15 Underrated International Destinations
Published on April 26, 2008 - 110 Comments
As an American, I’ve always found the best overseas destinations to be the ones less traveled. In general, they tend to be more authentic, friendly and economical than the more popular vacation spots. But I’ve not been everywhere, so help me out - tell us your favorite out of the way holiday spots.
Thinking of an urban hell-hole ravaged by warring factions? Think again. Belfast has emerged from its troubled past to become a vibrant and unique cultural center. With its politically-inspired murals and pleasant, green parks, Belfast is a slice of Irish heaven, not to mention it’s easier on the wallet than Dublin.
In the middle of South Africa is the arid mountain kingdom of Lesotho. Though not the easiest place to get to, it offers a great venue for camping, hiking and riding. The Basuto people of the region boast a rich culture and history, and are among the most friendly I have ever met. Be sure to bring your sunscreen though, especially in summer.
Looking for the last unspoiled beaches in the Caribbean? The Bay Islands have so far escaped the rampant commercialization of Cancun or Montego. Pristine, white beaches extend for miles, virtually untouched by the tourist trade. But go quickly, it likely won’t last for long.
Spain boasts a number of popular vacation spots, and with good reason. However, the generally overlooked Basque Country is well worth your time. The climate is normally milder than in other parts of Spain’s north, and it has a number of great museums and picturesque plazas.
Calgary is typically the point of departure for visitors to Banff or Jasper, and most don’t stick around to see what this Alberta metropolis has to offer. But in the summer you can enjoy Calgary’s many greenways and bike trails. And rumor has it they enjoy a few winter sports as well…
Most visitors to Mexico never make it past the beaches of Cancun or Acapulco. But a few hours outside Mexico City stands the historic city of Puebla. With its beautiful colonial architecture, perfect weather and delicious local cuisine, Puebla has a particular allure and charm. And as the place of origin for Cinco de Mayo, it’s great for the history buff.
History hasn’t been too kind to this charming Baltic coastal town, which was razed to ashes during World War Two. But most of the old structures have been rebuilt with great precision, and it’s easy to spend hours (or days) just wandering through the pleasant historic quarter. Easily accessible by train from Berlin or Warsaw, Gdansk is definitely worth a visit.
Quito wraps itself around the base of Pichincha, a snow-capped volcano that provides one of the most unique backdrops of any city on earth. The historic downtown was among the first to be designated a UNICEF World Heritage Site. While you’re there, take the short flight to the Galapagos to check out one of the best-preserved biospheres on the planet.
Even after it adopted the euro as its national currency, Portugal remains a fairly economical destination. It boasts a rich, multicultural history, great music and no shortage of spectacular vistas, awash in brilliant Mediterranean colors. And if that’s not enough, stick around for the food.
One of the oldest colonial towns in Central America, Granada is accessible by road from Managua. Not as well-kept a secret as in years past, Granada is becoming a more popular destination for tourists due to its history and relative safety. But if you go in the off-season, you should get it mostly to yourself. Don’t miss out on the local coffee.
South Africa is best known for its incredible wildlife reserves, and they are undoubtedly amazing. But many don’t realize that South Africa produces some of the best wine in the world. Take the road from Cape Town to explore the lush, green wine country, and don’t forget to grab a few bottles along the way.
Long the haven for drunken ex-pat writers and other scoundrels, Tangier has undergone a period of urban renewal that is helping to shake off its reputation as “the Tijuana of the Mediterranean.” You’d be hard-pressed to find water as blue as that which laps at its shores. Many visitors will be find its vibrance overwhelming, but the best way to see Tangier is to simply allow yourself to be swept away in it.
Generally overlooked because of its proximity to its bustling neighbor (Buenos Aires), Montevideo has much to offer with its interesting fusion of colonial and deco architecture. And as a smaller city, it’s generally more relaxed. While you’re there, go to a “parilla” and sample some of the best steak you’ll ever eat.
Assuming you can get used to the traffic (not as easy as it sounds), Hanoi never fails to leave an impression on its guests. Hardly the place that it was thirty years ago, Hanoi is an exciting, bustling city filled with the aroma of exotic spices. Don’t forget to see nearby Ha Long Bay, which may just be the single most beautiful place on earth.
