Hidden Gems: Underrated Travel Destinations for You and Your Friends

For many young women, traveling marks an important transition into adulthood. It’s a chance to explore new places and build lifelong memories with friends. As you browse through your Instagram feed, it’s easy to spot images of friends enjoying sunny beaches in Bali, breathtaking views in Australia, or thrilling parties in Thailand at night. These destinations are popular for good reasons, but they come with challenges like large crowds, long queues, crowded public transport, uncomfortable hostels, and fully-booked restaurants.

If you’re ready for something fresh, consider exploring the next hot travel spots that promise both adventure and style. Here are some fantastic places to visit with your travel buddies:

1) Santiago, Chile
Instead of heading to tourist-packed Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires, why not check out Santiago, a rising star in South America? As Chile’s bustling capital, Santiago offers an incredible arts and nightlife scene. It’s a great destination for travelers craving adventures like hiking the Cerro San Cristobal peaks, visiting historical museums with Mayan artifacts, or enjoying brunch at trendy cafes and bars in Barrio Italia. Santiago is affordable and offers diverse accommodation options, making it easy to explore the beautiful Chilean coastline for a beach retreat.

2) Gallipoli, Turkey
While Turkey is famous for family-friendly spots like Marmaris and the vibrant city of Istanbul, Gallipoli is a lesser-known gem perfect for making your friends envious back home. The Gallipoli Peninsula features stunning coves and beaches along the Aegean Sea, providing an ideal summer backdrop. Aside from its scenic beauty, Gallipoli holds significant historical importance due to its role in World War I, making it a meaningful destination combining both aesthetic and cultural appeal.

3) Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
Why spend extra for a hotel with an infinity pool when you can visit one of the world’s most iconic waterfalls? Victoria Falls, located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, offers breathtaking views of Southern Africa. It’s also known for Devil’s Pool, a natural feature where you can take a dip at the waterfall’s edge during safe times of the year, promising an unforgettable experience long after you return home.

4) Lake Garda, Italy
For those who enjoy stylish lunches, Lake Garda is the chic counterpart to the more crowded Venice. As Italy’s largest lake, it is surrounded by quaint towns and villages offering stunning architecture, a variety of charming cafes and restaurants, and an emerging nightlife scene. You can take boat trips to taste wine, coffee, and pasta in one of the most picturesque settings bordered by Northern Italy’s mountains. And if you’re in northern Italy, don’t miss a visit to Milan.

5) Tulum, Mexico
With warm weather all year, Mexico’s beaches are a consistent draw for sun-seekers. Rather than heading straight to Cancun, consider Tulum for its soft white sands and clear blue waters. Once you’ve soaked up the sun, explore the Mayan ruins or try cave and cavern diving with friends before heading back to unwind with some cocktails. Tulum also hosts Salsa Sunday, where you can dance with the locals, capping off your weekend in style.

The world is full of amazing places waiting to be unveiled, offering great culture, food, entertainment, and unforgettable views. Why follow the usual travel trends when you can create new ones? Plan your next adventure with friends today and spread the word about these incredible travel destinations!