Throughout the past few years, my style of traveling has drastically evolved – just like the travel industry itself.Â
Even though I love visiting world-renowned cities I also make an effort to visit towns and tourist attractions that aren’t as famous as the Eiffel Tower.
I make it a point to discover different areas outside of city centers and to check out lesser-known landmarks. I love being completely surprised by what I’ll find when traveling off-the-beaten-track. Â
Here are five destinations I’ve recently discovered that might not be your typical holiday abroad, but are sure to surprise you if you take a chance and visit these locations. Â
Taiwan
You’ve probably heard the phrase “Made in Taiwan” before. You might think Taiwan is a massive country, filled with countless factors but you couldn’t be further from wrong.
I spent some time touring the country, formerly known as “Formosa” when it was a Portuguese colony (translation:Â beautiful island), with friends two years ago and discovered that Taiwan was one of the most beautiful, diverse places in the world.Â
From its capital Taipei (one of the safest cities in Asia) to the splendid coats of Hualien; to Taroko National Park’s mystical terrains and mountains to the spectacular Sun Moon Lake of Nantou County, I was blown away by Taiwan’s beauty.
With Taiwanese people being so incredibly friendly and the local cuisine being exceptionally delicious, I highly recommend visiting Taiwan if you have the chance. I know I’ll be visiting again in the years to come.
Frankfurt and Wiesbaden, Germany
I can’t understand why people dislike Frankfurt. I visited the city for the first time 10 years ago and I really enjoyed it.
Last year I had the chance to visit again and found myself confirming my appreciation for Germany’s most international city. Frankfurt is elegant, quaint and modern – possibly why I find it so beautiful and contrasting when comparing it to other European cities.
There’s also a huge spectrum of activities one can participate in, from shopping to five-star dining (Michelin-star restaurants are dense in and around Frankfurt) to biking or jogging along the Main River bank.Â
Not a big fan of city life? Take a day trip to the outskirts of town, where you can find fresh products in abundance at traditional family-run farms, along with lush greenery.
And if you’re a foodie, I highly recommend visiting a restaurant called Ente in Wiesbaden, a smaller city 20 minutes outside of Frankfurt, known for its delicious duck. Â
Jordan
Petra, the Dead Sea, the ancient city of Jerash, Wadi Rum, Ma’in Hot Springs – there are so many reasons to visit Jordan.
Located in the very heart of the region Jordan shares a glimpse into all of the countries surrounding it, including their cuisine.
Make sure to try the Mansaf, a rich and delicious Jordanian specialty made up of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented yogurt (often served with rice or bulgur wheat).
The best part about Jordan? From a geographical perspective, the country isn’t very big so it’s easy to travel throughout the land and visit many attractions within a short period of time.Â
Sicily, Italy
From the north to the south, there are so many stunning places to visit in Italy. In my personal opinion, if you have not yet been to Sicily then you have not visited Italy.
The Mediterranean’s largest island is a must-see for all travelers. The only thing I regret about going to Sicily is not visiting it earlier in my life. From Catania, the ancient port city on Sicily’s east coast, to Palermo in the west (name 2018’s Italian Capital of Culture) the island is absolutely breathtaking.
If you’re traveling around Europe this summer, visiting Sicily is a must.
Dubai, UAE
Want to know the most exciting thing about Dubai? The Emirate is constantly changing at a rapid pace.
With its dining scene rivaling any other major international city and new infrastructure projects popping up at breakneck speed, Dubai is the perfect place to stop over for a few days (or weeks).Â
If you feel like doing something a bit more cultural, try crossing Dubai Creek by boat in the early morning or at sunset; the views of the city are stunning during Golden Hour. You also have the option of checking out the weekly markets for goods for finding the newest designs and artwork in Dubai’s galleries. Â
From cultural outings to beach days, horseback riding in the desert to luxury shopping, the city offers something for everybody.
Have you visited any of the destinations listed above? What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.
Written by Talal Alrashed (@talal.alrashed), ITP Live influencer, luxury hospitality expert and consultant. Â