The stifling, chaotic maze of Dakar might be too much for some, but those who brave the humidity and mosquitoes will walk away with a truly unforgettable experience. Don’t resist; let yourself be carried along by the sights and sounds. When you leave, Africa will no longer be an abstract notion or fleeting images on your TV. This is Africa at its most visceral, and I promise it will change you for the better.
Contributor: Tequila Mockingbird
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1. King of the Horizon - April 26th, 2008 at 3:36 am
Brilliant List
Love to go to Hanoi!
2. jfrater - April 26th, 2008 at 3:38 am
King of the Horizon: I would really like to go there as well - that and Tangier are the two that I am most keen to see from this list.
3. pabben - April 26th, 2008 at 3:52 am
Love the list.
4. warrrreagl - April 26th, 2008 at 3:58 am
A hell of a list. I have never travelled abroad anywhere, but now I have a checlist to get started.
5. Himself - April 26th, 2008 at 4:22 am
Nice list.
I’d add Austria (Vienna is a gorgeous city) and France (might sound like a ‘typical’ destination, but some places truely are fantastic).
6. oHcoHc - April 26th, 2008 at 4:26 am
So where is new zealand jfrater? not good enough?
7. fivestring63 - April 26th, 2008 at 4:36 am
Looks like nice places, but how safe are some of these?
8. kiwiboi - April 26th, 2008 at 4:37 am
Interesting list. Nice job.
9. jfrater - April 26th, 2008 at 4:48 am
oHcoHc: nz is a very well known destination
10. DiscHuker - April 26th, 2008 at 4:58 am
i thouroughly enjoyed San Pedro, Belize (a wonderful island paradise) and Chiang Mai, Thailand (everything you would want from “the asian experience” without the immensity of Bangkok) and Panajachel, Guatemala (on the coast of Lake Atitlan, known as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world)
11. Posy - April 26th, 2008 at 5:29 am
Yeah!!Belfast is my hometown, you can even see my house on the pic you published, even if it’s only a little dot. You MUST come to see our fantastic city and indeed our little country, Northern Ireland! A little bit of heaven!
12. TheDragon - April 26th, 2008 at 5:30 am
So many places to see and experience around the world, yet so little time and more importantly money to do it…
13. mistaken - April 26th, 2008 at 5:39 am
U made a mistake
the photo of Granada is actually the alhambra of Granada in SPAIN!!
But I won’t do any sarcastic comment about how is geography learned in the States
In fact that’s a great list and that tells everything.
I must say the world is full of places to visit. This list represent maybe the most “apropiated” for turism but not the topical ones.
And don’t forget to visit spanish Granada. One of the nicer places I’ve ever been
14. Ruairi - April 26th, 2008 at 5:46 am
-Donegal, Ireland
-Lake Taupo, New Zealand
-Lake Tahoe, Reno (though it isn’t underrated)
15. Tequila Mockingbird - April 26th, 2008 at 6:27 am
Yeah, might need to switch the Granada pic with one from Nicaragua. Although the Spanish Granada is well worth seeing too.
16. Csimmons - April 26th, 2008 at 6:32 am
I’d like to add Louisville, kentucky, theres a shit load of stuff thats fun here and tons of things to see.
17. Elsa - April 26th, 2008 at 6:36 am
Interesting List. I prefer less traveled paths, so I can appreciate giving something not listed in the “brocure” a try. Recently had some friends travel to Morroco, and most were acting like they had lost their mind. Most Aericans I talk with are scared to travel off the beaten path, but with a bit of common sense, it’s well worth it.
18. islanderbst - April 26th, 2008 at 6:37 am
This is a list that could have used multiple pics.
Not having travelled abroad, I can’t comment on the choices, but I have been starting to read up on Africa (turns out it is an interesting place, who knew?), so I’ll go wiki Lesotho for starts.
19. Elsa - April 26th, 2008 at 6:38 am
brochure
Americans
*smacks hand*
my bad
20. Tequila Mockingbird - April 26th, 2008 at 7:18 am
fivestrings63: Your concern about safety is certainly a valid one. Being a clueless Tennessee redneck, I don’t usually blend in to well in places. But I’ve never had a problem in any of these places. Listen to your gut instincts - if it feels dangerous, it probably is.
