy its close proximity to Weerribben-Wieden National Park, Europe's second largest freshwater wetland. The park is a sanctuary for biodiversity and has canoeing, birdwatching, and serene hiking trails. For culture and history buffs, museums like Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus and the De Oude Aarde (The Old Earth) present the village's rich history and unique collections of rare gemstones. Whether one is leisurely cruising by boat, sipping coffee at a canal-front café, or just walking across one of its quaint bridges, Giethoorn gives him/her a glimpse of life moving slower and simpler making it an actual travel hidden gem for those wishing to disconnect and relax.

2. Kotor, Montenegro – Fjords and Medieval Charm

Nestled in a beautiful fjard-like bay, Kotor is one of the hidden gems of Montenegro. Despite its increasing popularity, it still remains overshadowed by Dubrovnik and therefore is a top choice for tourists looking for old-world beauty with no throngs of visitors.

The medieval heart of the town is a maze of cobbled streets, old churches, all encapsulated within fortress walls that were built during Venetian times. The ascent up the 1,350 steps to the San Giovanni Fortress is a must, particularly at sunrise or sunset, when the panoramic views of Kotor Bay, bounded by towering mountains, are simply breathtaking. Outside the town, there are tranquil coves, quaint villages such as Perast, and hiking, kayaking, or simply languishing in the stunning scenery. This is where history and nature meet and time slows down just enough for one to be able to fully absorb it all.

3. Ikaria, Greece – The Island Where Time Slows Down

In a nation endowed with more than 200 inhabited islands, Ikaria is not distinguished by its tourist facilities or high-end hotels, but by its distinctive lifestyle. Situated in the northeastern Aegean Sea, this mountainous, out-of-the-way island is one of the world's celebrated "Blue Zones," areas where citizens typically live longer, healthier lives.

One does not need to hurry; time passes differently in Ikaria. People sleep a lot during the day and dine late in the evening. Social gatherings form an integral aspect of their wellbeing. Visitors fall into this beat in no time. The days can start off with a climb through the wooded hills and concealed villages, culminating in a swim in Seychelles Beach's crystal-blue waters. For those who want to relax, reboot, and live in the here and now, Ikaria is a soul-renewing haven.

4. Hsipaw, Myanmar – A Window into Rural Asia

In the hills of northern Myanmar, Hsipaw offers a rare and peaceful escape into traditional Shan culture. Surrounded by lush rice paddies and rolling landscapes, it is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers seeking paths less travelled. River cruises on the tranquil Dokehtawady River, visits to remote villages, and welcoming homestays create a truly immersive experience. Far removed from the noise of mainstream tourism, Hsipaw invites slow, meaningful exploration. While Myanmar faces ongoing challenges, destinations like Hsipaw reflect the country's warmth, resilience, and the enduring beauty of its untouched countryside.

5. Gjirokastër, Albania – The City of Stone

Sitting in southern Albania close to the Greek border, Gjirokastër is an intriguing city that most visitors, passing through the more popular Mediterranean spots overlook. Gjirokastër, also called the "City of Stone," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts exceptionally preserved Ottoman-era buildings. Its stone-roofed homes, whitewashed houses, and cobbled streets sweep travellers back to another era.

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