A lot of people are asking me how can they have their own travel blog and I know you're here too because you're curious! So congrats on deciding to start a travel blog! Today, I'll guide you step-by-step on how to start your own travel blog, even if you're a beginner.
I've started blogging way back 2006, and I could say I'm pretty much a "veteran" when it comes to it. If you know my first ever website, you can scroll through archive.org's wayback machine and you'll be able to find most of the things I posted there 14 years ago.
Anyway, over the years, I have transitioned from a personal diary blog to a fashion blog. In 2016, I have finally decided to switch to travel because it's what I really love. I have garnered several sponsorships and got paid through blogging through out my 14 years of blogging (of course, up until today).

So without further ado, are you ready to start your own travel blog and earn money through it? Here's how!
Step 1: Pick your niche
The first step to start a blog is to decide your own niche. Do you really want a travel blog, a fashion blog, a tech blog, a finance blog, and so on?
If you've picked one category, you can also "niche down" further. I consider mine a "general" travel blog so I can cover anything under travel.
Here are some travel niche ideas:
- luxury travel
- budget travel
- couple travel
- solo travel
- family travel
- working abroad while travelling
- van life travel
Above are just a few examples you can do, but if you don't have any specific thing in mind yet. It's okay. Just write want you want along the way and you'll eventually find what specific niche you really want.
Step 2: Choose a domain name
Next step is to decide a domain name, so it's important to pick a good one.
TIP: Think long term. You don't want a domain name like "20 Something Travel" and after a few years time, it will no longer be relevant as you won't be 20 something anymore.
Step 3: Get a hosting
After you're done picking a good domain name you have to register it and get a web hosting. There are actually lots of pretty good web hosting companies out there. Mostly, you can also opt to buy your domain name with these companies along with your web hosting.
Step 4: Design your blog
Your blog will come with a default blog theme installed be it either Wordpress or Blogger. Don't worry blog themes can be changed.
If you want a more personalized website design, you can hire a web designer, or you can buy a blog theme online. You can customize the colors and fonts later on. For fonts, my usual go to resource is Font Bundles. They offer premium font freebies which you can choose from for your travel blog.
Step 5: Start writing
And you're done setting up your blog! It just needs content, so write to your heart's desire.
Don't know what to write? Here are some ideas you can do to get started:
- Destination guides (where to stay, what to do, what to eat, etc.)
- Top 10 things to do in a particular destination
- Packing list for a particular destination
- Travel tips or hacks (how to save money, how to book cheap flights, etc.)
- Reviews of hotels you have stayed at or tours you have taken
Remember, don't be afraid to write. Go on! By the way, don't forget to create your social media channels. Creating one is one of the most inexpensive way to get your readers go to your start while you're still starting. You can share your blog posts to your friends too.
It's a wrap!
So that's it! That's how to start a travel blog.
Now, go ahead, enjoy and make money with your new blog. I'll do another post on how to start making money while blogging, so keep your eyes peeled for it!
But making money while blogging doesn't stop there! You need to keep on learning something new each day. This industry is changing every day so you really need to put up the best you can offer to your readers. You can read others blogs, ask help and offer help, hone your skills, and you'll get there.
Here's something for you: "On your track to success, never forget that you are crossing many rivers. Yes you are! And each of those rivers contain crocodiles that may attempt to intimidate you. Never be afraid; sail on and you will get there." - Israelmore Ayivor
If you’re somewhat of a fashion connoisseur and want to get into this world in order to earn a living, then there are so many different outlets that you could choose. There are so many different avenues in this day and age due to the opportunities that are available to us. Over the past ten years or so, the common person on the street has been given so much access to how it’s done, and we have quite literally been shown the ropes from the comfort of our own home. It goes for many different fields and verticals, and fashion is just one associated with the list.
Of all the ways a person could make a living in the fashion industry using modern methods, influencing is a method that has become very popular – and for a good reason. Sure, the popularity means that the market may be a little saturated at times, but if you can find that uniqueness, then you’re good to go. It’s an excellent way to make a living and to mark down a wonderful career in this industry.
You probably know by now, or you wouldn’t have clicked on this article. But let’s just say that you aren’t fully aware of what an influencer is. It’s simply an individual (or group) with a large following. They’re able to use their profile to teach, guide, and influence people one way or another. It sounds a little too simple to be true, but it’s something that has proven to work for a while now. Big personalities and influential people are able to have a big say on things in this day and age.
If this sounds kind of interesting to you, then you’ll probably want to know a little more. You’ll probably also want a little more convincing as to how it’s such a great path to go down. Well, if you have a couple of minutes, here are a few reasons as to why influencing would be a lovely route to go down in the fashion world:
Everyone Is Scrolling Through Social Media
Social media is the main place that influencers operate. Influencing will be such a money-maker for people in this industry as there are so many people on social media. There are literally billions of impressions each month. Whether that’s a good thing or a bad thing for society, in general, is a debate that will probably be had at another point. The crux of the matter, though, is that, if you can get content out there that people will want, then you’ll be able to hit millions of eyes. Popularity, in this sense, equals opportunities.
Social Media And Similar Platforms Won’t Be Disappearing
