1. Gujarat, India
Few tourists know about the soulful and surprisingly inexpensive Gujarat. If you get there, you’ll likely be alone.
Hindus, Jains, Muslims, and Christians live here; there are many amazing temples of various faiths that are very interesting to explore. Some of them are lost in the mountains, others in the tranquil forests of the Gir National Park.
If you suddenly realize that you are tired of the bustle of the city, then go to the neighboring island of Diu, which is famous for its beaches and parties.
2. Tasmania, Australia
It’s no surprise that Australia’s least visited region is considered one of its most unspoiled. Tasmania has the cleanest air in the world, and more than 40% of the area is national parkland. So the only question that arises is why this region is considered one of the most unexplored in the world? Besides its white sandy beaches and lush rainforests, Tasmania is also famous for its contemporary art. This year marks the 5th anniversary of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA),
considered one of Australia’s most innovative museums.
3. Quebec, Canada
Quebec is much more than just “the French-speaking part of Canada”: the region bordering the city is home to many of the country’s cultures, from Nunavik in the north to Wendak in the south.
There are also quite a few national parks, inspiring Montreal, a frantic nightlife and some of the world’s biggest festivals. If you don’t mind skiing, canoeing or camping somewhere, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for that too.
4. Tohoku, Japan
The 2011 earthquake severely devastated Tohoku, one of the most geographically diverse regions of northeastern Honshu.
2016 will be exactly 5 years since the disaster, but the tourism industry has not yet fully recovered, even with the area’s most famous attractions bringing good traffic to the region.
Head here to experience traditional Japanese festivals such as Yokote’s Kamakura (which honors the Japanese water gods) and the Aomori’s Nebuta Parade, and to see Osore Volcano for yourself.
There are also plenty of slopes waiting to be conquered, plenty of ski runs and the stunning Sanriku Fukko National Park, which was created after the earthquake.
5. Northern Cape, South Africa
The hard journey here will pay off, don’t even worry about it: the Northern Cape in South Africa, covering almost a third of the country, is somehow underrated by tourists. Those who make it here will be rewarded with flowering fields among red dunes, beautiful views and animals that you won’t see in a zoo (for example, you can meet the black-maned Kalahari lion).
Take time to see the lands of the San Bushmen, the oldest tribe on Earth, and kayak the Orange River in Richtersveld National Park.
6. Lombok, Indonesia
While not yet spoiled by tourists, Lombok is still an escape from the bustling Bali. A fast boat will take you to pristine beaches, huge waves, and traditional Sasak tribal villages. In the north of the island there is the Gunung Rinjani volcano, especially popular among hikers and trekkers. And in the south is Kuta, a nice relaxed surf town still living somewhere in the 70s.
7. Calabria, Italy
Charming Italian resorts, stretching along a luxurious coastline and cozy mountain villages, attract millions of tourists every year, and this is not surprising. But tourism in Calabria is still exclusively domestic. This region has historically not been as well developed as others and is therefore still not very popular.
But this year, sites in the spirit of Airbnb are going to develop this market to give millions of tourists the opportunity to see ancient cities, where houses are still heated by stoves, the diet is based on local and seasonal products, and wine is made independently and in almost every home.
8. Castile-Leon, Spain
Castile-Leon is perhaps one of Spain’s best kept secrets. This region remembers its past well, which makes its old cities real gems, including: Salamanca, Leon, Burgom and Valladolid.
The region itself is famous for its wine and cuisine: no traveler will forget a warm summer night spent moving from one tapas bar to another.
9. Outer Hebrides (or Western Isles),
Scotland
The true power and beauty of Scotland’s Western Isles or Outer Hebrides continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of travelers around the world. But you need to be prepared for the isolation and wildness of these places, located so far from the mainland. During the long summer nights, the turquoise waters and white sands create the illusion of something Asian, attracting surfers and kiters with their waves. At the same time, there are castles, museums, archaeological sites and much more that will not let you get bored here. Keep in mind that each island has its own unique character, so plan your time wisely to see everything.
