There are certain destinations that people will tell you to avoid. You will hear all sorts of stories about nightmarish crowds, high ticket prices, and general unpleasantness. Some snooty travelers might even say that these cliche destinations are not real representations of their countries!
For better or worse, some of the most beautiful places in the world are also the most congested. We could never condemn anyone for watching to check out Peru’s Sacred Valley, or marvel at the ancient temples of Siem Reap. These cliche holiday destinations are well worth visiting!
Niagara Falls, United States
Niagara Falls is one of the natural wonders of the world. It sits right between the United States and Canada and both countries share the majestic falls.
Surely you’ve seen pictures, but this natural wonder needs to be seen in real life to be believed. There are cities on both sides of Niagara Falls, and it’s well worth spending some time in both countries.
There are plenty of attractions at Niagara Falls, including the popular Maid of the Mist boat ride which gets visitors up-close and personal with the falls themselves.
You can also venture behind Niagara Falls through the Cave of the Winds tour. Be warned, you will get wet!
There are plenty of people that flock to Niagara Falls in the summer, so if you want to avoid the crowds and get a fresh look at Niagara Falls, head there during the winter time. The falls are generally capped over with ice and snow, and the view is absolutely breathtaking.
Paris, France
When anyone thinks about culture, great art, amazing food, or romance, they are thinking of Paris!
Paris is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Visitors can marvel at the iconic Eiffel Tower or the grand and breathtaking Notre-Dame cathedral. Art lovers will fall head-over-heels in love with the Louvre.
Anyone who loves food should also visit Paris. The gastronomical culture of this city can’t really be overstated. Grab some traditional French cuisine and enjoy people watching from any of the city’s many outdoor cafes. It’s true heaven!
Just because Paris is a traveler’s dream doesn’t make it worth passing up. It’s a unique city with a lot to offer! Find unique accommodation in Paris with holiday rentals in France from Interhome and start your romantic vacation right away!
Huairou, China
You might not know the Chinese city of Huairou, but you certainly know it’s greatest architectural achievement! The Great Wall of China is a masterpiece that is incredible even by today’s standards!
It twists through the Chinese countryside and seems to go on forever. Tourists flock to the Great Wall of China every year, so the lines are long and there are plenty of others trying to get that perfect picture. Even so, it’s well worth a visit.
The Great Wall of China is a unique masterpiece that you will not forget anytime soon. After you’ve taken your fill of the Great Wall, check out some of the Chinese countryside. The culture of China varies by region and is a beautiful reflection of the people that live there.
Cusco, Peru
Cusco sits in the heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley and is the jumping off point for those who want to make the trek to Machu Picchu.
There are plenty of ways to get to the ruins. Most people prefer to take the train from Cusco, marveling at the scenic Andes mountains that surround them.
Others like to make the long trek to Machu Picchu, following in the steps of the Incas. Machu Picchu is full of tourists, but it’s also the ancient sacred city of the Incas. Most of it has been preserved, so you can wander through to your heart’s content.
You might even catch an alpaca or llama grazing nearby. Nature lovers will also want to venture into other unknown places in the Sacred Valley.
Cusco is a bit cliche, but it’s also a magical city with ancient roots.
Petra, Jordan
Speaking of ancient cities, Petra is not to be missed.
Anyone who has seen Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade will remember Petra as the site of the final showdown between good and evil. It’s where Indiana Jones eventually finds the Holy Grail.
Today, anyone can play Indiana Jones and venture to this beautiful carved city. There are many legitimate and safe tours that will take travelers far into the desert to check out Petra. It’s easy to spend an entire day wandering around the ruins!
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap is the city where you can find Angkor Wat, the most famous Cambodian temple in the world.
There are several amazing temples in Siem Reap, but Angkor Wat is notable for its sheer size and the blending of Buddhist and Hindu architecture.
It’s located across from a large moat, and many people like to visit for sunrise or sunset when the reflection of the temple on the water is most compelling.
Although Angkor Wat is intensely popular, it’s still worth seeing.
Let’s Travel
Don’t let the popularity of a place put you off from visiting it! The six destinations outlined in this piece are perfect examples of how some of the most cliche holiday destinations are well worth the hype!