So, we’ve established that these platforms are a pretty big deal. What we didn’t mention, however, is that they’ll be around for a while. They’re already taking over a lot of what we do, yet they’re still only in their infancy. There is so much to do on these things, yet there is so much potential going forward. By no means are influencers at the peak of their powers or on a downward slope.
It’s A Relatively Simple Set Of Tasks
The job itself isn’t simple – if it was a simple money-maker, then we’d all be doing it, of course! The idea of playing the part on Instagram and Twitter, etc. is pretty straightforward, though. You’ll have to make sure you time what you post, and be sure to deliver quality content, but once you’ve managed to submit your work, that’s it. These online platforms are a piece of cake to operate – it takes little-to-no time to get used to it all.
You Can Get Your Message Across So Quickly
Whatever you want to say, you can just say it. Within a matter of moments, your message will be seen by hundreds or even thousands. Sure, you’re probably going to want to take your time and meticulously plan out what you’re going to post, but if you’re pushed for time, then you can get an instant point across. Sometimes, influencers don’t even need to have the most amazing content – sometimes even a short, sweet tweet will do.
You Can Pick Up A Handsome Income!
Influencers are paid in a bunch of ways, but the main way they make their money using their title is through companies paying them to promote. In the fashion world, a company or a new startup will get in touch with an influencer in the hope that they will talk and post about a particular item or accessories that they’re bringing out. A simple Instagram post or tweet could be enough to increase sales massively for that company. Some companies pay lots and lots to get this kind of marketing.
You Work On Your Own Terms
You’ll be self-employed and living on your own terms. Nobody will be forcing you to do anything; your motivation will come from your own mind. This kind of career is great if you like the idea of freedom and hate the idea of having someone breathing down your neck every single day.
It’s A Lot Of Fun
At the end of the day, doing a job like this is pretty fun. If you’re quite the computer whiz and enjoy creating content for people to enjoy, then this would be the perfect role for you. If you’d rather be in a boring job that you hate, surrounded by people you don’t like, then that’s fine – most wouldn’t want that kind of thing, though.
You’ll Learn So Much From So Many People
While it’s a pretty straightforward way of living on the surface, there are still lots of tricks of the trade that can be learned. As you travel on this influencing journey, you’ll learn an awful lot of little tidbits, as well as general fashion knowledge that perhaps you hadn’t picked up before. You learn from others in the game who you interact with as well as followers of yours who comment and subscribe to your work.
You’ll Get To Travel The World
If things go well and you become quite a popular figure, then you’ll get the opportunity to work with all kinds of people from all over the world. Even if your work doesn’t lead you to the different corners of the planet, you’ll be able to travel due to the freedom you’ve acquired. Social media marketing and stuff like that are all worldwide tactics; it’s not just your country or continent that has this kind of ploy.
You Might Be Given Free Samples Due To Your Profile!
We talked about how influencing works with regards to partnering companies, but, due to your work, you might be given things as a goodwill gesture! By no means is this the main reason as to why anyone should get into this game, but it’s nice to have these kinds of benefits, isn’t it!
Many, Many Opportunities Arise In Other Areas
Being a figure on social media (or another online platform) will not be the only thing you’re able to do in this kind of world. So many other opportunities for work and money rear their pretty heads – especially once you raise your profile somewhat. You could become a blogger or a writer of some kind. You could even create your own range of items if you have enough confidence! You could create your own branded clothes, or simply start an online store like https://www.eyeglasses.com and sell collections. This is the kind of thing you should be thinking about anyway – if you’re ambitious, of course. Many streams of income is a very good thing!
I know, it's been a tough first half of 2020 for all of us, and I hope that you guys are still hanging up okay and doing great. We can do this together! I really wish that the pandemic will be over soon. Anyways, it's been a while since I last posted here on my blog and I'm really itching to travel now, but of course, you and I can't for now. Don't worry, you can still travel by travelling down "travel" memory lane by creating your own travel journal. Plus, you can plan your travels ahead too on your journal.
If a picture is worth a thousand words, a scrapbook, with its photographs and mementos, is worth many more. Scrapbooks serve as a nostalgic link to the past and some of our best memories; they can hold everything from crinkled letters to a punched train ticket, a faded newspaper clipping , or a candid shot of a loved one we wouldn't dare to lose. If you love travelling and scrapbooking combine, why not combine your love for both.
For the uninitiated, keeping a travel journal allows you to record your thoughts, feelings, and things you’ve learned from your travels, and since you can revisit what you write, it’s kind of the best DIY souvenir, as far as your memory is concerned. And, bonus: It may even give your mental health a boost every time you thumb through it after the trip is over, says clinical psychologist John Mayer, PhD. “Open it up frequently and relive the experiences as an escape from the doldrums of everyday stress,” Mayer says.
If you don't know what to add in your travel scrapbook/journal. Here are some ideas you can put in your ultimate travel memorabilia.
1. Plane tickets
If you're like me who doesn't like throwing old plane tickets and have just kept them in a shoe box. You can actually add that to your travel scrapbook.
2. Polaroid pictures
I'm obsessed with polaroid pictures. That's why I've bought an Instax polaroid printer. You can actually wifi-share any of your pictures from your phone to the instax polaroid printer and just print anything you fancy.
If you don't have a polaroid camera or a polaroid printer, you can actually make one on your own. Cut out a piece of white contact paper to make it into a frame.
Bonus tip: Add a photo sleeve in your travel scrapbook so you could just slip in your photos.