21. Hatsuka - April 26th, 2008 at 7:28 am
What? Nowhere in Japan? There are a few cities up north that are beautiful in the winter, and virtually everywhere (except parts of Tokyo) is beautiful right now, in cherry blossom season.
22. h.e. - April 26th, 2008 at 7:34 am
I can proudly recommend you my hometown Mugla,Turkey. It is a beautiful city (Especially Oludeniz )but unfortunately underrated.
http://www.fethiye.net/fethiye_p6.html#oludeniz
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%96l%C3%BCdeniz
23. MadBess - April 26th, 2008 at 7:34 am
I’ve been to Hanoi and Ha Long Bay. Amazing.
24. Mom424 - April 26th, 2008 at 7:45 am
Great List! Not one place I wouldn’t like to go. I also would suggest northern Ontario. And not too far north. 2 to 3 hours from Toronto and you see this.
http://images.google.com/imgre...../nature/IM
There are provincial campgrounds but these are not even necessary. We often camped on crown land for free. Rent a canoe. Our family cottage affords us these kinds of views; a 20 minute paddle away. Not even in the boonies - town of Owen Sound (pop 20,000) is 7 miles from the cottage.
25. Mom424 - April 26th, 2008 at 7:46 am
sorry. wrong link, try again -
http://www.canoenorthwestontar.....m/id/10475
26. jake ryder - April 26th, 2008 at 7:49 am
Calgary is a hole. All or urban Alberta is great if you like big box stores.
27. fivestring63 - April 26th, 2008 at 8:22 am
“”fivestrings63: Your concern about safety is certainly a valid one. Being a clueless Tennessee redneck, I don’t usually blend in to well in places. But I’ve never had a problem in any of these places. Listen to your gut instincts - if it feels dangerous, it probably is.”"
Well, myself, also being a Tennessee Redneck, found myself in a lot of overseas places in the military that were questionable. But there’s safety in drunkeness, loudness, and numbers.
28. xdarkhorsex - April 26th, 2008 at 8:26 am
have to agree with Jake Ryder, Calgary is not the city that should be on here, Edmonton is. It has the best and largest parks system in Canada, a beautiful river valley running through the heart of the city. Edmonton is only 3 hours north of Calgary and is the capital of Alberta. Calgary is typically home to redneck oil workers, big money and big attitude.
29. Joni - April 26th, 2008 at 8:40 am
I happen to live in Calgary and it is not the “hole” jake ryder and xdarkhorsex says it is. Lots of friendly people and plenty of sights to see if you know where to look :).
30. Decypha - April 26th, 2008 at 8:55 am
You hit the nail on the head with Stellenbosch… the whole wine route in what is called the Western Cape in South Africa is a definite place to be… I’m all for South Africa; they had an ad on tv that showed the greatest places in the world and how South Africa has it’s own “less abused” version of each!!! South Africa is the place to be!! I would also recommend Knysna, George and the Drakensberg in South Africa… gorgeous…
31. Rylan - April 26th, 2008 at 9:18 am
During a trip to the Czech Republic, I learned that they do not have regular bottled water and that the tap water is unsafe to drink. Also, Coke tasted different!
32. toecutter - April 26th, 2008 at 9:21 am
fivestring63: That is the redneck way, loud, drunk, and lots of ya.
33. jake ryder - April 26th, 2008 at 9:22 am
Sorry I was venting about Calgary. Last time there was not fun and the people I encountered were arrogant rednecks. Hopefully next fall I will encounter the friendly people Joni mentioned. Edmonton on the otherhand was a treat.
34. Andre D - April 26th, 2008 at 9:29 am
Y’all gotta check out Qingdao (Tsingtao) China. Its gonna be the site for the sailing events during the Olympics. Amazing mix of modern architecture and colonial German architecture (it was a German Colony in the early 20th century). Also home of the world’s most popular beer company Tsingtao Beer (its popular in China, therefore its the most popular in the world). Nearby, the village of Laoshan has mountain temples you can visit and lots of interesting history in Tsingtao in general.
