Estonia, Uzbekistan, Panama… CNN Travel has compiled a list of destinations that tourists should avoid.
The desire to escape seems to be universal. Agreed World Tourism Organization International tourism is set to return to almost 90% of its pre-epidemic activity by the end of the year. Not surprisingly for those lucky enough to have had the opportunity to travel recently; in the four corners of the globe, tourists have invaded the white sand beaches of Thailand, the streets of Venice and even Japan’s highest peak, Mount Fuji. Enough to put the world’s cultural and historical heritage at risk. To encourage us to reconsider our travel habits, CNN Travel released this Tuesday, January 2, a list of destinations we prefer to avoid the tourist rush. Beautiful ideas that make you want to change the scenery.
In Europe
You don’t have to go far to get lost. In northern Europe, the Estonian city of Tartu made CNN Travel’s list for its old town charm and cultural offerings, home to the largest science museum in the Baltic states. A landmark destination and chosen European Capital of Culture for 2024, it will also appeal to the most sporty. this year, a new 4,000 km cycling route will open, crossing nine countries such as Slovenia, Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina.
In the south of Europe, it is a country between Greece and Montenegro that is worth a detour. Often overlooked, Albania is an ideal destination for a beach holiday. In addition to its crystal clear beaches and high prices, this Balkan country is also known for its cultural richness, “including Christian and Muslim history, historic centers such as Berat and Gyrokaster, and mountainous landscapes. breathtaking,” our CNN partners elaborate. In Europe, the ranking also offers destinations such as the region of Galicia in Spain or Macedonia in Greece.
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in America
On the other side of the globe, CNN Travel recommends a destination that’s warm year-round: Panama. This Central American country, famous for its canal, is also known for its fine sandy beaches, national parks and the historic center of Panama, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Adventure lovers will be captivated by exploring its tropical forests.
Mexico’s Yucatan state also made the list thanks to its tropical beaches, as well as remnants of its history, such as Mayan ruins. “The town of Paseo de Montejo is populated with historic homes, museums, art galleries and local merchants,” we read in the columns of CNN Travel.
From the United States, our partners recommend visiting the natural springs of Florida, northern Michigan or the Texas Hill Country, a region of central Texas known for its ranches, large dry areas and the capital Austin, known for its wild music nights. .
in Africa and the Middle East
In the United Arab Emirates, the city of Fujairah maintains a low ranking. However, this original place is worth visiting for its mountainous landscapes, beaches and historical monuments. “Unlike Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Fujairah is significantly less developed and offers an authentic and relaxed atmosphere that cannot be equaled,” our partners note.
On the African continent, Angola has something to tempt globetrotters with its wide open spaces and cities steeped in its colonial history. The proof in Lubango, a city where we find Portuguese-influenced architecture and an impressive statue of Christ that resembles that of Rio. Morocco is also on the list, standing out for “its diverse landscapes and impressive architecture.”
in Asia
If Bali, Tokyo and Bangkok are popular destinations in Asia, CNN Travel recommends giving preference to Samba in Indonesia, Tainan in Taiwan or even Uzbekistan. An original yet off-the-radar destination that is opening its doors to tourists with a new free visa offer for citizens of 86 countries. An opportunity to discover the village of Uzbekistan, chosen by UNESCO in 2023 as the “best tourist village”, especially for its contribution to sustainable development.
As for Singapore, if the country is known for its skyscrapers and luxury hotels, all you have to do is take a ferry to discover uninhabited and paradisiacal islands like Lazarus and its large white sand beaches. Also, not far away, on Cousin Island, a natural marine park will open this year, as well as a turtle hatchery. It is enough to include new directions in it bucket list.
Source: Le Figaro