Source: InstantSnap on Etsy
3. Sketches
If you’re artsy, why not draw on your travel journal for extra colour and flair. Don't worry there's no limit on what you can draw.
4. Maps
Map where you’ve been so you have a cute visual of your journey - an essential need when travelling! You can keep those free maps they're giving out at the airport and paste it in your book. You can draw one too. You can even make a map tracker to document the places you've been to.
5. Post cards
My favorite souvenir (aside from the memories) are images of the places I traveled to. If you're on a budget, this is one of my favorite ways to have keepsakes on my adventures!
Postcards are plentiful, lightweight, and inexpensive. A postcard on your travel journal is something you can create while traveling and then display it on a coffee table. It’s a lot of fun to flip through once you’re back from your trip – and it makes for a wonderful conversation starter.
6. Itinerary
It's not only about past travels you can keep in your travel scrapbook. You can also leap a schedule to remember where to go and what to do. You don’t need to be in the country that you will be traveling to to start your first journal. Travel journal can be used to plan your upcoming trips as well. In your journal, you can add the places you would like to visit followed by the itinerary plans, tours and more into your travel wishlist!

7. Your favorite things
Your travel journal is more of a workhorse than a show pony. You’ll get far more out of one you use all the time, where you write, do travel drawing or urban sketching, doodle and record with the intent that only you will ever see it. If you choose to show it to others later, fine.
Don’t forget any of those random cups of coffee and songs you heard at restaurants. The perfect travel journal entry!
8. Stickers
Make travel planning and journaling fun with any cute stickers you bought from your local craft store or from a shop abroad. Add adhesive labels or you can print your own stick-on banner svgs. These are a perfect addition to your bullet journal or personal planner. They can be easily carried in a planner or a storage pocket.
9. Ticket stubs
Gather ticket stubs from museums, concerts, attractions, airlines or trains. Add a little envelope on your travel scrapbook. Keeping travel ticket stubs is a great way to hang on to keepsakes from your trips. This idea helps create a scrapbook travel journal while you’re on the road.

Top Tips for Travel Journalling:
- It’s not about it being perfect – bad handwriting and wonky photos add character!
- It doesn’t have to be top quality travel scrapbook – write for yourself and the things you think are important. No one else has to read it!
- The best travel journal is the one you stick to – there’s no point just writing one day and forgetting about it!
- There are no rules when it comes to how to write a travel journal. Just write what comes to mind!
What I love most about creating travel journals is just how personal it feels to have a tangible keepsake that is created solely by me. It takes my mind away from over-sharing on social media and directs it to creating an actual piece of art. It’s refreshing and really, really gets my imagination’s muscles in check. Plus, who wouldn’t love to whip out a super interesting book of adventures when one of your relatives undoubtedly asks how your trip was? Because we all know that’s going to happen.
Did you know, you can make unlimited designs on your own. Just browse for any graphics you want on Design Bundles to put on your travel scrapbook, birthday invitations, or more. Get creative and enjoy!
I would love to see your travel journals. Let me know, if you did and I will feature them here.



Corporate Social Responsibility (Sogo Cares Program)
Hotel Sogo is one of the first hospitality business that provided temporary shelters to healthcare laborers and frontliners. A total of P80-million worth of donation and 800 room accommodations were given to frontliners, OFWS, and seafarers for free in coordination with 10 city mayors and 31 hospitals in the country.

New Normal Features
Here's how Hotel Sogo sets its cleanliness thresholds to enforce quality and safety standards. At hotel:- Uniforms of hotel staff are redesigned to incorporate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Temperature screening and disinfection mats upon entering the hotel.
- Social distancing in front desk.
- Installation of protective acrylic glass panel in front desk.
- Social distancing with markers and limit of persons in elevators.
- Hand Sanitizers in common areas.
- Contactless hotel features (doors and elevators).
- UVC light treatment is also modified in elevator consoles, door handles, keycard cases, cash register and food preparation.
- Use of UVC disinfection light array cart in cleaning and disinfection of rooms and bathrooms. Studies show that the use of UVC, with wavelengths between 200 and 270 nanometre (nm), can kill microbes, germs, bacteria and viruses. This has been adopted since use of UVC is done in recent years and is also used in disinfecting hospitals as UVC kills pathogens and microorganisms.
- Constant disinfection in all amenities is also implemented.
- No-contact facilities from lobby doors to toilet fixtures thru installing foot door opener and foot-controlled dispenser.
- Hotel Sogo has created newly designed giveaways for the guests such as no contact keys and sanitizers. No-contact key serves as a tool in touching common objects like door handles, elevator buttons, and ATMs.
- Hotel Sogo Mobile app is also up for contact tracing.


- Temperature checks upon entering the office.
- Hand sanitizers in common areas.
- Limit to number of people using the elevator.
- Social distancing in workplace and in crowded areas like canteen.
- Provision of multivitamins to employees.



Want to experience something different? Keep on reading!
The best off the beaten paths around the world according to top travel bloggers
There are 20 great info in this post and you might feel overwhelmed with all these numbers, so I organized these promising places according to the region of the world, so you can "wanderlust browse" through easily.
You'll also find a ton of useful resources in this post for planning your trip to do each place if you want to.
How we’ve organized this list of world’s best off the beaten places:
- Best off the beaten places in Asia
- Best off the beaten places in North America
- Best off the beaten places in South America
- Best off the beaten places in Africa
- Best off the beaten places in Europe
- Best off the beaten places in Oceania
Best off the beaten places in Asia
1. Benguet, Philippines

