Tired of visiting the same old tourist spots year after year and reeling to travel somewhere new and unique? Here are some of the hottest off-the-beaten-path travel destinations you can’t miss out on this June holiday!
Off-the-beaten-path destinations are becoming increasingly popular among travellers — and for good reason. Not only do they offer unique experiences that can’t be found in more mainstream locations, but they also often have fewer tourists, making for a more authentic travel experience. Additionally, off-the-beaten-path destinations are usually more affordable than popular destinations — and that’s always a plus in our books.
Looking for other ways to make your June holidays that much more affordable? Book your flights and accommodations via YouTrip Perks for EXTRA discounts and cashback that’ll have you saving more in your pockets for the fun stuff!
What are you waiting for? From secluded islands to ancient cities, here are eight off-the-beaten-path travel destinations around the world you need to add to your bucket list!
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1. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Image credits: Follow Alice
An idyllic island off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is ideal for those who love to hit the beach. Think pristine beaches and turquoise waters, the sun on your face with your toes buried in the sand — the perfect vacation spot to relax and unwind. Hit up Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve and Nungwi Beach for crystal-clear waters and fresh seafood!
Image credits: BucketListly Blog
But beyond the beach, Zanzibar comes packed with rich history and vibrant culture, giving travellers plenty to explore. Visit Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for winding alleyways, historic buildings, bustling markets, and exotic spices. Or hit up Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park for a day full of nature and wildlife while walking through mangroves and natural coral rags. You might even spot some red colobus monkeys — Zanzibar’s very own natives!
And of course, no visit to Zanzibar would be complete without a taste of the local cuisine. Known best for their use of spices, don’t miss out on their Pilau rice, grilled seafood, and Zanzibar pizza!
2023’s Hottest Off-The-Beaten-Path Travel Destinations: Find out more here
2. Tromsø, Norway
Image credits: Megan & Aram Travel Blog
Although typically known for being a winter wonderland famed for its spectacular aurora borealis displays, trust us when we say Tromsø has plenty to offer in the summer months as well.
Ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers — and of course, those looking to go off-the-beaten-path — experience the midnight sun in all its glory during the summer when it’s the best time to hike and bike through those long summer nights. Equipped with a network of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, Tromsø offers splendid views of the fjords, mountains, and valleys. Popular hikes to try out include Tromsdalstinden Summit and the Fløya Hike.
Image credits: Conde Nast Traveler
Venture out on a boat tour to explore breathtaking fjords, nearby islands, and picturesque fishing villages! You might even encounter marine wildlife such as whales, seals, and seabirds if you’re lucky. Take a leisurely stroll through Tromsø Botanic Garden or head to the Tromsø Museum for all things dedicated to the history, culture, and the region’s natural environment — or Perspektiven Museum if you’re into social history.
Don’t forget to try some traditional Norweigan dishes while you’re there such as reindeer meat and cloudberries, as well as fresh seafood like their smoked salmon, cod, and Arctic char!
2023’s Hottest Off-The-Beaten-Path Travel Destinations: Find out more here
3. Luang Prabang, Laos
Image credits: Intrepid Travel
This charming little city nestled in the hills of Laos is a must-visit off-the-beaten-track destination for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. But don’t be fooled by its idyllic appearance, because there’s more to Luang Prabang than meets the eye.
A unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and laid-back charm, this hidden gem features dozen of ancient temples — one of the most popular being Wat Xien Thong, Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham, or Wat Pa Phon Phao for a more off-the-beaten-path experience. For a spiritual adventure, take a short boat ride up the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves which are home to thousands of Buddha statues.
Image credits: Viator
Want to cool off from the heat? Head to Kaung Si Waterfall for a dip in turquoise pools and cascading tiers for that picture-perfect setting. And don’t forget to visit the nearby bear sanctuary for a peek at rescued Asiatic black bears! Or, experience Tad Sae Waterfall for a more secluded experience. Tip: It’s only accessible by boat and requires you to hike a short distance but is worth every step!
Image Credits: Luangprabang-laos.com
And at night, be sure to check out the night markets along Sisavangvong Road. From traditional Hmong clothing and handmade jewellery to mouthwatering local food, these markets have it all! Here, you can go souvenir shopping and try out local specialities such as Khao Soi (spicy curry noodle soup), sausages, sticky rice, and papaya salad.
2023’s Hottest Off-The-Beaten-Path Travel Destinations: Find out more here
4. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Image credits: Travel Talk Tours
Nestled in the Riff Mountains of Morocco, Chefchaouen is a picturesque blue-washed city with striking blue buildings and winding narrow streets that seem straight out of a fairytale.