35. Tequila Mockingbird - April 26th, 2008 at 9:46 am
Interesting that you mention Qingdao. I know there are a lot of jobs for English teachers there - I’ve thought about doing that myself. And yeah, Tsingtao beer is almost always my preferred method of inebriation.
36. AngieWangieMangie - April 26th, 2008 at 9:58 am
I LIVE IN PUEBLA, I LIVE IN PUEBLA!!!
Beautiful city, indeed!!! Come down here, tourists!!! You will always be welcome AND you’ll have a great time since there are a lot of things to do, places to visit, food to eat, things to buy… *sighs* Yeah, yeah… I’ve been gladly surprised to see Puebla inclued on the list, thanks!!
37. Alana - April 26th, 2008 at 10:06 am
calgary?? not so much. i live 3 hours from there and believe me its not that terrific. sure it has some interesting sights but so do most places if you look hard enough. all in all im surprised it was mentioned. however i must say if you do travel to alberta in the summer, stop by edmonton! it has so many festivals taking place!
38. Tequila Mockingbird - April 26th, 2008 at 10:08 am
AngieWangieMangie: I lived in Puebla for a while, and I try to go back every year. Nothing like sitting back with a nice cafe con crema at Vittorio’s and watching the Zocalo crowds go by…
39. kentuckygirl - April 26th, 2008 at 10:13 am
I spent a semester abroad at Queens University in Belfast. I absolutely fell in love with the city and the people. I never felt I was in danger and would highly recommend it to anyone.
Also, would like to add Sendai, Japan on the list. Its a beautiful city in the North. The people are friendly and its more laid back than Tokyo.
40. Cedestra - April 26th, 2008 at 10:19 am
Quiet day, I’m usually not this low on the number list.
I hear Ireland is making a renaissance in it’s cooking.
5. Himself: wholeheartedly agree. I’ve really only travelled outside the country three times and once was a 9 day trip to Europe. Paris was nice, but the French countryside was gorgeous. And Switzerland? Absolutely fell in love with Lucerne and a small town we stayed at nearby. The Alps are magical.
41. AngieWangieMangie - April 26th, 2008 at 10:22 am
Tequila Mockingbird: really? that’s amazing!! I suppose you tried the mole, right? and camotes? (oh, well, I drifted off to cuisineland, hehe, sorry)
Where did you live, exactly?
42. Tequila Mockingbird - April 26th, 2008 at 10:33 am
AngieWangieMangie: Small world, haha. Yeah, the mole is enough reason to visit. I lived in Agua Azul.
43. AngieWangieMangie - April 26th, 2008 at 10:40 am
Tequila Mockingbird: Too small!! Wow!!! Agua Azul? oh, I lived there some years ago, now I live towards Valsequillo… Good point about the mole!!! Hahaha.
And why did you live here? (if you don’t mind me asking…)
44. Tequila Mockingbird - April 26th, 2008 at 10:58 am
I was studying at BUAP. I really love Puebla. Of all the places I listed, it’s probably my favorite.
45. Pieter - April 26th, 2008 at 11:05 am
I agree with Joni. Calgary is a fantastic place and downtown is fun to explore. Sure there may be some ghetto type areas but truly what city doesn’t?
I love going to Calgary when I can.
46. toolnut - April 26th, 2008 at 11:11 am
Superb list!!! I have never traveled overseas myself, but I know many people who have been to Basque country. They tell me its beautiful. I would have to disagree about the best steak you’ll ever have in Montevideo. Like I said I’m never been there, but in my experience no one can top the Basque style of cooking steak. Sorry
47. Drew - April 26th, 2008 at 11:16 am
LIST IS MISSING ONE SPOT: Mayakoba, Mexico. They new hotspot of the world. Check out the new banyan tree that will be there:
www.chocolateonthepillow.com
48. goof_ball - April 26th, 2008 at 11:34 am
I’ve never been to any of these places but maybe I should.
49. Mike - April 26th, 2008 at 11:40 am
My mom was born in Bilbao, Spain and I’ve visited there many times and I love it. I’ve been all around Spain. Barcelona and Santander are also nice places but I would not recommend Madrid.