The Philippines is a tropical paradise consisting of 7,641 islands. Picture Crayola green palm trees, fine white sand beaches, and Gatorade blue sea waters in mind. But, not known to many, there lie its grand mountain ranges nestled in the northern part of the country.
Benguet, a province in the Cordillera Administrative Region stands out from the rest. It is a budding tourist destination — minus the crowds — that boasts unspoiled stellar hiking treks, enthralling waterfalls, magical mountain lakes, picture-perfect landscapes, and all in its glorious high mountains perfect for the adventurous and cloud-chasing travelers. Its raw beauty is unparalleled like no other, the locals are friendly to boot, and the local food scene is just mouth-gasmic! The unsullied Benguet has a lot more to offer and will truly leave a mark on anyone's heart. Bring a down or a thick jacket as the temperature can be cold especially during the night.
What to see in Benguet:
- Four Lakes, Mt. Pulag, and Mt. Tabayoc of Kabayan
- Mt. Ugo, Mt. Pigingan, and Mt. Ulap of Itogon
- Mt. Tenglawan, and Tekip Falls of Bakun
- Aran Cave, and Bayokbok River of Tuba
- Crying Mountains, Mt. Kilkili, and Les-eng Houses of Kibungan
Want to read more resources about Benguet in the Philippines?
- A first-timer's D.I.Y. guide to the Four Mystical Lakes of Kabayan, Benguet.
- A first-timer's 2019 guide to Atok, Benguet
- A first-timer's D.I.Y. guide to Mt. Pulag - Ambangeg Trail
2. Pakistan

Though many people visit India, far fewer make a trip to its neighbor Pakistan. Years of media bias, safety concerns, and a difficult to obtain visa made Pakistan out of question for most. But these days, such issues have been remedied — nowadays the country is easy and relatively safe to visit, while still remaining free from mass tourism and commercialization. Now IS the time to visit Pakistan before everyone else catches on how amazing it is!
Not only does the South Asian country boast some of the most incredible landscapes I’ve ever seen (think turquoise blue lakes, soaring mountain peaks and vast plains, to name a few), but more importantly it’s home to the most hospitable people in the world. No, this isn’t an exaggeration: Pakistanis truly treat strangers like family, something I experienced many times over the 100+ days I spent backpacking there!
Vibrant culture and relics of centuries past can be found in cities such as Lahore and Peshawar, remnants of ancient civilizations can be visited in the southern province of Sindh, and picturesque villages full of friendly faces and vast valleys fill the country’s famed Northern Areas. Basically, Pakistan has something for everyone! If you make it to Lahore, don’t miss Thursday night Dhamal (a wild, trance-like dance you’d never expect to see here!) at the Madhu lal Hussain shrine. Hunza Valley is the most popular region in the mountains, but don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path: Phander Lake in the Ghizer region is mesmerizingly beautiful and infrequently visited in comparison. I’d also highly recommend not skipping out on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province: though all of Pakistan is friendly, the locals here take hospitality to a whole new level entirely.
Practical Stuff: These days, visas can be obtained online through the e-Visa portal, a major change from the bureaucracy of years past. If you’re eyeing the mountains, the best time to visit is April- early November. However, the rest of the country is crazy hot most of the year and is most pleasant from November-April. Many hotels aren’t listed online, but in Lahore I recommend staying at the Rose Palace Hotel for high-quality comfort at an amazing price of $18 USD a night. Comfortable, lux buses run by either Daewoo or Faisal Movers are your best bet to get around most parts of the country, in cities note that Uber or the local app Careem are readily available.
What to see in Pakistan:
- Madhu lal Hussan shrine
- Phander Lake
- Kaghan Valley
- Saif-ul-Maluk Lake
- Mukeshpuri
Contributed by Samantha Shea, Intentional Detours.
Read more resources about Pakistan:
3. Dhulikhel, Nepal