Image credits: Morocco Travel Guide
Visit the Kasbah Museum, a 15th-century fortress turned museum for a taste of the region’s history and culture. Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the city’s main square, for sensational views of the surrounding mountains and cafe-hopping. Ras El Maa Waterfall for a breathtaking view of cascading waterfalls and lush greenery — perfect for cooling off on a hot summer’s day. Or, the abandoned Spanish Mosque for panoramic sights and sunset views.
Image credits: The Spruce Eats
While you’re there, try their iconic Moroccan mint tea, aromatic Moroccan tagine stew, and fluffy couscous. And for dessert? Chebakia cookies and Msemen pancakes!
2023’s Hottest Off-The-Beaten-Path Travel Destinations: Find out more here
5. Huacachina, Peru
Image credits: Travel+Leisure Asia
For a desert adventure, head to Huacachina in Peru! This small oasis town is surrounded by towering sand dunes and offers a variety of activities, including sandboarding, dune buggy rides, and paragliding. Must-visit places include the Huacachina Lagoon for a cooling dip in the middle of the desert, and the Nazca Lines for a view of ancient geoglyphs.
Image credits: YouTube @SurferToday
Huacachina also boasts a variety of museums, art galleries, and historic sites such as the Museo de Sitio Julio C. Tello which features exhibits on the Nazca culture. And the historic Church of San Pedro, a sensational colonial-era church that dates back to the 17th century.
And if you’re an avid foodie? The ceviche here is bound to impress. One of Peru’s most popular dishes, this raw fish is marinated in lime juice and garnished with onion, cilantro, and sweet potato. Try your mouths at the Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef, onions, and tomatoes over rice) and Antichukos (grilled beef heart skewers marinated in spices — daunting but hey, you’re going off-the-beaten-track so you’re bound to be adventurous!).
2023’s Hottest Off-The-Beaten-Path Travel Destinations: Find out more here
6. Batanes, Philippines
Image credits: Vacationhive
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Batanes in the Philippines. This group of islands boasts stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, rocky cliffs, and pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters. Activities include island hopping, hiking, and hopping onto boat tours to discover hidden coves and secret beaches.
Image credits: The Pinoy Traveler
Visit the Basco Lighthouse for dazzling views of the coastline, and Chavayan Village, a living museum that showcases the traditional Ivatan way of life! You can even head to the nearby Sabtang Island where there’s always more to explore. And Vayang Rolling Hills for a taste of nature and a little cuddle session with free-range cows and goats — with the permission of their owners, of course.
Try out local delicacies such as freshly caught lobsters grilled/steamed with garlic and butter, Lunis a pork dish cooked with rock salt paired with vinegar and garlic, and Uved Balls — a deep-fried snack made with grated banana heart and ground pork for an authentic and unforgettable taste of the Philippines.
2023’s Hottest Off-The-Beaten-Path Travel Destinations: Find out more here
7. Cappadocia, Turkey
Image credits: TourScanner
Ideal for those seeking a geological wonderland of natural beauty and ancient cultural heritage, Cappadocia in Turkey is known for its fairy chimneys, rock formations, and underground cities. Explore mysterious valleys and canyons, hike through stunning scenery, and take a hot air balloon ride!
Image credits: Lonely Planet
Enchanting with a timeless charm, other must-see spots in this off-the-beaten-track destination include visiting the Goreme Open Air Museum which houses a collection of frescoes and rock-cut churches dating back to the Byzantine era.
Image credits: Viator
And the Derinkuyu Underground City where you can explore a vast network of subterranean tunnels and chambers where ancient communities once sought refuge from invaders.
Image credits: Food.com
But Cappadocia is more than just a feast for the eyes — it’s also a treat for the taste buds. Along with savoury stews and kebabs, try the mantı (dumplings stuffed with meat and served with garlic yoghurt and tomato sauce), künefe (crunchy pastry with melted cheese and sweet syrup), and baklava (phyllo dough combined with nuts and honey syrup)! And you can’t forget about its famous local wines such as Öküzgözü, Kalecik Karası, and Narince, which thrive on volcanic soil to produce their unique flavours.
2023’s Hottest Off-The-Beaten-Path Travel Destinations: Find out more here
Ready To Venture Off The Beaten Track?
These off-the-beaten-path travel destinations offer unique experiences that are perfect for the adventurous traveller. So why not step out of your comfort zone and explore something new and exciting during the upcoming June holidays? And as usual, while booking those plane tickets and planning your adventurous getaway, don’t forget to make use of your YouTrip Card to lock in those wholesale exchange rates and skip those pesky bank fees!
As Singapore’s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers! So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with promo code <YTBLOG5> and get FREE S$5 in your account! Then, head over to our YouTrip Perks page for exclusive offers and promotions — we promise you won’t regret. For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here or down below.
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Safe Travels!
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