50. Amy - April 26th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
Yay! Belfast! It’s where I’m from, grew up and still live. And seriously the city now is amazing. We have culture now and everything.
51. Daithi - April 26th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
Belfast Is more expensive than Dublin.
52. downhighway61 - April 26th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
ahhh, just another 10 places to add to the list of places to visit….
great list, loved it!
53. Angelina - April 26th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
Great List!!! I especially appreciate the comments about the cuisine for each city. . . I base my trips on where I’m going to eat first and who/what I’ll see second.
54. carpe_noctem - April 26th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
I’m going to Bilbao, Lisbon and Belfast later on this year, I can’t wait! This is an amazing list, I’m very very impressed at the quality of the lists these last few days. No offense jfrater your holiness, but you have to admit, whatever you did different these last couple of days, it’s great!
55. Phil - April 26th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
Could nominate Sihanoukville in Cambodia. Great beaches and islands, very cheap, fresh seafood, go to the snakehouse for a meal, happy people
56. broccolibrain - April 26th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
Hi, first of all Jamie let me tell you how truly addicted I am to your website. It has kept me entertained long after my husband goes off to sleep. Great job! I am from Pakistan and though mine is a country with a truly rich cultural heritage and amazing geographical diversity I wish I could have seen it on this list. Things haven’t been so great lately but let’s hope we can soon welcome tourists from all across the globe with the warmth and hospitality which is part of who we really are as a nation.
57. SarahJ - April 26th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
post 14 Ruairi, I dont agree with Lake Taupo. It just looks like all the other lakes in that region.
58. Michelle - April 26th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Calgary?
I kind of agree, but it’s mostly the downtown core, and it doesn’t take very long to get around there. After that, you’d have to go out of town (as mentioned) to Banff or Jasper. Canmore is beautiful too.
I’ve been to Lisbon, and while the architecture is great (the tower of discoveries in the picture is gorgeous but the water smelled HORRIBLE) but I found it quite dirty. There is a gorgeous park there as well - I can’t remember the exact location, but there were labyrinthine hedges all around it. It was amazing.
Great list!!
59. Daithi - April 26th, 2008 at 4:52 pm
Post 14 - Ruairi;
If your throwing Donegal into the mix, shirley Cavan should earn a mention!
60. Rusty - April 26th, 2008 at 4:53 pm
Lake Taupo looks like all the other lakes in that region? What other lakes? New Zealand’s Lake Taupo is the largest lake in the southern hemisphere, the result of two volcanic eruptions, the last of which is the largest in the world in the last 5000 years! An excellent trout fishing area, plus skiing and bush tramps and geothermal pools, and the biggest commercial skydiving center in the world!
61. Phender_Bender - April 26th, 2008 at 6:13 pm
I was born and lived in Tangier for several years. I frequently visit, and I believe it is truly the most beautiful place in the world, and I live in Colorado.
62. Mara - April 26th, 2008 at 8:24 pm
To hell with Edmonton.
I moved to Calgary two years ago (three in June) and I love it. It felt like home right away.
I really haven’t encountered that many rednecks. You just need to go to the right places. The shops in Kensington, or Stephen Avenue, etc, etc.
63. Sarah - April 26th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
I was born in Calgary, but honestly there must be half a dozen Canadian cities that deserve a spot on this list more than Calgary does. Edmonton comes to mind of course, but most of the cities in the Maritimes would fit too.
64. Leah - April 26th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
I completely agree with the Belfast being on the list. i was living there a few months ago, and it is far better then Dublin, and generally has a greater atmosphere. Another place to add though is Llandudno in Wales. It’s an old Victoran-like seaside town, but was one of my favourite places overseas.
65. SarahJ - April 27th, 2008 at 12:55 am
Rusty, I still dont rate Lake Taupo.
66. Jono - April 27th, 2008 at 1:07 am
#14: Be sure to also bring a gun and a bag of knives as well.
67. Devon - April 27th, 2008 at 3:16 am
Ahem..nothing wrong with Rednecks and in Calgary we are quite proud of this label…better then a Red from Redmonton as we refer to the Northern neighbor down here!