Dhulikhel is a small city just two hours outside of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. While many tourists start their journey in Kathmandu, most quickly leave and head to trekking routes or cities in the west. Very few explore the areas around the capital, which is a shame because Dhulikhel really has it all.
Upon entering, the city doesn’t look like much, but it’s the old town that is full of history and culture. It’s small winding streets form a mandala pattern which was used during urban planning in the 13th century. The buildings are covered in beautiful Newari wood carvings that survived the 2015 earthquake.
Just outside the city center are several temples. The Kali Temple sits on a hill overlooking the city. Those who want to see it have to walk up the “1,000 steps” to get there. On a clear day, you can see the Himalaya mountains from almost anywhere in the city. But the view from Kali Temple is extraordinary. Since the view is a popular reason to visit, it’s best to visit between October and May when the skies are clear. June to September is monsoon and it’s often cloudy.
For those who love the outdoors, this small city is surrounded by nature. You can take a 1-hour hike to Namo Buddha Monastery which acts as a school for novice monks. Those with an affinity for bird watching can find 72 different bird species in the area. Dhulikhel, Nepal truly has something to offer for everyone.
What to see in Dhulikhel:
- Kali Temple
- Namo Buddha Monastery
- Boudha Stupa
- Chandeshwari
Contributed by Michelle Della Giovanna, Full Time Explorer.
4. Sapporo, Japan
Japan is famous for having some of the most popular cities to visit including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. While these are cities worth visiting there is one particular Japanese city that often gets overlooked, Sapporo. The capital city of the northern island of Hokkaido, it is often referred to as the “Wild West of Japan.” A city of outcasts and wanderers, Sapporo is most famous for the jumping-off point for Japan’s ski areas. Throughout the year, Sapporo is a much more relaxed city compared to the likes of Tokyo. Wide, tree-lined streets run throughout the city making it very pedestrian-friendly. Odori Park sits in the middle of Sapporo providing a slice of nature amongst the city’s skyscrapers.
Characteristic of many Japanese cities, the food in Sapporo is unlike any other. Hokkaido is the dairy-producing area of Japan. As a result, many dishes, including the beloved ramen feature dairy products especially butter. The famous Sapporo ramen includes corn and a slab of butter. Thanks to the cold waters of Hokkaido, snow crab, and hairy crab abound and can be enjoyed at restaurants all across Sapporo. Sapporo is also the home of the famous Japanese beer which shares the same name. The Sapporo Beer Museum showcases the history of beer brewing in Japan and is certainly worth a visit.
Over the winter, Odori Park is lit up for winter illumination. And each February Sapporo hosts a winter festival where larger than life ice sculptures come alive. While visitors come to Japan for Tokyo and Kyoto, adding a few days in Sapporo is certainly worth it regardless of the time of year.
What to see in Sapporo:
- Odori Park
- Sapporo Beer Musem
- Mt. Moiwa
- Takino Suzuran Park
Contributed by Amber Siobhan Hoffman, Food & Drink Destinations - Learn more about food in Sapporo.
5. Coron, Philippines
There are so many cool and fantastic off beaten places around the world and the most up and coming but still under the radar is to visit the amazing unspoiled islands of Palawan and in the northern islands of Coron. The main reason to see Coron before it changes with mega-resorts and a real tourist-focused town ( which it is starting to turn into at the moment) is to explore the stunning and beautiful islands and go island hopping on local boats or bankas which are long sailing boats. All the tour operators cannot bring any plastic on the tours and are responsible for bringing and taking back all the waste that they bring over. They also tell visitors that they can explore and tour but no one is allowed to bring home any seashell, rocks or artifacts from any of the island - you can take all the pictures you want for your souvenir of this visit.
It's being eco centric right from the start with all the tour operators being responsible for caretaking these gorgeous corals, tropical fish and magnificent islands to visit along the way. There are four basic tours that you can take unless you want to charter your own tour. All of the tours are fantastic with visits to different islands, landmarks and historic treasures depending on what your interest is in touring and other adventure-oriented experiences including diving, kayaking, sup boarding or other sporting recreation.
What to see in Coron:
- Kayangan Lake
- Twin Lagoon
- Mt. Tapyas
- Barracuda Lake
- Calauit Safari Park
Contributed by Noel Morata, Travel Photo Discovery.
Read more resources about Coron in the Philippines:
Best off the beaten places in North America
6. Yoho National Park, Canada

Yoho National Park is one of the best and most underrated places you can visit in 2020. This Canadian National Park has beautiful sites, awesome hikes, and all the outdoor adventures you can ask for!
Have you heard of Banff National Park? Well, Yoho is Banff’s lesser-known next-door neighbor! Yoho has all the natural beauty of Banff, with incredible alpine hikes such as Lake O’Hara and Takakkaw Falls. On top of those hikes, Emerald Lake and Natural Bridge are wonderful sites to visit while in Yoho.
The best time to visit Yoho is the Summer when the sun is high in the sky and the temperatures are beautiful. Despite being in Canada, the weather gets quite warm at Yoho during the summer, and is gorgeous for hiking and exploring. While visiting Yoho, the best place to stay in is the great outdoors. However, if hotels are more your style, then head to nearby Field or Golden, CA for multiple hotel options in and out of the park.
You will have the time of your life in Yoho National Park. The sites, hikes, and adventure are what makes this place one of the most underrated places to visit in 2020. Enjoy your trip!
What to see in Yoho National Park:
- Lake O'hara
- Takkakaw Falls
- Emerald lake
- Yoho Valley Road
- Wapta Falls
Contributed by Julie Ruhl, Ruhls of the Road.
Read more resources about Yoho National Park in Canada
7. Oaxaca, Mexico
If you want a taste of the real Mexico, book a trip to Oaxaca. Oaxaca City is a short 1.5-hour flight from Mexico City and offers a memorable vacation with incredible food, kind locals, colorful scenery, and best of all, great weather year-round. Oaxaca invites you to participate in Mexican culture — get your hands messy while eating ’tyaludas’ at a local market, watch a woven rug come to life right at the loom, and broaden your drinking knowledge while sampling Oaxaca’s lifeblood, the famous liquor known as mezcal.

Not only is it affordable, but seriously photogenic, with 5-star boutique hotels costing as low as $70 per night. If you're on a budget, there are hostels and street food stops galore. A full-day tour to Oaxaca’s famous sites, like Hierve al Agua, only one of two calcified waterfalls in the world, and the Zapotec archaeological site of Mitla, costs $15 USD with transportation and a certified guide. And many of Mexico’s most celebrated chefs have set up their own farm-to-table restaurants in Oaxaca City’s historic center, known as ‘Centro Historico.’ I fell in love with Oaxaca so much so that I got married there!
What to see in Oaxaca:
- Hierve al Agua
- Zapotex
- Centro Historico
- Monte Albán
- Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca
Contributed by Millette Stambaugh, The Next Somewhere.
Check out more resources about Oaxaca in Mexico:
8. Montana, United States of America

