6 Unusual Travel Destinations You Need to Visit

There’s no denying that you have a long travel bucket list of destinations to visit around the world. Some might be on your very doorstep, while others require you to take many flights and connections before you reach your intended locations.

When considering where to go on a vacation, most people will typically consider popular domestic and international travel destinations. But, what if you’re looking for a new travel destination that people seldom consider?

I’ve looked into some off-the-beaten-path destinations that I’m adding to my travel bucket list and thought I’d share them with you. If you’d like some inspiration for your next vacation adventure, take a look at the following unusual travel destinations to get you started:

1. Nicosia (Cyprus)

Are you looking for a European travel getaway? If so, many people would consider sun-soaked countries like Spain or Italy for their summer vacations. However, it’s also worth thinking about a trip to Cyprus, and specifically, the divided capital city of Nicosia.

The reason why Nicosia is a divided city is because part of Cyprus is under Greek control, and the other Turkish. It was only until 2008 that people were allowed to cross the border into both sides of the city, as the only people allowed to cross were UN peacekeepers.

If you venture to Ledra Street, Nicosia’s main shopping thoroughfare, you’ll reach a point where you need to cross a border into the Turkish side. The street isn’t notable so much for its retail stores but more for its fascinating history and insight into Greek-Turkish relations.

2. Drake Passage (Antarctica)

Perhaps you’d like to venture somewhere entirely off the beaten track? If so, and you don’t mind avoiding sun-soaked destinations, one place you could consider for your next holiday adventure in Antarctica.

In case you didn’t know, the Drake Passage is a body of water between the southernmost point of Chile (Cape Horn) and Antarctica’s South Shetland Islands. It’s one of the most exciting yet potentially dangerous adventures to embark on at any time of the year.

If you’d like to learn more, this informative guide by The Explorer's Passage has everything you need to know about crossing the Drake Passage to Antarctica.

3. Out Islands (Bahamas)

Let’s face it: some travelers may feel somewhat apprehensive about embarking on some swashbuckling adventures in far-flung corners of the Earth.

If that sounds like you, and your idea of an unusual travel destination involves visiting somewhere within the confines of civilization, but you don’t want to visit a tourist trap, how about the Out Islands?

It’s a collection of small islands that form part of the Bahamas and boasts unspoiled, deserted white sandy beaches. In short, you will experience some time in what is truly an island paradise; a destination perfect for disconnecting from the digital world.

4. Sumba (Indonesia)

When most people think of Indonesia, they think of places like Bali and Jakarta. One relatively unknown part of Indonesia that you may wish to consider visiting is Sumba. It’s an island that’s just over an hour’s flight away from Bali.

Sumba has everything you might expect from a tropical paradise: deserted beaches, traditional villages, and a vast array of hidden lagoons. It doesn’t have the creature comforts of large resort islands, but its unspoiled landscape is worth the experience.

5. Kulikalon Valley (Tajikistan)

Many people don’t typically consider the central Asian country of Tajikistan as a travel destination. Yet, it’s a country they would enjoy visiting; the warm and welcoming locals, history, culture, and traditions are some of the reasons to venture to Tajikistan.

Those of you that enjoy going on hiking vacations should book a trip to the Kulikalon Valley. Snow-capped mountain peaks, glacial streams, and beautiful mountain lakes are some of the things that await you on a hiking adventure to the Kulikalon Valley.

6. Palestine

It’s no secret that Palestine is often a nation that you’d read about in the media. Sadly, the reason why you’d read about Palestine is due to tensions with neighboring Israel. Some people assume that Palestine is a dangerous place that you should never visit.

However, you will likely feel safer traveling within Palestine than you would in some first-world countries. Palestinian people are friendly, welcoming and will do anything to make visitors to its lands feel like royalty.

There is much to see and do in Palestine, from visiting places like Bethlehem and Ramallah to absorbing the local culture, customs, and traditions. In Palestine, you will also sample some of the most delicious meals you’ve ever experienced in your life.

Entry into Palestine is possible from Israel or Jordan with a valid passport and the correct customs paperwork.

So, what do you think? Were any of these destinations on your travel bucket list? Maybe it’s time to get creative and start to branch out to lesser-known places to visit. I hope these ideas have sparked inspiration for you and you can add a new place or two to your vacation wish list.