Once we started traveling the world in search of little known destinations, we just couldn’t stop! There is absolutely no reason to pay high prices in a series of major tourist destinations when there are hundreds of hidden gems throughout the world.
If you enjoyed the first group of lesser known cities on our agenda, you’re sure to love what we found when we continued our journey. Be sure to add a few of these incredible cities to your list of places to explore!
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul itself is unique in both location and culture. Surrounded by the Black Sea and Sea of Marmara to the north and south, half of the city lies in Europe and the other half in Asia! Istanbul is believed to be one of the oldest cities in the world, with history dating back over 300,000 years to the Byzantine Era. Once imperialist, the city now enjoys increased trade and tourism, amongst other things.
The city is filled to the brim with mosques, museums, churches, synagogues, bazaars, palaces, towers, and monuments. Some of our favorite destinations, however, include the Turkish baths, which are a traditional part of daily life in Istanbul. Historically, women would gather at the baths to choose wives for their sons or show off their jewelry and clothing. The baths actually include time spent in a steamy heat room, followed by a long and luxurious massage including soap and water! Afterwards, you’ll be dying to get back to your Istanbul hotel room for a long nap.
Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica
On the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica you’ll find the tiny town of Puerto Jimenez. Once a famous for its gold mining and logging, the city is now better known for its quiet and calming atmosphere. Puerto Jimenez is an incredible destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who are eco-friendly and conscious of the environment. The nearby rainforests and swamps house an incredible variety of wildlife, including scarlet macaws, ocelots, iguana, and more!
Visitors to the Puerto Jimenez region will also enjoy boat tours, fishing, hiking, and kayaking. This trip won’t break the bank, either. While there are plenty of motels and swanky hotels to choose from, you might be interested in a simple beach cabin, many of which can be rented for $10 a night. The bungalows and cabanas prove themselves affordable alternatives as well.
Ronda, Spain
Ronda is a quaint historic town in Aldalucia, Spain. Although the city has grown, it has been fortunate enough to retain its both its historic atmosphere and rustic charm. Visitors often find themselves enthralled by the El Tajo gorge and the Puente Nuevo (new bridge). The bridge allows tourists to look down into the chasm while at the same time gazing at the Serrania de Ronda mountains off in the distance.
Citizens of Ronda have had a significant impact on the development of modern day bullfighting as well. During the 18th century, a bullfighter by the name of Pedro Romero founded a new style in which matadors fought bulls on foot instead of on horses. Today, bullfights are held each September at the famous Feria Goyesca. Be sure to book a Ronda hotel early to ensure you are there for the fights!
Stratford, England
While all of England is beautiful and captivating, you might consider leaving London for another day and instead visiting the city of Stratford. Known for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford is home to an astounding amount of beauty and culture. Start by visiting Anne Hathaway’s house, where you’ll learn that the phrase “left on the shelf” refers to the way unmarried women slept at night - young girls on the floor, and older women on shelves attached to the walls!
You’ll also enjoy visiting the home where Shakespeare was believed to be born. Not far from the place where he was buried is Hall’s Croft, the home of Shakespeare’s daughter and her husband, Dr. John Hall. The home is rich in architectural heritage and currently displays dozens of 16th and 17th century paintings and artifacts. Other amusing attractions include Nash’s House, Mary Arden’s House, and The Courtyard Theatre, and the butterfly farm.
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec is the oldest city in Canada and has a lot more to offer than one might originally think. Quebec City was founded in 1608 and while the French settlement originally struggled, it eventually grew into a flourishing city. The French have struggled through a number of battles in order to hold onto their heritages and identities, and continue to do so today.
As the American dollar loses its value in other countries, it remains on relatively equal footing in Quebec, making the city an affordable option for US travelers. Art lovers will enjoy the Grand Theatre, which houses the Quebec Symphony Orchestra, the Trident Theatre, and a number of other performing groups throughout each year. The Museum of Civilization is another site you won’t want to miss - featuring serious, historical, and humorous exhibits alike!
Each of these cities is rich with culture, history, nature, and relaxation. No matter where you go or what interests you have, you’re destined to find at least a few attractions to entertain you!
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Beautiful idea with your blog…I must say that my dream once I finish my studies is to go on a long European trip to visit these places. Have you gone to any of the above listed destinations? Only one I can say I have been is Quebec. Last summer I went to Italy, France, and Monte Carlo and they were absolutely stunning. From the eimense wealth, to the irriplaceable beauty and nature… they are unlike any other places on earth!