People usually respond to conversations about Montana in one of two ways: either they’ve never given a second thought to visiting, or it’s their favorite place to travel. It’s a state that’s tiny in population but huge in area, and it’s home to some of the country’s top skiing, best hiking, and most stunning mountain landscapes.
To see the best of Montana, take a road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Glacier National Park, passing through Bozeman, Missoula, and Whitefish along the way. Three of the state’s most beloved towns, each one boasts easy access to nature, a charming downtown area, and plenty of dining options and craft breweries.
Along this route, make time to go to the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, dine at one of the many food trucks in Missoula, and stop at the Huckleberry Patch between Whitefish and Glacier. There, you can snack on huckleberry-flavored everything and pick up locally-made gifts and souvenirs to take home. To add another little-known stop to this itinerary, pause in tiny Anaconda for a movie at the historic Washoe Theatre and an Italian dinner at the famed O’Bella.
If you’re a skier, Montana’s cold winter weather won’t hold you back. Otherwise, the best time to visit the state is between late-spring and early-fall, when road conditions are better and it’s more comfortable for camping and other outdoor activities.
What to See in Montana:
- Yellowstone National Park
- Glacier National Park
- Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman
- Huckleberry Parch
- O'Bella
Contributed by Jen Ambrose & Ryan Victor, Passions and Places — Read about Anaconda, an off the beaten stop in Montana.
Best off the beaten places in South America
9. Carretera Ustral, Patagonia, Chile

When you think of Patagonia, it might be the wind-blasted steppe of Argentina or the prominent peaks of Torres del Paine National Park that spring to mind. But for a true experience of Patagonia at its most remote and magical, there’s another place that you should go: The Carretera Austral.
This partially asphalted highway cuts through the Chilean side of northern Patagonia, winding its way past spectacular national parks such as Patagonia and Queulat, which are filled with hanging glaciers and ancient forests and where shy and rare creatures can be seen. A three-week road trip is just about enough to explore the 1,240 kilometers of road from north to south, while those with a shorter Patagonian itinerary will find that sections of the road can be visited in just a week - and that the network of buses that travel along the entire highway means you don’t even need a car.
November through April are the best months for exploring the region, with poor weather and the closure of hotels and restaurants marking the rest of the months. Northernmost city Puerto Montt or Blamaceda (around halfway down) are the main entry points to the route and a good place for hiring a car or just beginning your journey.
What to see in The Carretera Austral:
- Villa O'Higgins
- Pumalin Park, Chaitén
- Queulat Glacier & National Park, Puyuhuapi
Contributed by Steph Dyson, Worldly Adventurer.
10. Cusco, Peru
While Cusco is a well-known destination in Peru, the city itself often plays "second-fiddle" to the reason most come here - to visit the world-renowned Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
Cusco is a thriving small city. It was a former capital of the Inca Empire, long before the Spanish arrived and destroyed it in the 16th century. While many important structures are now long gone, you'll still find a lot of Inca culture and architecture throughout the city - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Some of the best things about the Cusco are the great day trips you can take that cover towns and sites in and around the Sacred Valley. Places like Pisac, Tipon, Maras, and Ollantaytambo are wonderful (and easy) to explore. Cusco is more than a "base camp" for Machu Picchu. Many of the towns surrounding it have their own important places in Inca history.
What to see in Cusco:
- Ollantaytambo
- Moray
- Sacred Valley
- Pisac
- Tipon
Contributed by Halef and Michael, The Round The World Guys — Read Cusco day trips you can take.
11. Jardin, Colombia
Jardin, Colombia is the quintessentially Colombian pueblo. Seriously quieter than Salento, and not quite discovered by tourism yet, this town is small but beautiful. You’ll find hotels and hostels here with good Wi-Fi and some fabulous local places to eat, or a pizza if you so desire. The town revolves around a central plaza with excellent evening street food and the surrounding area is glorious.
Head off for hikes, take a horseback ride, or ride the rickety cable car above the banana and coffee plantations. Come to Jardin for peace and tranquillity, although there is the occasional raucous local bar, watch the Paso Fino horses parading and drink a cold beer. Even if you’re not a bird watcher, you can’t fail to be amazed by the stunning Cock of the Rock that you can see within 10 minutes walk of town! Be sure to take advantage of the amazing coffee shops here, and take a guided coffee plantation tour and then cool off under the freezing waterfalls that surround the town. Jardin is just 100 miles from Medellin, 4-5 hours on a bus, and you can also easily get to Salento – but it will take most of a day!
What to see in Jardin:
- Basilica of the Immaculate
- Jardin Antioquia Park
- Cueva del Esplendor
Contributed by Sarah Carter, A Social Nomad.
Read more resources about Jardin in Colombia:
12. San Nicolas Aruba

