By Randy Colt
Traveling is one of the best things you can do to enrich your life, and it’s doubly pleasurable when you discover a hidden gem. There are plenty of spectacular places around the world which are somehow always missing the tourists’ “most visited” list. Perhaps it is just as well because these hidden gems might lose out on their charm if they have been overly exposed. For your traveling pleasure, though, you might want to think about including these spots in your itinerary.
Meknes Morocco
Meknes in Morroco is overshadowed by its sibling cities Fes and Marakesh. While it is low key compared to these more visited cities, Meknes actually has a very interesting share of architectural gems. Gaze at its historical 45 kilometer wall, gaze ate over fifty palaces located close to the city, and photograph the Roman ruins of Volubilis. You can also take pride in the fact that you’re among the first ones to visit this city before it got overly commercialized. Once word gets out, more and more travelers are bound to frequent this place.
Gujarat in India
This Indian state is at the very northwestern end of the country and is as off-beat as you can imagine. For some reason, it’s not in the itinerary of most travelers, but it’s actually quite interesting. In fact, the very few who have taken the time to explore it saw a side of India so enchanted they never thought could still be there. The island of Diu, which used to be inhabited by Portiguese settlers, is a must-see. There is a close-to dilapidated palace in the city of Bhuj which could give you so much in terms of India’s untold history.
If you need to know its significance, simply ask one of the charming locals in the area. If you’re looking for some local handicrafts, simply pick from any of the villages in Gujarat. There are still artisans there living their trade. The salt plains of the Little Rann of Kutch are also picturesque stops which no one must miss out on. Did you think flamingos resided in India? Here, they do, and you’ll get to see some wild ass too.
Aberdeen in Scotland
This Scottish city lives and breathes Old World Europe. It’s very charming with its Footdee village which would probably remind you of Tolkien’s The Hobbit. Also a must-see is the university which holds the famous King’s Chapel at the very heart of its campus grounds. The same university is fronted by a beach, which, just like the rest of Scotland, displays magnificent rock formations. The city itself is glittering, and there are plenty of cosmopolitan spots to visit here if you find yourself missing the conveniences of modern life. Most travelers who do find themselves in Aberdeen go beyond touring the city. The ruins of the Castle Dunottar, which was the setting of Zeferelli’s Hamlet, is only a short train ride away.
Trieste in Italy
This was originally where James Joyce lives, and the place was the first inspiration for the Ulysses before he moved to Dublin. Trieste is quite a melting pot of cultures, old European cafes, and seascapes. It’s located very close to Slovenia already, and still has the old Europe vibe. It’s definitely a place worth visiting if you want to taste as much central European food and experience the charm of Hapsburg.
Chongqing Province in China
Most people who go to China skip all the other provinces and go straight to Sichuan. If you do this too, you’re missing out on a lot. Locals can tell you that Chongqing is actually more worthy of the praises. The province overlooks the Yangzi River so if you’re looking for a picturesque place to visit, this is one of the best located spots in the country. If you’re into spicy food, you will also love their local delicacy. Don’t think, for a second, that this province is backward in any way. It’s actually a fine melding of the old and the new. While you have China’s cosmopolitan backdrop on the one hand, you’ll also see traditional steel boats and vendors balancing their goods on bamboo poles.
The Utrecht in The Netherlands
When you think about the Netherlands, you would probably automatically assume that the best city to visit here is the Amsterdam. While the over-trodden Amsterdam surely has its charm, those wishing to steer off the beaten path may want to visit the Utrecht. Those who got the chance to experience this city can’t figure out why it hasn’t been included in many “must-see” lists by travelers because it’s certainly very quaint. Imagine having a city surrounded by a medieval canal where you can take water taxis to the city’s best bohemian cafes. The townhouses in this place are also very impressively designed. Certainly, it’s the Venice counterpart of Netherlands, and it’s just as hip as its crowded cousin, Amsterdam.
Arras in France
This quaint little town is quite a surprise to travelers. It still has about 155 old gingerbread-like houses as if it’s been frozen in time. The confectionary sold here is also reminiscent of the 17th and 18th century Europe you would only read about in story books. If you’re wondering about the culture you’ll experience here, it’s a very traditional melding of Flemish and Spanish roots. You must also visit the town’s historical WW1 tunnels. These were used as routes by soldiers. If you want to take a photo of the picturesque town from the top, climb the bell tower.
Helsinki in Finland
While probably not as ambiguous as the places we’ve mentioned above, Finland’s capital is still considered humble and a bit low key. It is, however, a good place to visit, with its art nouveau buildings, unassuming façade, generous share of art galleries, and quaint restaurants which have retained their 1930s vibe. You might want to visit this city during its “sunny nights”. This phenomenon happens between June and August. You can ask any travel agency for a calendar to make sure you’re visiting at the right dates.
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