Off-the-Beaten-Path Must-Sees for Globetrotters
In the travel world, there are ordinary tourists, and then there are globe-trotting adventurers always in search of the extraordinary. This list of lesser-known travel points of interest is for the latter category. These gems aren’t always as easily accessible as mainstream tourist spots, but they make up for it in rich experiences and unforgettable moments.
1. **Borobudur, Indonesia:** Located in Central Java, Borobudur is a mighty Buddhist monument. A local flight from Jakarta and a guided car journey will lead you to this pyramid-like structure adorned with countless Buddha statues and engravings telling the story of the Ramayana. The effort to get there is worth it to experience the awe-inspiring structure and its 400+ Buddha statues.
2. **Puglia, Italy:** Puglia, in the heel of Italy’s boot, is an underrated travel destination. Starting in Lecce, a city known as “The Florence of the South,” you can explore the region’s beach towns, the limestone houses of Alberobello, and delight in homemade wines and olive oil. Don’t worry about the colleague who warned me about the food — even the “worst food” here rivals any cuisine in America.
3. **Western Australia:** Known for its untouched countryside, Western Australia blooms in spring (October), revealing a breathtaking display of wildflowers. Once you venture out of the city streets of Perth, you’ll encounter stretches of beautiful free floral scenery promising unforgettable snapshots.
4. **Vancouver Museum of Anthropology, Canada:** Tucked away in South West Vancouver, this museum houses the world’s largest collection of totem poles and magnificent indigenous artifacts, offering a sensational glimpse into the First Nation history. Navigating your way there might be tricky, but the sights inside this exemplary architectural structure make it worthwhile.
5. **Ellora Caves, India:** Located outside Aurangabad in western India, the Ellora Caves are not caves per se but marvellous rock temples and religious sites. Despite the logistical challenges of reaching it, the sight of carved temples from the 6th to 9th centuries will leave you astounded.
6. **Le Planteur, Yangon, Myanmar:** A surprising find in an otherwise politically fraught country, Le Planteur is perhaps the best French restaurant I’ve ever dined in. If you happen to travel to Yangon, don’t miss out on their exceptional food and service.
7. **Banteay Srei, Cambodia:** Red sandstone gives this 10th-century Hindu temple in the Angkor Wat compound its distinctiveness. The temple’s elaborate and well-preserved carvings make it well worth the drive.
If life takes you to these corners of the world, be sure to check out these hidden gems. Their unique charm and astonishing beauty might just earn them a place in your heart. You won’t regret adding these destinations to your bucket list!
This travel account was brought to you by author and former senior executive Robert Hemphill, who shared his experiences from globetrotting in his book “Dust Tea, Dingoes and Dragons: Adventures in Culture, Cuisine and Commerce from a Globe-Trekking Executive.” To learn more about Robert’s adventures, visit www.rfhemphill.com.