Although the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba is best known for its glossy casinos, luxury hotels and the colorful capital city of Orangestad, it's worth heading south on the island to the "Sunrise City" of San Nicolas. This former oil refinery town is experiencing a cultural revival that makes this working class district a fascinating place to spend some time. Begin your explorations at the Museum of Industry, located within an iconic Art Deco water tower. Inside you can browse the informative displays explaining the history of gold mining in Aruba in the 1800s, the development of Aruba's aloe vera industry and the economic and cultural impact of Lago Oil and Transport Company, which began operation in the 1920s. Take a break at Charlie’s Bar, originally a hangout for refinery workers and sailors in the 1940s but now a magnet for locals and visitors, who are drawn to its potent cocktails and its eclectic collection of memorabilia suspended from the ceiling.
Also nearby in downtown San Nicolas is the Aruba Art Walk, a gallery of street murals created by local and international artists. Taking a self-guided tour of this exceptional street art -- the largest collection in the Caribbean -- is one of the best free things to do in Aruba. If you're inspired to create or purchase some handmade art of your own, stop into the Cosecha Creative Center and Design store, a hub for local artists and workshops.
No trip to San Nicolas would be complete without a trip to Baby Beach. This crescent-shaped beach is protected by an offshore coral reef that shelters it from strong waves and undercurrents, making it ideal for families with children. You should bring your own beach umbrella and lounge chairs as there is no beach club other than a restaurant. When it's time to overnight your best bet is to opt for one of the local AirBnB properties or head to the nearby fishing village of Savaneta, home to Aruba Ocean Villas, a collection of luxurious South Pacific style overwater bungalows and villas set on a secluded bay.
What to see in San Nicolas:
- Museum of Industry
- Charlie's Bar
- Aruba Art Walk
- Baby Beach
Contributed by Michele Peterson, A Taste for Travel — Read about free things to do in Aruba.
Best off the beaten places in Africa
13. Rwanda
Rwanda is the new go-to destination in Africa. Not only does the country have a thousand hills, but it also offers thousands of things to do. Rwanda has quite a bad reputation because of the civil war that happened in the '90s but the country has since changed a lot and the communities at war are making an effort of forgiveness to build a future together. In the past years, Rwanda has grown to be the Singapore of Africa and developed a lot in terms of tourism.
The main attraction in Rwanda is the gorilla trekking. Gorillas habit this region of the world and it is only in Rwanda that you are assured to see them. Besides gorillas, you can see also a lot of other primates like Chimpanzees and other endemic species in the Ngungwe Forest National Park. Rwanda has the big 5 and safaris becomes more and more popular in this region too. Your go-to destination is Akagera National Park in the East of the country at the border of Tanzania. Finally, Rwanda also has Lake Kivu, one of the great lakes of Africa that borders Congo. A great place to relax!
What to see in Rwanda:
- Ngungwe Forest National Park
- Akagera National Park
- Lake Kivu
- Volcanoes National Park
Contributed by Amandine Hach, Les Berlinettes — Read more things to do in Rwanda.
Best off the beaten places in Europe
14. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia-Herzegovina is a beautiful country to visit and totally underrated - and Sarajevo, its capital, is one of the most underrated cities in Europe. If you enjoy small cities with a lot of history and lovely people then add Sarajevo to your itinerary. Given its recent history, it might be understandable - Sarajevo, in particular, was hit by the war in the '90s and you can still see the scars. And though I highly recommend doing one walking tour that in particular is about the war in Sarajevo, you should know that the city is still fun.
Due to its location - it is a hilly city - you can do all kinds of hikes. Whether you do short 10-minute hikes or longer ones - great views of the city are guaranteed. A little gem, and not well known amongst visitors, is the vantage point of Vidikovac where you will also find a very affordable restaurant - come here for sunset and you will have a great spot to end your day. But of course, there is more to see - get lost in the old town with its narrow streets and charming cafes and restaurants and shops. Also, visit a museum or two. And last but not least, make sure to visit one of the religious buildings. Whether you want to visit a mosque, a church or a synagogue - in Sarajevo they all exist and are in close distance to each other. So, it does not surprise that Sarajevo is also known as Little Jerusalem. A small but very friendly city to add your bucket list!
What to see in Sarajevo:
- Vidikovac
- Baščaršija
- Vrelo Bosne
- Trebević
- Skakavac
Contributed by Arzo Nayel, Arzo Travels.
Want to read more resources about Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
15. Gothenburg, Sweden

Sweden's second city, Gothenburg has remained underrated compared to the capital, Stockholm. However, as the world’s most sustainable destination four times in a row, this is one city that shouldn’t be missed. The best time of year to visit has to be December during the Gothenburg Christmas Markets when the whole city turns into a festive winter wonderland.
There are four main Christmas markets dotted around the city but the main one and Sweden’s largest is at Liseberg Amusement Park. A national icon in the country, Liseberg couples thrilling rollercoaster rides, with a seasonal ice skating show and, over 80 Christmas stalls and shops. There are plenty of festive food choices as well as a Swedish Christmas buffet dinner all under one roof. Gothenburg itself is a walkable city filled with beautiful botanical gardens, local designer shops, and a love for the Swedish Fika culture. If you have extra time, make sure you visit some of the West Sweden islands but don’t miss out on visiting Haga, a quaint neighborhood famous for baking the largest cinnamon rolls in Sweden.
Things to see in Gothenburg:
- Liseberg Amusement Park
- Gothenburg Botanical Garden
- Haga
- Slottsskogen
Contributed by Roshni Patel, The Wanderlust Within. — Read about Gothenburg Christmas Markets.
16. Brasov, Romania
If you are looking for a hidden gem in Europe, I’ve got the right place for you: Brașov, Romania. This town of ~300,000 in central Romania seems out of a picture book from the past. It is beautifully kept with splendid Baroque architecture. Its main plaza and side streets have many cafés and a lot of life on offer.
Key sites to check out in the city itself are the Black Church, the Franciscan Church, Catherine’s Gate, and others. A short walk up leads you to Turnul Alb which offers greats views of the town. If you want some time in nature, climb Mount Tâmpa right on the edge of the old town, where the city's name is situated with big white letters.
Besides being a must-see destination on its own, Brașov is also a great base from which to explore Transylvania with its many offerings. Among those, several castles, including Bram’s Castle, aka “Dracula’s Castle” (which is quite interesting that story aside - or despite it!), hiking trails, mountain lodges, etc. Don't miss this Romanian gem of a town!
How to get to Brasov: Getting to Brașov is not difficult from Bucharest, Romania’s capital (166 kms/103 miles). Good roads and easy access by train and bus give any type of travelers good options. Travel time takes about 2 and a half to 3 hours.
Things to see in Brasov:
- Black Church
- Turnul Alb
- Mount Tâmpa
Contributed by Raúl Pino Andraca, I Live to Travel — Read about places to see in Belgrade, Serbia.
17. Pilsen, Czech Republic
Pilsen is located just an hour away from Prague in the Czech Republic and it is a born place of beer called Pilsner. It is ideal off the beaten path locality with a lot of things to do from visiting the local brewery, where you can see how the Pilsner was born. To something completely different - for instance, you can visit here the second biggest synagogue in Europe and the biggest church in the Czech Republic - there is a lot of activities around and it is a beautiful historical city.
Perhaps the best thing to visit in the city is the brewery, where you can get a 2-hour tour through it and get everything explained. Also, there is a science center that is great to visit with kids especially because they can try different things in Physics in a fun way. On the other hand, if you have kids who prefer animals, then Pilsen has amazing Zoo with dino parks.
The ideal time for visiting would be possible during the spring or summer when it is warm enough and local parks around have enough green leaves to make this visit even more spectacular.
For accommodation, I would highly recommend hotel Victoria, not far from the center with great outside architecture and very nice rooms and staff that can speak English.
What to see in Pilsen:
- Cathedral of St. Bartholomew
- Great Synagogue
- Radyně Castle
- Historic Underground of Plzen
Contributed by Albína Mrázová, Ginger Around The Globe.
Want to read more resources about Pilsen in the Czech Republic?
18. Deventer, Netherlands