But I have to concur that there are better selections then Calgary in Canada…Edmonton is not one of them…ugh..ugly city…but Quebec City is beautiful and the Maritimes are very nice….Outside of Calgary is nice though…the mountains are nearby and Banff of course…
I suppose if you like the Calgary Stampede, then Calgary has something to offer you…
Calgary..a nice place to live but I seriously wouldn’t put it on my highlights to go out of my way to visit…and I say that as a native born Cowtownian!!!
And may I just say a big EWWWW to Dakar…oy…couldn’t pay me to visit that dump…
68. juanjux - April 27th, 2008 at 3:39 am
Bilbao? Is ugly as hell! (even Basques would tell you that, except if they’re from Bilbao, of course.) If you go to the Basque Country is much better to spends your time in San Sebastian (Donosti in Basque language) which is an extremely beautiful city.
69. Princess_Betty - April 27th, 2008 at 3:49 am
I’ve been to one of those on the list (Bilbao); it was grim, but I was only 14 at the time and it rained. Calgary looks absolutely stunning, as does Granada. Anyone ever been to Belgium? I went in February and stayed in Bruges, it’s the most stupidly pretty town in Europe. Belgium tends to get ignored as it’s only a small country in between the more popular France and the Netherlands. I’d definitely rate it as my favourite European country (so far), there’s so much history there, and everything is so clean!!
70. DANTE - April 27th, 2008 at 4:03 am
Guam, great place.
71. juanjux - April 27th, 2008 at 4:03 am
Princess, I agree - Belgium is beautiful and the people was always very warm and nice to me when I was there.
72. ChrisG - April 27th, 2008 at 4:19 am
A friend just got back from South Africa and could not stop raving about what a gorgeous country it is. We’re planning to go for FIFA 2010, so I’ll check it out for myself.
Calgary indeed does look stunning in panoramic views from the air. On the ground, the city absolutely sucks. There are very good reasons why the rest of Canada hates Calgary, namely the reputation its citizens have as ignorant, racist, and motivated entirely by money (think Houston, TX without the culture). I would rather spend a lifetime in dreary Winnipeg than a week in Cowtown.
73. Lewis - April 27th, 2008 at 4:28 am
Good list, I’d love to visit Vietnam!
74. Houkama - April 27th, 2008 at 6:47 am
I agree with Hatsuka, we need Japan^^
I’d say Nara because of its long history and hundreds of deer strolling around messing up the traffic…although it’s probably too much of a touristic spot…
Something REALLY off the beaten track would be Shiretoko peninsula, east Hokkaidou. Haven’t been there yet, as I’m still thinking about how to face the 1-bear-per-square-kilometer-problem the wisest way, there.
Someone said Sendai… a nice, quiet place to spend the last years of your life, but nothing more^^
75. Joni - April 27th, 2008 at 8:16 am
I’ve been to Vietnam as well, though the southern region. Beautiful country with lots of delicious dishes and tropical fruits. Not so friendly locals who will assume you’re from America(a not so popular country over there ;)). I suggest visiting Vietnam during their winter months, which is around Vietnamese New Years. Truly amazing festivals and shows.
76. enxchanted - April 27th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Northern Ireland is a great place to visit with many interesting places to see, despite the lingering influence of the IRA. Be sure to visit Giant’s Causeway on the coast and take a tour of the Belleek pottery factory.
77. kozi11 - April 27th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
im glad you put poland in there. seriously.
and also, i don’t think calgary should be on the list.
edmonton is better but neither should be on the list.
78. Peri - April 28th, 2008 at 5:19 am
I was in Belfast in 2005 and absolutely fell in love with the city. My great-grandfather was born in Belfast and it was a thrill to visit the city and I actually got to walk on the street where he grew up! The old family home had been torn down a long time ago and new houses built, but it was still amazing. And the Giant’s Causeway was awesome!
One tip (I didn’t read all the comments, so forgive me if this is a repeat) for anyone looking to travel to any of these places…check out local holidays and plan accordingly. I was in Belfast on July 12–the Orangemen’s Parade came as quite a surprise to me. But then, my great-grandfather was an Orangeman, so I enjoyed the celebration.
