There is a tendency among many travelers to take advantage of cheap travel options, whether cheap fares such as cheap airplane tickets or cheap vacation packages, or discount hotel rooms or cheap auto rentals, and visit more traditional popular destinations.
The following are destinations that fly under the radar of the average traveler and are viewed as very attractive, but underrated destinations by Independent Traveler:
Columbia has become a much safer place for travelers. Its lush rain forests, modern cities and gorgeous beaches on the Caribbean Sea are drawing tourists, though not many Americans, in droves. Bogota is a must see city with its lively markets and nightlife.
South Korea is home to technologically savvy cities such as Seoul, fascinating historic destinations like Gyeongju (nicknamed the museum with walls) and pristine volcanic landscapes.
Oman used to be known as an isolated desert country in the Middle East. Recently built roads and well maintained mountain tracks have opened up this Arabian Peninsula nation. Ruins and castles are plentiful and its cities are fascinating with markets and souqs. Attractions include the Grand Canyon like Jebel Akhdar Mountains, Wahiba Sands Desert, and beaches home to nesting sites for green turtles.
Valley of Fire State Park, NV is a much closer way (only 60 miles from Las Vegas) to visit the Grand Canyon than the traditional five hour drive to the canyon. Fire State Park is Nevadas oldest and largest park and is ideal for hiking, viewing ancient rock art, searching for desert ecosystem wildlife, and viewing breathtaking wildflowers blooming in the spring.
Singapore attracts over 11 million tourists annually, but very few Americans. Those in the know view Singapore as a cultural, commercial and culinary gem. The city enjoys a deserved reputation for having the best shopping in Southeast Asia. Its food is influenced by over six different ethnicities, including Chinese, Indian and Malay. Singapores botanical garden is considered one of the worlds finest. Singapore is very possibly the most immaculate city in the world with no graffiti or litter. Its public transportation is always on time and its crime rate is almost non-existent.
Pittsburg, PA offers a vibrant arts scene, fascinating outdoor spaces and unique festivals. The National Geographic Traveler magazine rated Pittsburg among the top must see places in the world for 2012. Highlights include the Andy Warhol Museum, Phipps Conservatory, and riding the historical funicular called the Monongahela Incline. Pittsburg is increasingly being referred to as a foodie city.
Armenia is located between Turkey and Azerbaijan and is an emerging democracy. Its city of Yerevan is home to beautiful plazas, happening cafes, and has become a major fashion magnet. Burgeoning businesses and a thriving arts scene can be enjoyed by some while others immerse themselves in the countrys ancient monasteries, churches and handsome villages, as well as cave dwellings near gorges.
Chan Chan Peru is home to one of the most famous archeological sites in the world. Chan Chan is the largest pre-Columbian city in South America. Intricate carvings of birds, turtles, and fish can be found on the walls of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Zambia is well known for its Victoria Falls which is the largest waterfall in the world. Largely unknown is that Zambia is a desirable safari destination that benefits from not have the crowds drawn to other, better known wildlife viewing destinations. Forest reserves make up over half of the country and offer some of the greatest diversity of animals of all national parks in Africa. Unlike most other African countries, walking safaris are permitted in Zambia. www.cheapfares.com