Deventer is one of my favourite cities in the Eastern part of The Netherlands, but surprisingly enough, you won’t find that many foreign visitors here.
The city of Deventer is mainly famous for its Dickens Christmas market in The Netherlands that takes place every December. But no matter what time you visit this Dutch city, you will be surprised by what it has to offer. It is located on the edge of the Ijssel river and has been a trading city for centuries. There are plenty of things to discover in Deventer.

From the oldest stone house in The Netherlands (which dates back to 1130!) to exciting museums. And from discovering the hundreds of idyllic streets to witnessing the most beautiful sunset over the Ijssel river and Deventer. There are many things to do in Deventer. A must do is climbing the tower of the Lebuinuskerk for a beautiful view of Deventer and its surroundings.
If you’re searching for places to visit in The Netherlands that aren’t popular, Deventer is your place to be. Deventer has a train station, like most bigger Dutch cities and towns. And because of that, you can easily reach this Deventer in no time.
What to see in Deventer:
- Tower of the Lebuinusker
- Ijssel River
- St. Nicholas Church
Contributed by Manon van Schagen, Visiting The Dutch Countryside.
Read more resources about Deventer in Netherlands:
Best off the beaten places in Oceania
19. Catlins, New Zealand

The Catlins is a region located on the southeast corner of New Zealand's South Island. With so many stunning places to visit in the South Island, the Catlin's often gets overlooked as it's a bit further away than everything else but that's a reason why you should go there.
With fewer people, small local businesses in small towns, and no shortage of natural attractions you can have an amazing 2/3 days in the Catlins. Some of the most popular attractions to visit are Nugget Point, preferably for sunrise, Cathedral Cave, not to be confused with Cathedral Cove, Curio Bay, where you might find yourself surfing with dolphins, and The Lost Gypsy Gallery, epitomizing Kiwi ingenuity. And that's without mentioning any of the waterfalls scattered throughout the region. My favourite is Waipohatu Falls.
You should definitely visit the Catlins in the summer (November to February), as many of the tourist attractions are closed throughout the winter.
In terms of where to stay, your options are fairly limited and as it's best visited in the summer, most people are visiting in a campervan so campgrounds are the best place to be. Don't expect to have great WiFi/data connections throughout the region, but if you're wanting a decent place to stay overnight, you can't go wrong with the Whistling Frog Resort. It's located close to both the McLaren Falls, and Cathedral Cave which is only open at certain times depending on the tides (check the local website).
Contributed by Jub Bryant, Chur New Zealand.
Read more resources about Catlins in New Zealand:
20. Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands are a truly up-and-coming tourism destination. With fascinating history mixed with pristine islands and beaches, it's a great destination for many types of travelers. The Solomon Islands were the site of many WW2 battles between Japan and the USA, and there are still LOTS of historic sites and ruins (even underwater)!
The Solomon Islands are also home to some of the most pristine and prolific dive sites in the world. With crystal clear water and tons of sea life, it's very famous for dedicated divers.
You do, however, need to be okay going off-grid a little bit. This tiny island country still lacks some important tourism infrastructure, so you can expect little to no wifi and small amounts of travel agencies. But, most hotels will help you plan your trip and transportation, and it truly is the perfect place for a getaway with the sea lapping up at your door.
There are many rustic resorts and hotels on islands such as Munda and Gizo, which are both surrounded by hundreds of tiny sandy quays. The seafood there is to-die-for, and as they are nicknamed "The Happy Isles" the locals tend to be lovely and welcoming.
What to see in Solomon Islands:
- Marovo Island
- Tavanipupu
- Kasolo Island
- Uepi
Contributed by Kimmie Conner, Adventures & Sunsets Blog
It's a wrap!
So that's it! I hope you enjoyed this list of the world's best off the beaten places according to top travel bloggers. What do you think of this list? If you have a favorite that you think should be here, let us know in the comments below!
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