79. Phil - April 28th, 2008 at 5:53 am
SarahJ: Lake Taupo is completely distinct from other lakes in “that region”. Much bigger for one.
80. Columbo - April 28th, 2008 at 6:54 am
I’m not really sure why Calgary is on here… It’s become known as one of the more violent cities in Canada over the past few years.
81. Sam - April 28th, 2008 at 10:57 am
Umm what ? Edmonton ? Are you kidding me ?
Edmonton is awful, the only good thing might be the mall.
Calgary is way better, can’t forget the Calgary Stampede !
82. Barack Obama - April 28th, 2008 at 11:43 am
Luagno, Switzerland.
http://www.lugano-tourism.ch/i.....tiche.aspx
83. T - April 28th, 2008 at 11:44 am
I’m rather surprised New Zealand isn’t on the list.
84. daniel - April 28th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Poland is not one of the baltic states…the baltic states are Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, wich share an border with Poland.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltic_states
85. dofnup - April 28th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
Thank you for the affirmation: I have always wanted to visit Lisboa and people always think I’m weird for it >_
86. Clarkekentyboy - April 30th, 2008 at 7:58 am
Our Wee Country! Yeeeeeoooooooooooooo!!!!!
87. save - April 30th, 2008 at 11:56 am
Granada, Nicaragua!?!?
The picture you posted is “La Alhambra”, from Granada, Spain!
So, which Granada is exactly? Or maybe Grenada Island?
Hope you correct it as soon as possible.
greetz.
88. liz156 - May 1st, 2008 at 1:04 am
Living in Calgary, I am surprised to see it listed here with so many exotic locations.
Uhh and we’re not all ignorant racits. Well at least I don’t think I am
89. londonafter - May 1st, 2008 at 10:00 am
LOL im so happy because i live in Uruguay!! but i dont think that Montevideo is the nicest place of the country… Punta del este is near it and is really famous in latin america for its beaches. i hope you like the pictures
http://www.arikah.net/enciclop.....l_Este.jpg
http://www.puntarealestate.com.....view_l.jpg
http://eur.i1.yimg.com/eur.yim.....6b1872.jpg
90. Francisco - May 1st, 2008 at 5:07 pm
YES HONDURAS IS AMAZING
HONDUREñO FOR LIFFFEEE
91. Uncle Jay - May 2nd, 2008 at 1:11 pm
Please try to visit the Chocolate Hills of Carmen, Bohol, Philippines…
92. uncle paul - May 3rd, 2008 at 11:51 pm
the north west of Scotland is wow ! - clean, unspoilt, breathtaking and soooo much history.
Fly to Glasgow rent a car and point it north west towards Fort William and from there head west. The Isle of Skye is awesome - the best place I have ever been !
I wanna move there (if they’ll let me stay !)
93. Laura - May 4th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
Buenos Aires is a beautiful city too. The architecture, all the cultural activities (museums, concerts, art galleries), the food (great meat, and actually as most of us, Argentinians, come from a mixture of Spanish, Italian and French immigrants, you can find great pasta and pizza restaurants), the night life. I know probably I’m not being objective as I live there, but I can assure you that is a great city. Actually we have a wide range of places to visit, from cities in the Patagonia (lots of lakes, mountains, even glaciers) to places like la quebrada de Humahuaca and lots of places in the north (with an arid climate) or the Cataratas de Iguazu (rainforest).
94. danielle - May 4th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
I love Calgary!
lived here all my life
95. Rusty - May 5th, 2008 at 2:19 am
SarahJ - you’re a hard woman to please!
What is your favourite Lake? There sure are some pretty places on water - a trip down the Rhine or the Danube past all those stately mansions and castles is amazing; I enjoyed a steamer trip across Interlaken in Switzerland in the rain with an accompanying practicing choir!; Zurich was ok; the Thames nice; Venice totally awesome; Amsterdam is cool… but none of them have the same appeal for an OUTDOOR setting than Taupo!!
(A good list suggestion: most appealing waterways?)
And New Zealand should be on the List…
96. FJ - May 7th, 2008 at 2:41 am
Hey Uncle Paul, we’d love you to stay! Lol
xx
97. valen - May 7th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Hey!
