Travelversed Editors July 27, 2015
If you want a relaxing vacation away from the crowds and an authentic experience without all the holiday-goer cheese, here are 16 places where you can blend in with the locals on your next vacation.
La Pagode, France
Instead of gawking at the Eiffel tower like all the other tourists, feel like a real Parisian and take in some French cinema on a rainy afternoon at La Pagode. This pagoda-style art-house cinema was built in 1896 and features breathtaking architecture and an ornate Japanese-inspired garden.
Victoria Beach, California
Everyone knows about Laguna Beach, so why not escape the MTV crowd and pay a visit to the nearby Victoria Beach? This secluded stretch is where the residents go to escape the crowds and catch a glimpse of the so-called “Pirate Tower,” a stone turret built into the side of a cliff that watches over the cove.
The High Line, New York
The High Line is a little slice of rural heaven in the middle of a concrete jungle. This converted rail track is now an elevated park and promenade where New Yorkers go to take in the greenery and participate in one of the many activities happening there, including dancing, star-gazing, meditation and more.
Lakeside Beach, Prince Edward Island
The entire picturesque Canadian isle already feels like a special secret that you wish you’d known about sooner. Discover an even more beautiful side to P.E.I. and take in the rolling dunes of Lakeside Beach. Better hurry though; the nearby golf course is getting trendy, so this beach might not stay a secret for long.
Peng Chau Island, Hong Kong
While everyone else takes in the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong, take a ferry over to the rustic and historic Peng Chau Island instead. This quaint isle was once an industrial hub but has since returned to its quaint roots and is known for its beautiful temples and fresh seafood.
Piazza Navona, Rome
If you don’t feel like braving the crowds at the Trevi fountain check out the lesser-known but equally fascinating Piazza Navona in Rome. It doesn’t just have a fountain, it has three — and it’s also home to many buskers, painters and festivals.
Old Phuket Town, Thailand
When you visit the historical district of Old Phuket Town in Phuket, Thailand, you’ll not only feel like you traveled across the world, but that you traveled through time too. This area is rich with authentic Thai history and culture and is home to many local markets, shops, temples and restaurants that are sure to make for a memorable visit.
Secret Cove, Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is famous for its stunning natural beauty, but you can’t get anymore natural than the nearby nude beach called Secret Cove. This gorgeous spot is tucked away on the eastern shore of the lake and is a great place to catch an eyeful… of the beautiful lake views, of course.
Bamboo Forest, Maui
In Hawaii, paradise is everywhere you turn, but for an extra special experience, check out the Bamboo Forest on the island of Maui. Hike the winding Pipiwai Trails under the bamboo canopy and stop to dip your toes in the secluded lagoon that’s fed by a tropical waterfall. Swimmers beware, though; the area sometimes sees flash flooding which could carry you away in a second if you’re not careful.
Lenzerheide, Switzerland
If you love to ski but hate crowded slopes, check out the lesser-known Lenzerhide resort in Switzerland. It’s a nice change from the mega-popular Davos resort and has plenty to offer including mountain biking, hiking, sledge ridging and of course, lots of skiing!
Kythira, Greece
Vacation like the Greeks do and stop by sunny Kythira on the Peloponnese peninsula, a holiday spot that’s a little less crowded and a little further away from the other famed Greek isles. In addition to the gorgeous beaches, there are a number of monasteries and abandoned towns waiting to be explored by a daring traveler such as yourself.
Weaverville, California
When visiting California comes up in conversation, Chinese temples aren’t usually the topic of conversation; however, Weaverville, California is a city that can boast just that. This city is an old gold mining town that was flocked by Chinese immigrants when they were run out of San Francisco. Joss House State Historic Park is home to Temple of the Forest Beneath the Clouds, which was built in 1874 and is still used today. Weaverville preserves its history and many of the old town businesses are now cafes or hotels with claw foot tubs and four-post beds.
Porto Santo Island, Portugal
If it’s a classy resort without all of the hustle and bustle you’re looking for, Porto Santo is just the place to satisfy your need. With only a handful of resorts, this island with over five miles of white sandy beaches is considered to be one of the undiscovered areas of Europe. Just because you are looking for a little less crowded, doesn’t mean you have to forego the fun. There are plenty of activities to keep busy in Porto Santo, such as hiking, horseback riding, and golfing at its tournament course.
Cape Krusenstern, Alaska
Lying on the northwestern coast of Alaska is Cape Krusenstern, which is full of radiant beauty. Cape Krusenstern is enveloped by the Chukchi Sea on the west and Kotzebue Sound on the south, making it reachable only by boat, snowmobile, or airplane. Although it’s not the most popular choice, those that dare to visit will be in awe with its endless landscape of wild flowers, trees, and pristine beaches. The great outdoors person will enjoy hours of bird watching, kayaking the lagoons, fishing, or camping. Visitors must be aware that there are not developed facilities in this area.
Tuamotu Islands, French Polynesia
Are you looking for the ultimate tropical destination less traveled? The Tuamotu Islands could be exactly what you are looking for. These islands are part of the French Polynesia and are a snorkelers dream. The pure beaches, waters, and many atolls are home to tropical fish, manta rays, and even sharks for snorkelers to revel in. The calming indigo blue waters can be enjoyed during the day, while the starry skies will entrance you at night. The most remote islands among the Tuamotu’s are Ahe and Mataiva.
Green Bowl Beach, Bali
Green Bowl Beach, named after its algae covered rocks, just escaped becoming an over-populated tropical paradise. With the demise of Bali Cliff Resort, this beautiful beach became a remote destination only known by a few. This isn’t going to be the easiest beach to find, as there are several tiny, winding roads that need to be traveled — and that’s the effortless part. Make sure you’ve stretched, as there are hundreds of steps to go down to get to the beach. Remember…what goes down, must go back up.
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