We turned around as we crossed the dragon bridge in Ljubljana to see our waitress chasing us down the street. In a moment of confusion in two different languages, she was chasing us down to tell us we had paid too much at lunch. Having just crossed the border into Slovenia we weren’t sure of the tipping custom and we only had a 5 euro note so we left a larger than normal tip on our lunch.
After lots of smiles and thanks we finally convinced her to accept the 5 euros for exceptional service and we continued on our way. It was an authentic experience that we would never have experienced in some of the more popular tourist destinations around the world.
Over the last few years as global travel has exploded, there has been a pushback for people who don’t want to visit the famous places. Many visitors are looking for fewer crowds, more authentic experiences and lower prices. Sure a trip to Paris is amazing, but most of our favorite travel experieces are off the beaten path.
Note: this list is slanted towards Europe - I’ll share a few more off the beaten path destinations in other parts of the world next month!
5 Underrated Places to Visit
Slovenia
Slovenia is one of Europe’s most overlooked gems, offering alpine scenery, emerald rivers, charming towns, and a surprisingly vibrant food and wine scene: all in a country you can easily explore in a short trip. From hiking in Triglav National Park to wandering Ljubljana’s café-lined streets, Slovenia delivers big experiences without big crowds, making it perfect for travelers looking for amazing mountain views.
Montenegro
Montenegro packs dramatic landscapes into a small but unforgettable destination, with medieval towns, rugged mountains, and a stunning Adriatic coastline. You can explore the old city walls of Kotor in the morning and be hiking or kayaking by the afternoon. It’s a small enough country that you can explore a lot in just a week!
The Azores
The Azores feel like a secret corner of the Atlantic. This Portuguese archipelago is perfect for hikers, whale watchers, and slow travelers who appreciate nature, local food, and wide-open spaces. It’s peaceful, wild, and refreshingly uncrowded compared to other European island destinations. We would go back in a heartbeat!
Ecuador
Ecuador offers incredible diversity in a relatively small country, making it one of the most rewarding destinations in South America. In one trip, you can explore colonial cities, hike in the Andes, experience the Amazon, or visit the Galápagos Islands. With rich culture, dramatic landscapes, and excellent value for travelers, Ecuador is an easy choice for those who want adventure without complicated logistics.