I am from Quito- Ecuador and i was surprised to see my city here! wow you guys should come,it’s an amazing city, beautiful buildings, churches, the food, the weather!! and yes galapagos is paradise!!!
98. totava - May 10th, 2008 at 10:56 am
Even after it adopted the euro as its national currency, Portugal remains a fairly economical destination
?? What does this mean? I’m from Lisbon, by the way, and nice list, glad to see someone knows this great city
99. totava - May 10th, 2008 at 10:57 am
Oh and Michelle, you’re probably thinking of the Jardim Botanico?
Yes, it’s a pity the Tagus is a bit polluted.
100. sam88 - May 19th, 2008 at 7:33 pm
I highly recommend Boracay, Phillipines - island beach resort. It’s paradise…
101. dr. Hannibal Lecter - May 20th, 2008 at 3:43 am
For those of you who enjoy the middle-of-nowhere ambient, I suggest coming to the island where I grew up, Hvar or the ancient Pharos.
My recommendation is to go to Stari Grad (Old Town), i.e. my home town
It’s the best when you come in the off-season (no tourists at all). Other nice places are Vrboska or Jelsa or any other smaller town or even a village. Just avoid the town of the same name (Hvar), as it is the most bloated, snobbish and amazingly expensive place to stay (some fort ruins to see though, might make a good sight-seeing trip).
But otherwise, if you go anywhere on Hvar, you can swim in our clear sea, drink tap water and possible get lost in the woods.
Some links for the curious:
http://www.hvar.hr/Default.aspx?tabid=320
http://www.hvarinfo.com/island-hvar-photos/
http://www.hvarinfo.com/stari-grad/
You might even meet dr. Lecter in person..
102. girl21 - May 20th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
how bout indonesia the biggest archipelago in the world?
103. Bunneh - May 31st, 2008 at 11:24 pm
Personally, I wouldn’t have had Calgary on the list. Maybe I’m biased because I live here, but there’s really a huge lackage of art and culture here. Sure, there are a couple of places but nothing that is REALLY great. Too, the weather comes in extremes, so be careful with trip planning.
I would suggest Victoria, BC instead. I used to live there, and while it’s definitely a tourism city, there is so much fun to be had! The Royal London Wax museum is a BARGAIN and it absolutely fabulous! The Royal BC Museum isn’t too bad either! Plus, there are a lot of great local vendors down in the inner harbour, and a couple of great sushi places downtown : D
104. Marc - June 4th, 2008 at 11:41 pm
Calgary is a very nice city. It has rated in the top 5 cities in the world by the UN for livability.
105. Marko - August 18th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
Calgary is great, so is Lisbon and Bilboa. But the best place i’ve visited that i never thought i would is Luxembourg (both the city and the country)
106. joy anne - August 20th, 2008 at 10:51 am
have you been to the philippines? lots of awesome tourist destination! amazing beaches!
107. Mark - August 26th, 2008 at 7:21 am
Maybe i’m biased cause i’m from Toronto but Calgary is a truly ugly city from an aesthetic point of view. I’ve been there a couple times and while it’s not a terrible city i wouldn’t consider it for the list. True around it there are some of the most beutiful destinations in the world and there are some enchanting areas in the city i wouldn’t suggest anyone plan a trip around it. If you’re going to go to canada go to Vancouver or Victoria or pass right through Calgary and head for the mountains
108. Vera Lynn - August 26th, 2008 at 7:42 pm
I never had an opportunity to visit lovely, exotic places. Sounds like a dream.
109. Blitzen - August 28th, 2008 at 10:42 am
Edmonton is actually the greenest city in Canada, the river valley is gorgeous and cuts an enormous swathe right through the middle of the city. Plus it has pyramids!
For underrated destinations, I would add Nimes in the south of France. That city has one of the most complete and best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world, among other historic buildings. It is also only a short train ride from the much more famous medieval city of Carcasonne, and accomodations are much cheaper. Stay away from the Asterix burgers, though!
110. paco - September 7th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
Picture number six actually shows the Alhambra palace, located in Granada, Spain, not Nicaragua.